A fire tore through Kingston Ancient Market in the early hours of Tuesday, October 6, destroying traders' stalls and damaging neighbouring businesses, forcing the historic square to close indefinitely. Eight people were evacuated from their homes as the blaze ripped through the market, which dates back more than 800 years. The London Fire Brigade (LFB) confirmed that no injuries were reported, but the Market Place has been cordoned off while investigations into the cause of the fire, which is currently unknown, are carried out.
Fire Response and Evacuations
The LFB said four fire engines and around 25 firefighters rushed to the scene in Kingston Town Centre after the fire was reported at 4.33am. Control Officers took the first of six calls at 4.33am and mobilised crews from Kingston, Surbiton, New Malden and surrounding fire stations. The fire was extinguished by 6.08am.
Eight people were evacuated from the area by the Metropolitan Police Service, according to an LFB spokesperson. The spokesperson added: "A range of market stalls were destroyed by the fire. The fire also affected the fascia of a range of properties and a small part of the roof of a neighbouring property. Eight people were evacuated from the area by the Metropolitan Police Service. There are no reports of any injuries."
Impact on Businesses and Community
The Market Place has been cordoned off while the Met Police and LFB investigate the cause of the blaze. Businesses within the closed-off area will not be trading until further notice. Kingston Council Leader Andreas Kirsch expressed shock and sadness, stating: "I am shocked and saddened by the serious fire that has affected Kingston’s marketplace. The Ancient Market sits at the heart of the community and my thoughts are with the traders, business owners and residents who have been impacted by this incident. I want to reassure you that the council is working with partners to support all those affected."
All Saints Kingston also released a statement on Facebook, saying: "We are shocked and saddened by the news of the fire in the marketplace overnight. We are deeply thankful for the tireless, brave efforts of our local firefighters and police officers, whose hard work kept the flames from fully taking hold of surrounding buildings, preventing an even greater disaster."
History and Future of the Market
Kingston Ancient Market, which opened around 1170, is home to 28 permanent stalls and typically opens every day from 10am to 5pm. The council, which owns the market, brought together Kingston Ancient Market, Market Square and Ancient Market House under a longer-term lease held by Between the Bridges, which took over management in April last year as part of the council's plans to revive the attraction.
Between the Bridges submitted plans earlier this year to overhaul the market with new stalls, a central piazza, restaurant, bar and roof terrace, which are still under consideration. The council said it is monitoring the situation and will share further updates when more information becomes available. Between the Bridges has been contacted for comment.
