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Hackney Council has announced it is spending £1 million on what it describes as “a shopping list of major improvements” to Ridley Road Market in Dalston.
The council says the improvements will begin next month, and will consist of 165 larger pitches of equal sizes as well as a new layout to make the market more attractive to both shoppers and traders; better lighting; and wider pathways between stalls to create greater access around the market. There will also be improved recyling and waste collection facilities, and new granite channels for better drainage.
The council is also providing secure cycle parking near the shopping centre and St Mark’s Rise.
Following last year’s consultation, Hackney Council says it is investing in the innovations that Hackney people most want to see: the improvements to Ridley Road Market’s landscape reflect the ‘wish list’ of residents, shoppers and traders.
The first step will be the installation of lighting and electrics at the end of next month. Traders had said they wanted more power for lighting stalls and powering items such as electric scales, so power bollards will be located throughout the market providing an electricity supply for all traders.
Cllr Alan Laing, Hackney Council’s Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods said, “We’re excited about this considerable investment in improvements to Ridley Road Market. Dalston is always busy and bustling, and through these important works, we aim to make the environment easier to shop and trade in.
“Whether you’re a veteran Ridley Road shopper or just finding out about one of the most fun and ethnically diverse places to shop for cheap produce in the new East London, please stay loyal to local businesses as the market evolves.”
The council says that it will be “business as usual for Ridley Road stall holders and shop keepers, who will remain open throughout the works, even if they may be moved at times to make room for planned improvements.”
Unable to find a favourite stall? Then just ask a trader or enquire at the market office off Winchester Place.
As Ridley Road market evolves, visitors will be able to follow its progress online by clicking on: www.hackney.gov.uk/ridleyroad
