Peckham Rye businesses face ruin after cinema tower closure

Businesses on Peckham Rye have been devastated by a 10-day road closure implemented due to safety concerns over a potentially collapsing cinema tower. Shopkeepers report significant financial losses, with some estimating between £5,000 and £6,000 in lost stock and revenue. Many affected businesses claim they received no prior notice from Southwark Council before the street was cordoned off.

Visible structural concerns

Cracks on the former cinema tower, which is over 100 years old, were reportedly visible for at least six months prior to the emergency closure. Ahmad Zada, owner of Rye Afro Caribbean Foods, stated that his stock, including fish and produce, has expired, leading to substantial losses. He told MyLondon that the lack of notice meant no contingency plan could be made. "The cracks were there for at least six months before I walked through there every day," Mr Zada said. "I saw the night the police and the fire brigade came; it's not from now."

Other business owners echoed these concerns. Akbar Khan, owner of Khan's Bargains for 27 years, acknowledged the emergency nature of the incident but noted that the cracks had been present for years. He expressed concern that customers would divert their routes during the closure, impacting future trade. Qiamuddimu, a worker at Khan's mobile, described the period as the worst he had seen for business on Rye Lane. Abhinav Saxena, owner of Rye Lane Bagels, reported a 40 per cent decrease in sales compared to previous years.

Council response and reopening plans

Southwark Council has stated that emergency works are underway on the cinema tower. Councillor James McAsh, Leader of Southwark Council, confirmed that residents displaced from their homes have been provided with hotel accommodation and support. He also stated that council officers are speaking with business owners to manage access and deliveries. The council aims to reopen Rye Lane on Saturday, September 12, provided the emergency stabilisation work is completed without delays. Updates are being provided via the council's website and social media channels.

The council has also said that officers are working to support local businesses, with some owners being advised they may be entitled to compensation from insurers. However, some business owners fear the financial shortfall will impact their profits, leading to a long recovery period.