Traders from Shepherd’s Bush Market are heading to court this week in an attempt to overturn a compulsory purchase order (CPO).

They will be at the Court of Appeal on Thursday (March 3) to challenge the CPO placed on the historic market by former Communities Secretary Eric Pickles.

The market traders object to redevelopment plans by property developer Orion, which will include private block of luxury flats next to the market . It was given permission when Mr Pickles appeared to go against the advice of a Government inspector.

New artist's impression of the revamped market

The CPO is needed to buy out the market stalls, Goldhawk Road shops, three hostels and an electricity sub station.

Mr Pickles’ decision come after a 2014 Public Inquiry and overturned the recommendation of independent senior inspector Ava Woods to refuse the CPO on the grounds that the proposed development of the market did not offer sufficient guarantees and financial safeguards for the long-standing market traders.

The inspector also felt there was a real risk a newly developed market and shops would not provide the ethnic diversity or opportunities for small businesses which make up the area.

On top of that traders say the scheme has brought uncertainty and upset to the market businesses, resulting in a big drop in the number of businesses, customer footfall and trade since 2014.

James Horada is head of Shepherd's Bush Market Tenant's Association

They also fear the impact the building of the £150 million development, which is expected to take three years, will have on business.

Speaking on the eve of the Court of Appeal hearing, James Horada, chairman of the Shepherd’s Bush Market Tenants’ Association , said it was a “fight for the livelihoods of market traders”.

He said: “The scheme fails to implement the mechanisms, which are necessary to cradle the market businesses and allow them to survive through the disturbance and trauma that may occur during the next 3 years and beyond.

“There is a very real threat to the ethnic diversity of Shepherd’s Bush , to the small long-standing market businesses, to the livelihoods that support many hard working families and to the essence and character of Shepherd’s Bush Market.”

It is not known how long it will take Court of Appeal judges to reach a verdict.