East London Market Faces Fishmonger Closures Amid Billingsgate Shutdown
Fishmongers in East London may shut down if Billingsgate closes. Local traders are worried about losing their livelihoods without a central fish market to rely on.
East London, Billingsgate, Hackney, Ridley Road Market, Fishmongers, City of London Corporation, Smithfield Market, Food Supply
East London: The future of three fish sellers is looking grim. If Billingsgate Market closes, they might have to shut down too. A petition claims they rely on this central market for their fish supply.
Two petitions have been sent to Parliament against the City of London Corporation’s plans. One petition, from traders at Ridley Road Market, says these businesses would close without access to Billingsgate.
A spokesperson for the Corporation said they’ll review the petitions. They had previously decided to close both Smithfield and Billingsgate markets instead of relocating them.
This decision came after concerns about rising costs. The Corporation had planned a new facility in Dagenham, but that’s off the table now. They say they’ll help traders find new locations.
Traders can still sell at the markets until at least 2028. A Private Bill was submitted to Parliament to officially pull out of running these markets. It’s currently under review.
One petition, started by Peter Acton, has gained thousands of signatures. He believes these markets are vital for London’s food supply and that closing them would hurt many communities.
Another petition represents 27 traders and residents from Ridley Road Market. They’re worried about the lack of information regarding the closure and its impact on their businesses.
These fish sellers employ a few staff each, and without Billingsgate, they can’t afford to buy fish in bulk. They rely on the market to compare prices and get the best deals.
Without a central market, they’d have to drive all over London to find fish. One seller mentioned he’d have no choice but to rely on benefits if his business fails.
Fish is a staple for many communities, and the closure of Billingsgate could hurt local markets like Ridley Road. The City of London Corporation is still considering the petitions and will respond soon.
Smithfield and Billingsgate are historic markets, with Smithfield dating back to medieval times. Billingsgate has been at its current location since 1982 and is crucial for fish supply in London.
The Private Bill has had its first reading in the House of Commons. We’re waiting for the date of the second reading to see what happens next.