Temporary relocation of Walsall market is on track to go ahead soon – council chiefs have revealed after a meeting with the owners of the Old Square Shopping Centre.

It comes after “very positive” discussions between council bosses and owners Threadneedle, who had opposed the move.

Last year, plans to move the near 800-year-old market from its site in Digbeth to a temporary new home in The Bridge were blocked by the retail firm, which claimed it would mean a drop in shoppers.

Walsall Council decided last month to push forward plans for the relocation of the market and this was the first meeting between the two sides since then.

But council leader Mike Bird and deputy leader Adrian Andrew aere confident progress has been made. Councillor Andrew, cabinet member for regeneration, insisted talks had centred on a long-term vision for the town, as well as the market move.

He said: “I certainly think we will be able to take things forward, not just for the market move but for the regeneration of Walsall town centre as a whole.”

The temporary market move was planned to make way for the multi-million pound redevelopment of the St Matthew’s Quarter.

Once complete, the market will move to a new revamped location in Lower Hall Lane.

Council leader Mike Bird said: “It was an excellent meeting with Threadneedle.

“We discussed a lot of issues to do with the town centre and we have a lot of common ground.

“They understand the reasons we have to move the market and we talked about the best way the market move could be done.”

He added: “I think I can say I’m pretty confident the move of the market to a temporary location is nearer than it has ever been.”

Threadneedle were unavailable for comment. A firm planning application would need to be submitted before any move takes place.