The owner of a well-loved south London delicatessen today said rent rises and gentrification have forced him to close after 25 years.
A & C Continental Delicatessen in Brixton is among 18 businesses based in arches on Atlantic Road, Brixton Station Road and Pope’s Road that were told by landlord Network Rail to vacate their plots for a year for renovation work — only to return to rent rises.
Deli owner José Cardoso, 47, has been a key figure in the campaign to save the affected shops. He said: “We decided to pull the shutters down ... I imagine in about a month or so.
“Obviously the situation here with Network Rail has put a much sharper focus on everything. The area has changed dramatically.
"Change in demographic, change in shopping habits, less people working in the area so it’s quieter in the daytimes.
"Going forward the expectations of customers in the area is different from what we offer. It’s better to end on a good note.”
Mr Cardoso said Lambeth council should do more to protect small businesses. He added: “There is no protection in there for people like us.”
Network Rail revealed that rents at Brixton arches will go from a current average of £21 sq ft to £52.89 six years after the renovation is completed.
Jack Hopkins, Lambeth cabinet member for jobs and growth, said: “I have lobbied hard on behalf of businesses who have been in negotiations with their landlord Network Rail.
"We want to ensure Brixton keeps its diverse, vibrant and successful town centre and are doing what we can in the face of rising rents.”
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