| Spitalfield Market | ||
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Spitalfields is located at the heart of the East End of London, within the borough of Tower Hamlets, one of the poorest, yet ethnically diverse of London Boroughs. Initially, the site is believed to have been used as a cemetery for the Roman town of Londinium. During the Elizabethan era, it became renowned as a duelling ground, and by the mid 17th Century, the area was predominantly used for cattle grazing. Residential development began in 1680 in the surrounding area of 'Spittle Field'. | |
| By 1685, the building programme of a central market place was implemented by Edward Metcalf. This subsequently attracted many Quakers and Catholics to the area in search of a place to live. The site was purchased by Robert Horner in 1875, and having been granted an 84 year lease, he began to completely rebuild the market. New buildings were constructed around the market following the demolition of the old 17th century buildings. A new glass and iron roof were also constructed, as were new blocks to house shops and accommodation. |
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The extension of the market in 1902 was undertaken by the Corporation of the City of London, who acquired the freehold in the same year. It is now controlled by the Spitalfields Development Group who procured the site in 1987 on a 150 year lease. Spitalfields boasts a long and rich history, and it is both evident and reinforced in the way that the old and new buildings stand together. The market, along with the surrounding alleyways and narrow lanes, provides fine examples of architecture. |
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