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The vision for Church Street market that is expected to be completed by February next year |
Market force... Traders’ fears over £3.5m revamp
STALL-HOLDERS in Church Street market fear plans to attract new traders to the area will force them out of business.
Plans that include provision for a new farmers’ market to rival the Boqueria market in Barcelona are part of a £3.5million project to refurbish Church Street – one of the most deprived corners of Westminster.
One food trader said: “I am worried about it. We’re full up already. There are more than enough food stalls here.”
Work on the markets is scheduled to finish in February next year.
The council hopes that a farmers’ market, similar to those at Borough Market and Covent Garden, will attract a new type of shopper to Church Street when Crossrail arrives in 2017.
Currently stall-holders pay a daily rent of £10. All new stall-holders will be placed within the existing market area.
Church Street ward councillors Barbara Grahame and Aziz Toki and market traders say they knew nothing of the farmers’ market proposals.
Westminster Council is keen to attract new types of business to the area. A
spokesman said: “Established farmers’ markets and antique markets are examples that would be fully supported, however new and innovative suggestions for markets or events are also invited”
In December last year Labour councillors delivered a petition to the council condemning a 25 per cent increase in rents on the street.
As part of the regeneration the street will be fitted with new lighting, paving and the installation of new power and water supplies for traders.”
The revamp is being overseen by urban-renewal architects Farrells.
It says the new market will rival Covent Garden and Boqueria markets.
Councillor Toki said: “Structural improvement of Church Street is a longstanding desire of the local people.
“The improvement will speak for diversity and enhance the glory and image of Church Street as a civic street. I am sure it will attract more people to come for their shopping in the area. All sorts of trading will be increased.”
Council leader Colin Barrow said: “Westminster’s street markets are a source of pride for our residents, playing a vital role in the heart of our local communities.
“They are also a great way for new businesses to start up by encouraging local enterprise and regeneration.” |
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