The public outcry against Hackney Council’s handling of the safeguarding of Boxpark Shoreditch is growing louder and more fervent. Boxpark Shoreditch, the pioneering street food, retail and cultural hub at the heart of Shoreditch, is on the brink of being lost due to bureaucratic red tape and planning challenges. The public’s demand for immediate and decisive action from Hackney Council will continue to increase until this matter is resolved.

Boxpark Shoreditch is more than just a food and entertainment space; it is a vital part of East London’s social and cultural fabric. Since its inception in October 2011, it has been a cornerstone for independent businesses, providing a platform for over 250 brands and supporting over 1,000 jobs. Its contribution to the local economy is undeniable, generating nearly £100 million in economic value and attracting over 10 million visitors to the area.

The potential closure of this iconic venue would not only devastate the businesses and individuals it supports but also set back the ongoing regeneration efforts in Shoreditch. Hackney Council’s failure to protect Boxpark Shoreditch would be a glaring oversight, undermining the community’s trust and eroding the vibrant cultural landscape that defines East London.

Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association, has spoken out on this pressing issue: “Boxpark Shoreditch exemplifies the exact issue faced across the country with red tape and restrictive regulatory controls stalling business investment. This has to stop. People are fed up. The new Government has made an amazing start, and I call on them to reach into the local authority and invigorate the local planning department and Hackney Council to find a solution.”

Public sentiment is clear: Boxpark Shoreditch must be preserved. The community is prepared to rally, protest, and escalate this issue to national attention if necessary. This is not a mere appeal; it is a demand for action. The new Government’s commitments to planning regime changes must be leveraged to find a solution that ensures the survival of this indispensable venue.

Roger Wade – Founder Boxpark “We regret to announce that BOXPARK Shoreditch will be closing. Despite our relentless efforts in collaboration with the GLA, Hackney Council, and our landlords BGY, we must close due to a planning requirement. Unfortunately, the developers will not start building immediately, which makes this decision even more disheartening, especially since our neighbours Power league received an extension.”

“Since its launch in October 2011, BoxPark Shoreditch, the world’s first pop-up, has created over 1,000 jobs, contributed more than £80 million each year to the local economy and over £1 billion since opening, launched hundreds of new independent businesses, and welcomed over 10 million visitors.”

“We have initiated a campaign to save BoxPark Shoreditch. Your help and support would be greatly appreciated. Please see the link below to join the cause.”

The public will not relent until Hackney Council fulfills its duty to safeguard Boxpark Shoreditch. The cultural and economic repercussions of inaction are too great to ignore. This issue has already reached the desks of the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, local councilors, and MPs, and it will continue to gain momentum until a satisfactory resolution is achieved.

The time for Hackney Council to act is now. The community stands united in their fight to save Boxpark Shoreditch, and they will not back down until their beloved cultural hub is secured for future generations.

NADIA JAE (TV & Radio Presenter) from the ARIA Winning BBC 1Xtra Breakfast Show.
“Boxpark Shoreditch has been a second home for me. I’ve had days out, nights partying and it’s always a safe and enjoyable experience. As a DJ it’s home to my NJ & Friends terrace party where I’ve had nights I will never forget. I’ve partied with my family, celebrated my birthday, made new friends and even have the bar staff singing along to music because we have such a good time. Sundays I’ve brought my nieces and nephews to day parties at Boxpark, it’s always a safe and fun environment and is the heartbeat to Shoreditch. I can’t imagine life without it. Night life as a DJ in London is already concerning with so many venues closing down, but not only does Boxpark provide nightlife it does something that no other venue does. It provides a daytime experience of food, vibes and cultural events such as football for all to come along and enjoy. This campaign is important for highlighting what a huge hole will be left if Boxpark Shoreditch was to close. Truly there is no other place like it.”

H/T N.M.