A masterplan for the redevelopment of London’s Covent Garden Market has been revealed, including a proposal to building three new residential blocks at the Nine Elms site.

The Covent Garden Market Authority has today launched the first phase of a public consultation on the plans to update the 35-year old wholesale fresh produce market.

Under the proposal, some 50,000 sq m of retail space would be built or upgraded. Three towers, of 25, 35 and 46 storeys, could also be built to include as many as 2,000 new homes to help fund the scheme.

Authority chief executive Jan Lloyd said: “Providing entirely new market buildings will mean we can design from scratch the optimal layout of the Market for our tenants, using modern materials and flexible units which can change over time in response to changing business needs.

“We will also deliver an improved internal road layout and centralised servicing, energy and recycling facilities.”

Plans for the redevelopment were launched in September 2006 by former food and farming Minister Jeff Rooker.

The authority is expecting to tender for a preferred development partner early next year.