Friends of Shepherd’s Bush Market fail in their attempt to have it considered ‘an Asset of Community Value’

Hammersmith & Fulham Council say the market isn’t a commit’s just a retail space

Friends of Shepherd’s Bush Market, a community group trying to stop major redevelopment plans, have had their application to make the markets ‘an Asset of Community Value’ turned down.

They were hoping that by having the area designated as such, Shepherd’s Bush Market would be protected from development under the Localism Act 2011, which allows for buildings which have a particular community significance, rather than architectural or historical importance, to be preserved.

Hammersmith & Fulham have turned their application down on the grounds that it: “fails to demonstrate why the markets are considered to be ‘social interests’ and not standard retail services.

“The primary function of the markets are as centres of retail activity and not primarily to further the social wellbeing or interest of the community”.

‘Save Bush Market’ Instagram posts

The redevelopment of Shepherds Bush Market by Yoo Capital aims to regenerate this historic landmark while preserving its unique status, but those campaigning against their plans say the development will take the soul out of the place.

The plans were given planning approval nearly two years ago, but progress has stalled, in part because of local opposition. The market first opened in 1918 and has developed a strong identity, with a character established over many years.

Yoo Capital Investment Management acquired the controlling 75.5% interest in Shepherd’s Bush Market in September 2020. They say their design, over 4.2 acres, which includes adjoining land, provides an opportunity ‘to deliver critically needed affordable housing and affordable workspace’ in a mixed-use development.

Shepherd’s Bush redevelopment plans; image Yoo Capital

They say they have spent the last three years consulting with Shepherd’s Bush Market traders, Hammersmith and Fulham Council and the local community, and the development is an important part of the regeneration of the whole area.

READ ALSO: £6 billion invested in Hammersmith & Fulham since 2017 after ‘groundbreaking’ initiative

‘Planning permission was granted for investment in the Market along with a new development on land next door, including a life sciences building with an incubator managed by Imperial College London and 40 affordable new homes for Hammersmith and Fulham’.

Friends of Shepherd’s Bush Market say that as a group of traders and community members, they are fighting to ‘protect the market’s diversity and character, and to make sure it continues to serve our local community for decades to come’.

£300

The Fishmonger – Naila Hazell

Paintings of the market by Naila Hazell

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