Blackheath Farmers’ Market could face major changes under plans to redevelop the car park beside Blackheath Station in southeast London.
Acorn Property Group has proposed three buildings containing 45 homes, alongside commercial and community space, landscaping and a new public square intended to accommodate the farmers’ market.
The proposal has attracted opposition from some local residents and traders, who argue that the development could affect parking, traffic, local businesses and nearby schools.
Market traders say the Sunday market is an important part of their businesses. Some fear that changes to the site could reduce the market's vitality and affect the wider Blackheath Village economy.
The plans include 20 houses and 25 flats, while the developer says the market would continue in a purpose-built area with around 40 pitches. The market operator, London Farmers’ Markets, has publicly said it supports the redevelopment proposal and believes the new arrangement could provide a more suitable long-term home for the market.
Campaigners, however, remain concerned about the scale of the buildings, parking provision and the potential effect on the surrounding area, including nearby John Ball Primary School.
The planning process has already faced delays. In January 2026, Lewisham’s planning committee deferred its decision and requested further information on parking, the impact on local businesses and how the farmers’ market would operate during and after the development.
In August, Lewisham Council listed the part of Blackheath Station car park used by the farmers’ market as an Asset of Community Value. The designation does not automatically prevent development, but it gives the community certain rights if the land is put up for sale.
A fresh consultation is now under way, with additional reports covering the economic impact on Blackheath, market operations, parking and fire safety. More than 2,000 comments have reportedly been submitted on the planning proposal.
No final decision has yet been set by the reconstituted planning committee. For now, the future of the car park — and the popular Sunday farmers’ market — remains part of an ongoing debate over housing, local businesses and the character of Blackheath.