One of London's oldest markets, Whitecross Street (off Old Street, EC1) is currently undergoing a facelift as part of a project to breathe life back into the area.
The market dates back to medieval times and being outside the City walls, was a favourite place for travelling pedlars and tinkers who were not allowed into the City where markets and prices were strictly controlled by the guilds.
Councillor Bridget Fox, executive member for sustainability, said: "Markets like Whitecross Street are part of the fabric of our community and they are too good to lose. This is a great chance to reinvigorate the market for the future, while keeping its history and character alive. The design of the Whitecross Street improvements was led by consultations with local traders and residents -we all want the market to be a real success, restoring pride in the area and boosting the local economy."
Today, Whitecross Street is a lunchtime market popular with office workers but the number of stalls has been falling over the past 20 years, from over 140 in 1985 to around 45 in 2005.
The aim of the improvement project is to reverse the decline of this once-thriving market and boost the local economy. The project aims to revitalise the appearance of the street and attract people and inward investment to the area.
EC1 resident and New Deal board member, Troy Gallagher said: "The redevelopment of Whitecross Street offers a long awaited and much needed lifeline to our important local market. The physical work combined with the economic development plan will ensure EC1 is home to one of London's landmark markets."
This is the first stage in a series of streetscape improvements running from now until mid-July and covering a third of Whitecross Street (from Old Street to Roscoe Street).
The western footpath of Whitecross Street will be widened to create 27 new traders' pitches, with free dedicated electric power supply, in this first section of the road. To create jobs in the area, these pitches will be offered to local people at a subsidised initial rate.
The improvements will also include new street paving and resurfaced carriageways, improved public spaces and seating, extra trees and plants, step-free access, reduction of street clutter, new litter bins, cycle parking and street lighting and improved drainage.
Works have been phased so as not to cause disruption for businesses and residents. Neither access or power will be affected.
The aim is to have 100 percent occupancy of the entire market within five years and EC1 New Deal for Communities has commissioned consultants Market Squared (who helped regenerate Borough Market) to develop a ten-year vision and market regeneration strategy for Whitecross Street.
Islington Council is responsible for project management of the Whitecross Street improvements programme. It is primarily being funded by EC1 New Deal for Communities, Transport for London and English Heritage. The project has been developed in partnership with the Corporation of London and features a concept design for the streetscape improvements by the architectural practice, Muf architecture/art.
Ends
Page Last Updated: 29 July 2008