Goldsmiths to open new Catford campus
The move represents a major investment in Catford’s future. More than 600 students from the university are expected to be based in the town centre, bringing new energy, footfall and a boost for local businesses, subject to formal approval by the Council’s Mayor and Cabinet.
The new campus builds on a long-standing relationship and reflects a shared commitment to using education, culture and creativity as drivers for inclusive regeneration.
Goldsmiths has been a local anchor institution since opening its doors to students in New Cross 120 years ago. The university was the first in London to launch a Civic University Agreement which includes Lewisham Council as a key partner.
Goldsmiths has been working closely with the Council to secure additional space for its students and is expected to sign a 10-year lease for the building. Work to prepare the Old Town Hall for the university will begin later this year, with services currently based there moving to alternative locations.
Professor David Oswell, Vice-Chancellor (Interim) of Goldsmiths, said:
“We are deeply proud to call Lewisham home and it is fitting that in our 120th year we are extending our civic commitment.
“With the theatre and existing makers Catford already has a creative heart and our students will both contribute to and benefit from being part of this community. We look forward to seeing what this new space unlocks for our students and for Catford.”
Mayor of Lewisham Brenda Dacres OBE, said:
“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 centre.
“By working together, we’re creating the conditions for Catford to thrive: supporting local businesses, attracting new visitors, and opening up opportunities for residents to connect with one of the UK’s leading creative universities. This is a major step forward in our vision for Catford as a vibrant place to live, work, study and spend time."
Councillor James-J Walsh, Lewisham Council’s Cabinet Member for Inclusive Regeneration and Planning, said:
“The new Goldsmiths campus in Catford shows that our work to regenerate the town centre is truly delivering results.
"Having an institution like Goldsmiths choose the Old Town Hall in Catford for its new campus will bring more people into the town centre, boost local businesses and strengthening our high street both economically and socially.”
The agreement is set to be formally approved by the Council’s Mayor and Cabinet on Wednesday 21 January.
The report also includes details of upcoming Council investment in Catford, as well as the imminent publication of the TfL business plan, which is expected to confirm funding for public realm in the area: