Kingston Market Closes for Nine Days After Fire
Safety concerns force full closure of Ancient Market following blaze that damaged multiple stalls.
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Kingston's Ancient Market is to shut for nine days from 10 October to 18 October 2026 following a fire that caused damage to several stalls and neighbouring businesses. Kingston Council announced the closure after further safety concerns were identified during inspections on Friday, following the blaze that occurred on Tuesday. The full market closure is necessary for damaged stalls to be made safe, for demolition work to be prepared, and for the site to be cleared, the council stated. Businesses around the market's perimeter that were not affected by the fire will continue to operate.
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Council leader Andreas Kirsch acknowledged the significant impact of the closure on all traders, not just those directly affected by the fire. "We know it has a big impact on the traders, not just the ones affected by the fire but all the other traders," Kirsch said. He added that the closure, while disruptive, was essential for public and site safety. Investigators believe an electrical fault in a fridge was the cause of the fire, though its exact location has not been specified by the London Fire Brigade.
Support for Traders
While the market is closed, traders will be exempt from paying pitch fees. Kingston Council and market operator Between the Bridges are collaborating to explore options aimed at reducing the financial impact of lost earnings for the affected traders. Kirsch expressed the council's objective for the market to reopen after the planned closure period, stating, "I can't give you an ironclad guarantee but this is our aim." He emphasised that everyone involved wants the market operational again as swiftly as possible.
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Impact on Traders and Community
The fire damaged stalls belonging to businesses including Lush, Greggs, Hotter, and a bureau de change. Tim Meads, a fishmonger who has traded at the market for 42 years, described the fire's impact as devastating. "It's taken everything away from me," Meads told BBC London. "Hopefully we will rebuild, the town needs us. At the moment I've lost everything." Residents expressed hopes for a swift return to business for all traders. Anmol Brahmbhatt noted the closure's timing, occurring before the Christmas period, which is typically a peak earning time for traders, raising concerns about their ability to cope amidst the cost of living crisis.
What Happens Next
The council aims for the market to reopen on 19 October 2026, following the completion of safety works and site clearance. Further updates on the reopening will be provided by Kingston Council.
Questions this report answers
+Why is Kingston's Ancient Market closing?
Kingston's Ancient Market is closing for nine days from 10 to 18 October 2026 due to safety concerns identified after a fire. The closure is necessary to make damaged stalls safe, prepare for demolition, and clear the site.
+What caused the fire at Kingston Market?
Investigators believe the fire was caused by an electrical fault in a fridge. The London Fire Brigade has not yet confirmed the exact location of the faulty appliance.
+Will traders have to pay fees while the market is closed?
No, traders will not have to pay pitch fees while the market is closed from 10 to 18 October 2026. Kingston Council and the market operator are also exploring ways to help traders mitigate lost earnings.
+Which stalls were damaged in the fire?
The fire damaged several market stalls, including those occupied by Lush, Greggs, Hotter, and a bureau de change. Fishmonger Tim Meads, who has traded at the market for 42 years, also reported losing everything.
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