HARINGEY Council has faced criticism after it approved plans to redevelop a market – after a three and a half year delay.

Noel Park Cllr Alan Strickland promised the Bruce Grove, Tottenham, market would be revamped in 2012 – but has only just signed the proposals off.

It is currently dilapidated and in need of a facelift, will be transformed with new kiosks, paving stones and car parks.

But people who live in the area are unhappy about the amount of time it has taken for the work to finally be approved.

Martin Ball, representative of the Dowset Road Residents’ Association on the Bruce Grove Stakeholder Group, said the work will disrupt the town centre, and called for Councillor Strickland’s resignation.

He said: “I have no confidence in his leadership on the market improvement scheme. I know other resident representatives feel the same way.

“The contract signing is an opportunity for him to step aside to allow a more credible person to over-see the most important part of the project that is the actual building work period.

“His departure from the scene would give all involved fresh hope and confidence in the successful outcome of an expanded Holcombe Market serving the people of Tottenham."

Meanwhile, traders say they are now looking to the future and are pleased the plans have finally been approved.

David Hall’s fruit and vegetable stall has been part of his family for over 100 years. The 60-year-old, who lives in Waltham Cross, said: “We are very happy the scheme is going ahead.

“The High Road isn’t what it used to be. There is too many people shopping elsewhere.

“When it’s done this area will be a lot more high profile. We will get noticed a lot more.

“Hopefully with the three new units we will get a butcher and a baker and this area will all become a nice food market.”

Three new stalls will also be introduced to the area.

James Pledger, a fishmonger for Hodderston, who has worked for the market for 25 years, said: “It nice and exciting for everyone. It will be good to brighten up the area but with anything new there is always going to be some issues.”

The market will also be made bigger to replace an alleyway behind the site, which has been a magnet for anti-social behaviour.

Nadeem Heerah, a 21-year-old who works at the fruit and veg stand, said: “Sometimes fights will break out near the alleyway. We smell a lot of weed. There’s dodgy behaviour.

“If this helps the area that can only be a good thing. Anything to make an improvement around here will be great. The market is pretty important to certain individuals.

“If you’re from here, you’re going to want to love it and it’s going to be important to you.”

Traders will have to move out for six months, whilst the work is completed, relocating to new spot on the High Road where they will trade out of shipping containers.

Cllr Strickland, who is reponsible for regeneration on the council, said: “It’s long been our ambition to transform Holcombe Road Market into a bustling modern public space, and I’m really pleased to see work getting underway.

“The new market will provide better facilities that show off Tottenham’s great local traders and bring a safer, cleaner and welcoming place for residents and shoppers to visit.”