Shepherds Bush Market revamp plans receive green light

People seeking flats to rent in Shepherds Bush are set to see the area become more attractive after the local council approved plans to revitalise the historic local market.

Hammersmith & Fulham Council's planning applications committee has rubber-stamped proposals by Orion Shepherds Bush to give Shepherds Bush Market a comprehensive facelift that will create new commercial opportunities, while retaining its traditional character.

The market has been in existence for around a century in its current form, but under the new plans it will be widened to allow for larger pitches and an increased number of market stalls, while lighting and security will be improved.

At the Uxbridge Road end, a new public square will be used as the new location for the refurbished Bush Theatre, while several market squares, new shops and additional homes will all be introduced to the area.

It is estimated that the improvement plans will bring around £3.2 million a year to Shepherds Bush Market in increased retail expenditure.

Stephen Greenhalgh, Hammersmith & Fulham council leader, said: "There is very little doubt that Shepherds Bush Market needs significant improvement if it is to survive.

"We fully recognise the market's rich heritage and character and this scheme will build upon its diversity to reaffirm the market as one of London's leading tourist destinations."

Should the council provide finalised development approval for the new plans, construction work will begin in summer 2013, though preliminary improvement work to the market will commence before then.

Earlier this month, Hammersmith & Fulham Council announced that it will be aiming to promote local commerce further by freezing parking charges, while also opening new parking bays in the area.

This will be the fourth year out of five that parking charges have been frozen by the council, with rates among the lowest in inner London.

Posted by Andy Britten

Published 15th February, 2012

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