The City of London Corporation has moved forward with plans to redevelop the Annexe buildings at West Smithfield, marking a new phase in the transformation of one of the capital’s long-established market districts. The project brings together the Corporation with General Projects and Esselco Group, with Heatherwick Studio leading the design.
Set near Farringdon and the new London Museum, the Annexe site comprises a group of Victorian-era market, storage and engine buildings dating from the late 19th century. The redevelopment, subject to planning approval, focuses on reactivating structures that have remained largely unused for decades while retaining their historic fabric.
Phased redevelopment introduces food market, hotel and public realm
The scheme is structured in two phases, with the initial stage centred on public activation. A new food market is scheduled to open in early 2028, designed to accommodate independent vendors alongside outdoor installations and programmed events. The market is intended to connect with activity at the neighbouring museum and contribute to a broader visitor experience across the area.
A second phase, due for completion by 2030, will introduce a boutique lifestyle hotel, ground-floor retail and food and beverage spaces, and a landscaped pocket park. The public space replaces a former service area and is planned to host community events, digital installations and live performances throughout the day and evening.
Historic structures repositioned within wider Smithfield transformation
Located on the south-west side of Smithfield Market, the Annexe redevelopment forms part of a wider programme of change across the district. The area has historically functioned as a centre of trade, with the Annexe buildings supporting market operations including fish trading, storage and mechanical services.
The current plans reposition these structures within a broader cultural and commercial setting. The nearby London Museum is preparing to open its permanent galleries later this year, with additional facilities to follow in 2028. At the same time, the Barbican Centre is undergoing refurbishment, while the wider Smithfield market estate is expected to accommodate a mix of future uses.
Regeneration aligned with City of London’s destination strategy
The redevelopment is linked to the Corporation’s wider strategy to extend activity within the Square Mile beyond traditional working hours. New public spaces, visitor-focused uses and cultural programming are intended to support a more continuous pattern of use across the district.
The food market concept draws on Smithfield’s historic role as a centre of exchange, with a focus on independent operators and a mix of cuisines reflecting the diversity of the city. Across both phases, the project is expected to deliver employment opportunities, public amenities and accessible spaces for residents, workers and visitors.
Together with planned public realm improvements, the Annexe redevelopment is positioned as part of a longer-term shift in how the Smithfield area functions within central London, linking heritage buildings with new cultural and commercial activity.
