Chip stalls on Great Yarmouth marketplace are on standby as the new £4.7m building awaits the installation of gas meters.

The fences have come down around the second phase of the multimillion-pound regeneration of the town centre, and most businesses moving into the new units are said to have the keys.

The three remaining chip stalls not currently inside the new market building - Dearnos, Carrs and Docwras - are all expected to move inside the covered market building.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Docwras chip stall near the new market building in Great Yarmouth. Picture - James WeedsDocwras chip stall near the new market building in Great Yarmouth. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)A spokesperson from Great Yarmouth Borough Council said: "We expect to hear a date shortly for installation of the gas meters, which will enable the chip stalls to complete their fit-out and start trading."

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Underneath the canopy of Great Yarmouth's new market building. Picture - James WeedsUnderneath the canopy of Great Yarmouth's new market building. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)At lunchtime today (October 4), people were queuing outside the three stalls for the popular market food.

One trader, who did not wish to be named, said the chip stallholders had initially been told they should be moving into the new units sometime before the end of October.

"We've since been told there's no confirmed date," the trader added.

"And we'll be told shortly before it happens. But we all have our keys and getting ready to move in though.

"I'm happy to wait."

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Carr's and Dearnos chip stalls on Great Yarmouth marketplace. Picture - James WeedsCarr's and Dearnos chip stalls on Great Yarmouth marketplace. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)The market's new canopy area was opened last week, allowing visitors to take a look at the 12 new stalls. There is also space at the front for pop-up traders and a covered seating area.

An official opening date for the next phase of the marketplace has yet to be announced. Last week, a council spokesperson said there were “great new plans to mark the opening" which will be publicised soon.

“This is a very exciting time for everyone in Great Yarmouth as the brighter, cleaner and more open market nears completion," the spokesperson added.

The first phase of the project - which houses 15 stalls which have all been let - was officially opened last June.