Smithfield and Billingsgate Markets to Close After Vote

London's historic Smithfield meat market and Billingsgate fish market face permanent closure following a vote by the City of London Corporation, which has decided against relocating them to a new site in Dagenham due to rising construction costs. The markets, which have operated for nearly 900 years, are expected to be transformed into cultural and commercial hubs, with Smithfield possibly linking to the Museum of London. Traders will receive compensation, reportedly totaling over £300 million, and they can continue operations until at least 2028. The decision has been met with criticism for potentially ending a longstanding London tradition and concerns over the legal implications without a full assessment of the impact on the city's food supply. The City Corporation will introduce a bill in Parliament to relinquish its responsibility for running these markets.