Traders at Brixton Plaza in South London are grappling with uncertainty as they navigate the aftermath of a recent legal ruling that temporarily halts their eviction to make way for a supermarket.
Initially, business owners were given a mere four weeks‘ notice to vacate their premises. However, this decision was challenged in court, leading to a High Court injunction that affirmed their right to adequate notice and protection from eviction.
Despite this legal reprieve, anxiety remains palpable among the traders, many of whom express fears about their future and the daunting prospect of having to rebuild their businesses from scratch.
The management of Brixton Plaza has communicated to tenants that the landlord, Governside Ltd, has signed a new lease with Aldi, which plans to take over the market and the nearby Bernard’s charity shop, reportedly at a „very high rent.“ A letter to tenants indicated that their deposits would be utilized to cover March’s rent, and they were instructed to remove all personal belongings. The letter also warned of potential legal action and bailiff involvement if they failed to vacate by the specified deadline.
Legal Context and Tenant Concerns
The eviction notices were based on documents termed „tenancies at will,“ which allow for informal, short-term occupancy that can be terminated by either party at any time. However, the legal firm Leigh Day contended that the traders were operating under full commercial leases, which provides them with greater security.
A group of 27 independent traders successfully obtained an injunction that currently protects them from eviction, citing their long-standing presence at the location.
Personal Impact on Traders
Faiven Michael, who has operated an Eritrean café at the market for six years, expressed her devastation over the eviction notice.
„Very sad, really. I feel empty because this is my business, this is my life,“
she stated, highlighting the emotional toll of the situation. She also noted the challenges of relocating her business due to the high costs associated with moving.
Catalina Paul, a hair and beauty trader who opened her salon in 2019, echoed similar sentiments. She voiced concerns about losing her loyal customer base if forced to relocate.
„It makes you think about the next step, how hard it could be after you build something up and then have to start all over again. My customers are close to me. They become like family,“
she remarked.
Official Responses
Lambeth Council has clarified that it was not involved in the landlord’s decision to evict tenants, following the approval of planning permission on March 4. The council stated,
„It is unfortunate the landlord has chosen to take this course of action in relation to its tenants. The owner of the building in question has gained planning permission to refurbish this historic building’s shop fronts. Decisions about how the interior is rented out is nothing to do with this planning permission.“
As the situation unfolds, traders at Brixton Plaza remain in a state of limbo, uncertain about their future and the viability of their businesses amidst ongoing legal and financial challenges.
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