Lewisham shopping centre is undergoing a modern makeover with the addition of an outdoor food market and areas for music, social gatherings, and cultural events. The London architects IF_DO have come up with plans to breathe new life into the disused parts of the Molesworth Street mall by demolishing the old Argos unit at the southern end.
Developers LandsecU+I have submitted a planning application for these revitalization works, with hopes of starting by the end of the year and potentially opening the space by next summer. This initiative precedes the broader redevelopment plan for Lewisham town centre, which is expected to be presented in the near future.
The ambitious project includes the installation of a rooftop garden larger than a football pitch, a new pedestrian high street focusing on food and beverages, and the construction of 1,700 new homes. Jon Watson, the development director in charge of the Lewisham Shopping Centre transformation, expressed excitement about the community’s positive response to the plans.
In an effort to expedite the project, a smaller planning application for the demolition has been initiated to create a vibrant public space dedicated to food and music in the southern square. Further submissions for the masterplan and the first two buildings are currently in progress.
If approved, LandsecU+I will collaborate with existing businesses within the shopping centre to minimize disruptions and ensure that operations continue smoothly. The developer intends to reveal additional details about the future plans for the space in the upcoming weeks.
The redevelopment of Lewisham shopping centre promises to bring a fresh and dynamic atmosphere to the area, offering new opportunities for socializing, entertainment, and leisure activities. With the support of the community and stakeholders, the revitalized space is expected to become a hub of energy and excitement in the borough.
