Stallholders, politicians join to fight death of an icon
A fresh battle is looming over the changing face of Wan Chai as the government takes steps to close the oldest and largest market on Hong Kong Island.
All 158 stallholders in the Wan Chai street market were told by the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department last week that their licences would be renewed month by month from May 14 until a new indoor, partly underground, market is ready early next year.
The outdoor market, in Tai Yuen Street and Cross Street, would then be cleared to clean up the area and improve traffic.
Stallholders and district councillors are preparing a campaign against the closure. A closed-door meeting will be held today between stall representatives and officials.
The vibrant market, including 30 food stalls, has a history stretching back more than 70 years.