The Catford Framework Plan is a long-term vision to guide development of Catford town centre over the next couple of decades. Redevelopment work will go on through the 2030s.
But several projects are already underway and some will be completed over the next couple of years.
Some of the first steps are outlined below:
Holbeach Road public realm improvements.
Funded by GLA, the Improvements include new surfacing for better walking environment, new planting and trees, seats and sculpture, a cycle parking facility and new improved lighting. These works were completed in June 2022. A mural is proposed on 120 Rushey Green at the end of Holbeach Rd to further improve the walking environment on a popular route to school. The work should be completed this year.
Catford Stations
Improvements will include wider pavements along South Circular and a wider underpass to make it easier to walk and cycle. There will be more planting and seating, two new decks across the river creating a space to meet, and a viewing platform. The South Circular will be narrowed to promote walking and cycling and reduce car pollution. A planning application for the work will be submitted this year.
Former Catford Constitutional Club
Work has started on the former Catford Constitutional Club. It will reopen it as a pub, with a community kitchen and space for performance, music and arts. The works are expected to be completed in 2024. The listed Victorian building was forced to close in August 2019 due to structura issues. The adjoining Georgian farmhouse, the oldest building in Catford and the only remaining part of the original farm dating back to 1736, will also be brought back into use, having remained derelict for more than 20 years.
Thomas Lane Yard
Alongside plans for a new pub in the refurbished Catford Club building, a new pedestrianised space will be created. This will provide flexible workspace for local businesses, small shops and food and drink kiosks. Up to 100 new homes will be created, with 50 per cent affordable. Some 40 of the new homes will be offered at a social rent. A largely car-free public space will be planted with new trees and greenery with a children’s play area. The site covers the area currently used as Thomas Lane car park, to the rear of Catford Broadway. A planning application for the work will be submitted this year.
Rerouted South Circular ‘will create space for greener and healthier Catford town centre’
The South Circular road will be rerouted through the car park to the south of Laurence House, Catford, in an effort to create a greener town centre and a healthier and more enjoyable place for people to live, work and visit.
Transport for London has been working in partnership with Lewisham Council to support the council’s ambition to transform Catford Town Centre and improve transport in the area.
TfL says the proposals will make it easier and safer to walk, cycle and use the bus in Catford, helping people to make more journeys on foot, by bike and by public transport.
The changes, part of London Mayor Sadiq Khan’s ambition to deliver healthier streets, would move about 100m of the South Circular to the south of Laurence House and remove the one-way system around Plassy island which includes Lidl.
Moving the road in this way would allow more space around the relocated road for improvements. These would include a new two-way segregated cycle lane on the new stretch of road, more pedestrian crossings, and wider pavements.
TfL says the scheme will reduce exposure to poor air quality in the town centre by moving traffic on the South Circular away from public areas and shops.
“We hope that the physical changes proposed here combined with the policy changes being implemented through the ULEZ expansion (August 2023) will improve air quality in the town centre.”
The council says the plans would also enable it to develop schemes for new tree planting and create a new public space in the heart of the town centre.
TfL has launched a six week consultation on the proposals. You can complete an online survey. You can also send in your views in writing by emailing haveyoursay@tfl.gov.uk or writing to FREEPOST TFL HAVE YOUR SAY (no stamp needed).
All the details can be found at https://haveyoursay.tfl.gov.uk/catford-town-centre?tool=news_feed#tool_tab