New undercover and fully air-conditioned markets are being launched at Orange Grove on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 March.

Creating a new retail hub at Orange Grove, the 15,000 square metre (sqm) complex has undergone a complete refurbishment and the markets will include more than 225 stalls.

The Liverpool Markets provide a diverse range of bulky goods, fashion and fresh food produce, as well as free on-site parking with up to 3000 spaces, two crèche facilities and a new food and drinks precinct. 

The markets are also integrated with the Liverpool Megacenta, which hosts major tenants including Harvey Norman and Domayne and eateries such as McDonalds, Krispy Kreme and Harry’s Café de Wheels.

Nabil Gazal Jnr, a director of the site’s owner and developer Gazcorp, expects to open the markets with both large and small vendors, with stall preference given to retailers previously displaced by the controversial closure of Orange Grove.

“Liverpool Markets will spark an economic boost to the Liverpool area and we are expecting a surge in the number of both shoppers and retailers coming back to the reborn complex.

“There is a lot of excitement surrounding the opening and we have already had huge community interest, especially amongst our former tenants in the complex. We have found more people are shopping at markets during the tough times in the economy, while we are offering storeowners lower overheads associated with shopfronts on streets,” said Gazal Jnr.

Trading at the markets will take place every Saturday and Sunday from 7am until 5pm, with the opening weekend to feature an opening ceremony and entertainment.

The site will be closed during the week and will be available as an alternative venue space for hire for trade shows, exhibitions and other events.