The east London borough of Hackney has long been celebrated for its vibrant market scene. From produce traders on Ridley Road – a lifeline for many during the COVID-19 pandemic – to the pioneering reuse market on Kingsland Waste and the more recent Broadway Market, the area offers remarkable variety.

Concerns have reached my office from local residents who fear Ridley Road Market could be shut down. A stall holder also contacted me this month after a wholesaler apparently shared similar worries.

I want to set the record straight: there are no plans for closure. In reality, the opposite situation applies.

Ridley Road Market is far from endangered – it is flourishing and represents a vital component of London’s fresh food network. Operating since the late 1880s, the venue hosts more than 100 trader pitches. It has earned national recognition as one of the country’s most varied markets and stands among the handful operating around the clock in the United Kingdom.

The market celebrates religious occasions such as Eid, Ramadan, and Christmas with dedicated events, while the local authority’s market development team provides new vendors with mentorship through a business growth programme.

Just last month, Sunday trading commenced with the Ridley Road Sunday Collective. This initiative showcases an diverse mix of independent enterprises offering natural beauty products, literature, garments, pottery, and street food that reflects the culinary traditions of Hackney’s many communities.

Both Hackney Council and the Mayor of London have committed to the market’s longevity through a million-pound enhancement scheme that concluded in 2023. Additionally, the Dalston Plan framework specifically safeguards the venue against redevelopment.

Under legislation, markets must generate sufficient income to cover operations – council tax contributions do not fund day-to-day running expenses. Instead, fees paid by stall holders sustain these costs.

Issues with problematic behaviour that particularly impact nearby residents remain a concern. I am collaborating with community members to urge the council and police to address this matter, ensuring all visitors can appreciate a successful market environment.

I am also partnering with Hackney’s Mayor to obtain a lift at Dalston Kingsland station, which serves the market, to make the venue more accessible and encourage greater footfall to Dalston’s shops.

Should anyone hear speculation about the market’s fate, please inform them that Ridley Road Market faces no threat. It is transforming, expanding, and maintaining its service to Hackney. Encourage them to visit and discover genuine east London hospitality.

Meg Hillier represents Hackney South and Shoreditch as a Labour (Co-op) Member of Parliament.