Camden community draws up plans for Borough Market of the north

Hawley Wharf could be transformed into the “Borough Market of the north” under alternative plans drafted by residents opposing a developer’s scheme.

Developers have spent three years formulating plans to transform the market off Chalk Farm Road in Camden Town, that are due to be decided on by Camden Council next month.

But exasperated residents say grave concerns over the plans, which they say contain “pastiche” architecture and will overdevelop the land by the Regent’s Canal, have been ignored.

The community has created their own plan to encourage councillors to realise what could be done with the space.

But heritage expert and Primrose Hill resident Peter Darley has characterised the fight ahead as a “David versus Goliath battle”.

Peter Clapp, an architect who lives a short walk from the planned development in Jeffrey’s Place, Camden Town, said: “We want the market to be more foodie, so that it would be like the Borough Market of the north.

“We also want craft shops and workshops so that Camden is actually making things, like it used to, and not just selling naff T-shirts from developing countries.”

Mr Clapp added: “This is a chance to reopen some of Camden Town for residents. We are not against development. This is not nimbyism. We just want it done well.”

Mr Darley, of Oppidans Road, added: “We are doing this to show up the lost opportunity.”

Developers Stanley Sidings were unavailable for comment.