Customers at Lewisham Shopping centre, which is set to undergo development. Pic: Henry Smith

Developers have submitted a planning application to expedite the Lewisham shopping centre redevelopment plan they say is aimed at revitalising its shopping centre and surrounding public spaces.

Developers are aiming to build 1,700 new homes and create a dynamic new public space dedicated to food, music, and culture. The centrepiece of this transformation will be a football-pitch-sized park atop the redeveloped shopping centre, as well as a completely new high street. 

If planning permissions are approved, developers might start construction by the end of the year. Once completed, it is set to feature a new model market square, a music venue, and new walking routes connecting the high street to surrounding areas like Cornmill Gardens.

Jon Watson, the development director leading the Lewisham Shopping Centre transformation for LandsecU+I, said about the plans; “We know from our engagement with the community that there is widespread excitement about what our plans for Lewisham Shopping Centre could mean for the borough. 

“So, we’re bringing forward a smaller planning application to speed up the delivery of the southern square – a dynamic new public space dedicated to food and music.

“We’re now busy working on our next submission for the wider masterplan and the first two buildings.”

Some locals say they are hopeful that it will restore the town’s vibrancy and redefine Lewisham’s role as a social and cultural hub.

Vanshika Yadav, a student who lives near the centre welcomed the developments.

She told Eastlondonlines: “The changes at Lewisham Shopping Centre could really impact our community in a good way. Having an open-air market might create more space for local vendors and bring people together. It’s nice to think about how it could help support small businesses and make the area feel more connected.”

As the project is still in its pre-application phase, specific details or potential impacts are yet to be confirmed. Officials noted that a clearer understanding will emerge once the initiative progresses to the planning stage.

Despite ensuring minimal disruption, shops will be temporarily relocated as construction progresses.

A detailed model and exhibition of the project will be on display at Unit 25 in the Lewisham Shopping Centre.

The exhibition will also present work from Goldsmiths University’s In Living Memory Project, charting the town’s evolution over the centuries.

The public is invited to view the plans and provide feedback, with the final stage of the project set to include the new park and shopping centre.

Visitors can explore the plans and voice their thoughts at the upcoming exhibition on November 11 and 12, at Unit 25, Lewisham Shopping Centre, next to XO Bikes.