East London's vibrant cultural scene is set for a significant boost with the official approval of a new weekly night market in Leyton. Waltham Forest Council has granted full permission for the venture, which will operate from an industrial estate off Skeltons Lane starting in February 2025.
Market Details and Operating Hours
The market, organised by Leyton Calling, will run weekly with a focus on evening trade. It has been licensed to operate from 5pm until 11pm on Fridays and from 12pm until 11pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Organisers have stated they do not currently plan to open at midday regularly, aiming to avoid clashes with other local markets, but require the flexibility for special seasonal events.
To ensure the event remains community-friendly, specific conditions have been set. Live music must conclude by 10pm, and alcohol sales will cease at 10.30pm. The market will have a strict capacity limit of 490 patrons, with licensed security guards on patrol to manage numbers.
Community Response and Noise Management
While the organisers, co-directors Danny Saunders and Peter Lidstone, expressed great enthusiasm for the project, it did not pass without local concern. One nearby resident formally objected, citing potential noise disturbance from live and recorded music playing into the night.
In response, the organisers have committed to robust measures to minimise impact. These include conducting hourly noise checks to ensure levels remain within agreed limits. In their application, they pledged to manage noise, control traffic and parking impacts, and be considerate of residents regarding closing times.
"We are on good terms with the resident and I don't see there being an issue," said Danny Saunders, highlighting their previous experience running events in the area without formal complaints.
Leytonstone's Property Market Boom
The arrival of this new night-time attraction coincides with a period of rapid growth for the wider area. Neighbouring Leytonstone has been crowned London's fastest-selling property market, according to data from Rightmove. Homes there now take an average of just 34 days to sell, overtaking Walthamstow for the top spot.
Rightmove reports the average house price in Leytonstone is £533,836, maintaining its position as one of East London's more accessible markets for first-time buyers. This commercial and residential vitality underscores the area's ongoing transformation, blending strong community spirit with excellent connectivity.
The new Leyton Night Market, evolving from a temporary Christmas market, promises to add a fresh, dynamic layer to the area's social fabric, offering a weekly destination for food, drink, and entertainment while navigating the balance between night-time economy and residential peace.
