New photos show what Lewisham’s High Street could look like in the future under £24 million plans to put a canopy over the market and give the library a facelift. The plans will see Lewisham market get a permanent cover and be fitted with improved pitches and infrastructure for traders. The market will also open later on occasions for night-time events.
Meanwhile Lewisham’s library will be revamped and turned into a culture and business hub, offering spaces for community events and local start-ups. There will also be more space for library and archive services.
When the plans were originally announced in January 2023, former mayor Damien Egan said there would be a rooftop bar in the library. But there is no mention of the bar in the latest proposals. Lewisham Council has been asked if the rooftop bar is still part of the plans but the council has not yet replied.
Lewisham High Street will also be refurbished under the proposals with two new small parks created, one next to the library and the other near the Premier Inn at Plough Bridge. The High Street will also benefit from improved lighting and CCTV, new trees and plants and better pedestrian crossings and cycle lanes.
The refurbishments are expected to be finished by 2026. They are being funded by £19 million of government money the council successfully bid for from the Levelling Up fund and £5 million of its own cash. Lewisham residents can share their thoughts on the proposals by visiting lewisham.gov.uk/towncentre until April 26.
Brenda Dacres, mayor of Lewisham, said: “It’s essential that residents, businesses and community groups in Lewisham can have their say on the future of the town centre. We want to build a thriving, inclusive space that we can all be proud of – that creates opportunities for the whole community.
“This investment is to help protect Lewisham’s unique identity, whilst supporting local businesses and traders. I hope everyone will get involved and have their say, to make sure the improvements deliver what the local community really wants – a vibrant and attractive place to live, work and shop.”
Photos: What Lewisham market could look like following the refurbishment.
How Lewisham market could look like under the new canopy.
CGI of what Lewisham Library could look like under the proposals.
What the first floor of Lewisham Library could look like under the refurbishment plans. Credits: Lewisham Council
