John Chapman has been elected as the new Chairman of the City of London Corporation’s Markets Committee.

Previously Deputy Chairman, Mr Chapman will lead the Committee responsible for the oversight of management and letting of the City Corporation’s three historic wholesale markets: Billingsgate, New Spitalfields and Smithfield.

In his new role, John will also work closely with the City Corporation’s Policy and Resources Committee and Capital Buildings Committee in relation to the Markets Co-Location Programme.

The scheme will create the UK’s largest food destination and bolster the food economy of the UK, London and the South East.

Mr Chapman’s other City Corporation responsibilities include serving on the Board of Governors of the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, the Port Health & Environmental Services Committee and the Digital Services Sub Committee.

John Chapman, Chairman of the City of London Corporation’s Markets Committee, says:

“I look forward to stepping into this role for what is set to be an exciting and busy term for the Markets Committee.

“We will continue to ensure the safety and profitability of our three historic markets, and through the Markets Co-Location Programme, secure their future.

“I look forward to working with our market traders, market staff and market customers to ensure our vibrant, historic wholesale markets have every opportunity to thrive and grow for many years to come.”

John Chapman replaces James Tumbridge who has served his full three-year term.

Former Chairman James Tumbridge was appointed into the role of Deputy Chairman of the Markets Committee.

John Chapman has also been appointed the President Elect of the National Association of British Market Authorities (NABMA), by unanimous decision.

ENDS

Notes to editors

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally-successful UK. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

About the City Corporation’s Markets Co-Location Programme

The Markets Co-Location Programme (MCP) has been developed by the City of London Corporation to bring together the three historic markets – Billingsgate (fish), New Spitalfields (fruit & veg) and Smithfield (meat) – to one single site.

The City Corporation’s number one priority is to maintain a top-quality market environment that continues to serve London and the south east; however, each market is facing a series of pressing and complex challenges. The condition and quality of the buildings are below what is expected of a modern wholesale market. This – along with the many constraints of the buildings – means the ability for businesses to maintain high standards and grow is an ongoing concern.

Dagenham Dock has been chosen as the only viable site to secure the long-term futures of the markets. It will help to reduce unsustainable levels of traffic congestion in central London, improve the capital’s air quality and free up the existing sites for new homes and the City Corporation’s Culture Mile ambitions.