The landmark logo design competition for Kingsland Shopping Centre has gained a distinguished addition to its judging panel, with Dame Meg Hillier (Labour MP for Hackney South and Shoreditch) joining the line-up.

The competition – free to enter and open to Hackney residents, workers, and students – is offering a £2,000 prize for the winning designer, alongside £500 for each of the four finalists. Entries will be reviewed by a panel of respected local voices and cultural champions, including Simon Murfitt (Editor of The Hackney Gazette), and Rahima Aziz BEM (Trustee of The Aziz Foundation and The Association of Charitable Foundations).

In recognition of the competition running across the busy summer period, Kingsland Shopping Centre owners, Criterion Capital, have also announced an extended deadline. Originally due to close on 5th September, the competition will now remain open until 31st October 2025. This extension will ensure that more members of the community – including incoming students arriving in Hackney for the new academic year – have the chance to share their creativity.

Dame Meg Hillier MP commented: “Dalston never stands still – it has a proud heritage, a rich culture, and a community bursting with creativity. Kingsland Shopping Centre has been here for decades – and now everyone in Hackney has the chance to reimagine how it represents the Dalston of today and tomorrow. I’m delighted to join the judging panel for a competition that isn’t just about designing a logo but also about capturing the story of an area that is constantly evolving whilst also staying true to its roots. I’m looking forward to seeing the designs that reflect the diversity, ambition, and energy of Dalston. And which will give Kingsland Shopping Centre an identity we can all be proud of.”

Omar Aziz of Criterion Capital added: “This competition is about investing in Dalston’s future while celebrating its past and present. We’re proud to extend the deadline so even more people can contribute their creativity to this project, and we’re honoured to welcome Dame Meg Hillier MP to the panel.”

Situated on Kingsland High Street, just steps from Ridley Road Market, Kingsland Shopping Centre is home to a vibrant mix of national and local retailers. Serving as more than a retail hub, the centre reflects the crossroads of Dalston’s creativity, culture, and community.

Entries are encouraged to reflect Dalston’s unique identity – from its diasporic histories and artistic movements to its vibrant markets and youth culture.

The top submissions, ranked by the judges, will be displayed at the centre later this year, where the local community will help decide the five finalists through a public vote. The winner will then be chosen by the Kingsland Shopping Centre team.

ENDS

KEY DETAILS

The competition is free to enter and open to all Hackney residents, workers, and students over the age of 18. The competition is organised and run by Criterion Capital, owners of Kingsland Shopping Centre.

Full details, terms and conditions, file specifications, submission instructions and the entry form are included in the official competition pack, which is available to view on the Kingsland Shopping Centre website here.