13 hours ago
Historic Catford venue set to reopen as community hub
A historic Catford venue is set to reopen as a community hub this autumn, it has been revealed.
The former Catford Constitutional Club and original farmhouse will be unveiled as The Catford House after extensive restoration.
This initiative is spearheaded by the Greenwich Co-operative Development Agency (GCDA).
The council began working with conservation experts in 2021 to uncover the building's past as a farmhouse, clubhouse, and pub.
The venue will now be a space for the community to enjoy.
The restoration effort will see the pub and garden revived, alongside a community kitchen and smaller, flexible spaces.
Catford's oldest building, the Georgian Hall, will be opened to the public for the first time.
The GCDA, a not-for-profit organisation with more than 40 years' experience, will operate the venue.
Visualisation showing the proposed Georgian Hall (Image: Hayatsu Architects)
Having worked in the borough for the last 15 years, GCDA have found a permanent home in the heart of Catford.
Alongside drinking, the group plan to host casual social gatherings, food pop-ups, exercise classes, exhibitions, and performances at the venue.
James-J Walsh, councillor responsible for inclusive regeneration and planning, and councillor for Rushey Green ward, added: "The Catford House is a vibrant example of the Council's ambitions for Catford brought to life.
"This is regeneration with a clear social purpose, bringing together conservation, culture and community to transform Catford's almost 300-year-old building into a space shaped by, and for, local people."
Residents and groups in the area are encouraged to propose event ideas to the GCDA.
The GCDA is a London Living Wage employer and aims to support the local economy by creating jobs and sourcing from local suppliers.
Partnerships with Portobello Brewery and others will help bring their vision for The Catford House to life.
The restoration project is part of the Catford Town Centre Framework, shaped by thousands of residents and adopted by the council in 2021.
The £1.8 million refurbishment was supported by the Mayor of London's Good Growth Fund.
Earlier this year, Thomas Lane Yard, a significant housing and mixed-use regeneration scheme, was unanimously approved by the Council.
This will see an underused carpark transformed to provide more than100 new affordable homes, green public spaces, and commercial and affordable workspace.
Brenda Dacres OBE, Mayor of Lewisham, said: "This marks the start of an exciting chapter for Catford.
"This new multipurpose community venue will breathe life into this area as well as creating new local jobs, opportunities for Lewisham businesses and a boost to our cultural and creative scene."
Claire Pritchard, CEO of the GCDA, added: "GCDA has been working in Lewisham for nearly fifteen years and has always wanted a base there, a place to grow roots and connect with the community.
"Our search ended when we found the former Catford Constitutional Club, a building that holds a special place in the hearts of many.
"Imagine a place where the warmth of a classic British pub meets the soul of the community.
"We're not just pouring pints, we're creating a space where neighbours become friends, local musicians and artists find their voice, and fresh, locally sourced food fuels meaningful conversations."
