WHAT’S ON
From karaoke chaos to leaping lambs, there’s something for everyone in Royal Greenwich this spring...
Easter holidays at libraries
Until Sunday 12 April, various times, free
Head to your local library to keep the kids entertained with a host of free activities, from Easter egg hunts and bunny mask making to teen author events Lego clubs.
More Ways to Play
All leisure centres, various prices
Discover a world of fun for all ages this Easter at your local leisure centre. From swimming and soft play to gymnastics and climbing, keep the kids busy and burn off some of that energy.
Easter Holidays at National Maritime Museum
Until Sunday 12 April, various times, free National Maritime Museum, Romney Road, SE10 9NF
Free family activities including a Sailors' SENsory Food (SEND session) and arts and crafts.
Still time to grab free lunches
Families can still pick up free lunches at local libraries for their kids. No forms, or fuss – just turn up and tuck in. Find your nearest location: royalgreenwich.gov. uk/holidaymeals
Karaoke at the Works Fridays, from 8pm, free entry Woolwich Works SE18 6HD
Self-proclaimed cabaret legends Binkie and Maud are back with their weekly karaoke night. No need to book, just come along and sing your heart out.
Fishville
Saturday 11 April 2026, 7pm, adults £7, under 16s free Tramshed, 51 to 53 Woolwich New Road SE18 6ES
Tramshed Young Company perform Afsaneh Gray’s story of the myth surrounding a young man lost at sea.
Tuesday Concerts: Dominic Downs
Tuesday 14 April, 1pm to 2pm, free Charlton House and Gardens, Charlton Road SE7 8RE
Enjoy a classical piano recital in the stunning old library of Charlton House.
Lambing day
Sunday 19 April, 11am to 4pm, adults £3, children £1.50
Woodlands Farm Trust, 331 Shooter’s Hill, DA16 3RP
Meet newborn lambs and other animals and hitch ride on a tractor trailer and the farm’s annual family lambing day. Plus, browse local craft and food stalls.
Find events near you: royalgreenwich.gov.uk/events
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TheGreenwich & Lewisham Weekender is an independent weekly newspaper, covering the boroughs of Greenwich and Lewisham.
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Issue: GLW459
Pick of the Week
by Evie Flynn
Big Bill is coming to Woolwich Works on Friday 17 April for a night of bold stand-up
Woolwich Works’ monthly stand-up comedy night returns with Rob Moriarty, Helen K, Olly Miller and Junior Booker. Each month, Bill hosts a night of great comedy including an acclaimed headline act, plus a hand-picked line-up of special guests. These are some of the very best comedians in the country – with credits on flagship shows such as Live at the Apollo, QI, and Mock the Week. February’s line-up includes Andy Zapp, Terry Gargin and Ryan Cullen. Suitable for ages 18+
Date: Friday 17 April
Time: 20:00 – 23:00
Tickets: £13.50, book here: https://www.woolwich. works/events/big-billscomedy-night-february-2026
Location: Woolwich Works (Beanfeast), 11 No.1 Street, Woolwich, London, SE18 6HD
EXCLUSIVE TOUR ROUND THE GARDENS OF ELTHAM PALACE
Discover the beautiful gardens of Eltham Palace and Gardens on an exclusive evening tour on Saturday 18 April. Offered in partnership with the National Garden Scheme and English Heritage, the event gives visitors a chance to explore the historic and scenic grounds of the palace in the evening. The grounds will be closed to the public, so guests will have uninterrupted access to the gardens. The team will also be on hand to answer any questions you may have about the palace and gardens.
Date: Saturday 18 April
Time: 17:30 – 19:00
Address: Eltham Palace and Gardens, Court Yard, Eltham, London, SE9 5QE
Tickets: £20 per ticket
EXPLORE THE HIDDEN SPACES BENEATH GREENWICH CHURCH
A ‘hidden spaces’ tours at St Alfege Church allow you to explore and discover places usually closed to the public and hear about the colourful lives of those who served and worshipped there. You get a chance to visit the crypt’s vault and get a 360-degree view of the church and its suspended ceiling, which was the largest in Europe when it was built in the 18th century. Access to the crypt and galleries involves climbing steep stairs and some bending, and may not be suitable for all visitors.
Date: 11 April, 25 April and 9 May
Time: 11:45am - 12:45pm
Location: St Alfege Church, 3 Greenwich Church Street London SE10 9BJ
Tickets: £9, book here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ hidden-spaces-tours-of-st-alfege-church-galleries-crypttickets-219897478277?aff=ebdsoporgprofile
Award-winning trumpeter and composer Byron Wallen brings a night of jazz to Woolwich Works on Friday 17 April 2026 at 8pm. Featuring a dynamic band of rising London musicians, the performance showcases original compositions that blend tradition and fresh energy. Tickets are available in advance, with concessions offered.
Date: 17 April. Time: 8pm – 10pm
Location: Woolwich Works (Ropekeepers Studio), 11 No.1 Street, Woolwich, London, SE18 6HD Tickets: £14.50 per ticket. Book here: https:// www.woolwich.works/book/instance/380601
TRUMPETER IS COMING TO WOOLWICH
Liberace and Liza: A Tribute making UK debut in Greenwich
Following a string of sold-out performances across the United States, the sensational cabaret hit Liberace & Liza is set to make its highly anticipated UK debut, writes Michael Holland...
Audiences can now experience this glittering, laugh-out-loud tribute as it embarks on its first-ever UK tour in 2026.
Direct from acclaimed runs at iconic venues including New York’s 54 Below, Feinstein’s at the Nikko in San Francisco, and The Purple Room in Palm Springs, Liberace & Liza brings together two of entertainment’s most flamboyant legends in a show that never was— but absolutely should have been.
Liberace and Liza Minnelli never performed together in real life, but performers David Saffert and Jillian Snow have reimagined what that meeting might have looked like in this wildly inventive and hugely successful production. Featuring Saffert’s virtuosic piano skills and Snow’s powerhouse vocals, the show blends classic hits such as Cabaret, New York, New York, and Over the Rainbow with unexpected modern twists, including covers of Lady Gaga and Britney Spears.
A
dazzling musical mashup
-
sequins, sass and side-splitting comedy
Packed with sequins, sass, and sidesplitting comedy, the show playfully explores the rivalry and camaraderie between these two iconic performers as they compete for the spotlight—only to leave audiences cheering for both.
With live music, dazzling costumes,
and electric chemistry, Liberace & Liza delivers an unforgettable night of pure entertainment.with ease. Snow, who describes herself as a once “super shy kid” who sang to her stuffed animals, found her breakthrough performing as Minnelli in a New York piano bar. “The right person happened to be in the audience,” she recalls. “That’s when everything changed.”
Despite the glitz, glamour and high camp, the show never loses sight of the humanity behind its icons. “They both had complicated lives—especially when it came to love,” Snow explains. “We
The Last Black Messiah
The Last Black Messiah by Emeka Agada is a fierce, gripping drama about revolution, identity, and justice, writes Michael Holland...
As their reunion unfolds, history, past choices, and the weight of the country collide, igniting
approach that with respect. Sometimes it comes through in humour, because those stories can be quite heavy. We want audiences to leave feeling they understand them a little more.”
At the same time, Liberace and Liza: A Tribute offers pure escapism— something both performers believe is more important than ever. “There’s something magical about stepping into a world of candelabras and sequins for 90 minutes,” Saffert says. “It’s joy, it’s connection, it’s a chance to forget everything else and just be entertained.”
That sense of joy extends to the show’s playful musical range. Alongside classic numbers, audiences can expect unexpected twists— including modern pop surprises. “We love jumping from New York, New York to Britney Spears or Lady Gaga,” Snow laughs. “It’s exactly what they would have done. They were hip.”
For both performers, the journey has been as surreal as it is rewarding. “I always knew my career would be unconventional,” says Snow, “but I never imagined this. We get to celebrate our heroes for a living—it’s better than I could have dreamed.”
Saffert agrees: “It’s the perfect combination of everything I love—music, theatre, comedy. And now, bringing it to the UK? That feels very special.”
As Liberace and Liza: A Tribute prepares to dazzle audiences across the country, one thing is certain: this is not just a show—it’s a sparkling celebration of legacy, friendship and the enduring power of performance.
Greenwich Theatre, 23rd, 25th & 26th April. £36.50 Crazy Coqs – Brasserie Zédel in Piccadilly, 12th May Booking and full details: www.liberaceandliza.co.uk
a confrontation that could change the legacy of Dr. Oko.
This intense, thought-provoking story will leave you questioning everything you believe.
The Last Black Messiah is the debut work of award-winning actor and playwright Emeka Agada. A recent graduate of the Guildford School of Acting, he received critical praise for his role as Dillion James in the medical drama Nurses (Global/NBC), earning an ACTRA Awards nomination for Outstanding Performance.
Kenneth Butler is an AfricanAmerican actor, filmmaker, and theatre-maker from Atlanta, Georgia. He holds a BFA in
Theatre Performance from Columbus State University and an MFA in Acting from the Guildford School of Acting.
Nathaniel Brimmer-Beller is a director, actor, and published playwright. His work has been nominated for the George Devine Award and the BBC Writersroom Popcorn Award.
The Jack Studio Theatre, 410 Brockley Road, London, SE4 2DH, from Tuesday 28 April to Saturday 16 May 2026 at 7.30pm. 70 minutes with no interval.
Tickets £17 / £15 concessions
Booking and full details: www.brockleyjack.co.uk
Set in early 90s America, Black revolutionary leader and former Howard University professor, Dr. Oko,
awaits execution when he receives a surprise visit from his former student, Asante, now a journalist.
Beloved Camberwell sandwich shop arrives in Deptford
A popular Camberwell sandwich maker known for its Japanese-style sarnies, will open a new grab-andgo branch in Deptford this month, writes Pablo Munoz...
Mondo Sando’s new shop, in Arch 5 of the Deptford Market Yard, will be styled in the same retro fashion as Cafe Mondo on Peckham Road, which also includes a Museum of Rocks.
Cafe Mondo has built a following in south London for its high-quality, creative Japanese-style sandwiches and uses neighbouring TOAD Bakery’s bread. It offers a daytime takeaway service as well as small plates and cocktails.
The menu at the Deptford shop, Mondo To Go, will feature the brand’s signature sandwiches and sides, including the Mondo Frango and the Mondo Combo, as well as pickles and latkes, plus some new Deptford-only creations.
It is due to open on Friday April 10 and there’ll be 50 percent off food til Sunday April 12 to celebrate the launch of the takeaway shop and you’ll be able to linger at their 50-seater outdoor terrace.
Cafe Mondo has built a following in south London for its creativehigh-quality,Japanesestyle sandwiches
Co-founder Jack Macrae said: “After many years working in Camberwell, five minutes from my flat, it’s only fair we open a site in Deptford, five minutes from Viggo’s.”
Viggo Blegvad and his long-time friend Jack began Mondo Sando during the COVID lockdown, initially delivering sandwiches by bike around Peckham and Camberwell. The takeaway concept later developed
into kitchen residencies in local pubs, including the Joiner’s Arms and the Grove House Cafe before opening in its first permanent site in Camberwell in 2024.
Mondo To Go will be open every Wednesday to Sunday, from 12-4pm. Find it at Arch 5, Deptford Market Yards, SE8 4BX. Check them out on instrgram @mondo.sandwiches
CAFE MONDO: The precursor to the new shop in Deptford.
Credit: Pablo Munoz
Surgical Centre opens new operating theatres to tackle NHS waiting lists
Two brand-new operating theatres have opened in Lewisham to help tackle some of the highest waiting lists, writes Myfanwy Fleming-Jones...
They are specifically being used to support the high-volume demand for ear, nose and throat (ENT) procedures.
The £20 million investment — including £13.5 million in national funding — for the Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust service aims to
reduce waiting times and address the growing backlog in planned ENT care.
The new facilities were formally opened on Thursday 19 March by Brenda Dacres OBE, alongside clinical staff and key stakeholders.
The Mayor of Lewisham said: “This new surgical centre is fantastic news for Lewisham, a major investment in our borough that will cut waiting times and deliver faster, high-quality care for thousands of residents each year.
“I am incredibly proud to see this level of innovation and collaboration strengthening our local NHS and supporting the communities we serve.”
The expansion comes at a critical
Three men arrested after shooting in Woolwich
Three men have been arrested after a man was shot dead in Woolwich on Thursday, 2 April, writes Sinead Campbell... Paramedics were called to the scene at Lord Warwick Street at approximately 3:40 pm. The man was pronounced dead at the scene. His next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.
The three men are currently being held in custody, and a murder investigation has been launched by the Met Police.
Detective Chief Inspector Lucie Card, whose team is leading the investigation, said: “Our thoughts remain with the victim’s family and loved ones.
Many procedures can now be carried out as day cases at the new centre
“We are aware of the concern that this incident will cause the local community. We have already made three arrests and our investigation continues at pace.
“I would appeal for anyone who was in the area at the time, who has CCTV or dash cam footage of the incident or has information that could help my officers to come forward.”
Anyone with information or footage is asked to call police on 101, quoting CAD 4848/2APR or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
time. As of January 2026, more than 560,000 patients across the NHS are waiting for ENT procedures, one of the largest backlogs in the system.
Many of these procedures can now be carried out as day cases at the new centre, helping to accelerate treatment and improve patient experience.
Ben Travis, chief executive of Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust, said: “The Lewisham Surgical Centre will be a major boost to our activity, drive down waiting times and improve patient experience. It is the new jewel in the crown of our UHL site, and I am so proud of
what we have achieved together.
“We are already seeing the benefits and patient feedback is already extremely strong – fantastic news for us and the communities we serve. My profuse gratitude goes to everyone here in TeamLGT for making it happen and to our guests for sharing in the celebrations.”
This support for the new facilities was echoed by Sharon Hodgson MP, Minister for Public Health and Prevention as she commented on the benefit the government investing in and modernising the NHS was having on south-east London.
Lady in her 80s stabbed to death in ‘deeply tragic’ attack
A man has been arrested on suspiscion of murder after an elderly woman in her 80s was fatally stabbed in Shooters Hill on Wednesday morning (April 1), in what police described as a ‘deeply tragic’ attack, writes Issy Clarke...
Police officers were called to Red Lion Place off Shooters Hill just before 9am on Wednesday following reports of a man in possession of a knife.
Officers attended alongside paramedics from the London Ambulance Service and a woman was located with serious injuries. The woman in her 80s was taken to hospital where she sadly died.
Another man was also threatened with a knife but did not sustain any injuries.
Police said that shortly after 9:10am on Wednesday morning a man in his 60s presented himself at a nearby Met police station, where he was arrested on suspicion of murder. He was taken to hospital by officers,
where he is receiving treatment for non-life-threatening injuries.
“With two new surgical theatres, the Lewisham Surgical Centre is one of many new sites across the country driving down waiting lists and getting patients seen on time.
“Ear, nose and throat conditions have some of the longest backlogs in the country, but brand-new centres like this are turning things around and showing the NHS is on the road to recovery,” Hodgson said.
At this stage, officers said, it is believed the person arrested and deceased victim were known to each other. They confirmed that they are not looking for any further suspects. The woman’s family are aware and will continue to be supported by specialist officers.
Detective Inspector Dean Grice, who is leading on the Met’s investigation, said: “This is a deeply tragic incident, and our thoughts remain firmly with the victim’s family during this difficult time.
“Officers responded swiftly to the initial reports and worked closely with London Ambulance Service colleagues to provide immediate care at the scene.
“A prompt and coordinated investigation has now been launched to establish the full circumstances, and specialist officers are continuing to support the family throughout.”
Detective Superintendent James Derham, who leads policing in the local area, added: “At this stage, we believe that this was an isolated incident and I want to reassure the community that there is no wider risk to the public.
“We understand the impact a crime like this has on the community and you can expect to see an increased police presence in the area. If you are a local resident, please do share any concerns with our officers on the ground or contact 101.”
The ribbon cutting moment for the new Lewisham Surgical Centre. Front row l-r: Ben Travis (LGT Chief Executive), Louise Crosby (LGT Chief Nurse), Jennifer Daothong (Chief Executive, Lewisham Council), Mayor Brenda Dacres OBE, Javier Moraleda (LGT ENT Clinical Director),
Red Lion Place, Credit - Google
The New Superloop bus route to link Dulwich to Clapham Junction and Eltham will open in 2027
Transport for London has confirmed that a new Superloop bus route will open in 2027 - providing a new service across a number of south London boroughs, writes Rich Brann...
A public consultation for the SL15 route concluded that residents would “widely welcome” the new service, set to run from Clapham Junction towards Clapham South, Tulse Hill, Forest Hill, Catford, Lewisham and Eltham.
The return route from Eltham, meanwhile, will include a stop in West Dulwich, allowing for quick links between busy Clapham Junction and Dulwich.
It comes as TfL continues to expand its Superloop buses since 2023, with two new routes opening in 2025 and other two more routes opening in 2026, linking boroughs of London together that otherwise were underserved by traditional bus and rail services.
The Bakerloop service that covers the proposed Bakerloo Line extension, meanwhile, has generated double the revenue that TfL had previous expected since its launch in 2025.
More than 90 per cent of respondents to a TfL survey described the service as being more convenient for their use and more than 80 per cent said it would cut down journey times, resulting in approval of the route.
Clapham Park Labour Group, meanwhile, were ecstatic that an extra stop at Christchurch Road on the route that they had petitioned for would be implemented, allowing for better connections within Lambeth.
In a post on social media, they said: “Every signature, comment and social media share helped us make the case for
better east-west transport links in our borough – connecting places like Brixton Hill, Streatham Hill and beyond to stations, jobs, schools and local services.”
The SL15 is set to run every 12 minutes from Monday to Saturday during the day, and every 15 minutes otherwise, including on Sundays.
TfL cited that the route would allow for interchange with 77 other bus services as well as Northern Line, National Rail and Overground rail links.
Buses will only be single-deck, owing to a low bridge along the route.
Danny Baker
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Following the Upper Kid Brook stream
Mary Mills
A few weeks ago I said that I would write about Kidbrook and eventually give a detailed history of the area. Kidbrook might appear to be completely suburban and not somewhere with an industrial history, but... wait and see! I said that I’d start by working down the three streams which constituted the origins of the Kidbrooke area and although they are now mostly out sight – diverted or buried – they made the area what it is today. They all began on the western slopes of Shooter’s Hill and ran down to the area we now know as Kidbrooke and made it very marshy.
So far I’ve done one episode about the Upper Kid Brook which was the most northern of the streams. I described it from where it started at Hervey Road, near the sports ground, and ran west. I ran out of space to write more when I got to the edge of Kidbrooke Park Road. So I’m carrying on from that point where I left it a few weeks ago. I would say that from this point the line of the stream is in what is now Lewisham Borough – but it’s always close to the boundary with Greenwich. The Greenwich/Lewisham boundary through Blackheath is weird to say the least anyway. Much of the route of the stream is given in booklets and articles by the late Michael Egan. Kidbrooke Park Road is today the major road through the area and in the past provided access to farms and, in the early middle ages, the church. The fields through which the Upper Kid Brook flowed were known as Heathfield and Swing Gate Field. According to the sewer records the stream ran south west from Annesley Road, crossed Westbrook Road, and then ran between 35 and 37 Kidbrooke Park Road, where a slight dip might be noticed.
This covers a considerable distance of the stream running unseen through
gardens at the back of houses. I would recommend the aerial views now available online, on which a tree line may indicate where the stream went. It ran through this area of large comfortable houses - many of which were occupied by owners and managers of industries - not just in Greenwich, one large house was for a Mr. Frean of the Bermondsey biscuit works. Much of the area of Kidbrooke Grove was developed by Lewis Glenton – whose works, including the Glenton Railway, I have so far failed to write up. All of this area and many of its occupants were described by the late and much missed Neil Rhind in various of his books on Blackheath.
In addition to the main stream a small tributary ran from Shooters Hill Road to around 20 Kidbrook Grove and then flowed south on a line which might have followed the tree lines between gardens. It crossed the western end of Kidbrooke Grove and joined the main stream in the garden of 35.
Having reached 35 and 37 Kidbrook Grove the main Upper Kid Brook stream turned south to the backs of 38 and 40 Kidbrook Gardens, then turned west again to run along between the ends of Kidbrook Gardens
back gardens and the northern boundary of Morden College.
Kidbrook Gardens then is following the route of the Upper Kid Brook - I’ll come back to this point later. We are approaching the grounds of Morden College and the stream ran along its northern boundary. There is a footpath system which runs around some of the College grounds and which can be accessed from Kidbrooke Grove which goes round the buildings and lets you admire gardens immaculately maintained since around 1700. It leads to a path which runs parallel to Kidbrooke Gardens. I would recommend the Running Past blog which includes photographs of the line of the stream here. https://runner500. wordpress.com/2014/05/28/ in-search-of-upper-kid-brook/
Perhaps I had better explain about Morden College – I have to remember that not everybody would know about it. It’s been there since the late 17th century and is basically an old people people’s home. Sir John Morden had experience as an overseas trader and was aware of the insoluble problems which could lead to financial ruin and so this almshouse was set up to house merchants who, in old age,
Area covered by upper kdbvrook inb this article 1870s map
Boundary stone by Morden college lodge
Morden college 1830
had lost money through no fault of their own but through shipwrecks and other disasters. He had acquired the Greenwich Manor of Old Court and estates which the College managed, to provide an income for the charity. Over the centuries the charity has acted as a developer in promoting industry and providing housing and under the requirements of Sir John’s will the charity is currently managed by the City of London.
The main block of the College was started in 1695 and is said to have been designed by Sir Christopher Wren himself - but probably wasn’t. It was built on the site called Great Stonefield which may imply gravel extraction here.
In recent years new buildings have provided a home and care for increasing numbers of old people – but the charity generally only takes those who have had influential careers. The footpath will provide views of the original 17th century block, as well as numerous modern flats and care facilities.
The Upper Kid Brook seems to have provided the northern boundary of the College site and was also the
MY BOOKS – CURRENTLY AVAILABLE
By Dr Mary Mills
Kidbrooke and Charlton Boundary line. The 19th century map marks a couple of boundary stones and I have no idea if they are still there. One was there in 1979 when Michael Egan wrote about it in Greenwich Antiquarian Transactions. He said it was on the footpath at the point that it was crossed by the Upper Kid Brook and was marked ‘K/C’. I think that if the stones are within the College Ground they are likely to have been looked after.
So, back to Kidbrooke Gardens. If you continue along the road you come to Montague Graham Court, 16- 22 Kidbrook Gardens, a Morden College block of flats for old people. I have no idea who Montague Graham was and it is, strangely enough, not an unusual name and there are several possible candidates. The block stands in a big square area as you can see looking at the aerial view on Google Maps. Michael Egan found evidence that in the early 19th century this was a commercial gravel pit and that the Upper Kid Brook flowed diagonally across it. He pointed to the ‘sharp fall in the land here... consistent with excavation’.
The railway going from Blackheath Station to Charlton passes
n THE EARLY EAST LONDON GAS INDUSTRY: HOW IT BEGAN AND HOW IT HELPED LONDON INDUSTRIES TO GROW. The gas industry in early 19th century London - all the incompetence and all the scandals. Also explores how gas industry waste products were taken up and used by other industries. £15
n GEORGE LIVESEY - A BIOGRAPHY. The life of South London’s maverick 19th century gas works manager, who forced the privately owned industry to work in partnership with the public and with its workforce. There is nothing in the industry he didn’t change. This is about a man who wanted to change society – but in 1889 got it very wrong. £10. Illustrated. £15
n SHIPBUILDING IN GREENWICH – A shortish run through those who built ships in our borough and what they built on. It covers two Royal Dockyards, to those who built single sailing barges, and those who built into the 1990s. £10
n THE GREENWICH RIVERSIDE – UPPER WATERGATE TO ANGERSTEIN. A siteby-site description of the Greenwich Riverside between Deptford to Charlton. This is not yet another description of Royal Greenwich but looks at riverside communities, industries and river workers – as well less known site histories. £15
n THE INDUSTRIES OF DEPTFORD CREEK. A siteby-site description of this amazingly busy Creekside between its mouth with the Thames and the Lewisham border. It includes industries of national importance, from the medieval to electronics pioneers - and the downright quirky. £15
n GREENWICH PENINSULA - GREENWICH MARSH. A HISTORY OF AN INDUSTRIAL HEARTLAND. This is a rewrite of my all-time bestseller Greenwich Marsh, to include the Dome. It describes the history of the Marsh and the industries which grew up there in the 19th century, including Enderby Wharf and the telecommunications revolution, as well as the amazing gas works and much else. £10
Available via Amazon Contact marymillsmmmmm@gmail.com for further information on sales
underground at this point. This is the North Kent Line built from 1845 and opened in 1849. The London to Greenwich railway had opened Greenwich station in 1838 but it had proved impossible, because of local objections, to extend the line through Greenwich Park. A bill was therefore promoted in 1846 for the North Kent Railway to build a line from London Bridge to Lewisham and Blackheath and on to Charlton, from where it could be extended into Kent. There were various objections from the owners of large estates between Blackheath and Charlton over which the line was planned to pass and it was eventually decided to take the whole thing through in a tunnel, which eventually emerges near Westcombe Park. This line was planned to be hidden in the natural valley of the Upper Kid Brook. Recently the tunnel has been
closed for major maintenance work and it should be noted that one of the problems they encountered was caused by constant penetration of water from the surrounding area.
The railway crosses Kidbrooke Gardens at an angle and continues to the junction of Liskeard Road, which it crosses diagonally.
Kidbrooke Gardens continues westward to come out onto Blackheath and become South Row. The Upper Kid Brooke seems to have run slightly south of it and to have continued down to the area by the lodge to Morden College, where there is a stone for the Greenwich Parish boundary. Readers of my articles here may remember that a few months ago I did a series on a Parish Boundary Walk in 1853 and for a couple of hundred yards
the Greenwich boundary followed the stream. It continues to areas which are in Lewisham Borough. As I said above the boundary is very strange and it will be easier just to continue along the line of the stream regardless of whether it is in Greenwich or not.
This whole area at the rear of the Paragon, through which the Upper Kid Brook and the boundary line went is difficult to follow because it is now the site of Fulthorpe Road and the council estate – which changed the layout of the area and ignored the various plots of the 1850s. I need to do that whole area in one article and not split it.
I must apologise for taking up a whole article to cover a couple of hundred yards of the Upper Kidbrook. Hopefully next time I can deal with a more urbanised stretch.
Sir John Morden
CACT players given behind-the-scenes access to Charlton Women training
Charlton Athletic Women Head Coach Karen Hills, alongside Assistant Coach and Pathway Lead Charlie Cave, recently delivered a training session for female players at Charlton Athletic Community Trust’s (CACT) Post-16 Football and Education Academy.
After being invited to watch Hills and Cave lead a first-team training session and meet members of the Addicks’ squad, CACT’s Post-16 players then took to the pitch themselves. The group received coaching from the pair, taking part in drills focused on passing, close control and patterns of play that mirror those used within the first-team environment.
The experience marked another milestone for the female pathway within the programme, which has been running for three years. CACT are currently recruiting players for the 2026/27 cohort, which starts in September across three locations in south-east London and Kent. To find out more and register your interest in talent ID events, scan the QR code.
CACT’s Women’s and Girls’ Development Officer Lucy Bailey said: “Attending the training session was a great opportunity for the girls to see the level of the first-team players. Taking part in a session delivered by Karen and Charlie then gave them a real taste of the professional game and the standards required.
“There aren’t many Post-16 academies linked to a WSL 2 club that can offer access to watch players train and then be coached by first-team staff. It was a really unique experience and we were very lucky to have this opportunity.”
Charlton Women Assistant Coach and Pathway Lead Cave was full of praise for the players, adding:
“There are a lot of very talented players here who can definitely aim
to play professional football one day. It’s great to give them access to our environment and show them what it looks like, while hopefully inspiring them to keep working hard.
“As a coach, it’s also brilliant to come in, share what we do and support their development.”
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Royal Borough of Greenwich
Town & Country Planning Act 1990 (AS AMENDED)
Town & Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2015
Planning (Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas) Act 1990 (AS AMENDED)
Planning (Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas) Regulations 1990 (AS AMENDED)
Notice is hereby given that application(s) have been made to The Royal Borough of Greenwich in respect of the under mentioned premises/sites.
You can see the submissions and any plans at http://www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/planning.
If development proposals affect Conservation Areas and/or Statutorily Listed Buildings under the Planning (Listed Building and Conservation Area) Act 1990 (As Amended) this will be shown within the item below.
Anyone who wishes to comment on these applications should be made in writing to Development Planning within 23 days of the date of this notice.
Please quote the appropriate reference number.
Date: 08/04/2026
Victoria Geoghegan
Assistant Director - Planning and Building Control
List of Press Advertisements - 08/04/2026
Publicity for Planning Applications
Applicant: DerzisConstruct Ltd. 25/4107/F
Site Address: LAND WITHIN AND ADJACENT TO 38 BASSANT ROAD, PLUMSTEAD, LONDON, SE18 2NP
Development: Construction of a part two-storey, part three-storey (including basement level) detached dwelling, in addition to rear patio, on-site parking, boundary treatment and landscaping including retaining walls, provision of cycle and refuse storage and all other associated works, with additional rear patio and parking works for neighbouring 38 Bassant Road.
Conservation Area: ADJACENT TO PLUMSTEAD COMMON
Applicant: Mr Ben Menahem 26/0699/F
Site Address: 189 GREENWICH HIGH ROAD, GREENWICH, LONDON, SE10 8JA
Development: Change of use of the ground and lower ground floor from Bar (Sui Generis Part Q) to Cafe (Class E (b)).
Conservation Area: WEST GREENWICH
Applicant: Mr Ben Menahem 26/0700/F
Site Address: 189 GREENWICH HIGH ROAD, GREENWICH, LONDON, SE10 8JA
Development: Change of use on the ground and lower ground floor from a Bar (Sui Generis Part Q) to a Convenience Store (Class E(a)).
Conservation Area: WEST GREENWICH
Applicant: Mr Jonathan Nicholson 26/0719/HD
Site Address: 7 EASTBROOK ROAD, KIDBROOKE, LONDON, SE3 8BP
Development: Construction of a single storey side and rear wrap around extension incorporating altered upper level balcony, altered landscaping arrangements to the rear and associated external alterations.
Conservation Area: SUN IN THE SANDS
Applicant: Sofian & Leo Elouardani & Hall 26/0752/HD
Site Address: 40 KING WILLIAM WALK, GREENWICH, LONDON, SE10 9HU
Development: Proposed rear lower ground floor extension, including terrace and associated balustrading; alterations and works to front vaults; new and replacement of doors and openings; and all associated works.
Conservation Area: GREENWICH PARK
Applicant: Mr & Mrs Zinnureyin 26/0771/F
Site Address: 11-13 GREENWICH CHURCH STREET, LONDON, SE10 9BJ
Development: Replacement of existing kitchen extraction system with new to the rear of the site (Retrospective).
Conservation Area: WEST GREENWICH
Applicant: Catherine & Indranil Skehan & Kongar 26/0876/HD
Site Address: 1 COUTHURST ROAD, BLACKHEATH, LONDON, SE3 8TN
Development: Demolition and construction of a single-storey rear extension. Installation of a rooflight and first floor window to the side with associated works.
Conservation Area: RECTORY FIELD
Applicant: Mr. James Brown 26/0895/HD
Site Address: 60 ASHBURNHAM GROVE, GREENWICH, LONDON, SE10 8UJ
Development: Replacement of all windows and associated works.
Conservation Area: ASHBURNHAM TRIANGLE
Applicant: The Hyde Group 26/0957/HD
Site Address: 15 WHITWORTH STREET, GREENWICH, LONDON, SE10 9EN
Development: Replacement of existing front main door and associated works.
Conservation Area: EAST GREENWICH
Publicity for Listed Building Consent.
Applicant: Mr Richard Smith 26/0573/L
Site Address: 21 GLOUCESTER CIRCUS, GREENWICH, LONDON, SE10 8RY
Development: Replacement of two single glazed sash windows in the mansard roof with two slim-line double glazed sash windows.
Conservation Area: WEST GREENWICH
Listed Building: Grade 2
Applicant: Sofian & Leo Elouardani & Hall 26/0753/L
Site Address: 40 KING WILLIAM WALK, GREENWICH, LONDON, SE10 9HU
Development: Proposed rear lower ground floor extension, including terrace and associated balustrading; alterations and works to front vaults; new and replacement of doors and openings; internal reconfiguration including repositioning of partitions and repair works; and all associated works.
Conservation Area: GREENWICH PARK
Listed Building: Grade 2
Applicant: Mr & Mrs Zinnureyin 26/0772/L
Site Address: 11-13
GREENWICH CHURCH STREET, LONDON, SE10 9BJ
Development: Replacement of existing kitchen extraction system with new to the rear of the site (Retrospective).
Conservation Area: WEST GREENWICH
Listed Building: Grade 2
ROYAL BOROUGH of GREENWICH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 – SECTION 14(1) ROCHESTER WAY
PLANNED CYCLE LANE CLOSURE (ORDER)
1. The Royal Borough of Greenwich intends to make this Order in exercise of powers under section 14(1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984. This is to facilitate works by Thames Water who need to carry out valve repair.
2. The Order will come into operation on 23rd April 2026 and would continue to be valid for 18 months. However, the works are expected to be completed by 26/04/2026. The duration of the Order can be extended with the approval of the Secretary of State for Transport.
3. The effect of the Order would be to temporarily prohibit cyclists from entering, proceeding, or waiting (including waiting for the purposes of loading or unloading), in the cycle lane on Rochester Way, adjacent to No.2 Broad Walk.
4. Whilst the Order is in operation traffic will not need to be diverted. Cyclists will be required to dismount, as indicated by the placement of appropriate signage. All prohibitions shall remain in force; Pedestrians shall not be affected, and vehicular access will be maintained wherever possible.
5. Nothing in this Notice will apply to anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform or traffic warden, to emergency service vehicles, or to vehicles being used in connection with the works.
6. The restrictions described above will apply only during such times and to such extent as shall be indicated by traffic signs as prescribed by the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016.
7. Queries concerning these works should be directed to the Royal Borough of Greenwich’s Directorate of Communities, Environment and Central on 020 8921 6340.
Ryan Nibbs Assistant Director, Transport. The Woolwich Centre, 35 Wellington Street, SE18 6HQ
Dated: 06/03/2026
INTERNAL REF - EM/ LA496997 FN899 /LIC No 75984 / 06/03/2026
NOTICE
OF APPLICATION FOR A PREMISES LICENCE - LICENSING ACT 2003
Notice is given that: “Classic-Loungee UK Ltd” have applied for the Grant of a Premises Licence for the following premises: Classic Restaurant, 132-136 Powis Street, Woolwich, London SE18 6NL.
A record of this application may be inspected by appointment. Other persons may make representations to the Council on this application by no later than Monday 27 April 2026 (last date for making representations). Representations can be made in writing, by email or fax using the contact details above. Representations can only be made on the grounds of one or more of the four licensing objectives, namely:
• Prevention of Crime and Disorder
• Prevention of Public Nuisance
• Public Safety
• Protection of Children from Harm.
Any person who makes a false statement in connection with an application is liable on summary conviction to an unlimited fine.
It is proposed that the following licensable activities will take place at the premises:
• On-Sale & Supply of Alcohol (No Off-Sales) ancillary to a table meal: Sunday to Thursday, 12:00 noon until 23:00 hours; Friday & Saturday, 12:00 noon until 23:30 hours – in line with opening times.
• Late Night Refreshment (provision of hot food &/or hot drink after 11pm): Friday & Saturday only, 23:00 hours until 23:30. There shall be no LNR on any other day.
• Music shall be played as background only (a non-licensable activity).
Love your local park
Spring has sprung! And with over 100 parks and open spaces across the Royal Borough of Greenwich that are all free to visit, there’s no time like the present to get out and explore. Here are just a few of our favourite spots...
Bostall Gardens
Viola Avenue, Abbey Wood, SE2 0TQ
Book a tennis court opened by Roger Federer himself at Bostall Gardens, the latest of our parks to be awarded a prestigious Green Flag. If you’re visiting on a Wednesday afternoon, don’t forget to peek inside the beautiful Community Garden, filled with flowers, fruit and vegetables grown by local volunteers. The park and tennis courts are wheelchair accessible.
Oxleas Woods
Shooters Hill, SE18 2DS
Take your best canine pal on a ‘sniffari’ through the 8,000-year-old woodland and meadows. Spot oak, silver birch, hornbeam and coppice hazel en route, plus the beautiful Jack Wood gardens, newly replanted by the Friends of Oxleas Woods. End your adventure with a coffee with a view at Oxleas Wood Cafe.
Charlton Park
Charlton Park Road, SE7 8RE
Whizz down the zip line in the recently refurbished playground or channel your inner Sky Brown at the skate park. The Green Flag award-winning Charlton Park is tucked behind Charlton House and Gardens, so why not visit the Jacobean Mansion for a cream tea while you’re there? The park, playground and Charlton House are all wheelchair accessible.
Rockliffe Gardens
Southland Road, Plumstead, SE18 2DS
In need of some peace and quiet? Head to Rockliffe Gardens. Have a wander round the terraced, ornamental gardens and wildlife pond and take a moment to listen to the calming trickle of the water fountain.
Maryon Wilson Animal Park
Flamsteed Road, Charlton, SE7 8HT
If you go down to the woods today... you’re sure to find pigs, deer, ponies, chickens and sheep! Join the park ranger for a free tour each Wednesday at 1pm from April to September to learn more about the animals and meet some of them up close.
Our parks are for everyone to enjoy and it’s up to each of us help keep them that way. Whether you’re walking the dog, practicing your tennis or hitting the playground, remember:
• pick up after your dog – did you know you can put your dog waste into the general rubbish bins in our parks?
• take litter home with you if the bins are full
• don’t play amplified music
• BBQs and fires are not permitted.