A cafe in Hackney's Broadway Market has become the site of a community struggle against gentrification [see campaign website]. A public meeting is announced for 16 Jan.
Update 9 jan:Possible eviction on 10 Jan, 6am
On 5th December, members of the community occupied the cafe in time to prevent demolition. Evicted on 21 December, the cafe was demolished, then reoccupied on boxing day. Papers have been served on the occupiers, who were due in court on Friday 9th December. They are receiving support from local people and welcome visitors. Another eviction is expected any time.
The leaseholder of Francesca's Cafe at no.34 was evicted from his premises in the summer, and the building was sold to Market House Ltd., a property development company owned by Dr. Roger Wratten, who has also acquired other properties in the Market which he intends to turn into flats. Dr. Wratten was able to snap up the properties at bargain prices, despite the fact that leaseholders of several properties, including Francesca's, had been trying to buy the freeholds for years.
The sell-off resulted after sustained financial irregularities by Hackney Council, and the Estate Agents appointed to handle the sale are believed to have sold of £225m worth of properties for a mere £70m, thus increasing the burden on council-tax payers in the Borough who will be forced to pick up the debts created through the council's ineptitude. The people of Hackney have already suffered closure of amenities, privatisation of services and demolition of schools. Property values in the Borough are expected to rocket as developers clamour for sites to accommodate the Olympics in 2012.
5 Jan 06 Still there, asking for people to come down. Public Meeting 16 Jan.
3 Jan 06 Another eviction imminent
1 Jan 06 Broadway Market occupation continues
21 Dec 05 Broadway Market Cafe has been evicted. Instead of a cafe night, a show of protest took place.
7 Dec 05 G2 article: Market Forces
1 Dec 05 Libcom coverage
30 Nov 05Statement from Occupiers of Hackney Cafe
28 Nov 05 Occupation in Hackney Broadway Market | Demolition workers repelled | Photos
21 Jul 05 Blog: Hackney Gets Ripped Off - Again
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