LONDON (AP) — Two of London’s most iconic markets, known for selling fish and meat, are on the verge of closing in the next few years, marking the end of traditions that date back to medieval times.
The City of London Corporation, the governing body for the city’s historic center, is preparing to introduce a bill to Parliament aimed at formally ending its role in operating the Billingsgate fish market and the Smithfield meat market. Both markets have been a prominent part of London life since the 11th century.
This announcement follows a decision by the corporation to abandon plans to relocate the markets to a new site in Dagenham, located just east of London. Rising costs from inflation and construction expenses, estimated to reach around £1 billion ($1.25 billion), played a significant role in this decision.
Instead of moving, the Corporation has reached an agreement with the traders, who will receive financial compensation and guidance as they navigate the future. Market operations are expected to continue until at least 2028, granting traders some time to plan their next steps.
“This decision signals a promising new beginning for Smithfield and Billingsgate Markets, empowering traders to create a sustainable future that aligns with their long-term business aspirations,” said Chris Hayward, the policy chairman of the City of London Corporation. “By stepping back from direct market management, we aim to foster greater opportunities for these businesses to thrive independently.”
As traders contemplate their next relocation, they have the freedom to choose new premises across London, either individually or in collaborative groups.
While their future workplaces may be modern and well-equipped, they will inevitably lack the rich traditions that have defined both markets for centuries. At Smithfield, for example, traders typically start their work at 10 p.m., mainly catering to the restaurant industry, and wrap up around 6 a.m., just as the city begins to stir. Local pubs historically held special licenses to serve patrons in the early hours, catering to the needs of the traders.
Renowned author Peter Ackroyd, in his influential book “London: The Biography,” notes that the Billingsgate fish market has roots that trace back to the early 11th century, well before the arrival of William the Conqueror. Smithfield, situated just outside the old Roman wall, became a prominent market for horses, sheep, and cattle later in the same century.
Ackroyd explains that for centuries, markets like Smithfield and Billingsgate, along with others selling flowers, fruits, and vegetables, were an integral part of London’s life, despite being notorious for rowdiness and violence. Charles Dickens even described Smithfield as a hub of “filth and mire” in his novels “Oliver Twist” and “Great Expectations.”
Today, thanks to food safety standards and renovations, the markets are far cleaner than they were in medieval times. However, another expensive renovation looms on the horizon. Smithfield’s infrastructure dates back to the Victorian era and was significantly altered after a major fire in 1958. Meanwhile, Billingsgate has been located in the London Docklands since 1982, an area that has transformed from a derelict region to the bustling financial center of Canary Wharf.
Plans are underway to construct approximately 4,000 new homes on the Billingsgate site, while Smithfield is set to evolve into a cultural hub that will also house the new London Museum.
