A fresh plan for Catford: practical improvements for the town centre
The plan brings forward visible improvements to make Catford safer, cleaner and easier to get around, while also supporting local businesses, improving public spaces and continue delivering major projects already underway.
Councillor Daniel Dream, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Regeneration, Housing Delivery and Planning said:
“Like many local people, I've been frustrated by the pace of change in Catford. That's why I stepped up to represent this community and push for better.
Catford deserves a town centre people can be proud of. The reality is that the 2021 framework is no longer deliverable, so we're hitting reset. Instead of making promises we can't keep, we're focusing on the improvements we can deliver now: the changes that will make a real difference to local people and businesses.
We're determined to get the basics right, improve our high streets, make Catford cleaner, safer and better connected. It's not about ambition, it’s about delivery. It's the plan that gets things moving.”
Despite the challenges, the Council remains committed to delivering the improvements Catford town centre needs. The new Catford Town Centre Business Plan 2026-2030 brings together transport improvements, town centre investment, affordable housing and public realm projects into a single, deliverable programme.
Key projects include:
- Catford Station Links: Better connections between Catford and Catford Bridge stations, including improved walking routes, lighting, accessibility, planting and signage. Construction is expected between 2027 and 2028.
- A205/A21 improvements: Following the withdrawal of the opportunity for Government funding for the South Circular realignment, a revised scheme will focus on improving safety, accessibility and connectivity within the existing road layout. Proposed improvements include a new pedestrian crossing near Catford Bridge Tavern, better walking and cycling routes, cycle parking and public realm improvements around the Broadway Theatre.
- Thomas' Lane Yard: Continuing plans to deliver 113 affordable homes, new workspace, shops and improvements to the public space. Main construction to begin in early 2027 led by the Council’s new strategic development partner, The Hill Group.
- Town centre improvements: Smaller, visible changes such as better lighting, public art, greening, market improvements, improved signage, cleaner streets and cultural activities.
- Goldsmiths University: A new campus is expected to open in Catford in late 2027, bringing around 500 to 600 students and staff into the town centre.
Alongside major projects, a refreshed Catford Town Centre Framework will be developed to shape the long-term future of the town centre, while opportunities to improve and repurpose existing sites such as Laurence House, Canadian Avenue car park, Milford Towers and Holbeach Road car park will be explored through a retrofit-first approach.
The plan also recognises ongoing concerns about anti-social behaviour, crime, fly tipping and the look and feel of the town centre. The Council will continue to combine environmental improvements, town centre activation and partnership working with relevant agencies to improve safety in the area.
Over the next year, the focus will be on design, feasibility and preparation work to move projects forward. Key next steps include:
- progressing Catford Station Links towards construction
- delivering short-term town centre improvements where funding is available
- introducing targeted safety and public realm improvements
- finalising the Catford and CRPL Business Plans
- starting work on a refreshed Catford Town Centre Framework to shape the area’s long-term future
Residents, businesses and stakeholders will continue to be consulted as projects progress.
The new Catford Town Centre Business Plan is subject to Mayor and Cabinet review and approval on Wednesday 9 September 2026.
Frequently asked questions
What happened to the Catford Town Centre Framework?
The Catford Town Centre Framework (CTCF) adopted by the Council is 2021, was shaped by 3,000 residents and set out an ambitious vision for the area. It was designed to guide regeneration plans in the area from new homes, transport and infrastructure to public space improvements and greening. Five years on, various projects have now been completed or are underway such as the restoration of the former Catford Constitutional Club and the upcoming Thomas Lane Yard development.
However, now with changes to funding, market conditions and Government priorities, some of the proposals can no longer be delivered as originally planned. This new Business Plan builds on what is deliverable in the CTFC with new opportunities.
What underpins the new regeneration plan?
The programme is shaped by six strategic objectives:
- Connectivity – making it easier and safer to walk, cycle and use public transport
- A thriving town centre – supporting local businesses and creating a strong, diverse and resilient local economy
- Sustainability – investing in low-carbon infrastructure, improving energy efficiency and improving resilience to climate change
- A safer town centre – helping people feel and be safer through better design and management
- A better place to spend time – improving streets and public spaces (better design, lighting and greenery) as well embedding culture and community
- Inclusive development and growth – creating opportunities for new housing, workspace and commercial opportunities
What is happening with Catford’s cinema?
We know residents are keen to see the cinema reopen. The new operator, Castle Cinema, is currently recruiting staff for the venue and we expect it to open soon. We’ll share further updates as soon as we can.
Will the community get to have their say on the new programme for Catford?
Yes. Residents, businesses and stakeholders will continue to be consulted as projects progress.
Why is the Council reviewing the future of CRPL?
The Catford Regeneration Partnership Limited (CRPL) owns several important assets in the town centre, including Catford Shopping Centre and other commercial and residential properties.
The Council is proposing a review of CRPL’s future role to ensure it supports the Council’s long-term ambitions for Catford and helps reduce financial risk. The review will help shape how key town centre assets are managed and improved in the future.
What is the Thomas’ Lane Yard development?
Thomas’ Lane Yard is the first project being delivered through the Council’s development partnership with The Hill Group. The scheme will provide 113 affordable homes, alongside new commercial space, public space and jobs in the town centre. Construction is due to begin before the end of the year, with completion expected in autumn 2029.
Has any progress been made on the Catford Town Centre Framework adopted in 2021?
Yes. The former Catford Constitutional Club has reopened as The Catford House following a major restoration. Plans for Thomas’ Lane Yard are also progressing, with construction expected to begin in 2027. The Council has developed the Station Links scheme which anticipates construction in 2027-28.
How will the activities in the Business Plan be funded?
The programme will be funded through a mix of existing and future investment, including affordable housing grants, Section 106 contributions, Right to Buy receipts, transport funding, Community Infrastructure Levy funding and external grants where available.
The Council already invests in Catford through town centre management, enforcement, waste services, community safety work and regeneration projects. However, additional funding will be needed for some public realm improvements, town centre activities and other enhancement projects. The Council will continue to seek funding opportunities and coordinate investment across services to maximise impact and value for money.