Nicola visited local traders in West Bromwich Town Centre today to mark Small Business Saturday.
Working with traders on the Indoor Market, Nicola has been campaigning for the new Indoor Market to be completed as soon as possible. The new market is being built with Government funds which have come as part of the £25m Towns Fund investment for West Bromwich.
Unfortunately, delays from Sandwell Council has led to the project being delayed by a whole year. It should have been open to customers this month, but is now set for December 2024 at the earliest.
In that time, traders have been hit with rent rises despite the current Indoor Market not being fit for purpose.
Nicola visited Dave and Amarjit, two traders on the market, to discuss the project and celebrate their contributions to the town.
She also visited CC Uniforms who provide school uniforms and other clothing for local children.
Speaking after the visits, Nicola said:
"It's unquestionable that the indoor market needs it's move to the new premises as soon as possible. But traders like Dave at Dave's Pets and Amarjit of A.S. Textiles are part of the beating heart of our town. They need our support so please pop into the market soon and see what they and others have to offer.
"It was also good to catch up with Mandy at CC Uniforms to hear about their exciting plans for the future.
"There's still much more to do in our town centre, but backing our small businesses will make sure West Bromwich can thrive again in the future."