BLACKBURN’S new market has been a long time coming. There have also been many delays and problems in the years between its concep-tion and long-awaited birth.

But now it is open for business and is a great asset which will hopefully herald the dawn of a new era in retailing for the town.

Shoppers yesterday seem-ed to generally welcome the new experience even though at this stage the new market is only half full.

The council, however, forecasts the place will be totally occupied in two months, giving an even greater range of choice in bright, modern, clean surroundings.

News that developers are now jostling to take over the old market site is an exciting bonus.

One of them, The Mall, has a plan which would include extending the existing shopping complex right across Ainsworth Street.

Whichever developer is selected, and it is great for the council to have a choice in these tough times, the prospects are exciting.

They could also mean that as well as being a great place for borough residents Blackburn could again boast shopping facilities which will tempt customers and cash from neighbouring towns and cities.