Physical improvements to Watney Market will soon be underway, as a number of works to the market concourse and underground carpark will begin this January.
Working with Metis and Riney, Tower Hamlets Council is undertaking the works to ensure that Watney Market meets health and safety standards and statutory building regulations.
Members of Tower Hamlets’ Cabinet approved the Watney Market Car Park Sprinkler and Lighting Works in September 2022, allocating £2.89million of funding to the project.
The required works include the installation of a new market concourse, drainage system and market stall ground anchor points, an upgrade of the sprinkler system and access gates in the underground residential car park, and more remedial works.
Local market traders have temporarily moved to two alternative areas on Commercial Road and on the Market level adjacent to the corner of Tarling Street and Watney Street, towards Shadwell Station.
Lutfur Rahman, Executive Mayor of Tower Hamlets, said:
“Due to changes to the scope of the project and the need to avoid peak trading periods, we have made the decision to schedule the works for January.
“We greatly appreciate the cooperation of our residents, business owners and market traders during the works period.
“We recognise that these works will cause some disruption to the local area however, they are set to significantly improve the market concourse and underground car park, increase community safety, and reduce anti-social behaviour in the area - creating a welcoming destination for residents, traders and visitors alike.
“Our contractors are also committed to ensuring a safe and secure site to minimise as much disruption as possible.
“I strongly encourage our residents to continue to shop in their locality, whether that be at the market stalls in their new locations, or at the shops which will remain open. I look forward to seeing the progress of the works and visiting the area once they are complete.”
The works are programmed to commence on Wednesday 24th of January 2024 and are due to be completed by Wednesday 1st May 2024. The hours of works will be between 08:00 a.m. and 05:00 p.m. Monday to Friday.
Posted on Thursday 25th January 2024