Following a period of dedicated teamwork, community workshops, and a whirlwind of visionary planning, we have submitted our Expression of Interest (EOI) to Lewisham Council for the restoration of the Ladywell Playtower.
As many of you know, the Playtower has sat derelict for years, an emblem of decline in the heart of our community. Our proposal outlines a community-led future for this Grade II listed landmark, transforming it from a neglected site into a vibrant hub for civic life, creativity, and wellbeing.
A Vision Built on Community Voice
The strength of our submission lies in the voices of the people who live here. We have been overwhelmed by the local response:
· Extensive Engagement: We have engaged with over 400 local residents through various channels during the planning phase, including our five dedicated consultation events, providing the feedback that shaped our final vision.
· Resounding Support: Over 95% of respondents expressed a strong desire for a community-led restoration that prioritizes public access and affordable space.
A Heartfelt Thank You
This submission was truly a collective effort. We want to extend a massive thank you to everyone who contributed their ideas and to the 115 local people whose donations to our initial crowdfunder covered the essential costs of developing these professional plans.
We also owe a debt of gratitude to our professional partners—including heritage consultants, architects, and social enterprises like the London Early Years Foundation (LEYF) and Greenwich Co-operative Development Agency (GCDA)—who have joined us in proving that community-led doesn’t just mean passionate; it means professionally delivered. We have been in exploratory dialogue with the vicar of St Mary the Virgin, the beautiful church (with its linked charities with a mission for housing and youth work) whose grounds sit alongside the site and could connect in new and creative ways.
What Happens Next?
With the EOI now with the Council, we are entering a period of quiet anticipation. As the local elections take place and the local authority settles into its new term, we expect to hear feedback once everyone is back to business.
Our goal remains the same: to bring the “lost half” of Ladywell back to life and ensure the Playtower serves the community once again.
Stay tuned for further updates as we wait for the next phase of this journey.
