Wolverhampton's markets to stay put

Wolverhampton's indoor and outdoor markets will both remain in Market Square, it can be revealed today.

Stallholders and customers were worried the markets would be shifted to another area of the city as part of their redevelopment, but have now had their fears laid to rest.

The council has announced that the indoor market will be moved 'just a few yards away' to sit alongside the outdoor market in the square. Its home since the 1960s, Heantun House on Salop Street will also be demolished as part of the plans.

Councillor John Reynolds, cabinet member for city services, said: "We held a meeting to update the traders on the approximate timescales for the relocation of the market and the need to undertake a consultation with traders.

"The traders were also told that the market will remain in Market Square. The representatives were fully supportive of the plan and welcomed the fact the market will remain in Market Square.

"The market is not going anywhere - it is simply moving a few yards away from where it is currently."

Dud Malik, chairman of Wolverhampton Market Traders Association, added: "We are delighted and excited at the prospect of staying within Market Square as both indoor and outdoor traders.

"We can only hope that a new and improved market will boost the regeneration of Wolverhampton which is certainly happening in our area of the city with the new Sainsbury's and a number of major developments starting or under way."

No decision has yet been made regarding the exact location of the new indoor market but possibilities include the construction of a new purpose-built hall next to the outdoor market in the square.

Indoor market stallholders could be housed in temporary accommodation while any construction work takes place.

A decision is likely to be made following a consultation with traders early next year.

Stallholder Robin Newby said: "I am very upbeat and excited about the plans. Heantun House has run its course and it will be good to move to a new building in the same location."

Last year, traders complained they were barely making enough money to cover stall hire, with the poor state of the Heantun House facilities cited as one of the reasons for low footfall in the indoor market.