Axing market 'will rip the guts out of Brixton'

One of London's most famous markets could be demolished and turned into a West End-style shopping precinct, campaigners warned today.

Brixton Market is to undergo a massive redevelopment by its new owners, the developer London & Associated Properties, despite massive opposition from residents and traders.

The developer has already faced an outcry over its plans to redevelop the Antiquarius market in the King's Road.

Campaigners claim its latest move will put up to 140 jobs at risk and threatens to "rip the guts out of Brixton".

A central part of the market, Granville Arcade, is facing destruction and campaigners fear the stalls in Market Row will also be put out of business.

Traders and politicians have launched a last-ditch legal battle to save the market, which has been running since the 1870s, and are appealing to have it listed on historical grounds. They will hold a demonstration at the market tomorrow which will attended by local MP and government minister Tessa Jowell. The Department for Culture, Media and Sport has agreed to review the listing application.

Ms Jowell, said: "Brixton's markets are intrinsic to the historic and architectural bones of the town. We cannot afford to let them go." London Assembly member Valerie Shawcross for Lambeth and Southwark, said: "If we let this vital market get demolished, it would rip the guts out of Brixton. The character of Brixton is entirely set by the market, which is also an important part of London's history."

Alex Holland, 26, chairman of the Friends of Brixton Market, said: "One of the most individual places in London could be lost for good."

Sources said London & Associated Properties intends to replace the stalls with "West End-style high-end retail stores". The firm has pulled out of its unpopular plans to build a 10-storey, 111-apartment block over the market in nearby Granville Arcade. It was unavailable for comment.