They joined City of Wolverhampton Council Leader, Councillor Stephen Simkins, to see the progress on the redevelopment of the outdoor market.

The full scale of the new market is now visible with the roof structure in place - and contractor Speller Metcalfe remains on track to complete the works in June 2026.

The new market will also boast better access, upgraded toilets, enhanced stalls, a flexible events space and improved public areas.

More than £8million is being invested in the redevelopment of Bilston Market after the council showed its commitment to the scheme by providing a £2.5million uplift to the budget to engineer the design after discovering difficult conditions under the ground.

Bilston outdoor market trader, Julie Emery of JD Produce, selling fruit & veg, said: “The new outdoor market is looking very smart and I am very excited to be moving back to a new contemporary workplace.

“It has been a very tough winter for the traders with all the bad weather and the constant rain but we are hoping that, when we return to our new market, the customers and the traders will be protected from the weather and it will make shopping at the market a better experience.

“Bilston is a great little town and I am so pleased the council have invested in the market as it really did need a makeover.

“Now we can all see the progress, and we are near to returning to our original site, the public are getting excited for us too.”

Bilston indoor market trader rep, Andrew Pritchard, of GT Pritchard & Son selling fruit & veg, said: “The traders and customers are excited and looking forward to the opening of the new outdoor market.

“The site looks amazing and will work well together with the vibrant indoor market making Bilston a great place to shop with lots of variety and friendly traders.

“As third generation traders we are proud to be part of the exciting future Bilston has, making it one of the best markets in the country.”

Bilston indoor market trader rep, Nick Brown, who runs the Electrical Discount stall, added: “We are really excited about the reopening of the outdoor market.

“Bilston has always been a brilliant, famous market and this will enhance it for years to come.”

Councillor Stephen Simkins, City of Wolverhampton Council Leader, said: “It is great to see the development of the new Bilston market making such good progress.

“I’m proud to be delivering what will be the first class, improved and modern market that we promised traders, making it even better for them and their customers.

“In just a few months, we will all be enjoying the absolute best market in the West Midlands with more modern, more accessible, and more vibrant spaces for traders and the local community.”

Councillor Chris Burden, Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, said: “The Market redevelopment is just the first phase of our multi-million-pound investment in Bilston.

“There’s lots more to come that will complement and enhance the market works to drive footfall to the town centre and increase economic spend.

“This includes Black Country Route public realm improvements, High Street Link scheme, £20million Pride in Place programme, which we are working closely with local residents on to spend on projects around the town, and construction of a new Health & Wellbeing Facility next to the leisure centre.”