Work has started on a major £18 million development of Brighton’s Open Market.
Traders have moved from the market to a temporary home in Francis Street so the transformation can begin of the area between London Road and Ditchling Road.
The new market, which is due to be completed in 2013, will include 44 new permanent covered market stalls and 12 creative workshops for arts, crafts and creative people selling their own work. There will also be a large central square for activities, entertainment and specialist visiting markets.
The market will be run as a community enterprise by market traders, the council and housing association The Hyde Group. Funding for the project is part of an agreement to allow Hyde to build 87 affordable homes.
Cllr Ian Davey, of Brighton and Hove City Council, said: “It’s such a proud moment to get this major project off the ground for the city.
“It should provide a catalyst for the regeneration of London Road and become a real hub of the community.”
The redevelopment project will provide around 80 full-time jobs and it is hoped the completed market will provide around 100 extra full-time positions.
CIC director and traders’ representative Paul Reynolds said: “It’s an historic day and the start of a new era for the market.
“The retailing expert Mary Portas has been talking recently about how markets can regenerate shopping areas and get businesses started and that’s how we see the future.
“In the meantime I’d urge people to keep shopping at the market’s temporary base in Francis Street.”