HOPES of a bumper summer in Newton Abbot have been expressed as work on remodelling the market hall nears completion and shoppers get used to the new-look Queen Street.

Town councillors hope this will mark the end of two years of disruption.

In May 2024, Teignbridge District Council and Devon County Council began implementing major changes to Queen Street, reducing vehicle access and widening the pavement for safety reasons.

The controversial Government-funded scheme was described as an enhancement but concerns were raised by traders and Newton Abbot Town Council fearing it would reduce footfall.

Then, in October 2024, the historic indoor market was closed for Government-funded project to deliver a more vibrant visitor destination and improved Market Walk.

Again, the scheme was met with apprehension as it looked like future of the attached Alexandra Cinema and Theatre may be susceptible to alterations.

Changes were subsequently made and now the Victorian structure is soon to re-open.

‘We’re all looking forward to seeing our town to flourish again,’ said Mayor Cllr Colin Parker.

‘The summer is approaching and at last our streets will be free of construction and all the chaos that brings.

‘Teignbridge says it has great hopes for the remodelled market hall and we’re also seeing new businesses setting up elsewhere in town.

‘We’ve also a great programme of free family activities and events planned for the coming months so I’m hopeful that we’ll see a bumper summer in town with old friends returning and new ones coming to see what’s on offer.’

Pierre Doutreligne, NATC’s Projects and Strategy Officer, said: ‘The opening of The Italian Store on Queen Street, together with the arrival of other new traders and the imminent unveiling of the new market hall, sends an unambiguous message to residents, visitors and potential investors, Newton Abbot is very much open for business.’