Goldhawk Road Traders Ask for Public Inquiry Support

Shepherd's Bush Market scheme brings threat of demolition

Local traders are asking for public support in their campaign to stop the Council forcibly moving out of their existing premises to make way for the redevelopment of Shepherd's Bush market.

A public inquiry into the project begins on the 17th September with submissions invited from the public. It is expected to last until 25th September.

Aniza Meghani, of Classic Textiles has led the campaign to stop the their premises - a historic terrace built in the mid-19th century - being demolished as part of the redevelopment. She said on Facebook, "I would be most grateful, if many of you can attend to support our case. It will be your chance to voice your concerns to the inspectorate, Mrs Ava Wood and the rest of the legal teams on both sides as to why we shouldn't be demolished. The more the merrier. Lets make history!"

Thirteen independent local shop owners in Goldhawk Road are subject to Compulsory Purchase Orders. The developer Orion has stated that they are confident that the challenge from the local traders will fail and say they want to keep existing businesses in the area at the heart of the new market. They are hoping to create a new larger market which will attract up to 60,000 people each weekend. Traders believe that the developer's priority is the 200 new flats that will form part of the scheme.

The council has said that plans by developer Orion to regenerate the market will go ahead, and that all the businesses based at 30 - 52 Goldhawk Road will be offered the opportunity to return to the replacement shop units.

You can find out more details about how to contribute to the public inquiry on their web site.

September 13, 2013