The Tabernacle Church has announced plans for the restoration of the facade of the Grade II listed Temperance Billiards Hall it acquired more than 10 years ago, reports the News Shopper
After the former Riley’s Billiards Hall closed in 2012, the building fell into disrepair and was unused for several years.
The church, which was based in Algernon Road, acquired the property that same year and launched a £2m restoration of the building which acts as worship centre and community venue.
The restoration will incorporate a street-facing café, designed to serve both visitors to the venue and the wider community.
The hall, built in 1909-10 by Temperance Billiard Halls Ltd, is one of South London’s finest examples of early 20th-century Temperance architecture.
The Temperance Movement created billiard halls like this one as alcohol-free alternatives to pubs, offering recreation and refreshment in a social setting.
The Tab plays an active role in Lewisham’s social support network through its community arm, REACH. The church distributes food and essentials to those in need and offers companionship and care to vulnerable residents.