FSB calls for "integrity" in Camden regeneration

Date: 11th February 2008

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has said that the redevelopment of Camden Market must be in accordance with the wishes of the area's many small enterprises.

With the popular market area in north London devastated by a major fire on Saturday evening (February 9th), up to 300 of the capital's small business owners are thought to have been affected.

The owner of the market has said that rebuilding will begin on the site as soon as possible, although the FSB has urged developers to adopt a cautious and thoughtful approach.

Laurie Payne, FSB regional chairman for London, commented: "With this speed of redevelopment, which is very much welcomed, it is also imperative that the affected businesses are treated both fairly and with integrity.

"The redevelopment should take place in consultation with the stallholders and should not be seen as a chance to shoehorn in anything that would go against their needs."

One of the buildings badly damaged by the fire at the weekend was The Hawley Arms, a pub popular with local celebrities such as Amy Winehouse and Kate Moss.