TRADERS have stressed that it will be business as usual when the Nantwich Market regeneration project moves up a gear in the coming weeks.

The £400,000 project moved a step closer this week with the presentation to traders of the scheme's draft plans, which include new lighting and refurbished shop units.

The council and North-West Development Agency-funded revamp also features new trader-friendly shops, improved caf facilities and modern toilets.

Work is due to start in the early autumn for an April 2007 completion.

Council special projects officer Phil Riding said: "We gave Paul Twiname, the architect and designer, the brief to retain the old-style charm of the market and make it even more attractive to customers, while increasing the number of businesses trading in the market.

"Of course, to do this we needed to work closely with existing traders to make sure their needs are met as far as possible."

The new toilets will be open seven days a week - not just on market days - following demands from residents for more facilities in the town.

Although the Tuesday market has been temporarily moved to Fridays to give the builders a clear four-day run, managers are stressing that the market will continue to function as normal.

Business manager Paul Burns said: "We can assure all our loyal customers that the market will remain open - it's very much 'business as usual' so please continue to shop with your favourite traders.

"On behalf of the traders I would urge everyone to continue to come along and support the market, even if things do look a bit different."

Cllr John Hammond, local environment portfolio holder, added: "This is an excellent time for Nantwich Market - for traders and customers alike.

"It will provide more opportunities for new small businesses serving the local community with great value merchandise."