Smithfield Market faced significant operational disruptions and stock losses in June 2026, primarily due to a failure in its cooling system exacerbated by exceptionally high ambient temperatures
and faults within ageing cooling tower infrastructure
. The elevated condenser water supply (CWS) temperatures led to reduced cooling performance and subsequent damage to tenant refrigeration systems.
Officers, alongside specialist contractors CBRE, implemented an intensive programme of monitoring and repairs. The focus shifted to restoring the existing cooling tower infrastructure, including repairs to failed equipment and enhancing temperature monitoring. These measures, combined with a drop in ambient temperatures, successfully reduced CWS temperatures from approximately 30°C to below 20°C by July 3rd, significantly improving refrigeration performance.
During a meeting with the Smithfield Market Tenants' Association (SMTA), tenants voiced concerns about the prolonged high CWS temperatures and potential stock loss. The SMTA requested an investigation into a temporary chiller system. Specialist advice indicated that while technically feasible, it presented significant constraints and risks. The installation of a temporary chiller system has not been discounted but is not being actively pursued at this moment
due to these complexities.
Officers advised that a complete overhaul of the cooling towers would take until the end of July 2026. The meeting information does not provide an estimated cost for this overhaul.
Councillor Henry Pollard expressed dissatisfaction with CBRE's performance, stating, the performance has been not good.
He suggested writing to CBRE to express displeasure and concern, noting that they need to up their game.
The Board agreed to delegate the challenge to CBRE to the Chairman, in consultation with the Town Clerk and Director, and to request a report back at the next meeting.
Councillor George suggested implementing a readiness program
for the cooling system, similar to off-season preparations for parks, to anticipate future hot weather. He stated, next year there will be a readiness program.
The meeting information does not detail what this program would entail beyond preparing for hot weather.
Councillor Jim noted the prolonged resolution time for the issue and highlighted a critical oversight: they do not have a system for measuring the rate of flow of water through the pipe. They do not know how much water is coming through that tube.
Tony Lyons, Chair of the Billingsgate Market Tenants Association, acknowledged the work done but noted that the issue was still not fixed.
Gaby Robertshaw inquired about insurance for stock loss and business disruption. It was confirmed that Our expectation is that our insurance would be claimed against, and we will support the tenants in making those claims.
The meeting information does not specify the exact process or expected timeframe for these claims.
Discussions are also underway regarding a more permanent solution, potentially transitioning to a closed-loop refrigeration system.
