Urgent action is required to save Berwick Street market, Green party London Assembly candidate Susanna Rustin said today.
Rustin was joined by Mayoral candidate Jenny Jones at the launch of her campaign at the market.
Rustin said: "Berwick Street market is an asset to our community but has been desperately neglected by Westminster City Council.
"The market urgently needs electricity, toilet facilities and permanent stalls as part of a clear regeneration plan.
"The council’s own research has been saying for years that measures are urgently needed. Borough Market in Southwark and Northcote Road in Clapham have been regenerated to amazing effect, and privately-run farmers’ markets are thriving all over the place, so why can’t the council find a creative solution for Berwick Street?"
Rustin and Jones spoke with Berwick Street traders about what can be done to reshape the market in time for the influx of tourists expected for the 2012 Olympic Games.
Founded in the heart of Soho in the 18th century and now in steep decline, the market has gone from around 40 traders to just 20 3 years and now stands at just 10.
Traders-some of whom have been operating on the site for 40 years-fear council plans for redevelopment of shops oppose will further damage the market, as new landlords and higher rents could threaten informal arrangements with shopkeepers for access to electricity and space and spell the end for Berwick Street’s highly distinctive mix of small shops.
Jenny Jones said: "Susanna is one of London’s most passionate community activists and her track record of involvement in local campaigns speaks for itself. If elected she would be an asset both to the communities of Westminster, Kensington, Chelsea, Hammersmith and Fulham and to the city as a whole."
