Petition to Preserve Smithfield Market Gathers Over 15,000 Signatures

An online appeal advocating for the preservation of Smithfield Market has garnered over 15,000 signatures. This market, situated close to St Paul’s Cathedral, along with Billingsgate Fish Market in Canary Wharf, faces closure following the City of London Corporation’s decision last month to cease its backing. Previously, the corporation had intended to relocate both these markets, in addition to New Spitalfields Market in Leyton, to a new, custom-built facility in Dagenham valued at £1bn; however, this initiative was scrapped due to escalating expenses. According to the individual who initiated the petition, Smithfield Market constitutes an “irreplaceable part of the city’s cultural and economic fabric”. The creator further stated, “For over 800 years, Smithfield Market has been a vibrant hub of trade and commerce, contributing to the identity of London as a global city.” They added, “It stands as a testament to the city’s rich history, from medieval times to the modern day.” The corporation confirmed that the markets are slated to operate at their existing locations until 2028, with compensation provided to traders. Smithfield holds the distinction of being the largest wholesale meat market in the UK and ranks among the largest in Europe. Its present form has been active at this location since the 1860s, having previously functioned as a livestock market with origins tracing back to the medieval period. A signatory of the petition remarked: “My late dad worked at Smithfield for decades. He would be deeply saddened to see it close for good – I’m signing this on his behalf.” Another individual commented: “I am a regular purchaser of meat from the traders in and around this historic market.” This person further asserted: “We urgently need to save traditional market places such as this which have had a place in our local food infrastructure for hundreds of years. Once lost, never replaced!” A spokesperson for the City of London Corporation had previously characterized the decision as a “positive new chapter” for the markets, stating it “empowers traders to build a sustainable future in premises that align with their long-term business goals”. The spokesperson elaborated: “By stepping back from direct market operations, we will help to create opportunities for these businesses to thrive independently.” Furthermore, the spokesperson mentioned that the corporation intends to provide financial assistance to aid traders in their efforts to “transition seamlessly and successfully to new locations”. For more content, listeners can tune into the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London across Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk. This content is Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the material found on external websites. Information regarding their policy on external linking is available.