Family business excited for market renovations

Diane is one half of the team behind Sweets Galore

The owners of a family-run business have said renovations of the market where they operate will ensure they have a future.

John and Diane Brown run Sweets Galore at Wellington Market, which has been based there for 50 years.

Telford and Wrekin Council secured government funding to transform the venue - with plans including a redesigned layout and refurbished and expanded toilet facilities.

"There's always an element of risk with change but we are really grateful to have a future and realise that if the refurbishment of the market isn't done there won't be a future – the market will die," the pair said.

"We've been here for 50 years, but our new gondola-style stall will be one of those at the front and centre of the market, and will hopefully draw people in to see what we and all the other traders in the market have to offer.

"The market is a very important part of the community in Wellington, and we're pleased that the historic features of the building, which has stood here for centuries, are being maintained."

New "gondola-style" stalls are part of the project

Other plans for the multi-million-pound changes include an improved, covered outdoor space and enhanced food court.

The spending on the 1,700 sq m (18,300 sq ft) market is part of £12m in funding from central government for Wellington.

Planning permission is needed only for structural changes to the market building, not for individual stalls.

A consultation on the plans expired at the end of July, with a decision due by the end of August.

The council said preliminary work was complete and the main refurbishment would begin shortly.