East London’s Markets have seen a huge decline in foot traffic. Brick Lane market alone is predicted to lose £300,000 over the year 2021-2022.
Tower Hamlets council recently devised a plan to improve the sector, targeting the struggling markets of Bethnal Green; Brick Lane;Chrisp Street; Columbia Road; Goulston Street; Petticoat Lane; Roman Road; Roman Road Square/Globe Town; Watney Market and Whitechapel.
We visited Brick Lane and walked through its many areas. At first glance it appears as if the place is thriving. However, behind the liveliness business owners are suffering immensely. We spoke to Rosa, who works for the Asor London stall. She has been working in the area for the past four years. Previously a working Saturday would earn them around £1000. But when Covid hit the income dropped to just £300, which she said was “barely enough to cover rent’’.
Rosa has since opened up her own stall, as the impact of Covid has eased. However she worries that, “It’s never picked back up, it’s just really slow’’. The footfall she gets is mainly from tourism; however even that isn’t what it once was and has been, “declining a lot’’.
Another stall owner who wishes to remain anonymous – but consented to a voice-piece – revealed that, “After lockdown, the business is better….” But he did express concerns for the future, stating, ‘’Being a Market trader is unstable…’’ with or without Covid. However he is hopeful that nothing as bad as the worst of Covid will ever happen again.
It isn’t only Covid that has hurt these markets. The increased cost of living and higher London public transport fares have made it more difficult for people to travel to – and enjoy – the markets. It isn’t much better for those who drive, given the petrol price spikes, low emission zone charges and lack of parking.
Brick Lane market was originally developed in the 17th Century and still stands to this day, unlike so many other markets. Despite its long history, the decline in footfall is now threatening it. The recovery of Brick Lane and East London’s other markets shows how important it is that the Tower Hamlets plan succeeds.
Click the link for Rosa’s business Instagram
