TRADERS are preparing to move into York's newly-refurbished marketplace.

The Shambles Market will officially reopen on Monday, November 10, following a £1.6m refurbishment including new stalls and kiosks, weatherproofing and lighting.

The market will have more than 80 regular licensed traders and over 30 casuals, and has been situated in Parliament Street for several months while the refurbishment has taken place.

Councillor Sonja Crisp, cabinet member for leisure, culture and tourism, said: "I’m delighted that the lure of a much-enhanced market, a new brand and improved pedestrian flow, has so far encouraged 12 new traders to sign up for regular pitches on the daily market.

"They include retailers selling quilts and linens, woodcarvings, daily chinaware as well as beads and crafting materials. I look forward to welcoming them to Shambles Market as it nears completion, and adding to the shopping offer and the ambience."

Seven new kiosks will open in the marketplace next year, and an area of shared seating will also be available to shoppers.

Paula Hind, who runs Sheila's Veg with her husband David, said the move to Parliament Street had been popular, but traders were keen to find out how the newly designed market works out.

She said: "Customers all love us out in Parliament Street. A few have said they would like us back in Newgate, but the majority want us in Parliament Street because it's a nice atmosphere.

"Sheila's stall has been in operation since the early 1970s and we've seen some changes now, and we will just have to see what it's like when we move back into Newgate."

The market will open daily between 9am to 5pm, and will close only on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

For more information go to shamblesmarket.com