The future of London’s iconic Billingsgate fish market looks more secure with the identification of a preferred new site in the Royal Docks in Newham.
Billingsgate is set to join Smithfield Market at Albert Island, enabling these historic markets to continue while allowing expansion and modernisation within the M25.
“Finding a site just a few miles away means we’ll still serve our customers while vastly improving both our working environment and ability to expand,” said Tony Lyons, chair of London Fish Markets’ Association.
“Identifying a new location means we can hopefully put people’s minds at rest that we – and the City of London Corporation – are doing exactly what we said we’d do; find a new home inside the M25 and create a vibrant future for these historic markets.”
The move rests on new legislation to close the current market sites and planning permission from Newham Borough Council. The Royal Docks, London’s only enterprise zone, has consent for around 750,000 sq ft (70,000 sqm) of development and a new boatyard.
Officials estimate the move could generate £750 million in local expenditure, over 2,200 jobs and £130 million in GVA for Newham, with even greater benefits for the wider UK economy over 30 years.
Traders from both markets have largely agreed to move together, with remaining businesses transferring to others, ensuring continuity of trade. The new development will also include a food school, supporting apprenticeship schemes like the Smithfield Apprenticeship Scheme and Billingsgate Seafood Training School, providing skills for future butchers, fishmongers and fruiterers.
The markets will remain at their current locations until at least 2028, giving traders time to plan a smooth transition. Once relocated, they will operate under the names New Billingsgate and New Smithfield, combining heritage with modern facilities for future generations.
“Although there’s more work ahead of us to design a new, modern market, we’ll be staying open for business where we are for several more years,” concluded Lyons.
