An update for Lewisham town centre residents
Over the coming years, it is being reshaped into a greener, safer and more welcoming place – with better public spaces, improved transport, more to do throughout the day and evening, and new homes.
This work is about protecting what people value about Lewisham, while making sure the town centre continues to thrive for future generations.
You may already have noticed building work on the High Street or heard about recent planning decisions. This email shares an update on what’s happening now, what’s coming next and how it affects the town centre you use every day.
£24m Council investment in Lewisham Library, Market and High Street
We are delivering a once-in-a-generation upgrade in the heart of the borough, shaped by ideas from more than 1,500 residents. This has been made possible through £24 million in funding, including £19 million from central government and £5 million from the Council.
Work is already underway to refurbish Lewisham Library and rejuvenate Lewisham Market, while improvements to the High Street have now been completed.
CGI Lewisham Library interior
Lewisham Library
Opening in late 2026, the flagship Lewisham Library will become a major community, culture and learning hub in the heart of the town centre.
Alongside the award-winning library and heritage services, the building will include improved study areas, meeting rooms, flexible workspaces, a performance space and a new café.
Lewisham Market
Lewisham’s historic market is being upgraded to better support local traders and create a more welcoming space for residents and visitors.
Improvements include a new layout with upgraded pitches, a permanent all-weather canopy, improved lighting, additional planting and the restoration of the Grade II listed Clock Tower.
The changes – developed in consultation with existing traders – will also support more Sunday and evening pop-ups and events. Completion is expected in early 2027.
Lewisham High Street
Completed in summer 2025, improvements to Lewisham High Street include energy-efficient LED lighting, safer and clearer paths, new storage and toilet facilities for traders in Burton’s Yard, re-laid pavements with a new step-free crossing at Mercia Grove, and new green spaces with seating and planting. These include the climate-resilient Plough Bridge Gardens near the Premier Inn.
Find full details of the Lewisham town centre improvements programme.
Upcoming major developments
Alongside the Council’s investment, several major developments led by private developers are also progressing. While these schemes are not delivered by the Council, we have ensured they complement our improvements and support the long-term renewal of the town centre.
Filigree development
In February 2025, a serious flood affected the power supply across the Filigree development, which is managed by Get Living. As a result, residents were temporarily relocated and works on the site were paused. Work is underway to fix the problem but unfortunately power has not yet been restored.
We know residents are keen to see the site reopen, which is why the Council has sought a clear update from the operator.
Nearly 70% of the commercial space is now under offer, with leases for the cinema, gym and supermarket expected to complete shortly.
The operator expects works and repairs to be completed by October this year, with some public areas reopening sooner.
Read the Council’s statement on the Filigree development.
CGI of Lewisham Shopping Centre redevelopment courtesy of Landsec
Lewisham Shopping Centre
Approved by the Council last year, plans for Lewisham Shopping Centre will deliver a modern town centre destination with a revitalised shopping centre that includes new shops, cafés and restaurants, alongside community spaces and a 500-capacity culture and live music venue.
The scheme also includes around 1,700 new homes, including 344 affordable homes offering a mix of social rent, London Living Rent and discounted homes for key workers. A new public park, similar in size to a Premier League football pitch, and improved walking and cycling routes are also planned.
The plans were shaped through extensive consultation and are expected to boost the local economy by up to £160 million a year and support thousands of jobs. Subject to final preparations, work is due to start in 2027, with the much-loved Model Market returning this spring – the shopping centre will remain open throughout construction.
More information on plans for Lewisham Shopping Centre.
Lewisham Retail Park
Developers have shared their proposals for Lewisham Retail Park which includes new homes, greener public spaces, safer walking and cycling routes, additional shops and a food court. Residents will be encouraged to share their views once the planning application is submitted and public consultation commences.
Find full details of the Lewisham Retail Park proposals.
Keep up to date
The best way to stay up-to-date on town centre developments is to sign up for the Council’s weekly email for residents.