Queens Market FAQs - General

Frequently asked questions - general

Q1) Is this the final decision on plans or can the public still have their say?

A) As part of the planning process, the public can still make their views known. The report will be considered at a meeting of the Council's Development Control Committee on the 22^nd April 2009, commencing at 6.30pm when this application will be determined. The Committee meeting is held at Newham Town Hall, Barking Road, East Ham, London E6 2RP. The case officer has recommended to approve the planning application subject to planning conditions and to a planning agreement being entered into.

Any member of the public can attend the meeting, which starts at 6:30pm. If you wish to make representations at that Committee you should advise either Joy George or Shirley Fortune (Member Services, Town Hall, East Ham London E6 2RP) in writing by 12 noon (mid-day) the Monday prior to the Committee meeting. For further advice please call 0208 430 3401 (or fax 020 8430 3052).

Q2) How can the council threaten a market that is described as a tourist attraction on its own website, with closure?

A) There is no threat to the market. The redevelopment scheme includes the provision of a much better market hall to ensure its future. Queens Market provides an essential service to many residents, so we would not want to spoil that, but it is not what it used to be. It has declined in recent years and now faces environmental and anti-social behaviour problems. There is limited access for disabled people and people with pushchairs, and it is felt that the residents of Newham deserve much better than what there is at present.

Q3) If the market is in decline and has environmental issues, why doesn't the council just clean it more regularly rather than pull it down? Surely it is the council who is at fault for the decline?

A) A lot of the problems at Queens Market are due to poor design which cannot be easily or cheaply rectified. It is more prudent for the council to direct these funds to other services and work with an experienced partner to provide the people of Upton Park with the quality they deserve.

Redevelopment will modernise the facility, but in the meantime the council is ensuring that proactive and robust management of the market operations and pitches will help to reverse any decline in conditions and trading activity.

Q4) Will the market remain?

A) Yes. There will always be a market. Plans for a bright and lively temporary market are also being developed, and this will serve the community during the construction period.

Q5) What is the agreement between Newham Council and St Modwen?

A) Newham Council as the landowner of the Market and St Modwen have signed an agreement that will give Queens Market a stunning and accessible new market hall. The project is expected to bring a bigger and better market for the benefit of shoppers and traders. The centre, which plans to feature a striking architectural design with a strong international influence, is expected to offer better access to the market hall from Upton Park tube station.

The main elements of the proposal are:

• A new state of the art Council 'front office' including local service centre, library and community services
• 164 market stalls
• 6,374 sq m of retail area including shop units and mezzanines
• New public toilets
• Waste collection area and composters
• 340 residential units including affordable housing
• 10 new affordable family residential units on Rochester Avenue
• A new multi-functional space for market stalls, cultural exhibitions and performances along Green Street

The market will be an outstanding addition to Green Street and will enhance its status as a visitor destination that Newham can be proud of.