London,
12
July
2010
|
23:00
Europe/London

Ridley Road Market enters new era of progress

The first phase of Ridley Road Market’s £1m major development programme is now almost complete.

The borough’s best loved market has a new footway and newly installed lighting and power bollards for stalls – an improvement work that traders specifically asked for during consultation. Work on electricity connections is also now about to begin.

During four two-day sessions on Sundays and Mondays – the market’s quietest trade days - (18 and 19 of July; 25 and 26 July, 1 and 2, and 15 and 16 August), the energy supplier, EDF, will make the electrical connection between the mains supply and the lighting and power bollards

Shoppers should note that it will be business as usual at Ridley Road Market though some of their favourite traders may have been moved temporarily while the work takes place. The old street lights will remain in place until the new ones are installed.

Cllr Feryal Demirci, Cabinet member for Neighbourhoods said: “The works to improve Ridley Road Market are well underway now, and I am sure that market traders, local retailers and shoppers will notice a significant difference. The market will soon be lit up by brighter, modern lighting – an improvement that market traders and local retailers specifically asked for - improving the shopping experience as well as enhancing the safety of all in the area.”

The council aims to have Ridley Road lit from beneath its new brighter lights within the next couple of months. However, the work is complicated, suppliers are numerous and delays are possible. Traders and customers will be informed of any delays throughout the progress of the works.

The second phase of the improvement works, involves the installation of new kerbs and drainage and the resurfacing of roadways and footways.

As part of the improvement works, the Council and Police have joined forces to tackle anti-social behaviour on Ridley Road, especially at night.

For the latest information visit www.hackney.gov.uk/ridleyroad or speak to a markets officer on 020 8356 3000 or email info@hackney.gov.uk To talk to someone directly, visit the markets office by the junction with Birkbeck Mews and Winchester Place.