MOUTHS will be watering when the ribbon is cut on Wakefield's brand new market food hall next Saturday.
The £3m Union Street hall opened in June 2008 but was forced to close just three months later.
Ventilation, temperature and drainage problems left it carrying serious health risks, and several traders quit just weeks after it opened.
But af
ter the closure, Wakefield Council construction teams started from scratch to fix the problems.
And next Saturday television presenter Harry Gration will open the new hall, which boasts an exhibition kitchen station for cookery shows.
Events focusing on healthy eating, family meals and nutrition will take place at the station in the coming months.
And traders will stock the 12 stalls with fresh meat and fish, African spices, bakery treats, artisan cheeses, fruit and vegetables, sandwiches and hot paninis.
Coun David Dagger, Wakefield Council's Cabinet member with responsibility for culture, said: "Everyone involved in the project is looking forward to seeing the food hall back in action and facing a great future.
"We have every confidence it will quickly become a focal point for people visiting the town, doing their weekly shop or looking for something extra to make a special meal.
"Traders have supported the food hall's redevelopment and we're delighted to be welcoming many new stall holders who have invested time and money in creating what will be a busy, vibrant and tasty shopping experience."
The new hall, which has a new ventilation system, will be open from Monday to Saturday.
Vouchers offering discounts to customers will be included in next week's Express.
