Traders are seeking legal action against their landlord in the latest development of a Dalston market occupation.
The issues at the indoor section of the Ridley Road Market began on 31 March when 13 traders at the market were forced to shutter their stalls after being handed a six-week notice period of eviction.
In response, protestors have slept on mattresses inside the market and occupied the space since – with many believing they were tricked into signing a one-year tenancy agreement with landlord Larochette.
Navada Shaw, 44, a shoe seller, said: “All the shop owners signed it, but they signed it under false pretense.
“The landlord said he would have given them two years tenancy. This was just meant to be a probation period.
“Once everyone paid their rent, they would automatically get a tenancy.”
Traders say they will not leave until their demands, which include permanent leases, rent caps, and compensation, are met.
Larochette, who bought the indoor section of the market in 2016, told the BBC: “Affected businesses are not being evicted. Their tenancies are coming to an end and will not be renewed.
“Businesses who have not been involved in antisocial behaviour and who are not in significant rent arrears will be offered temporary accommodation within the building or outdoor pitches.”
The situation has remained tense and over the Easter bank holiday, one trader was issued a £150 fine for setting up a barbeque outside their stall.
Community rights activist Valerie, 26, claimed the occupiers were met with threatening behaviour from security.
She added: “The person who delivered the fine was threatening to pour water on the food, being really aggressive”.
Ann-Marie Ryan, a stall worker who recently suffered a stroke, has been sleeping in the market for seven consecutive days.
She said: “We’re fighting for what community is, and what we want community to be.”
The occupation is ongoing and the fate of the traders remains unclear.
Larochette were contacted for comment.
Feature image: Ella Mapes
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