Building work on the new, modern indoor market in Coalville has been completed - with the final touches now being added ahead of a planned opening when Covid-19 restrictions allow.

But North West Leicestershire District Council says the project has been done 'the hard way'.

The council has received the keys to Newmarket this week after construction work finished.

Interior design work, the painting of the frontage and the installation of fixtures and fittings are among the final tasks due to be completed.

The council says the project has not been without its ups and downs as Covid-19 significantly delayed progress last year before the original contractor then pulled out due to financial problems.

But council bosses insist those challenges have been overcome and the they are now looking forward to opening Newmarket when the Government's roadmap allows.

The opening of Newmarket will mark an important step in Coalville's regeneration journey, which the district council says is a 'firm priority'.

The council's recent 2021/22 budget promises a further £3million will be invested into Coalville over the next three years.

Until Newmarket opens, Coalville's current indoor market will remain open to the small number of traders that sell essentials, as has been the case throughout the latest lockdown.

Councillor Richard Blunt, Leader of the district council, said: "After all the challenges we've faced in the past year, it's a really positive step to finally have the keys to Newmarket.

"We've had to do it the hard way, but our determination to complete the project has been resolute and we now wait for Covid-19 restrictions to relax so Newmarket can open.

"We're looking forward to seeing a thriving market emerge here, meeting the wants and needs of the modern-day shopper, becoming the place in Coalville to grab lunch, buy a coffee or purchase quality items and essentials.

"In the meantime, we encourage everyone to stay safe and shop for their essentials locally, supporting local businesses and the traders still operating at the old market hall."

The council adds that, while many of the stalls are now reserved, there are still spaces for new traders in Newmarket, especially caterers looking to provide exciting international cuisine.

Anyone who would like to apply for a stall at Newmarket can contact [email protected] or call 01530 454598 for more information.

The current indoor market's trading days are Tuesday 8am to 2pm, Thursday and Friday 6.30am to 2.30pm.