It's true, there's not much authentic 'East End' left and companies are using the 'barrow boy' image to sell us 'authentic experiences', look at Borough Market, it's changed beyond recognition, with hiked prices and now developers want to capitalise on the land.
I live near Queen's Market in Upton Park and as a student living on just a "fiver a week" I could get a weeks fresh food and veg so the market was a life saver. I found it was a unique place where people from all round the world meet and you can buy food and cheap cloth from Africa, India, China, Caribbean, Cyprus, Poland, the world! It's a REAL market, with no frills, as they should be, a proper London Street Market. London's image is now also be as a 'world city' and markets like this are a testament to how what we eat and shop for has changed and how great it is.
I read recently that Queen's Market was under threat from developers and the local Council wanted a shopping hall and even Asda store!
I know where I'd prefer to shop coz all shopping halls looks bland with the same old shops and same products.
You're right on one thing Queen's Market does need a wash down and a lick of paint, but that's the Council's responsibility.
LONG LIVE QUEEN'S MARKET! read more