A date has been set to open the doors to Coalville's new indoor market next month.

North West Leicestershire District Council's Newmarket will officially launch on Friday 10 and Saturday 11 September.

To celebrate the launch, visitors will have the chance to watch live entertainment, take part in giveaways, face painting, raffles and meet the traders behind the new stalls.

The new development has not been without its problems, but it was announced in March that work had been completed on the venue - you can read that article HERE

Last year, the council had to find new contractors after the original ones pulled out of the project due to the first Covid-19 lockdown New contractors sought for Newmarket after Westone Housing Ltd pull out.

Ahead of the launch, the public have been given a glimpse into how it will look inside, with features including an artificial green wall and exposed brick.­­­

The council says the impressive modern interior blends with a subtle traditional market theme to maintain the prominence of the town's trading history.

With a street food-type set-up, and a space for pop-up traders to come along for events, the market has been designed for an inclusive shopping experience according the local authority.

When it opens, the market is designed to be a place to meet with friends and family and customers will have the option to eat, drink and explore traditional retail market stalls.

The Handmade Brownie Company is among businesses that have signed up to join the market and will occupy one of the catering units, specialising in hot food, drinks and a range of award-winning cakes and brownies.

For a full customer experience, the council is still looking for bread bakers and fresh fruit and veg stall holders and is encouraging traders to apply.

For more information, click HERE.

The new indoor market will be open on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday between 8am and 4pm.

Councillor Richard Blunt, Leader of NWLDC, said: "After overcoming a few hurdles, it's great to have a date set to welcome customers and visitors to the exciting new facility in Coalville.

"Local people have waited very patiently for the opening, and we hope that they'll be able to join us for the launch weekend to celebrate the great new addition to the town centre.

"It's going to be a great place to meet with friends and family and we can't wait to show the public what our fantastic traders have to offer. There are still a few spaces left for local businesses to trade at Newmarket and I would recommend getting in touch to find out how you can get involved."

Gavin and Zara Williams, owners of The Handmade Brownie Company, said: "It's a really exciting step to have a date set for the opening of Newmarket.

"Our business started from home and has gradually grown online or through weekly markets and food festivals so it's great to finally have a permanent base where customers can pay us a visit.

"We think it will be a great opportunity for us and other small businesses to grow, as well as encourage people back into the town centre to shop local and give independent businesses like ours a boost.

"We can't wait to welcome new and old customers to the launch weekend in September to have a look at the exciting new facility here. Why not pop down and see us - we'll have plenty of sweet treats to choose from!"

To discuss trader opportunities further, potential applicants can also contact [email protected] or call 01530 454598 for more information.