Traders give thumbs-up to new weekly Coalville market - as Marlborough Square is officially opened
Market traders have given their approval to the new-look Marlborough Square in Coalville.
The £2.8million project was officially opened - a week later than planned due to bad weather - on Friday.
It will feature a new outdoor market every Friday - with visitors encouraged to buy fresh, fruit, vegetables and fish, among other items on sale.
People will also be encouraged to use the Newmarket venue which is designed to complement Marlborough Square's upgrade.
The official ribbon-cutting took place - with the help of a town crier - on the much-delayed scheme.
North West Leicestershire District Council also plans to use the space for special events and a Christmas Market later this year.
But the stallholders have welcomed the chance to take part in a new weekly market.
Pollard's, selling fruit and veg, had been positioned by the Clock Tower and is now part of the Marlborough Square market.
Co-owner Charlotte Pollard said: "It was really busy on Friday, and it's all been positive, business was a lot busier than it has been.
"We did okay and saw lots of new faces. We do a lot of markets and it's been really well promoted by the council - they've worked really well alongside us and been really supportive.
"We're local people and it's really nice to be part of something local happening. We were up at the Clock Tower for nearly three years - and so we were getting a lot more footfall in Marlborough Square.
"We've been waiting to move down here from there, so now we've finally been able to make that move."
Watson's Farm Shop usually sets up stall at shows, galas and fairs, but is keen to be part of the weekly market.
The stall has jams and preserves on sale - as well as local honey from the Bee Farmer based in North West Leicestershire.
Owner Edward Smith-Watson added: "I did okay on the first day.
"The people are all asking me if I'm coming back next week and on a regular basis. Hopefully, that's going to be the case.
"Coming up to the festive season, we'll be doing gifts and Christmas trees.
"Markets like this are good for the community, and trying to build that up.
"It's something new, they've spent a lot of money on it - and they're trying to regenerate Coalville. What's wrong with that?
"If it works, great. If it doesn't work for whatever reason, at least they tried. It has the support of the traders."
David Coley, of The Fish Plaice, said the new space is ideal for market traders.
He said: "Coalville is Leicestershire's best-kept secret!
"I live in Burbage and this is the first time I've been here, it's lovely, everyone's been friendly and has had a nice smile.
"Friday was a real treat for me, and everyone from the council side has been first class in their communication.
"Long may it last. I've got frozen fish in my van, salmon, hake, Cromer Crab is very popular. I hope to be here every week.
"I can see how the area is being regenerated - and this is just the start. I can see this area being really vibrant, a bit like it was a few years ago.
"But this area will only grow - and it's helping people like me carry out my business. You'll always have critics, but I hope this can help Coalville get back to where it should be."
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