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Islington Tribune - by PETER GRUNER
Published: 22 February 2008

Islington Council leader James Kempton with Mike and Hisako Weedon

Developer warned over plan for future of historic arcade

Town Hall leader calls on residents to fight for Mall

ISLINGTON Council leader James Kempton has warned developers threatening to strip out The Mall antique arcade in Camden Passage that they will have a “huge fight on their hands”.
He called on residents to present a show of strength when the scheme to gut the Grade 11-listed arcade goes to South Area Planning Committee later this year.
“This is not just the council taking on the developer,” said Cllr Kempton. “The whole community has to be involved.”
He spoke out as a petition with more than 500 signatures was presented at the Town Hall on Thursday by Mike and Hisako Weedon of the Camden Passage Association against an application to rip out the small shop units from the arcade.
Up to 40 traders are to be evicted from The Mall virtually ending the unique reputation of the world-famous antiques market.
Property company London Associated Properties (LAP) refused to say what they intend to do with building, a former tram shed.
The traders have until July to move out. It is rumoured the building will be converted and eventually handed over to a large department store.
Cllr Kempton said he will be meeting with LAP early next month.
He added: “I will be putting to them as forcibly as we can our concerns about the future of the Mall.
“I will tell them that they have bought a world-famous asset and I don’t want them to throw it away.
“I’m not sure they are interested in the antiques business – at least they don’t seem to be – but they should be supporting the traders and not threatening their livelihood.
“I want to see The Mall preserved. It is the jewel in the crown of Camden Passage and we’ve already lost so many antique businesses from the area.
“If we lose The Mall it will make it very difficult for those who remain.”

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