Camden Council has promised to support the community "within its powers" should locals ever be in a position to buy a closed antiques market in Hampstead.

Hampstead Antiques & Craft Emporium closed for good on January 7, two months after 25 traders were given notice. It had been open since 1964

Alex Porter, owner of The Curiousity Cabinet, which traded in the emporium, applied for Asset of Community Value status for the market in the hope of saving it.

READ MORE: Protest at closure of Hampstead Antiques & Craft Emporium

She was supported by both Hampstead Town councillors, the Heath & Hampstead Society and the Hampstead Neighbourhood Forum.

Camden Council last week voted to list the market as an asset of community value (ACV), but has warned traders that this cannot retrospectively stop a sale.

Cllr Danny Beales, Camden's lead member for investing in communities said: "The community made a strong case for granting Asset of Community Value status and we were happy to award this.

"While the Asset of Community Value listing provides safeguards in the event of a future sale of the Emporium building, it does not affect the current sale. 

"There is still a lot of work to be done, and I know the community and traders are working hard to fight for the future of the Emporium - we will support them within our powers."

To get the latest news and features direct to your inbox, sign up for our Ham & High newsletter here