Canopy bid to boost shopping

Shoppers at Walsall Market will be able to browse for bargains all year round – whatever the weather – if plans to install a canopy at its proposed new pitch get the green light.

A cover, similar to this one pictured in Rotherham, is being proposed for the market which will move to Lower Hall Lane.

Cabinet members are being asked to back consultants' recommendations that the market moves to a busier site to revive its flagging fortunes.

The fabric cover is one the main features aimed at revolutionising the near 800-year-old town centre feature making it fit for 21st century traders.

Currently based in High Street, it has been struggling for several years and the creation of a new public space has been backed by the Markets Working Group.

Stallholders are set to make a temporary move to The Bridge, near Tesco, in 2009, while work is carried out on the Lower hall Lane site. They have supported the move as they feel it is a much busier spot and likely to attract more custom. Plans are due to go before the Walsall Council regeneration scrutiny panel this Thursday.

Councillor Des Pitt, scrutiny panel chairman, said: "This canopy is an exciting and revolutionary idea that is sure to really fire the imagination of shoppers and market traders alike. This will allow for covered shopping while retaining the unique character of the market and we are happy to pass on our recommendations to the cabinet."

If plans are approved building work will start in early 2009 and be completed for a Christmas 2010 opening. Plans include flexible water and electric supplies to create a modern public space when the market is not in operation.

Councillor Adrian Andrew, cabinet member for regeneration, said that the scheme would guarantee the future of the market.

He said: "We've always said that the market will be at the heart of any town centre redevelopment and this honours that commitment. Any developments that take place need to enhance the historic nature of the town centre and not detract from it."

The new-look market would complement the St Matthew's Quarter development in and around George Street. A 24-hour Asda opened its doors last summer.