Smithfield Market is one of the biggest wholesale meat markets in Europe, the oldest wholesale meat market in the UK and the oldest meat market in London. Today’s market site in Farringdon is over 140 years old, with the site’s origins dating back over 800 years. Billingsgate Fish Market in Tower Hamlets is the largest inland fish market in the UK and has been based at their current site since 1982. In 2028, both markets will close and all businesses relocated to new premises, further to a decision from the Corporation of London.

The loss of these two iconic London institutions is profound. Their closures illustrate the impact that rising costs, increasing gentrification of ‘prime’ land locations and a changing way of life are having on traditional livelihoods, independent businesses and intergenerational communities. The many butchers, fishmongers and porters across both sites supply a wide range of restaurants, hotels, delis and local businesses throughout London and further afield.

Over the course of 7 weeks, I undertook a personal project to photograph staff working during their night shifts in Smithfield and Billingsgate Markets. My intention was to capture the incredible skill of the staff; the sense of pride each person had in their work and the warm community that resonates throughout both premises. Whilst some businesses see positivity in the change and future opportunities a relocation can offer; with expanded premises and increased staff teams, for many, the uncertainty is understandably concerning and the further loss of traditional East End culture deeply disheartening.