Goldsmiths, University of London, is set to transform the Old Town Hall in Catford, located in southeast London, into a new campus. This initiative comes as the university’s Fine Art and Design department seeks a new location, as it must vacate its current premises at the former Lewisham College site by July 2027.
The local council has described this development as a „landmark partnership agreement.“ Staff and services currently operating from the existing site will be relocated to other venues, including another building within the town center.
Impact on the Community
It is anticipated that the establishment of the campus will attract over 600 students to the town center. Mayor of Lewisham, Brenda Dacres, along with the Cabinet, is expected to formally endorse the plans on Wednesday, January 21.
Mayor Dacres remarked, „This is a powerful example of what long-term partnership can achieve. Bringing Goldsmiths into the heart of Catford is not just about a new campus – it’s about anchoring creativity, learning, and opportunity in our town center.“ She further emphasized that this collaboration aims to create a thriving environment for local businesses, draw in new visitors, and provide residents with opportunities to engage with one of the UK’s premier creative universities.
Future Developments
The university is expected to sign a 10-year lease with Lewisham Council, with preparations for the Old Town Hall’s conversion commencing later this year. This initiative is part of a broader regeneration effort in Catford town center, which recently saw the opening of a new pub, The Catford House, at the end of 2025.
Additionally, this year will mark the beginning of construction for over 100 affordable homes at Thomas‘ Lane Yard, a previously underutilized car park site situated north of Catford Broadway. The comprehensive regeneration project will also include the development of green public spaces and commercial and affordable workspaces on the same site.
Bildquelle: Foto von Qingqing Cai auf Unsplash
