How to have your say on the Billingsgate and Smithfield relocation

London’s historic Billingsgate fish market and Smithfield meat market face a major transformation as plans advance to relocate them from their central locations to a new site in the Royal Docks. These iconic markets, central to the city’s food supply chain for centuries, are set to move by 2028, sparking debates on heritage, economy, and urban development.

Residents, traders, and businesses in East London, including those following East London Times coverage, have opportunities to influence this process through formal channels. Engaging now ensures your voice shapes the future of these landmarks and their impact on local communities.

History of Billingsgate and Smithfield Markets

Billingsgate Market traces its origins to the 16th century, establishing itself as Europe’s largest fish market by the 19th century, with operations moving to its current Poplar site in 1982. Smithfield, documented since 1137, holds the title of London’s oldest meat market, surviving events like the Great Fire of 1666 and two world wars, handling up to 35,000 animals daily at its peak.

These markets symbolize London’s trading heritage, supplying fresh produce to restaurants, retailers, and households across the UK. Their central locations have long supported economic vitality, but rising land values and modernization needs prompted relocation discussions.

The City of London Corporation, responsible for operations, has navigated trader concerns over decades, balancing preservation with progress. Recent agreements empower traders with financial support for the shift, aiming to sustain their roles in the food chain.

Reasons Behind the Proposed Relocation

The relocation stems from the City Corporation’s strategy to repurpose prime central sites for housing, culture, and commercial uses amid London’s housing crisis. Smithfield’s East and West buildings could become cultural hubs, while Billingsgate eyes residential development, freeing up valuable land.

Operational challenges, including outdated infrastructure and high maintenance costs, further drive the move. The Corporation ended earlier Dagenham plans in 2024 after trader input, opting for sites within the M25 to minimize disruption.

Economic incentives include regeneration: the Royal Docks site at Albert Island promises £750 million in local spending, over 2,200 jobs, and £130 million in GVA for Newham over 30 years. This aligns with broader East London revitalization efforts.

Current Relocation Plans to Royal Docks

In December 2025, the City Corporation, Royal Docks Team, and traders announced Albert Island in Newham’s Royal Docks as the preferred site for New Billingsgate and New Smithfield. This 25-acre Greater London Authority-owned plot at the Albert Dock’s eastern end offers space for modern facilities.

The plan requires a Private Bill to repeal historic market legislation, allowing site closures by 2028, plus Newham Council planning approval. Traders, with 70% from Smithfield committing, back the shift, viewing it as a sustainable future.

This replaces collapsed Dagenham proposals, focusing on proximity to East London transport links and regeneration zones. The markets will operate until the transition, ensuring supply continuity.

The City of London (Markets) Bill Explained

The City of London (Markets) Bill, introduced in November 2024, seeks to end the Corporation’s statutory duty to run these markets, introduced via Private Bill procedure. It passed first reading in January 2025, with operations continuing until at least 2028.

Private Bills differ from public legislation, targeting specific interests like local authorities. This one repeals Victorian-era acts binding the sites to market use, enabling repurposing.

As of March 2026, the Bill progresses through Parliament, needing both Houses’ approval. Traders receive compensation and relocation aid, but heritage groups challenge potential cultural losses.

Public Consultation Periods and Timelines

Private Bills feature petition periods for objections: after first reading, parties deposit petitions in the originating House’s Private Bill Office. For this Bill, the initial window closed January 30, 2025, if starting in Commons.

Parliament welcomes input from affected individuals, groups, or organizations, potentially leading to select committee hearings. A Change.org petition highlighted heritage concerns, amplifying public sentiment.

Local consultations arise later: Newham Council will hold statutory planning consultations for Royal Docks development, likely post-Bill passage. GLA involvement may trigger additional feedback rounds.

Step-by-Step Guide to Submitting Formal Objections or Support

Monitor the Bill’s status on Parliament’s website (bills.parliament.uk) for second House petition windows, typically 10 days post-transfer. Prepare a petition detailing impacts, then deposit it physically or per instructions at the Private Bill Office.

Contact your MP via members.parliament.uk/FindYourMP to raise concerns, urging questions to ministers or Bill promoters. MPs can table amendments or speak in debates.

Engage the City of London Corporation directly: email relevant departments or use their feedback form at cityoflondon.gov.uk/footer/contact-the-city-corporation, referencing the Markets Bill. Phone 020 7606 3030 for wholesale markets queries.

Engaging with Newham Council and GLA

Newham Council holds planning authority for Albert Island; subscribe to their planning portal for consultation alerts on market proposals. Submit representations during publicized periods, focusing on traffic, jobs, or environment.

The GLA, owning the land, collaborates via Royal Docks Team—email feedback through london.gov.uk/contact-city-hall-or-mayor. Mayor’s office responses shape regeneration priorities.

Join trader associations or campaigns like Save Smithfield and Billingsgate for collective advocacy, amplifying individual voices through joint submissions.

Contacting Your Local Representatives Effectively

East London residents, especially in Newham and Tower Hamlets, identify councillors via newham.gov.uk or towerhamlets.gov.uk. Attend ward forums or email with specific relocation impacts, like supply chain effects on local eateries.

Write concise, evidence-based letters: state your connection (e.g., East London Times reader, local business), outline concerns (heritage loss, job shifts), and propose alternatives (site upgrades).

Follow up politely; reference prior correspondence. Virtual meetings via Teams are available through Corporation advisors.

Joining or Starting Community Campaigns

Petitions on petition.parliament.uk gain traction if reaching 10,000 signatures for debate consideration. Existing ones urge government intervention to preserve markets, offering templates.

Form local groups via social media or East London community boards, partnering with heritage societies. Host public meetings at libraries or markets to gather endorsements.

Collaborate with traders: 70% Smithfield commitment shows unity, but dissenters seek broader support. Media outreach to East London Times boosts visibility.

Attending Public Meetings and Events

City Corporation Courts of Common Council meetings discuss markets—check democratic.cityoflondon.gov.uk for agendas and public galleries. Submit questions in advance.

Newham Council planning committees and Royal Docks regeneration events provide platforms; register via council sites. GLA consultations often virtual, accessible statewide.

Trader open days at current sites offer insights; follow Billingsgate/Smithfield social channels for dates.

Economic Impacts and Why Your Input Matters

Relocation promises 2,200 Newham jobs but risks 2,700 current roles if traders falter. East London benefits from £750m spend, yet central repurposing aids housing goals.

Public input ensures balanced outcomes: heritage protections, traffic mitigation, sustainable design. Voices from consumers, workers, and residents influence viability.

Evergreen engagement sustains oversight, as planning evolves.

Potential Outcomes and Next Steps

Bill passage enables 2028 closures, triggering detailed designs and consultations. Delays from objections could extend timelines, preserving status quo temporarily.

Supportive input accelerates trader transitions; opposition may force compromises like heritage trusts. Track via Parliament and council sites monthly.

Stay proactive: sign petitions, contact reps, join campaigns. Your say shapes London’s food future.