The seven-year scheme covers an area that includes the DLR and Lewisham Station, Lewisham Shopping Centre, Lewis Grove, the upper High Street and Sundermead Estate. The development of the new transport interchange will form the catalyst from which other benefits will flow, including the redevelopment of key sites for commerce, housing and leisure, and the creation of new job opportunities for local people.

The arrival of the Docklands Light Railway in November 1999 has provided a significant boost to the town centre. However, if the DLR success is to be built upon together with the proposed extension of the East London Line, there needs to be an effective pedestrian connection between transport providers and the town centre. The major investment from the funding will create this connection with a new transport interchange and a more attractive, urban environment.

A key aim of the programme is to reconfigure the current road layout in order to give priority to pedestrians and public transport. This will create new sites for retail and commercial development, and enhance the attractiveness of existing sites. New residential development will help boost the customer base for the town centre, improving business for existing shops.

Funding will be provided through the SRB programme to enhance training and education skills for young people. In particular, business led financial services training will be developed to help people access job opportunities in the Docklands and the City

Business is at the heart of the Urban Renaissance in Lewisham programme. Funding will be available through the SRB to support the development and competitiveness of businesses already in the town centre. Assistance will be targeted particularly at smaller businesses to help them to benefit from the major changes planned for Lewisham. The programme will be promoting the town centre and attracting new business investment. The development of new development sites, the excellent transport connections and local workforce combine to make Lewisham town centre an attractive location for a wide range of businesses.

Lewisham has a strategic location in south east London and the development of the town centre will enhance the profile of Lewisham and the borough by creating commercial confidence, a new urban environment and enhancing the potential of residents.

If you are interested in the exciting new development within the town centre, please contact the Urban Renaissance team on: 0208 314 6398 or Email us: urbanrenaissance@lewisham.gov.uk.