CONSTRUCTION of the town's temporary market hall has begun as the £107 million Bridge Street regeneration project continues to gather pace.

North west-based building group Construction Partnership UK (CPUK) commenced work on the first phase of the council's flagship scheme this week after being appointed to the job last year.

The inaugural part, which will feature a 25,500 square foot structural retail shell and mezzanine floor, will be completed in spring 2017.

Warrington's existing award-winning market will move into the temporary location in early 2017 during the demolition period of the old building, while the permanent £10 million hall is being constructed before its 2019 unveiling.

The Bridge Street Quarter regeneration scheme will be delivered by Warrington & Co on behalf of the council, with Muse Developments acting as the development manager.

It will create up to 400 construction jobs and 400 new permanent positions in the leisure, retail and restaurant sectors.

Council leader Terry O'Neill said: "The construction of the temporary market is such an integral part of the Bridge Street regeneration project as it will provide our market traders with the setting they need to continue trading while the council delivers the brand new, permanent market hall building."

CPUK managing director Steve Burke has highlighted the jobs boost set for the town.

He said: "The Bridge Street regeneration project is an ambitious investment project and the construction phase will bring welcome employment opportunities for some of the population and construction related businesses.

"As a company based in the north west, CPUK is proud to be working on what is such an important project for Warrington."

David Burkinshaw, development director at Muse, added: "Commencing construction on this next phase marks another major milestone for the Bridge Street Quarter project.

"Importantly it will facilitate the relocation of the market, paving the way for the wider leisure, retail and office scheme to be realised."

Warrington Market enjoyed awards success last month with its win in the 'best love your local market event' category of The Great British Market Awards.

At no time will the market cease to trade during development work.

The temporary shell will be converted into future retail use once the permanent site is built.