Boxpark Eyes 2032 Exit from Camden Town Station Site Amid Upgrade Uncertainty

Boxpark, the popular shipping container-based retail and food venue, is seeking to extend its lease at Camden Town station until 2032. The site, previously Buck Street Market, was acquired by Transport for London (TfL) for a planned upgrade of the station, which includes a second entrance. However, with the upgrade currently on hold, TfL’s property arm, Places for London, leased the site to Boxpark.

Boxpark's Extended Stay Request

Boxpark currently has planning permission to occupy the site until mid-2027. They have now submitted a planning application to Camden Council to extend their presence until the middle of 2032. This move has raised concerns about potential delays to the much-needed Camden Town station upgrade.

Key Takeaways

• Boxpark aims to extend its lease at Camden Town station until 2032.

• The site is earmarked for a future Camden Town station upgrade.

• TfL states the lease allows for early termination if the station upgrade proceeds.

• Boxpark also plans to replace the temporary tent roof with a more permanent structure.

Reassurance from TfL

Despite the extension request, a TfL spokesperson has confirmed that the lease agreement with Boxpark includes provisions for early termination should the station upgrade project move forward. A future planning application for construction work would supersede the current arrangement. Significant notice would be given, with the station upgrade process itself likely taking several years from funding approval through to detailed design and commencement of works.

Even if funding for the station upgrade is secured in the upcoming budget, Boxpark would still likely need to request an extension to remain on site past their current planning consent. Places for London has stated that the extension application would not impede TfL’s ability to deliver the station upgrade, emphasizing their commitment to bringing new experiences to Buck Street Market in the interim.

Future Plans for the Site

In addition to seeking the lease extension, Boxpark is also proposing to replace the existing temporary tent roof with a more durable structure. This new roof is envisioned as a modern interpretation of a classic Victorian Arcade, aiming to enhance the overall market experience for visitors.

Sources

• Boxpark looking to stay on Camden Town tube station site until 2032, ianVisits.