Sunday, June 01, 2008
Do the markets matter to Greenwich?
To offer one example, the World Heritage Organisation website for Greenwich says on its homepage (at http://www.greenwichwhs.org.uk/): “So near to central London yet only 20 minutes from the city centre, Greenwich is a place of contrasts, from awe-inspiring architecture, tranquil open spaces and breathtaking views to cosy pubs and bustling street markets.” On its page about shopping in Greenwich (at http://www.greenwichwhs.org.uk/shopping/index.asp), the covered market is the main feature. It says: “From Thursday to Sunday, its cobbled stones are packed with traders’ stalls selling arts, crafts, antiques and collectables plus a food court at weekends.” About the Greenwich markets generally it says: “The markets are a major attraction for visitors and locals giving the streets and alleyways of Greenwich an extra buzz at weekends and bank holidays.” This is only one example of information for visitors to Greenwich recognising the value of the market.
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6 comments:
So the WHO thinks “Greenwich is a place of contrasts, from awe-inspiring architecture, tranquil open spaces and breathtaking views to cosy pubs and bustling street markets”. Thank goodness for the architecture. With the major open space grubbed up for the Olympics, most of the pubs owned by one individual and two out of the three markets under threat of redevelopment, how long will that quote be valid?
Without the Cutty Sark Greenwich needs the market to attract visitors to this end of the town. Without it what is there? Starbucks?
I am a resident of Greenwich and love the area. I just hope that any redevelopment does not take away from the unique character of the area. It is just such a fantastic place and we need to preserve that.
I entirely agree with you. I'll post some information about proposed redevelopments soon.
I love Greenwich & vistit the market on a regular basis.
I also fear that the redevelopment might change the character of the area for the worse. Any modern redevelopment of the market site, that might also include a hotel, will surely be a carbuncle on the face of -------.
Is this a done deal ? ( any hope ?) When will it start ? How long will it take ? ( in time for the Olympics of course ).What will happen to the shops & market traders in the mean time ? Will they be able to afford to move back ? Will the area survive the change ? Can we trust the council & redevelopers to look out for the small independent traders, or wil they be won over by the likes of Starbucks, M & S & Boots who will be able to afford the new rents. The fear is that we might have a shopping centre to look foward to. This would be a great shame.
So many questions.
Any answers ?
I love Greenwich.
Oh thank you thank you. I can't tell you how delighted I am to see a comment that addresses some of the real issues facing the market. I've been sidetracked by folks throwing their toys out of the pram and neglected the important stuff. Hopefully I'll get back to posting stuff about the redevelopment soon.
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