Traders and customers voiced mixed views after a Hackney market began opening on a Sunday.
Ridley Road Market is now open on Sundays, after Hackney Council decided to extend trading at the market to seven days a week. The Ridley Road Sunday Collective launched on March 8, with trading from 10am to 4pm.
The historic market has been trading since the late 1880s and is home to more than 100 stalls.
Ridley Road has long been part of the fabric of Dalston, serving local communities with affordable goods and global flavours.
The new day brings together a line-up of rotating independent traders, makers and food businesses selling a wide range of products, food and handmade goods such as natural skincare to perfume oils, alongside books, clothing, textiles and ceramics.
The market also features a selection of food stalls offering a variety of international cuisines, including Thai, Jamaican, Turkish and Italian food.
We asked residents and businesses for their views on the council’s decision.
Mohamed Afzali, 51, store manager said: “Yes, we are happy about it. We need more customers from different places. We need more market from different places.
“It would be more busy and good for Hackney. There will now be different kind of stalls. More takeaway and food stalls. The profits will go up.”
Fishmonger Mark Watkins, 60, was not happy. He said “No, I’m not happy about it. On Sunday they will shut the gates at the top. Now they will shut them off we are losing business. It is not fair.
“There used to be free parking on Sunday here but that has now gone. We have complained to the council and giving them our concerns, but they are not listening.”
Retail assistant Jonathan, 19, said: “I shop here from time to time. I don’t think it is a bad idea. I think it is good for the local economy. The market is in a bit of a mess. It needs tidying up.
“I understand if some residents are not happy. Some people like Sundays to be quite and not noisy but as long as they stick to the strict trading hours there should not be any problem.”
Hackney Council responded by saying this was a positive move.
Cllr Fajana-Thomas OBE, cabinet member for community safety and regulatory services, said: "Ridley Road is one of the most important and distinctive markets in our borough, and a vital part of Dalston’s identity. The Sunday Collective is an exciting new addition, giving more local people and visitors the chance to experience the creativity, diversity and entrepreneurial spirit that make Ridley Road so special.
"It also provides a valuable platform for traders and small businesses, helping to strengthen our local economy and keep this historic market thriving."
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