Leicester Market reopens in temporary home

The temporary market features 48 stalls

Traders from Leicester Market have relocated to a temporary site while a major refurbishment takes place.

The city council has set up 48 stalls under a weatherproof canopy in Green Dragon Square to allow businesses to continue operating.

A £7.5m project to refurbish the Market Place site is due to start in January with a target completion date of Christmas 2024.

City mayor Sir Peter Soulsby said the upgrade was "long overdue".

"By creating a temporary new home for the market on Green Dragon Square, we've made sure that the market that's been part of Leicester for more than 700 years can continue to trade throughout the works," he said.

The refurbishment is due to start in January

Stall holder Vicky Morris said she hoped customers would continue to visit the market in its temporary home.

"Leicester Market is a thriving place and a hub of the city, so help us keep it going," she said.

Fellow trader Paul Abbott said: "We are a little worried about the move but we do understand that the temporary market has to happen for us to get our brand new market.

"That's just what we need, as the current market is so tired looking."

Leicester City Council says the refurbished market will feature 70 stalls, a new layout and enhanced lighting and paving.