Goldsmiths Uni Brings Art and Energy to Catford's Old Town Hall!

Lewisham Council is making a big change in Catford, a town in south-east London. The council has announced that the Old Town Hall will become a new campus for Goldsmiths, University of London. This is happening because the university's Fine Art and Design department needs a new home after leaving its current site by July 2027. The council believes that bringing Goldsmiths to Catford will help the town centre grow, attract more people, and create new opportunities for local businesses.

The Old Town Hall is a large, five-storey building with a modern glass front, located on Catford Broadway. It overlooks a busy street where markets are often held. The council and Goldsmiths have agreed on a ten-year lease, and work to prepare the building for students will start later this year. Staff and services currently in the Old Town Hall will move to other locations in the town centre. The council expects that more than 600 students will come to Catford, making the area more lively and supporting local shops and cafes.

Mayor Brenda Dacres is excited about the partnership. She says that bringing Goldsmiths to Catford is not just about opening a new campus, but about making the town centre a place full of creativity, learning, and new chances for everyone. The mayor believes this move will help Catford become a better place to live, work, and study. The council is also working on other projects, like building over 100 affordable homes at Thomas' Lane Yard and creating new green spaces and work areas. These changes are all part of a plan to make Catford a vibrant and welcoming community.