Camden residents claim regeneration will make market a 'Disneyland'

Dispute: Camden market - locals claim plans to redevelop the Hawley Wharf area ignore their real needs
Lucy Osborne12 April 2012

Plans for a new market in the heart of north London were today attacked over fears they would turn Camden Town into "Disneyland".

After more than two years of consultation, architects have finally submitted their application to redevelop Hawley Wharf, which was partly destroyed by a fire in 2008.

But the proposals have been criticised by residents, conservation groups and councillors who think it is not in keeping with Camden's Victorian architecture.

Councillor Matt Sanders of Camden council, said: "We already have a market that is full of tourists. The last thing Camden needs is more stalls selling cheap 'I love London' T-shirts. It's absolutely crucial to remember that Camden Town is not Disneyland, it is a residential area. A lot of locals feel their needs are not being catered for. They want more open spaces, traditional shops and affordable housing."

He said that only eight per cent of the housing built in the new development would be affordable.

The Lib-Dem councillor will be supporting campaigning residents over the next 12 weeks to push for plans to be modified.

Regents Canal Conservation Area Committee said the market's design had a "festival appearance at variance with the industrial landscape along the canal".

But the managing director of Stanley Sidings, Mark Alper, says 900 jobs will be created through the project. He said: "We have spent over two years consulting on our proposals which have gathered substantial support among local residents and businesses.

"Our proposals will see a new infant school and community spaces and ensure a far more pleasant environment for visitors and residents alike."

Sean Affleck, one of the architects working on the project, said: "The development takes into account the history of the area."

Your say: Too many stalls already

Rene Juodze, 27, stall holder, from Camden

"My coffee business would always do well. Maybe it would be better because we'd get more trade."

Monica Valencia, 27, student, from Kentish Town

"The more choice the better. It would be good if it sold different things. You see a lot of the same items."

Michelle Breen, 22, shop assistant, from Forest Gate

"I think it would be okay as long as it wasn't putting people out of a job. It's good to make use of empty land."

Alice Duvarciyan, 47, stall holder, from Southgate

"There are too many stalls already. We used to get more customers. No good ones come here any more."

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