THE new multi-million pound Warrington Market will open on June 15.

The current, temporary market building will close to customers on June 6, as traders prepare to relocate to the new site.

The current market building has been open for nearly three years since traders moved into the temporary facility, as part of the wider £142.5 million Time Square development.

The purpose-built facility had been due to open in April but was delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The open plan building – which features a mezzanine floor, escalators, a spacious food court and an outdoor terrace – is the latest addition to the council’s flagship Time Square development.

Council leader Cllr Russ Bowden said: “It’s fantastic news that we are finally able to open Warrington’s new, state-of-the-art market, which will be home to over 55 independent traders.

“Despite the challenges currently facing the high street nationally, our traders have demonstrated their resolve over the last few months by continuing to provide essential goods and services to the community.

“They have worked with us to offer different ways of shopping, including the new contactless click and collect drive-thru and delivery options, which has helped those in need at this challenging time.

“Markets bring a vibrancy to town centres and our new market is a welcome addition to Time Square.

“We will be following the government’s guidance around social distancing measures to ensure the new building is a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.

“It’s not quite the opening we had hoped for, but staff and traders are looking forward to a new beginning and can’t wait to serve customers again.”

The new market will feature local independent operators, with some familiar faces and some new traders.

The building will open in phases, with the first phase on June 15 welcoming fresh produce and food retailers, including butchers, fishmongers, deli and a greengrocer, alongside a range of other goods and services.

The second phase scheduled for early July, subject to Government guidance, will include the opening of the new food court, serving a variety of hot and cold cuisines, and close contact, personal services such as hairdressers.

Warrington Market trader liaison officer Gary Jacques, who runs a gift shop and personalisation service at the market, is encouraging the public to shop local and keep safe.

He said: “It’s going to be a different shopping experience for a while when the traders open in the new building.

“We have an amazing new facility and traders are working closely with the council to design and support a range of measures to ensure we provide our customers with the safest possible shopping experience.”

For more information visit warrington.gov.uk/new-warrington-market, or follow @warringtonmkt on social media.