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Further traders have been announced for Ffos Caerffili – Caerphilly town’s new container-style market – due to open on Friday March 15.

The council-owned market, had been scheduled to open on Cardiff Road in January.

It had originally been expected to open in September last year, but was pushed back to November, then January, and now March – a full six months late.

In November last year, Caerphilly Observer revealed the £4.65 million development had suffered delays due to problems connecting it to the town’s sewer.

The project is also likely to be overbudget, according to a response to a Freedom of Information request submitted by Plaid Cymru.

The council said “additional external funding” had been secured for the market’s completion.

A total of 28 traders will be at Ffos Caerffili, ranging from retailers and food and drink outlets to office space.

A full programme of events has been scheduled across Friday and Saturday, March 15 and 16, to celebrate the launch – featuring live music, local school choirs and workshops led by traders.

Among the traders already announced include Up Market Family Butchers, which will open a fishmonger’s, a new coffee place called Two Shot Social and Californian and Mexican-inspired street food outlet Bab Haus.

Joining them will be Taiwanese street food place Bao Selecta, vintage and second-hand clothing shop The Circular Studio, and Joe’s Plant Place – which will hold regular green-fingered workshops.

Cllr Jamie Pritchard, deputy leader of Caerphilly County Borough Council, said: “As we count down to the opening date, it’s great to see a positive reaction from residents to the news of more operators signing up to be part of the exciting Ffos Caerffili experience.

“The market will inject new life into the town centre, by facilitating an attractive blend of independent traders, offering a wide range of choice for shoppers and visitors alike.

“As a council, we will continue to work hard to develop private sector businesses in our town centres.”