Concerns raised over two-day marathon impact

Businesses and residents in south-east London are seeking assurances over disruption caused by the planned expansion of the London Marathon to two days in 2027.

Road closures and parking restrictions will be in place during the marathon on 24 and 25 April.

Lord Duvall, London Assembly member for Greenwich and Lewisham, described the event as "an exciting opportunity, but it is important that we get the details right" and said "people need clear and early information about how they will be affected".

Hugh Brasher, chief executive of London Marathon Events, said organisers were "working closely with boroughs along the route to minimise disruption for residents, businesses and local communities".

Duvall said two consecutive days of disruption would have a significant impact on communities in Greenwich, Charlton, Woolwich and Deptford.

He asked how elderly and less mobile residents who rely on daytime healthcare deliveries would be supported.

For businesses, the extended marathon could bring increased footfall, but some owners said clarity was needed on the action being taken to ensure the two-day event is an opportunity rather than a hindrance.

Simi Ghent, owner of Simi's Italian Deli in Charlton Village, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS): "This is our first year of trading so we've only had the marathon once – it did have a knock-on effect.

"People are not used to gathering in the village to support the runners, they're drawn to Charlton House, which is further up.

"The village goes down in trade, they're not drawn here to do their shopping and trade."

"We don't know how the local council will support us. It has the potential to work well for us, if we were to have the right support – but we don't have any clarity yet. I rarely get any information about it," Ghent added.

Brasher said London Marathon Events was consulting with "borough representatives and communities" to "identify and understand residents' needs in advance, including access requirements for carers, medical appointments and other essential journeys, so that plans can be put in place to support those affected".

In response to a written question about the impact on local people, the Mayor of London told Assembly Members in June that GLA officers "are engaging with London Marathon Events and borough partners to ensure that, if a two-day format is introduced, it is carefully planned and communicated".

Greenwich Council has been contacted for further comment.

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