Homes plan will risk weekly market, opponents say

Campaigners say they are worried the redevelopment of a car park next to Blackheath Station would mean the end of the area's popular farmers' market.

John Barron, of The Blackheath Society, a residents group opposing current plans, said it would be "detrimental" to traders and the community.

"We're not objecting to the development of the car park - it is this specific scheme -literally because we see it as overdevelopment and not taking into account the issues that the local community will experience," said Barron.

Acorn Property Group says the proposals, which include 45 new homes and a public square, would secure the future of the market and improve facilities.

The plans will mean cutting the 162 car park spaces to 17 and installing a dedicated market square with space for 40 stalls.

Barron said: "We think that it is going to potentially undermine its future vitality."

He added that the proposed homes would overlook a nearby primary school's playground.

Keith Bennett, of Chiltern Farm Foods, said: "We've been coming here 25 years, we've got a really strong customer base and they are very loyal to us.

"If this market were to disappear, or when it disappears, it will have a major knock-on effect.

"I'm afraid to say that when and if this development starts, it'll probably be the death knell of this market."

In a statement, Acorn Property Group said it had sought the market's input on the plans from the start.

"Our proposals are the result of four years of engagement with the local community, planning officers, stakeholders and consultees, and have been reviewed and supported by Lewisham's independent Design Review Panel," it said.

"Importantly, the proposals are also formally supported by London Farmers' Markets, which has operated Blackheath Farmers' Market for 27 years and runs a further 19 markets across London."

Mark Handley, director of London Farmers' Markets Ltd, said: "The current plans for the redevelopment of the station car park site offer the farmers' market a much-improved and viable new home for the future, with additional facilities in a purpose-built market location."

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