Kingston Market Closed Nine Days After Fire

Kingston's historic Ancient Market Place will remain closed until Sunday, October 18, following a fire that caused severe damage to market stalls. The closure, which began on Saturday, amounts to nine days. Kingston Council announced the extended shutdown after an inspection on Friday identified further safety concerns.

Safety Concerns Prompt Extended Closure

The council stated the extended closure is essential for public safety and to allow for necessary remedial works. This includes preparations for the demolition of damaged stalls and the clean-up of the area. Andreas Kirsch, leader of Kingston Council, acknowledged the difficulty for traders but emphasised that the safety of everyone using the market is the priority. He confirmed that traders will not be charged pitch fees during the closure, and the council is working with the market operator, Between The Bridges, to find temporary locations for those whose stalls were destroyed and to mitigate loss of earnings.

Fire Declared Accidental

The blaze, which started in the early hours of Tuesday morning, is believed to have been caused by an electrical fault in a fridge. The London Fire Brigade has declared the fire accidental, and a Metropolitan Police investigation found no suspicious circumstances. Approximately 25 firefighters tackled the flames, which lasted for at least an hour and a half. Eight residents were evacuated from nearby properties.

While all market stalls are affected by the closure, businesses located around the perimeter of the market that were not damaged by the fire will continue to operate as normal, according to the council.

Market History and Future Plans

The Ancient Market Place in Kingston has a history stretching back centuries, with records dating to the early 1200s. Before the fire, it hosted over 25 permanent stalls trading seven days a week, offering a variety of goods from fresh produce to artisan baked items. In January, Between the Bridges submitted plans to Kingston Council for a significant revamp of the market, which included proposals for new stalls, a central piazza, a restaurant, bar, and a roof terrace. A decision on these proposals is still pending.