Greenwich & Lewisham Weekender - January 21st 2026
The Royal Borough of Greenwich is inviting residents to discover Shared Lives, a service that connects adults who need support with trained carers so they can live more independently as part of a real home and community.
The council is calling on caring, compassionate local people to consider becoming Shared Lives carers. You don’t need a background in care, just a spare room, patience, kindness and the willingness to share your home and your life with someone who needs support.
The service supports adults with a wide range of needs to live safely and confidently in a home setting, including people with learning disabilities, physical impairments, mental health conditions, dementia, or those recovering after hospital.
Depending on what someone needs, carers can offer:
• A long-term home
• Regular day support
• Short breaks or respite
• Help with daily living, personal care, hobbies, and community activities
As a Shared Lives carer, you would receive:
• A competitive allowance
• Council Tax exemption (conditions apply)
• Fully funded training and ongoing support
• The joy of making a genuine difference every day
Councillor Mariam Lolavar, Cabinet Member for Health, Adult Social Care and Borough of Sanctuary said: “Shared Lives is one of the warmest forms of care you’ll ever come across. It’s about opening your home and opening your heart, offering friendship, stability and a sense of belonging.
“I’ve seen first-hand how life-changing these relationships are. Sandra and Colin’s story shows the power of matching the right people together, and the huge impact this service can have on someone’s confidence and wellbeing.
“I’d encourage anyone who has the time, patience and space to think about becoming a Shared Lives carer. You won’t just be helping someone else; it will enrich your life too.”
We recently filmed Councillor Mariam Lolavar visiting Sandra, one of our Shared Lives carers, and Colin, who she supports. Their story highlights the strong bonds, laughter, and confidence that Shared Lives can build for both individuals. Scan to watch
Discover Shared Lives: royalgreenwich.gov.uk/shared-lives Information from the Royal Borough of Greenwich for our residents
Open your heart and home with Shared Lives
Councillor Anthony Okereke, Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich said: “Shared Lives reflects the very best of who we are as a community in Greenwich; compassionate, inclusive and committed to supporting one another. This service gives adults with care needs the chance to live full, rich, independent lives in home surrounded by people who truly care about them.
“We are proud to offer Shared Lives and proud of the carers who make this incredible model of support possible. I hope more local people will come forward to join the scheme and help us open even more hearts and homes across the borough.”
Whether you’re looking for support for yourself or a loved one, or you’re interested in becoming a Shared Lives carer, we’re here to help you explore your options.
TheGreenwich & Lewisham Weekender is an independent weekly newspaper, covering the boroughs of Greenwich and Lewisham.
We publish every Wednesday, covering every postcode sector of the borough, and boasting, by far, the highest weekly circulation in Greenwich. Each week, we deliver our paper to every Greenwich neighbourhood, with further copies stocked at convenient public stands. We are also the highest distribution newspaper in Lewisham.
You can also view each edition online, as well as daily news and events, on our website: www.weekender.co.uk
The Greenwich & Lewisham Weekender covers all aspects of life in the boroughs, including music, theatre, comedy, film, events, and food and drink, as well as all your community events and campaigns.
Weekender
The Greenwich and Lewisham Weekender is a member of the Independent Press Standards Organisation (which regulates the UK’s magazine and newspaper industry).
We abide by the Editors’ Code of Practice and are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism. If you think that we have not met those standards and want to make a complaint, please contact 020 7231 5258. If we are unable to resolve your complaint, or if you would like more information about IPSO or the Editors’ Code, contact IPSO on 0300 123 2220 or visit www.ipso.co.uk
Weekender Editor: Kevin Quinn
Media Partnerships: Anthony Phillips
Advertising team: Clarry Frewin, Mandy Stong
Advertising support: Katie Boyd
Editorial: Michael Holland; Issy Clarke, Evie Flynn
Design Manager: Dan Martin
Design team: Ann Gravesen
Finance: Em Zeki - Tel: 0779 883 3758
Managing & Commercial Director: Chris Mullany
Managing & Editorial Director: Kevin Quinn
Published weekly on a Wednesday at: Community Matters Media Ltd
Peppa Pig and her family will be coming to Blackheath Halls on 31 January as part of the ‘Big Family Show’, full of music, adventure and surprises. The brand new show will have live actors bringing the much-loved characters to life. With a new arrival on the way, Peppa Pig, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig and George need the help of the audience to get everything ready before Baby Evie comes. The show will be full of music and interaction, ideal for children of all ages. The Big Family Show is once again produced by leading children’s theatre team Fierylight.
Date: Saturday 31 January
Time: 1pmAddress: 23 Lee Road, London SE3 9RQ
Tickets: £17 adults, £15 children, under 1s free. Family tickets are £60 for four people. Book here: https://www.blackheathhalls.com/whats-on/peppa-pigs-big-family-show/
WRITING GROUP AT THE ALBANY:
A relaxed writing group at the Albany is back on Monday 26 January and offers an opportunity to write for an hour and share their work for an hour. Just Write It! allows writers to gain constructive feedback on their work from other members of the group. The first half of the session is an hour of writing, where you can focus on your individual projects in a quiet and focused space. The second hour will be a feedback session and discussion about the pieces shared. Run by award-winning writer Ella Dorman-Gajic with support from Maddy Accalia, the session is in an inclusive, focused environment to share your works in progress, connect with other like-minded writers and mutually support the work of others. It will be running three sessions for this next cohort.
Date: Monday 26 January (last Monday of the month until Monday 30th March)
Time: 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Tickets: ‘Pay what you can’, from £1 to £10. Book on the Albany website.
Lewisham’s libraries are hosting an adult reading challenge and Deptford Lounge’s free Reading Lounge provides the perfect space tackle the list of books. To take part in the adult reading challenge, simply pick up a welcome pack from any Lewisham Library from December to March this year. The pack includes a bookmark featuring weekly reading prompts to inspire your next book choice, including ‘a book set in South East London’ and ‘a book translated from another language’. Deptford Lounge have a Reading Lounge, open for passionate readers or for those simply curious about last years most celebrated books. The Reading Lounge exists to provide a free space for people to explore books at their own pace and is the perfect place to tackle the Lewisham Library reading challenge. There are comfy beanbags, cushions, soft ambient music and complimentary tea and coffee to create the perfect reading environment.
Date: Reading challenge is taking place until March and Deptford Lounge’s Reading Lounge is on the last Wednesday of the month. Next session: Wednesday 28 JanuaryTime: 6pm - 8pm
LIFE DRAWING CLASS AT THE NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM
FOR JUST £5
Join the Royal Greenwich Museum’s practitioner in residence for a life drawing class on Wednesday 28 January, focusing on what it means to be Black in the UK today. EVEWRIGHT, an acclaimed artist whose work champions Black British stories, will lead an informative session aimed at all abilities. The class will work with Black models to bring up new perspectives and conversations, whilst EVEWRIGHT guides you through his personal tips and techniques. At the end of the class, there will be an opportunity to share your work and gain valuable feedback in a ‘show and tell’ session. This event is part of a wider series within the public programme accompanying Unbroken: Art Installation in the Ocean Court at the National Maritime Museum. All material is provided and all skill levels are welcome.
Date: Wednesday 28 JanuaryTime: 6 - 9pm
Address: The Royal Museums Greenwich, Romney Road, Greenwich, London SE10 9NF
Tickets: £5 each, book on the Royal Museums Greenwich Website
RESIDENTS CAN SHINE A LIGHT ON HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL DAY
Place a light in your window at 8pm on the 27th January
The Royal Borough of Greenwich is asking residents to place a light in their window after they host their annual event to commemorate Holocaust Memorial Day, writes Frankie Hills..
The service will be taking place at Woolwich Town Hall, at approximately 10:30am on Tuesday, January 27 and will be led by Councillor Linda Bird, Mayor of Greenwich. It will feature performances, readings and multi-faith prayers.
Councillor Sandra Bauer, Cabinet Member for Equality Culture and
Greenwich Council asking residents to put forward their suggestions for development plans around the borough
Residents in the Royal Borough of Greenwich are being asked to give their opinions at the Big Local Plan Community Assembly, so they can help shape the borough’s future, writes Frankie Hills...
Communities, reflected on the importance of remembrance within the borough and the services capability to remind us all to stand up to racism wherever we see, in whatever form. She went on to say: “Holocaust Memorial Day is a time to remember the millions of people murdered in the Holocaust and in subsequent genocides.
“Each year, our memorial service is a beautiful reminder that Royal Greenwich is a place where we celebrate diversity and recognise our differences as strengths - there is no place for racism, hatred and discrimination here.
“This year’s theme, ‘Bridging Generations’, reminds us that
remembrance doesn’t end with survivors – it lives on through all of us. We each have a responsibility to listen to and learn from history, to make our borough a welcoming, inclusive and safe place for everyone.”
Holocaust memorial day is marked by the 27th January each year, with this being date that the AuschwitzBirkenau, the most infamous Nazi death camp, was liberated by Soviet forces in 1945. The event will simultaneously also commemorate others who needlessly lost their lives to hate and persecution in subsequent genocides post-war, including those in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur.
Meanwhile, the Royal Borough of Greenwich is also encouraging residents to take part in the ‘Light the Darkness’ initiative, asking people to remember Holocaust Memorial Day by placing a light in their window at 8pm, on the 27th January.
The event will be open to all residents, however, spaces will be limited. Those wishing to attend are being encouraged to book their places now, as spaces will be assigned on a first come, first serve basis.
You can book your place at events@royalgreenwich.gov.uk.
The council is actively looking for residents to join the Local Plan Committee in order to voice thoughts about proposed plans. Local Plans are the blueprint councils need in order to properly guide and support developers in constructing new housing developments where they’re needed most.
They are hosting a half-day event on Saturday 7th February 2026 to discuss the big issues faced by communities to proposed developments, and what strategic solutions could look like. Council leader Anthony Okereke said: “Our plans are bold and we know we
can’t do it alone. That’s why we want to hear from as many people as possible, because no one knows the borough better than the people who call it home. We want to build nearly 45,000 new homes and create thousands of jobs – that’s not a small feat, so we want to know how you think we can do that.
”The draft for the Local Plan will be divided into eight themes: Places, Housing, Economy, Town Centres, Design and Heritage, Environment, Climate Emergency and Transport. The plan hopes to identify areas that are suitable for development with these
parameters considered, and how any developments would work in reality with the infrastructure behind it.
Those wishing to involve themselves and represent their communities can register their interest in the Community Assembly.
For those wishing to not take part in the Community Assembly, but still wanting to get involved in the Local Plan consultation, they can do so at https://royalgreenwichnewlocalplan. commonplace.is/ and will have until Sunday 8th February to voice their thoughts.
Has the new Bakerloop bus route been a success?
The ‘Bakerloop’ bus, which traces the route of the proposed Bakerloo line extension, has been a resounding success, according to the latest data released by Transport for London (TfL), writes Frankie Hills...
Launched at the end of September last year, this brand new express bus running between Waterloo and Lewisham has more than doubled the expected revenue it was projected to generate.
Data released by TfL revealed the BL1 Bakerloop service was used by passengers 367,000 times during its first 10 weeks in operation, generating £231,000.
A report produced by TfL in November 2024 projected revenue for the Bakerloop services to total £540,000 annually. This therefore means that the route has more than doubled its projected earnings of just £104,000.
The addition of Bakerloop services to the London transport network was introduced by London’s Mayor, Sadiq Khan, amid delays to the extension of the Bakerloo line, which would run between Elephant and Castle and Hayes.
Mr. Khan was able to get backing for funding to extend the DLR from Gallions Reach to Thamesmead last year, as part of the Autumn Budget,
but faced setbacks in his plans to establish a ‘West London Orbital’ Overground line from underused freight track and the Bakerloo Line Extension. Current projections for when the Bakerloo extension line will be operational is estimated to be by 2040, with construction set to start around the early 2030s.
However, with no announcements from the government the Bakerloop bus service has been established to act as a temporary stop gap to improve public transport in South East London.
Mirroring the first part of the extension, it runs between Waterloo, Elephant & Castle and Lewisham via Burgess Park, Old Kent Road, New Cross Gate, Lewisham station and Lewisham town centre.
The BL1 service runs every day of the week from 5am to 12.30am. Five buses run per hour from Monday to Saturday while four buses run every hour on Sundays.
The decision to implement the Bakerloop was been deemed somewhat of necessity, with TfL
willing to accept a substantial funding gap to run the new service. The contract awarded to run the service was for £4.93 million a year, meaning a £4.4 million shortfall still exists on profitability for the service.
However, if the Bakerloop line continues to remain as popular as it is, revenues are on course to reach £1m in its first year. Moreover, Southwark Council’s
development arm has allocated over £5m in funds for the Bakerloop, generated from developments in the Old Kent Road area.
As part of its consultation process in launching the new bus route, overwhelmingly positive feedback was received from respondents. 82% of people said the new bus route was more convenient, whilst 79% thought it would decrease journey times.
At Guy’s & St Thomas’ Foundation, we’re an independent charity working to help everyone live longer, healthier lives. We know many health issues start with challenges like money worries, discrimination, poor air quality and poor housing.
If you’ve experienced these, your voice matters. Join us as a voluntary Board Observer and share your lived experience with our Trustees. Together, we can tackle the root causes of ill-health and create lasting change in our communities.
DAVID BOWIE’S CHILDHOOD HOME SET TO OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
A terraced house in Bromley is being transformed into an immersive 1960s experience, allowing visitors to walk through David Bowie’s childhood home – including the bedroom where he wrote Space Oddity, writes Evie Flynn
David Robert Jones, later known as David Bowie, lived in the railway workers’ cottage at 4 Plaistow Grove when he was aged 8 to 20 (1955-1967).
The property was recently acquired by Heritage of London Trust and is set to be complete for public visits in late 2027.
With the help of donations, the Trust wants to restore the “two up, two down” cottage to its 1960s appearance with the help of Geoffrey Marsh, who is the co-curator of the V&A’s David Bowie Is exhibition.
The interior will be the same as it was when Bowie’s father commuted to work at charity Dr Barnardo’s and his mother worked as a waitress, using a “never seen before” archive of material.
His bedroom will be the centre of the immersive experience, with the 9ft x 10ft box room witnessing the start of his musical journey in the ‘60s.
The announcement of the acquisition came last Thursday, on what would have been Bowie’s 79th birthday. The next day 10 January, was the 10-year anniversary of his death.
Bowie’s lifelong friend, George Underwood, said: “We spent so much time together, listening to and playing music. I’ve heard a lot of people say David’s music saved them or changed their life.
“It’s amazing that he could do that and even more amazing that it all started here, from such small beginnings, in this house. We were dreamers, and look what he became.”
The house is near the Edwardian ‘Bowie bandstand’ – where the young musician performed in 1969 and was restored by Bromley Council and Heritage of London Trust in 2024.
To help the restoration, City law firm Jones Day have awarded a £500,000 grant as part of the Jones Day Foundation, which is funded by attorneys and staff.
Dr Nicola Stacey, Director of Heritage
of London Trust, said: “David Bowie was a proud Londoner. Even though his career took him all over the world, he always remembered where he came from and the community that supported him as he grew up.
“It’s wonderful to have this opportunity to tell his story and inspire a new generation of young people and it’s really important for the heritage of London to preserve this site.”
Heritage of London Trust are welcoming donations to help restoration efforts on their website www.bowieshouse.org
Punchdrunk extends experimental experience merging theatre and gaming
The Punchdrunk theatre company has announced an extension to the run of its LANDER 23 live action video game experience, writes Frankie Hills...
Operating from its main base of operations in Woolwich, at One Cartridge Place, the experience will now run through to 10th May 2026. As a live action video game, LANDER 23 sees an immersive theatre crossover with the world of gaming in a way not seen before, with audiences becoming players in a multiplayer experience centred around stealth.
Players are split into two squads, Command (Drivers) and Ground Team (Fields). The Field team’s
task is to navigate the treacherous alien landscape, whilst solely relying on the voice and guidance of the Drivers, stationed aboard a spacecraft. Communication is therefore the key to success.
The story behind the experience is as follows: “The Lander Division of the Centre for Astrobiology is responsible for exploring the outer realms of the galaxy. No division goes further or deeper into the unknown.
”Tasked with discovering unchartered territories, exploring the outermost reaches and bringing back valuable data to the mothership. A week ago, the crew of Lander 23 vanished while harvesting a new and valuable energy source. A distress signal then silence.
”You are the next crew in. Your mission is clear – continue their job without the
same happening to you. Time is not on your side. The environment is treacherous. There are hidden dangers lurking in the shadows. Do not deviate from the mission.
”Founded in 2000, Punchdrunk was created by Felix Barrett as a form of pioneering theatre that places the audience at the heart of the action. Punchdrunk was listed amongst the 50 most influential artists within the last 50 years by Sky Arts in 2022, due to its mission to disrupt the theatrical norm.
With the extension of the experience announced, Punchdrunk has stated the best ticket availability will be from February 2026, with tickets from £38.75 and ready to book now at punchdrunk.com.
The full address to pay a visit to the Punkdrunk theatre is One Cartridge Place, London SE18 6ZR.
Geoffrey Marsh, George Underwood and Nicola Stacey outside 4 Plaistow Grove
Happy New Year!
❖ Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art with ancient roots that is enjoyable and beneficial for people of all ages and backgrounds
❖ Aikido training is excellent for mental and physical health as well as being a form of self-defence
Chief instructor: Colman Glynn, 6th Dan Aikikai
Bringing a New Wave of Music to Nunhead
This February
Known across London for its high-quality, screen-free music experiences, The Strings Club is bringing its much-loved Holiday Camps to Nunhead, offering children aged 4–11 the chance to explore music in a way that is energetic, creative and confidence-building. Designed to appeal to complete beginners as well as those with some musical experience, the camp focuses on fun first – with skills and learning following naturally.
At the heart of the February Half Term camp is a carefully balanced mix of music-making and creative play. Children will take part in daily instrument sessions, learning to play the ukulele with
guidance from specialist teachers, alongside interactive workshops that include movement, games and creative activities. The week culminates in a celebratory concert, giving children the chance to share what they’ve learned with family and friends.
Importantly for parents, the camp is Ofsted-registered, SEN-friendly and staffed by experienced, DBS-checked professionals. Extended hours are available to support working families, and the programme accepts Tax-Free Childcare and childcare vouchers.
To mark the Nunhead launch, The Strings Club
is also offering a free day of camp to local families. Simply enter NUNFREEDAY at their online checkout!
Don’t also miss out on their free Discovery Day ahead of Half Term on Saturday 14th February at 09:30am. The perfect chance for children to try out the experience before committing.
With Nunhead already known for its strong sense of community and love of music, the arrival of The Strings Club promises to strike a chord with local families looking for a joyful, enriching way for children to spend the school holidays.
Inside the Deptford space redefining what it means to be a local gym
Former headteacher Darrel Barsby opened the space in May 2025
One gym in Deptford’s creative quarter is redefining what it means to be a local gym, writes Lilian Mulholland…
For those who want to step away from the chaos of a busy gym, the Fitness Laboratory is set up with community in mind.
Former headteacher Darrel Barsby opened the space in May 2025.
“Something that I definitely bring to this place through my experience is that kind of care and consideration.”
With 23 years of teaching and four years of training behind him, Darrel brings a level of care into the gym with him that he says is often missing from bigger chain gyms.
“Something that is missing in the fitness industry is a supportive, encouraging, developmental fitness space”, he said.
Darrel tells me the gym was “purpose built for performance and community”, pointing to this slogan printed on the sign outside. “My philosophy for the Fitness Laboratory is that everybody will be supported.”
The gym is an open space, where members can train for as long as they need. Either Darrel or one of two personal trainers are on site at all times to provide support.
The motivation behind the Fitness Laboratory’s design is a recognition that many people do not know how to make use of the range of equipment in a gym.
Darrel said: “The thing that normal people lack is the knowledge of what to do and how to do it in the gym.
“Ninety per cent of people don’t know what they are doing in the gym, and these places can be incredibly intimidating.”
The gym is small but has a spacious feel, filled with top-of-the-range machines and premium brands of protein power.
Every aspect of the gym has been meticulously thought-out by Darrel, but
what really creates a sense of place is a feature that began by accident.
The walls are lined with sheets of cardboard, personalised training plans penned by Darrel for the people who use the gym.
“I write everything, to start with, on cardboard”, he tells me. “They’ve become a thing, people love them.”
A mix of people come to the Fitness Laboratory each week, from beginners to experienced weight-lifters.
After a few weeks on cardboard, plans are moved over onto an app designed by Darrel with the help of a developer. The app displays workout plans and allows users to track their progress. After two to three weeks on a training programme, these will be tweaked and adapted by Darrel.
He also sends out a weekly newsletter, inviting clients to speak with him about revisions in their training plans. This also includes an exercise of the week, a challenge to clients seeking to try something new. He sends those who take him up on the offer video
demonstrations of the move with his voiceover, explaining each stage.
Elliot Sturt, 31, who is a drag queen, joined the gym having struggled to get himself to his previous commercial gym more than a handful of times a month. “This is a space where I have found I can be comfortable. I’m not intimidated anymore.”
I spoke with Elliot on what happened to be his hundredth visit, the gym’s most active member - even after taking off two weeks for his wedding earlier this year.
“It’s made me feel a lot more confident in my job, although I’ve had to throw away a lot of my costumes because I can’t fit my shoulders into them anymore”, he added.
Elliot comes to the gym five to six days a week having previously barely managed two to three visits a month to the commercial gym he once used. He follows four sessions a week from his personal trainer, but also makes use of the cardboard plans.
Looking for his personal bit of cardboard on the wall, Elliot said: “I don’t think it was a thing he started on purpose, but it became a thing that everyone likes.”
Fabio Baravelle, 31, works remotely as a software engineer. He uses the gym to powerlift for Brazilian JiuJitsu training.
Fabio often films himself, with help from Darrel, and watches back these clips to analyse his form. His use of the gym is meticulously methodical, and demonstrates one end of the spectrum of use members make of the space.
“I keep Darrel busy quite a lot”, Fabio laughs. “Whenever I need support, I either get that from Darrel or the people in the community, and that’s why I really like this gym.”
“One of the main factors of why I come here is the community. Everyone is friendly”, Fabio adds.
Having first made his way through the doors on the advice of the physiotherapist, injured with a dislocated knee, Fabio is now preparing to return to competitive Brazilian JiuJitsu in February.
Memberships are priced at £150 per month, and at a lower rate of £90 per month for students and seniors.
Reaching the end of the boundary walk in 1851
I think it’s probably about time I got back to the boundary walk around the Greenwich parish boundary in 1851. It was weeks ago since I did the last – the 10th episode of this and I really need to get on with it. This one will be the last one and it will take the procession back to the start point of their walk.
For those of you who haven’t been following this over the last year - it’s about a procession round the Greenwich parish boundaries in 1851. This was quite a common thing to do towards the end of the 19h century: the vicar and churchwardens would arrange for one of these walks every few years and it was quite a big thing. The procession would be some of the parish officials, various local bigwigs, the choir boys and children from all the local schools - including the workhouse school. They would start in the morning from Garden Stairs, near Greenwich Pier, and walk right round the boundary - and have all sorts of adventures on the way - and it took all day. Clearly the area was very different to what it is now – but perhaps not as different as we like to think.
I’ve been using the 1851 newspaper report of the walk that year. I’ve also used a report from 1980 of a replica walk which was done that year as a sort of memorial and to see what was
still there and what wasn’t. A report of this walk was published only in 2022 by Greenwich Historical Society. In 1851 the boundary was still marked with stones and posts and very few of them have survived and most of the ones that were noted in 1980 have now gone.
So, I left the last episode which I did of the walk somewhere down near Woolwich Road. That episode had been particularly difficult because it had followed a section of the walk which started at the gates of Rectory Field in Charlton Road and gone downhill through what in 1850 was an area of big houses and fields. Now it is all early 20th century housing built with little regard for what the area was like in the 1850s. The walk seemed to follow what may have been a footpath going from what is now the Catholic Church in Charlton Road and ending up in Dupree Road and then into Woolwich Road. In 1980 the walkers simply gave up trying to work it out and just went
down Victoria Way. I suspect they were probably pretty tired by then anyway.
One problem as reported in the local paper is that it fails to mention that you need to cross the railway. The walk as reported in the local paper took place in 1851 - Charlton Station is a very short distance from where the boundary line crosses the railway and dates from 1849 – just two years earlier. This was the North Kent Line: remember that it was the 1870s before the link through to Greenwich Station to Charlton was put in. So in 1851 the railway they crossed was the North Kent Line coming from Blackheath through the Blackheath tunnel. It seems very strange that the report in the Kentish Mercury doesn’t mention it. I wonder if perhaps the reporter had abandoned the walk before they did that stretch - surely they would remember crossing the new railway?
If you look at the map you can see the line of the boundary coming down from
Charlton Road. It may follow a footpath but, whatever, it’s going through fields and past trees and boundary stones and that’s quite straightforward at first. But then it begins to get more complicated and it stops being a straight line and curves round onto a bridge to cross the railway. Then on the other side there’s a sawmill and a number of other buildings and eventually we get to a yard and some buildings and on into Woolwich Road. I’m tempted to think that the building and yard are the now closed pub – originally The Roupell Arms, but more recently The Pickwick.
Today that walk would mean crossing the railway from the back of Bernard Ashley Drive, and then down between blocks of flats, to reach Dupree Road and from there to Woolwich Road. How is it that the report misses this whole quite complicated area? Nor is it mentioned in the report of the 1980 walk which seems to give up completely by that point - just going down Victoria way
and looking over the railway bridge .
Having reached Woolwich Road the Boundary line and the walk turns eastward towards Woolwich: goes a couple of blocks along the road to the corner of what had been Lombard, or Lambard, Wall. I wrote quite a lot about this feature in an article a few years ago about the boundaries of Charlton.
‘Lombard Wall’ was an important boundary feature – a bank or an earthwork of some sort which is still the boundary between the Parishes. It was used as a pathway – but there is no sign of it now. It was called a ‘wall’ because that is the old name for marshland features like this – a ‘wall’ is a bank designed to keep something – like river water - out. I have seen a recent archaeological ‘desk top’ report for the area which gives no mention of this ‘wall’ and where it is (or was). It seems most probable that it was built at sometime in the Tudor period
Mary Mills
The Riverside at the end of the boundary line in the 1860s
In 1980
Michael
river
and it is sometimes said that it was built by William Lambarde. However it is mentioned in a conveyance of a neighbouring estate in 1555. William had inherited the land only in 1554 and was still a minor, so it’s not very likely it was built by him. So if it was built before 1555 it could have been built by his father John Lambarde or – well, someone else.
There are other explanations: in the mid-19 Century a civil engineer speaking to the Institution of Civil Engineers called it ”a cross embankment” and“one rather stronger than the others”. He also said that it was called “Lombard’s Wall” and said he was sure it was built some people from Lombardy. I am aware that most of the engineers who worked on flood relief schemes in the Thames marshes in the 16th Century were Italians so it’s very possible that one of them was a ‘Lombard’. Whatever the real name and whatever the reason for it neither the wall nor the road on the wall, now runs from Woolwich Road
MY BOOKS – CURRENTLY AVAILABLE
By Dr Mary Mills
– only going from Bugsby’s Way to the River. The space between Woolwich Road and Bugsby Way is covered by major retail and other developments.
The report of the 1980 walk ends abruptly at the corner of Lombard Wall. But the 2022 printed report of this includes a photograph from the 1980s walk which shows historian Michael Egan looking at a large and ‘important’ boundary stone which in 1980 was still on the corner. There has been massive regeneration in this area and that stone has completely disappeared. Julian Watson has commented that this was an extremely important boundary marker. Sadly neither includes details of what the actual inscription on it was.
I have mentioned two or three times during the course of these articles about the boundary about how the many boundary stones which are on maps and which people remember have vanished. They apparently are not recorded as
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
heritage assets by the Council and they are so small that a contractor is not even going to notice it to bring it to the council’s attention if this should be thrown out or not. I notice that currently Greenwich Council has a consultation on the future Borough and there is a planned seminar and a consultation which includes heritage issues.
The walk then continues down what used to be Lombard Wall until we get to Bugsby’s Way. This area has now been massively developed and this stretch of Lombard Wall has vanished and is now a gap at the back of some of the supermarkets. We then cross Bugsbys Way into a road called Lombard Wall. This is now an exit road from the many Riverside wharves and is infested with some of the nastier lorries along with a lot of dust and dirt and general dreadfulness. There is no sign of anything which identifies it as an ancient flood barrier and I wonder if anybody has ever looked for it.
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
Before we get to the Riverside we would have passed the end of Ayles rope walk down near the River. I also think it quite likely that we have crossed another railway line in one of lines coming off the Angerstein line to local industries served by that system. At the Riverside they met a boat and a waterman and some of the party went with him on his boat - once again the boundary line itself is the middle of a waterway and so the boat has to go because to go up the middle of the River Thames in order to exactly on the boundary line on. This is possibly quite dangerous seeing how busy the River would have been at that time.
The rest of the party will have had to carry on going back along the riverfront from Charlton to Garden Stairs where they were to finish. This will have meant initially picking their way across all the railway lines at Angerstein Wharf and I am sure all sorts of other hazards along the
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
riverfront which have long since been removed. It wasn’t by any means the reasonably progressive Riverside path we have now. I wonder how many of them were left at this of the procession at this late stage - everyone must have been very tired and I suspect that a lot of the children will have left some time ago. Even without stopping and looking at things it’s a considerable distance along the riverfront there right round the Peninsula.
Having got back to Garden Stairs they went back to the church where they gave three cheers and everybody went home. They do say they got there very late –usually they expected to be back about 5:30 and they don’t say exactly what time they arrived back this time. They said it’s all the fault of the Kent Water Company who kept them waiting down at their new reservoir – I wrote about that some months back.
And then all off to a nice sit down...
The
end of Lombard Wall today
Egan kneels down to read the boundary stone at Lombard Wall - the stone has since gone missing
Explore CACT’s Post-16 pathways ahead of 2026/27
Charlton Athletic Community Trust (CACT) are inviting Year 11 students to explore a range of post-16 football and education pathways ahead of the 2026/27 academic year, through a series of upcoming talent ID sessions and open evenings across south-east London and Kent.
Our post-16 football & education academies are delivered across three sites – at the Charlton Training Ground in New Eltham, Cleeve Park School in Sidcup and the Alcaline Stadium in Kent, home of Folkestone Invicta.
CACT’s post-16 academy is a two-year, full-time education and football development programme, delivered in partnership with professional and non-league football clubs. Open to keen footballers aged 16 to 18, the programme is ideal for young people looking to combine their studies with a structured football pathway.
Male and female students interested in joining the post16 academies based at Cleeve Park School and the Charlton Training Ground can attend talent
ID sessions taking place next month, with Cleeve Park sessions scheduled for Thursday, February 19th, and Training Ground sessions scheduled for Friday, February 20th. An open evening at The Valley will also take place for students and families interested in both sites, providing the opportunity to meet the post-16 team, learn more about the education offer and understand how the academy pathway works. Cleeve Park are also holding their own open day for interested Year 11 students on Monday, February 11th.
For those based in Kent, CACT deliver a post-16 programme in partnership with Folkestone Invicta for male and female players. Alongside combining football with their education, players will have clear playing pathway opportunities at Folkestone, as well as employability opportunities
with CACT as a sports coach within the south Kent community.
All talent ID sessions and open evenings are open to male and female players, and places must be booked in advance. To find out more and secure a place, scan the QR code to sign up for a relevant session.
Because weekends weren’t made for storage runs — book in minutes and access anytime with Pocket.
Drummond Rd, Biscuit Factory, SE16 4DG
• Flexible booking, no long-term tie-ins
• Access any time, day or night
• 5 mins from Bermondsey tube
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
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 Southern Gas Networks who need to upgrade their mains.
2. The Order will come into operation on 2nd February 2026 and would continue to be valid for 18 months. However, the works are expected to take 5 months. 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 implement road closures, directional closures, and to suspension of an existing one-way restriction. Only one closure will be active at any one time. This will be to prohibit vehicles from entering, exiting, proceeding, or waiting (including waiting for the purposes of loading or unloading) in Joan Crescent, Gregory Crescent, Ferndown Road, Churchbury Road, and Campfield Road.
4. Whilst the Order is in operation traffic will be diverted via the placing of the appropriate signage. Prohibitions remain in force; pedestrians are not affected, and vehicle access will be maintained wherever possible. No closure will take place without a notice board 1 week prior to each closure.
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 Regeneration, Enterprise & Skills on 020 8921 6340.
Ryan Nibbs Assistant Director, Transport. The Woolwich Centre, 35 Wellington Street, SE18 6HQ
Dated: 12/01/2026
NTERNAL REF - EM/ LA495677 FN870 /LIC No 75617
Royal Borough of Greenwich
Town & Country Planning Act 1990 (AS AMENDED)
Town & Country Planning (Development Management Procedure)(England) Order 2015
Town & Country Planning (Control of Advertisements) Regulations 2007 (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 21 days of the date of this notice.
Please quote the appropriate reference number.
Date: 21/1/2026
Victoria Geoghegan
Assistant Director - Planning and Building Control
List of Press Advertisements - 21/1/2026
Applicant: Edward and Andrine Ruthven and Alver 25/0325/HD
Site Address: 25 GLOUCESTER CIRCUS, GREENWICH, LONDON, SE10 8RY
Development: Construction of a first and second floor side extension and associated demolition works, external repair works, replacement of existing rear lower ground floor door, landscaping works to increase lower ground floor rear patio, construction of new access stairs and installation of metal balustrades, and other associated works.
(Re-consultation - Amended Description and Drawings - Drawings amended to an alteration to patio arrangement).
Conservation Area: WEST GREENWICH
Applicant: Mr. Mohamed Jama Capital Homecare UK Ltd
25/3891/F
Site Address: 75-77 Woolwich New Road, Woolwich, London SE18 6ED
Development: Change of use from existing offices (Use Class E) on first and second floors to residential (Use Class C3), in addition to the construction of two additional storeys to facilitate the creation of eight (8) self-contained flats, introduction of brick details above and at the bottom of windows at front elevation, removal of an existing balcony and installation of new balconies, provision of refuse and cycle storage and all other associated works.
Conservation Area: Woolwich Conservation Area
Applicant: Lucia Larragoiti Fisher La Maritxu
Site Address: 7 NELSON ROAD, LONDON, SE10 9JB
25/3911/F
Development: Like for like maintenance (including painting) of the existing shopfront, and the installation of a permanent self-supporting pergola to the rear elevation with roof installed to enable use of the outdoor space all year round, and all associated works.
Conservation Area: WEST GREENWICH
Applicant: Mr A. Cikaj
25/3996/F
Site Address: 9 POUND PLACE, ELTHAM, LONDON, SE9 5DN
Development: Construction of an additional storey to provide an additional residential unit with associated external alterations.
Applicant: Berkeley Homes (East Thames) Ltd 25/4134/F
Site Address: Building 10, Station Way, Royal Arsenal Riverside, Woolwich
Development: The proposed installation of Air Source Heat Pumps in the eastern portion of Building 10, specifically within the commercial floorspace in units 9 and 10, previously approved under planning permission 21/2055/F, with other associated works to the internal and external elements of the building, to support the decarbonisation of the existing energy centre as part of the overall strategy for Royal Arsenal Riverside.
Conservation Area: ROYAL ARSENAL WOOLWICH
Applicant: Mr Christopher Franklin 25/4158/HD
Site Address: 16 BRAND STREET, GREENWICH, LONDON, SE10 8SR
Development: Loft extension, first floor rear infill extension and installation of a rear dormer with associated works.
Conservation Area: WEST GREENWICH
Applicant: The Hyde Group 25/4210/F
Site Address: 9 MOIRA ROAD, ELTHAM, LONDON, SE9 1SJ
Development: Replacement of the existing timber front door with a like for like FD30 timber fire door.
Conservation Area: PROGRESS ESTATE
Applicant: PD Assets Ltd 25/4239/F
Site Address: 21 BURNEY STREET, LONDON, SE10 8EX
Development: Alterations to external walls of the ground floor including reconfiguration of openings, construction of front and rear fencing. (Resubmission)
Conservation Area: WEST GREENWICH
Applicant: Mr. Whitelaw 25/4260/HD
Site Address: 4 SWINGATE LANE, PLUMSTEAD, LONDON, SE18 2HH
Development: Replacement of windows to the rear elevation of the property.
Conservation Area: PLUMSTEAD COMMON
Applicant: Mr Daniel Adler Greatglen Estates 25/4287/F
Site Address: 78 BLACKHEATH ROAD, LONDON, SE10 8DA
Development: Replacement of two doors at the rear of the lower
glazed UPVC door with opaque panels.
Conservation Area: ASHBURNHAM TRIANGLE
Applicant: Ms Claire Wilmann 26/0012/HD
Site Address: 81 LEE ROAD, LEWISHAM, LONDON, SE3 9EN
Development: Demolition of existing rear and front extensions and construction of replacement rear extension, installation of rooflights and all associated works.
Conservation Area: BLACKHEATH PARK
Applicant: Mr Udeogba Greenwich Council 26/0041/F
Site Address: 32 CHARLTON ROAD, LONDON, SE3 8TY
Development: To replace existing timber single-glazed sliding sash and casement windows with timber slim-line double glazed casement and sliding sash windows. To replace existing timber single-glazed communal doors with timber double-glazed doors.
Conservation Area: RECTORY FIELD
Publicity for Listed Building Consent
Applicant: Edward and Andrine Ruthven and Alver 25/0326/L
Site Address: 25 GLOUCESTER CIRCUS, GREENWICH, LONDON, SE10 8RY
Development: Construction of a first and second floor side extension and associated demolition works, external repair works, replacement of existing rear lower ground floor door, internal alterations including the alteration of partitions and repair works, landscaping works to increase lower ground floor rear patio, construction of new access stairs and installation of metal balustrades and other associated works. (Re-consultation - Amended Description and Drawings - Drawings amended to an alteration to patio arrangement).
Conservation Area: WEST GREENWICH
Listed Building: Grade 2
Applicant: Mr Craig Stanley 25/3926/L
Site Address: 16-18 BALLAST QUAY, LONDON, SE10 9PD
Development: Refurbishment of 16 and 18 Ballast Quay, where No.16 is Grade II listed and No.18 is locally listed. Works include the internal reconfiguration of both properties, removal of multiple, installation of new and replacement existing non-original windows and doors with higher-performance timber units that match existing proportions and appearance and meet modern standards, installation of external alarm box, opening up of the ceilings of both properties with roofs insulated and installation of rooflight, installation of a compact condenser, extension of rear Juliet balcony balustrade, relocation of the garden spiral stair, rear elevation access amendments, and the addition of a second floor utility area and bathroom for art use, and all associated works.
Conservation Area: EAST GREENWICH
Listed Building: Grade 2
Applicant: - Berkeley Homes (East Thames) Ltd 25/4135/L
Site Address: Building 10, Station Way, Royal Arsenal Riverside, Woolwich
Development: The proposed installation of Air Source Heat Pumps in the eastern portion of Building 10, specifically within the commercial floorspace in units 9 and 10, previously approved under planning permission 21/2056/L, with other associated works to the internal and external elements of the building, to support the decarbonisation of the existing energy centre as part of the overall strategy for Royal Arsenal Riverside.
Conservation Area: ROYAL ARSENAL WOOLWICH
Listed Building: Grade 2
Applicant: Leon Lui 25/4156/L
Site Address: 29 GLOUCESTER CIRCUS, GREENWICH, LONDON, SE10 8RY
Development: Minor internal alteration to accommodate relocation of a shower room and works to the basement floor (works does not affect the external envelope of the heritage asset).
Conservation Area: WEST GREENWICH
Listed Building: Grade 2
ROYAL BOROUGH of GREENWICH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 – SECTION 14(1) NORMAN ROAD PLANNED ROAD CLOSURE (ORDER)
1. The Royal Borough of Greenwich makes 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 service line disconnection.
2. The Order will come into operation on 26th January 2026 and would continue to be valid for 18 months. However, the works are expected to take 5 days. 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 vehicles from entering, exiting, proceeding, or waiting (including waiting for the purposes of loading or unloading), in Norman Road opposite 55-71.
4. Whilst the Order is in operation traffic will be diverted via the placing of the appropriate signage. Prohibitions remain in force; pedestrians are not affected, and vehicle 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: 14/11/2025
INTERNAL REF - EM/ LA496416
ROYAL BOROUGH of GREENWICH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 – SECTION 14(1) GALLIONS ROAD PLANNED ROAD CLOSURE (ORDER)
1. The Royal Borough of Greenwich intends to makes this Order in exercise of powers under section 14(1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984. This is to facilitate works by Transport For London who need to carry out further works on TFL's cycle scheme.
2. The Order will come into operation on 23/01/2026 and would continue to be valid for 18 months. However, the works are expected to take 6 weeks. 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 vehicles from exiting, proceeding, or waiting (including waiting for the purposes of loading or unloading) in Gallions Road from the junction of Woolwich Road.
4. Whilst the Order is in operation traffic will be diverted via the placing of the appropriate signage Prohibitions remain in force; pedestrians are not affected, and vehicle 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 Regeneration, Enterprise & Skills on 020 8921 6340.
Ryan Nibbs Assistant Director, Transport. The Woolwich Centre, 35 Wellington Street, SE18 6HQ
Dated: 09/01/2026
INTERNAL REF - EM/ YG48290606938 /LIC No 75603 / LA 471755 / FN 868
Fantastic volunteers helping people find their way in Greenwich town centre
Volunteers who give up their time to help tourists and visitors explore the historic town centre have been praised by the Royal Borough of Greenwich, the Greater London Authority and Visit Greenwich.
The scheme was set up last summer in partnership with the council, the borough’s destination management company Visit Greenwich and the Volunteer Centre Greenwich to help people find their way to the historic town centre whilst the Cutty Sark DLR station is closed for essential escalator repairs. It was funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), a central government initiative to invest in local areas.
The volunteers give up their weekends in all weathers to help visitors find their way during peak times.
Dodo Wong, said she enjoys helping people and visitors always appreciate being greeted by a friendly guide when leaving Greenwich station.
Councillor Jackie Smith, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy, Business, Greenwich Supports and Environmental Services, said: “As a UNESCO world heritage site, millions of people come to Greenwich every year to visit its world-famous park, shop at the market, immerse themselves in history and take in the scenic riverside views. We are extremely grateful to the volunteers who assist visitors find their way to the town centre and help keep Greenwich open for business.”
Michelle Martin, CEO of Volunteer Centre Greenwich, said: “It is always inspiring to see the incredible response from local residents who volunteer across the borough, and this project is no exception. Their enthusiasm, warmth, and dedication shine through as they welcome and guide visitors with a smile. Their contribution plays a vital role in creating a positive and memorable experience for visitors.”
If anyone is interested in taking part, contact the Volunteer Centre Greenwich: vcgreenwich.org.uk
Marking Holocaust Memorial Day
Join the annual Holocaust Memorial Day service at Woolwich Town Hall on Tuesday 27 January at 10:30am.
The event organised by the Royal Borough of Greenwichwill feature performances, readings and multi-faith prayers.
Spaces are limited and will be offered on a first come, first served basis. Email events@royalgreenwich.gov.uk to confirm your place.
Holocaust Memorial Day is marked each year on 27 January, the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi death camp. It’s a time to remember the six million Jewish men, women and children murdered during the Holocaust. We also commemorate the millions more people murdered through the Nazi persecution of other groups and where persecution led in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur.
The council also encourages residents to take part in the national initiative to ‘Light the Darkness.’ Join people across the country to place a light in your window on Holocaust Memorial Day at 8pm.
Find out more: royalgreenwich.gov.uk/hmd-26
HOW
Get on the list
First, you’ve got to be on the housing waiting list to join the scheme. If you’re not, register an application online at royalgreenwich.gov.uk/homes
Find your applicant number
It will be on the letter you’ve already had from the Royal Borough of Greenwich about the new scheme. You’ll need that number and the reference number of the property you’re after, which will be on the advert.
Pick out your ideal property by looking in Greenwich Info or regularly checking the website: royalgreenwich.gov. uk/homes. Click on your preference on the website. If you don’t have a computer, you can always use one for free at either The Eltham or Woolwich Centre or a local library.
Apply in one of three ways
• Text bidding is now available and the number to use is 07786207913. For further information please see page 2, or
• Via the Royal Borough of Greenwich’s website royalgreenwich.gov.uk/homes or
• Phone the 24-hour hotline 020 8921 4340. It’s an automatic push-button system and calls will be charged at the normal local rate
HOW TO BID FOR ADVERTISED PROPERTIES BY TEXT
If you would like to bid by text, please use the following Text Bidding Number: 0778 620 7913 and type:
CBL, the property reference number and your applicant number.
The property reference will be on the advert and your applicant number is on the letter we sent to you when you registered for housing.
A successful bid will look like this: CBL 179104 12191
You will need to do a separate text for each property you wish to bid for and the text is charged at your mobile provider’s standard rate. You will receive a text response to confirm your bid within 5 minutes.
If you are unable to bid for advertised properties and have no one that can do so for you please contact the Allocations team on 020 8921 2941 and we will help you with bidding or will bid on your behalf. If you are in temporary accommodation, then please contact your Temporary Accommodation Officer for help with this.
CBL BIDDING
Please be aware that users must now enter the date of birth of the main applicant when logging into this site. royalgreenwich.gov.uk/homes
ON THE HOUSING LIST CAN APPLY
Peabody Trust
Peabody Trust
Peabody
Choice based lettings hotline 020
BIDDING FOR PROPERTIES
People on the Housing register are able to bid for all properties, regardless of their banding. You must be eligible for the size of property and bids will be considered in the following order:
First Band A, followed by Band B1/B2 both in priority date order. Those in Band C will then be considered in registration date order.
Please note that there will still be some properties with age restrictions so only people of this age group can apply for these.
A is for applicants in unsatisfactory housing, including people moving due to demolition and those under occupying their homes.
BAND
B1 or B2 is for applicants the Royal Borough of Greenwich must prioritise according to the law, particularly homeless people, and others with an urgent need to move for medical or welfare reasons.
C is for all applicants on the housing register, including those that are in priority bands A and B1/B2.
If your property is now too big for you, you can apply for the Small is Beautiful scheme.
The next printed edition of Greenwich Homes will be available on 4 February 2026 at midday Closing date for all applications for this issue is midnight on 25 January 2026.
ALL households can bid for all types of property subject to meeting the bedroom size and any medical requirements.
Joan Crescent SE9 5RR
Pender House John Harrison Way SE10 0UY 2 FLAT 488 To be allocated
Pender House John Harrison Way SE10 0UY 1 FLAT 466 To be allocated
Pender House John Harrison Way SE10 0UY 2 FLAT 351 To be allocated
Pender House John Harrison Way SE10 0UY 2 FLAT 365 To be allocated
Pender House John Harrison Way SE10 0UY 2 FLAT 358 To be allocated
Pender House John Harrison Way SE10 0UY 2 FLAT 423 To be allocated
24-hour hotline
SEASIDE & COUNTRY SCHEME
This scheme offers one and two bedroom flats and bungalows on the Coast and in the countryside, in the South East and West of England. In order to be considered you must be:
• A Council or Housing Association tenant
• At least 55 years old. If you intend to add a household member under the age of 55 they must be either your spouse, current joint tenant, registered carer or dependent adult child.
Your removal costs will be met if you are a Council tenant and you do move to a Seaside and Country home.
To register, or find out more about the scheme, contact the Access and Allocation section on: 020 8921 2941
If you are a Housing Association tenant you need to contact your landlord to register. Further information is available from the scheme management organisation at housingmoves.org
To be eligible, your current property must:
• be a council or housing association property
• have 2, 3, 4 or 5 bedrooms
• be in the Royal Borough of Greenwich
The scheme can help you move to a smaller home that better meets your needs. We can then use your property to help another family who need it. For example, those in an overcrowded property or who are homeless.
WHAT YOU’LL GET
We’ll help you with costs and finding a new home that better meets your needs.
Financial benefits
We’ll pay:
• £1,000 for each spare room you give up
• an extra £500 if you downsize by mutual exchange
• your moving costs
• your disturbance costs, for example, for packing, disconnecting and reconnecting your appliances
Priority to find a new home
We’ll put your household in the highest priority band on the housing register so you can find a new home as soon as possible.
An Under Occupation Adviser will support you throughout the downsizing process.
Extra support for households with adult children
If you have non-dependant adult children living with you, we can offer them their own flat, if we can get a bedroom back. This means you and your adult child will each get a one-bedroom flat.
Extra support for older tenants
If you’re Pension Credit age you can downsize to a home with one extra bedroom to allow for caring or support needs.
We can visit you and support you with everything you need to downsize.
WHO CAN APPLY
You can apply if you’re under-occupying your home by at least one bedroom.
When we decide if a tenant is under-occupying, we count a second living room (or parlour) as a bedroom.
