Hackney Gazette, September 1

Following the Gazette's coverage of the recent shop closures in Broadway Market we should have a look at the changes in the street that have created this situation.

While I agree with Tory Councillor Andrew Boff that what is happening is the result of the sell-off of council properties to developers it has to be understood that greedy prospectors like Mr Wratten cannot simply raise prices when they feel like it.

Property prices are rising in Broadway Market because it has been undergoing rapid gentrification. Over the last 3 years it has been colonised by middle class professionals willing to pay increasing amounts to live in an area now perceived as 'trendy'. These newcomers happily shop in the new expensive boutiques and eat at the new upmarket restaurants but have no interest in what is happening to local people on lower incomes who find themselves priced out of the area (and whose services are often being closed or privatised into the bargain).

Ironically the Little Georgia Café played a part in nurturing this exclusive culture - it was an upmarket and expensive venue for the 'new' people in Broadway Market. Its success was part of what led to the outrageous rent hike. You can see a similar pattern in places like Upper Street in Islington where small arty businesses which make an area desirable are gradually kicked out by big chains as an area 'comes up'.

It is important to understand that the gentrification of Broadway Market is not a 'natural' phenomenon. It has been encouraged by all parties on the council who support 'regeneration' initiatives. Schemes like the 'Cultural Quarter', 'Hidden Art of Hackney' and the Broadway Market Farmers Market are designed to attract wealthy home buyers and professionals into Hackney and create a thriving property market to attract big business.

The middle class shoppers so shocked by the closure of Little Georgia should take a look at the bigger picture. As they swan about buying their organic produce and enjoying their cool cafes they are complicit in realising New Labour's vision for our city - to create a dog eat dog pro-market culture that caters only to the propertied classes and business interests.
 
David Panos
Andrews Road
London
E8