The Black Path is an ancient route, still discernable in the contemporary urban grain from Walthamstow to Hackney. Also known as the Market Porter’s Route, it was used to bring produce into the city during the 18th and 19th centuries. Several markets lie along the route today; Walthamstow, Mare Street, Broadway Market, Columbia Road and Smithfield. The Black Path also forms the boundary to historic open spaces such as London Fields and Haggerstone Park, and crosses Millfields and Walthamstow Marshes in the Lea Valley.

Design for London will be involved in discussions with relevant authorities, agencies, and landowners to determine the feasibility of making more of this historic route.