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'Biggest threat yet' to Portobello Market
April 11, 2011 2:54 PM
Local Liberal Democrat councillors have vowed to fight for the future of Portobello Market following the request by 'Super Landlords' who control much of the indoor market for the right to seven-day trading. This could force the antique traders out of the historic Admiral Vernon arcade and cause a knock-on effect on the rest of the market.
Iconic: Portobello Market
Liberal Democrat Councillor Carol Caruana said: "These traders faced a 10% rise in their rents last year and a further 10% this year. It is very easy to see the danger: the traders could be forced out because they can't afford to stay, and in moves another All Saints or some other monstrosity which has no place here." All Saints replaced a thriving antiques arcade.
A few years ago, the Liberal Democrats successfully led a massive campaign against the plan by some Super Landlords who owned the old Woolworths building to demolish the entire block and replace it with luxury flats and boutiques. "The community has beaten this kind of thing before" said Councillor Caruana. "This is the biggest threat yet to the market. The only way to stop it is for residents to get involved again."
YOU can object to the plan for seven-day trading, which could force the antiques traders out and have a knock-on effect all along Portobello.
Here are three ways to object:
1) Visit www.tinyurl.com/savemarket and fill in the form at the end of the page.
2) Email planning@rbkc.gov.uk quoting reference number PP/11/00089
3) Write to Planning, Kensington Town Hall, Hornton St, London, W8 7NX quoting reference number PP/11/00089.
The Council are due to make the decision on 19th April.