Work has begun on transforming Mansfield Market after the £100,000 regeneration project was given the go-ahead.

The new-look market will be launched next month when just one market will operate in the town centre.

West Gate stalls will be relocated to the Market Place to create a focal point for footfall and encourage stall browsing. Some infrastructure changes will be made to allow for more room in the market square.

Monday markets will no longer operate, but Tuesday will become a full market day, giving stallholders the opportunity to switch trading days.

Sundays will be home to car boot sales, events and special markets.

The market stalls will be adapted, refurbished or replaced and all will have new canopies, signs and optional posters. The council will also be investing in marquee-style stalls for entertainment and events.

An enhanced food area is integral to the new layout of the market, along with a designated entertainment area in front of the Town Hall.

A promotional plan for the market includes live entertainment from famous Covent Garden acts, supported by local performers.

There will be a focus on encouraging new products to Mansfield through the introduction of rent-free incubation units, business support and access to the council’s apprenticeship grant scheme.

The quality of produce will be at the heart of the revamp with the council reaffirming its sign-up to the Nottinghamshire-wide Real Deal scheme, supported by Nottinghamshire County Council and Trading Standards. There will be a zero-tolerance approach to anti-social behaviour around the market.

Mansfield District Council portfolio holder for corporate services, Coun Stewart Rickersey, said: “Mansfield Market will be safe, welcoming and inviting for shoppers.

“We will not have drinking, cycling and bad behaviour in that area. I will be looking to our street wardens to play an important role in this.”

The highlight of the launch will be on Saturday, 9th April when the town will have its first Covent Garden day with live performances and street entertainers.

Local performers interested in showcasing their talent or traders looking to take up a market stall should contact markets@mans field.gov.uk or call 01623 463818.