Market expansion
Wednesday June 3, 2009
Shepherds Bush Market should expand to protect its status as one of west London’s leading destinations, says Hammersmith & Fulham Council.
The Council is seeking views on the possible expansion of the market in an important planning document which goes out for consultation today (Wednesday 3 June 09). Once agreed, the Local Development Framework Core Strategy Options paper will set out the Council’s planning policy and guide future development in the next 20 years.
The Council and other landowners, including Peabody and the Broadway Centre, are working together to look at the potential for bringing forward a major regeneration scheme to expand the market as part of a mixed-use scheme. Traders and residents are also being asked their views on ideas around opening up a new access to the market on Goldhawk Road to complement its two current entrances.
Councillor Mark Loveday, Cabinet Member for Strategy at H&F Council, said: “Shepherds Bush Market has been the heart of the area for nearly 100 years and we want to make sure it stays that way for the next 100 years.
“The market currently sits on a very cramped site which prohibits any major improvements. We want to encourage any scheme that opens up the market, with the possibility of new shops and leisure facilities to further enhance the reputation of the area as one of the cultural heartbeats of west London. We want to keep all the existing market traders and ensure that the market has a long-term future.
“However, we must stress that these are only ideas at this stage. There are no actual plans on the table and we very much want to hear the views of local people and businesses.”
Stephen Howlett, Chief Executive of Peabody, said: “Shepherds Bush Market is rightly a diverse, vibrant part of the town centre and any expansion, which must also protect the interests of existing residents, can only be good for the area as a whole.”
Howard Sinclair, Chief Executive of the Broadway Centre which provides homeless support services, said: “We very much welcome these ideas which are about regenerating this part of Shepherds Bush town centre. If plans do emerge we will be working with the Council to ensure the continued provision of our services.”
The Local Development Framework Core Strategy Options paper is out for consultation until 17 July 2009.
Transport for London own the current market site and the adjoining owners are Octavia Housing, The Broadway Centre and Peabody. Peabody is one of London's best known and largest housing associations. As well as providing affordable housing, Peabody offers learning, volunteering, personal development and community activities. The Pennard Road site is occupied by a former laundry – although the site is cleared now.
