Lewisham Local, the charity which helps connect individuals, groups and businesses to create a stronger and healthier community, has finally found a new home in the borough after a difficult search.
The charity had to leave the Place Ladywell by March 2024 because the fabric of the building is in such a poor state and looks likely to be demolished.
“It was a difficult search for a new office,” says Dr Gülen Petty, the new CEO of the charity. “We looked at 16-17 properties in the borough but most were too expensive or we were being asked to sign multi-year rental deals.”
Finally Peabody, a not-for-profit housing association, said it had space available at the Parkside Community Centre at a rent “we could afford,” she added.
Parkside, just off Lewisham Road in SE10, was a 1950s and 1960s council estate which Peabody and Lewisham council regenerated, creating 1,190 new homes, half of which were affordable.
“The new office means we are now able to bring all our staff together in one space, and it comes with a big community room we can use – and a cafe on the ground floor,” says Gülen.
Members of staff say they are very happy too. “The big benefit is being able to turn the heating on in a modern office space.”
The charity, which also operates the Lewisham Local discount card involving more than 600 local businesses, is now looking at taking over the running of the Orchard Gardens community centre. It will work with residents and community groups to manage the centre.
Gülen says she is looking forward to leading Lewisham Local in its next phase of development.
The charity’s strategy will be reviewed and renewed in the first few months of 2025, hoping to build on revenue in partnership with the charity’s supporters and funders.