Councils thank towns for patience

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Cllr Mirfin said: “It has been tough for the Traders due to reduced footfall and your continued support is vital in the coming months.

“They are looking forward to moving back up to the new market area which will have a new centralised layout, built in utilities and dedicated entertainment area.”

Cllrs Lucey and Mirfin added that they were pleased with the team from Balfour Beatty who have been praised by residents.

Cllr Mirfin said: “We have received regular feedback to say how polite and friendly the whole team is and that they are always willing to explain what is going on.

“They have been working with local schools and several students have already enjoyed work experience on site, The Emmbrook School enjoyed two careers sessions where Balfour Beatty staff talked to the students about opportunities available within a large construction organisation.”

And the way in which the town has worked together over the this first phase of Market Place has been picked by businesses as well.

James Woodhouse, Asset Manager at Aviva Investors the owner of The Plaza, said: “We are delighted to support the local community by enabling the market to trade from The Plaza. As a major stakeholder in Wokingham, we back the wider redevelopment of the town centre and the temporary relocation of the market.

“Both the tenants of The Plaza and the market traders, together with shoppers have benefitted from this relocation through the added footfall generated.”