Southwark News - July 17th 2025

MILLWALL EXCLUSIVE:

Issue 1746

Est: 1987

50p

July 17 2025

southwarknews.co.uk

BANGURA-WILLIAMS PENS NEW DEAL LIONS WEIGH UP LUONGO DEAL

LABOUR CHAIR RESIGNS, SAYING:

SEE PAGE 9

'When you shoot momma bear in the head there is nothing left to fight for'

FLOODY HELL

EXCLUSIVE

Burst water pipe led to evacuations and fears that road could collapse See page 4

See page 14

See page 4

PECKHAM RYE STATION UPGRADE POSTPONED FEATURE

See pages 16-17

WHAT'S THE FUTURE FOR WALWORTH? WALWORTH?

2 NEWS Contents NEWS NEWS Pages 2-17 Pages 2-17 OPINION Pages 18-19 OPINION Pages 18-19 ARTS Page 20 ARTS Page 21 EVENTS Page 21 FAMILY HISTORY ANNOUNCEMENTS Page 22 Page 22 PROPERTY Page 23 CLASSIFIED Page 22-23 CLASSIFIED Page 22 PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES Pages 24-26 Pages 24-27

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COUNCILLORS HAVE rejected a controversial scheme for almost 900 new homes in Peckham’s town centre, just 12 per cent of which would be affordable.

Southwark Council's planning committee refused Berkeley Homes’ application to build 877 new homes on the site of the Aylesham Centre on Rye Lane on Tuesday (July 15).

Campaigners from Southwark Housing and Planning Emergency (SHAPE) gathered outside the council's Tooley Street offices in protest against the development.

The decision reached by councillors will only be a symbolic one, after Berkeley Homes declared in May it would be bypassing Southwark Council’s planning committee and appealing straight to the government’s Planning Inspectorate for a decision, as it doubled down on its meagre 12 per cent offer.

The planning officer’s report recommending the refusal of the application stated that “owing to the low level of affordable housing and the uncertainty regarding the delivery of Community Land Trust homes, [the scheme] would fail to deliver sufficient public benefits to outweigh the heritage harm to the character and appearance of the Rye Lane Peckham Conservation Area.”

Community Land Trust (CLT) homes are properties where rent is indexed to local incomes. The report said the Aylesham proposals did not contain any CLT homes, therefore breaching the council’s planning laws which state they should be included in new developments subject to viability.

Commenting on the refusal of the application, Cllr Helen Dennis, Southwark Council’s Cabinet Member for New Homes and Sustainable Development, said the 12 per cent affordable housing offer did not justify the impact on the town centre.

She said the council would "fight to uphold' its target of 35 per cent affordable housing in new developments, concluding that the council did "not support the proposal from Berkeley in its current form.”

Earlier this year, Cllr Dennis said she was “very disappointed” by Berkeley’s decision to lower the affordable housing offer.

She said: “There is a huge need for more affordable homes in Southwark, with more than 4,000 households in Peckham and the nearby area on the waiting list for social housing.”

Members of Peckham Heritage, a local heritage campaign group, had previously called on councillors to oppose the redevelopment, claiming the plans put forward would “harm the historic character” of the area. The proposals would see nearly

CGI showing the effect of the development on Peckham's skyline 900 homes crammed into looming tower blocks ranging up to 20 storeys in height.

In an official objection submitted underneath the planning application, campaigners argued that the development would harm listed buildings in the low-rise town centre, which has been covered by a Conservation Area since 2011.

Conservation areas are designated by Historic England, and impose extra planning controls and considerations to protect historic buildings.

An appeal on the grounds of nondetermination can be made if a developer believes the local authority has been too slow to decide on a planning application.

A spokesperson for Berkeley Homes intimated to the Local Democracy Reporting service that the council’s ‘delay’ in approving MILLWALL EXCLUSIVE:

Issue 1745

Editor: Kevin Quinn Reporters: Issy Clarke, Evie Flynn Sports Editor: John Kelly Sports reporter: Will Scott Arts Correspondent: Michael Holland Digital Transformation Editor: Katherine Johnston Media Partnerships: Anthony Phillips Advertising: Clarry Frewin Design: Dan Martin, Ann Gravesen Finance: Em Zeki - Tel: 0779 883 3758 em@cm-media.co.uk Subscriptions/Announcements: Katie Boyd Managing & Commercial Director: Chris Mullany Managing & Editorial Director: Kevin Quinn Published weekly on a Thursday at: Community Matters Media Ltd 1 Bermondsey Square, London SE1 3UN. News and Sport: 020 7231 5258 Advertising: 020 7232 1639 News: news@southwarknews.co.uk Advertising: hello@cm-media.co.uk Printed by Iliffe Print. Tel: 01223 656500 www.iliffeprint.co.uk

Est: 1987

50p

July 10 2025

BANGURA-WILLIAMS PENSCOBURN NEW DEAL JOSH ON MILLWALL RETURN

southwarknews.co.uk

EUROPE'S LARGEST LATIN AMERICAN FESTIVAL TO RETURN TO WALWORTH

SEE PAGE 12

JAFFA DEBATE:

DETHRONED

McASH OUT, KING IN

See page 4

BERMONDSEY MUSEUM CAUGHT IN BISCUIT ROW

See page 4 EXCLUSIVE

An extraordinary week in Southwark sees election re-run within a 'divided Labour Party'

ARTISTS OF MORLEY

© Peckham Vision

SPORT SPORT Pages Pages 29-32 29-32

COUNCILLORS REJECT ‘HARMFUL’ SCHEME - BUT GOVERNMENT WILL HAVE FINAL SAY

By Issy Clarke

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

See page 9

JUNE––JULY 2025

A SERIES OF INSPIRING SHOWS Morley Gallery, 61 Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7HT

See pages

16-17 OUTGOING COUNCIL DEFENDS HOUSING RECORD

the decision was to blame for its decision to appeal to the Planning Inspectorate, stating: “After all this time, effort and money, if Berkeley is to build homes, we have no other option but to appeal for non-determination.”

The spokesperson also claimed that the agreed determination period for the application expired on January 31, 2025, adding ‘no extension has been requested by the council’.

However Cllr Dennis said the council had met “all the relevant timetables for this application and the decision to appeal against ‘non-determination’ was entirely that of Berkeley Homes. The decision by Berkeley Homes to reduce the affordable housing offer to 12% from the previously proposed 35% was the reason the council had to reconsult on the scheme this year.”

The planning proposal has ignited enormous strength of opinion, with local residents repeatedly taking to the streets in protest against what they claim is the ‘overdevelopment’ of the borough.

Peckham’s elected representatives have also waded into the debate, with local MP Miatta Fahnbulleh and Rye Lane’s Labour ward councillors calling on the developer to increase the number of affordable homes on the site.

The planning application was submitted last summer and originally contained provision for 35 per cent of the housing to be set at affordable rents, in line with the council’s planning policies.

But in December, Berkeley slashed the proportion of affordable homes to 12 per cent claiming the previous offer was ‘unviable’.

The Southwark News is proud to be the only independent, paid for newspaper in London Southwark News started life as the Bermondsey News in 1987, as an A-4 photocopied sheet of paper and rapidly grew to cover the entire borough and the surrounding area. As the borough grew, so did the newspaper.

It is owned and run by Chris Mullany and Kevin Quinn.

Former reporters for Southwark News, they bought the title in 2002, after the founder Dave Clark died suddenly from cancer four years earlier.

A dedicated team of staff work tirelessly to cover as much of what is going on as possible and strive to ensure that a community-led, independent newspaper can survive and excel in a market dominated by national and multinational media groups.

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NEWS 3

SURREY DOCKS FARM IS HOSTING ITS 50TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION ON SATURDAY

The cooking competition where the winning chef gets a residency on Brixton Village’s Market Row

By Evie Flynn SURREY DOCKS Farm in Rotherhithe are hosting a 50th birthday celebration this Saturday 19 July from 11:30 – 4:30pm, featuring an exhibition, BBQ, historical tour and a talk about the farm’s founder.

There will be a 50th exhibition that will showcase the farm’s history, community and hopes for the future.

With photos, information, stories, books and rosettes, plus lots of interactive opportunities.

For food, farm partners Vacherin are putting on a BBQ so guests can enjoy tasty food whilst walking around the exhibition and wider event. Plus they will have 50th motif on the coffee from The Barn coffee shop all day and special 50th cup cakes on sale.

The farm have also launched a 50th birthday fundraiser to raise £50,000 to support the farm and are calling on the public and local businesses to help. You can donate here: https://www.givey.com/ farm50thbirthdayfundraiser At 12pm and 3pm there will be a special ‘Secrets of the Sites History’ tour led by historian Germander Speedwell. The tour will reveal the fascinating 300-year history of the farm’s site through all the historical

Who will be the next Brixton Masterchef?

By Evie Flynn

remains around the Farm, as well as the many artefacts found on its foreshore. Spaces are limited and must be booked in advance: https://www.surreydocksfarm.org. uk/product/secrets-of-the-siteshistory/.

From 1:45-3pm there will be a talk titled ‘Hilary Peters- a Farm Founder’.

This will explore the crucial role Hilary Peters played in founding the farm and will be led by her friend Carole Britton, who has written about some of Hilary’s life.

Carole writes: “Does it take someone extraordinary, to make something extraordinary?

Something unheard of, not done before, of note, something that stirred the society here 50 years ago,

and that has continued, standing the test of time and ever changing and evolving problems in our world over the last 5 decades.”

The talk runs from 1:45-3pm in the Farm’s Tower Room.

Spaces are limited and must be booked in advance: https://www. surreydocksfarm.org.uk/product/ talk-about-hilary-peters-a-farmfounder If you can’t make the 19th July they will be putting on the exhibition again on Thursday 24th July from 5:30-7:30pm; Friday 25th July from 11:30am-4pm and Saturday 26th July from 11:30am-4pm. The exhibition will also return for our Harvest Festival on 13th September from 11am-4pm.

BRIXTON KITCHEN is a cooking competition that aims to spotlight the homegrown talent of South London and the winner will receive a six-month residency in a prime unit on Brixton Village’s Market Row.

Having previously crowned now-Michelinstarred winner Adejoké Bakare, the competition is back for 2025, and this time will be offering the public the opportunity to get involved.

WALK-IN FINAL DAYS (SATURDAY 19TH AND SATURDAY 26TH):

This year, the public are invited to come and watch the final round, where the two top chefs will be going head-to-head in a bid to be named winner.

Visitors can walk-in and enjoy a takeaway bite, taking across two Saturdays. Each finalist will own each Saturday and run a takeaway service at Brixton Village, allowing the public to taste their offerings before they blow up.

Date: Saturday 19th and Saturday 26th July, 12:30pm – 4:30pm Location: Market Row, Brixton Village, Coldharbour Lane, London, SW9 8PS Tickets: No registration or booking needed Price: Free

BALLOT TO WIN A PLACE AT THE FINALISTS’ FIRST EVER SERVICE:

Following on from their Saturday in Brixton village, the two finalists will then each host a sit-down dinner on Sunday 20th July and Sunday 27th July to host a full sit down dinner in Brixton Village’s Bottle & Rye. The charming wine bar was established by competition judge Robin Gill.

Public spaces are limited and will be allocated exclusively via ballot.

Enter the ballot here: https://mailchi.mp/ brixtonvillage/brixtonkitchen Sunday 20th and Sunday 27th July Bottle & Rye, Ground Floor, 404-406 Market Row, London, SW9 8LD Price: Free Date of ballot draw: Tuesday 15th July

4 NEWS

POLICE APPEAL AFTER BRIXTON 'SPIRITUAL HEALER' IS JAILED FOR RAPING WOMAN 'TO EXORCISE SPIRIT' Known as ‘Papa B’, he has been sentenced to nine years in prison

A “SPIRITUAL healer” known as “Papa B” who ran a shop in Brixton for over 30 years has been jailed for rape and sexual assault.

The court heard that Bernard Williams, 77, who lives on the Isle of Dogs, told the victim there was a spirit inside of her which would eventually kill her. He charged his victim over £13,000, before saying he needed to have sex with her to remove the spirits and then in January 2021 turned up in her home - where he sexually assaulted and raped her.

Detectives are now appealing to further victims to come forward, amid fears Williams’ offending was more widespread.

Detective Inspector Tom Palmer, who led the investigation, said: “Williams’ offending is shocking. He abused the trust of the victim, which was built on the respect he had gained within the community, to get close to them and commit the offences.

“I would like to commend the victim on her strength throughout the investigation and thank her for her support throughout the court processes.

“Every woman deserves to feel safe and the Met is dedicated to tackling violence against women and girls by hunting down predatory men.

“We are concerned given the number of clients ‘Papa B’ may have assisted, his position in the community for 30 years and his distinctive methods - there may be further victim-survivors who have not yet come forward.

“I would encourage anyone affected to get in contact with us if you feel able – you will be listened to and receive specialist support and guidance, not only from the police but independent charities and services.”

Williams was sentenced to nine years in prison on Friday. He was also placed on the sex offenders’ register for life.

Williams was found guilty of one count of rape and two counts of sexual assault in May following an eight-day trial.

Williams was arrested on October 21, 2021 following the report of rape and sexual assault by the victim.

The court was told that in November 2020, the victim had become unwell and was recommended a spiritual treatment and visited Williams at his shop, Original Products, in Market Row, Brixton.

Williams is said to have told the victim there was a spirit inside of her which would eventually kill her.

Over the coming months, police said Williams convinced the victim of his “healing capability”. The victim purchased a guard ring and healing bath from Williams, and her mother’s house was “cleaned of spirits” - at a cost of over £13,000.

After these measures were unsuccessful, Williams began referring to the need to have sex to remove the spirits.

On January 12, 2021, Williams turned up at the victim’s house unannounced to “anoint” her, before sexually assaulting and raping her.

The court was told that following the attack, Williams maintained contact with the victim, eventually telling her the

© Met Police

By Kevin Quinn

Original Products, in Market Row, Brixton process had not worked, and the spirit was back inside her.

Detectives now want to speak to anyone who may have bought services from Williams at his store.

The police said that Williams was seen as an elder who was widely known in the Brixton community and detectives suspect he may have abused this position to attack other women.

Survivors are encouraged to contact the police by reporting online, or by emailing NWMailbox.Sapphire@met.police.uk who will arrange contact with them.

Alternatively, they can call 0208 733 6311 (0700-2300hrs Mon-Fri) to speak with an officer.

Support for victim-survivors The 24/7 Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Line is a free phone and online chat service for anyone aged 16+ in England and Wales who has experienced something sexual that they didn’t want, didn’t consent to or are feeling confused about – no matter when or where it happened.

Specialist staff are there to listen, answer questions and offer emotional support.

They can be contacted through their website on 247sexualabusesupport.org. uk or by calling 0808 500 2222.

Guard Ring

Bernard Williams

Peckham Rye station upgrade postponed indefinitely

It is the busiest biggest interchange station in the entire country without step free access to platforms

By Evie Flynn THE UPGRADE to make Peckham Rye station fully accessible has been postponed until further notice, despite it being granted planning permission in 2023.

The Department for Transport announced this week that the congestion relief scheme planned at Peckham Rye Station has been paused during this spending review period.

This comes after the Network Rail upgrade scheme was granted permission from Southwark Council in August 2023.

According to Network Rail, Peckham Rye station is the biggest interchange station in the entire country without step free access to platforms and is not designed for the number of passengers who use it, resulting in overcrowding at peak times.

In their explanation for the delay, the Department for Transport said: “The congestion relief scheme at Peckham Rye station is being paused during this Spending Review period.

"We have had to prioritise our funding on the schemes that will make the greatest difference for passengers and economic growth as soon as possible. The scheme will be kept under review as part of our pipeline of schemes for potential progression in future as funding becomes available.”

In June 2020, Network Rail received £1 million from the Department for Transport to develop designs to ‘improve the station for passengers’.

THE PROPOSED PLANS THAT HAVE NOW BEEN PAUSED WERE AS FOLLOWS: l Provide new lifts to all platforms and

accessible toilets

l Wider platforms, larger passageways,

new lifts and staircases

l Larger gate lines and entrances l Improved integration with the

surrounding public realm, including better access into the station This is part of a larger story of delays when it comes to Peckham Rye Station, as a range of upgrades for the exterior of

A CGI of how the station would look

Peckham Rye Station Square today the station have been in the works for well over a decade.

In 2011 the Mayor of London and Southwark Council announced a £3-£5 million upgrade to create a ‘grand entrance’ at Peckham Rye Station. Permission was granted in March 2016 and work began in September 2021.

This plan also involved the demolition of the 1930s shopping arcade in Peckham Rye Station Square. However, the project is around three years behind schedule, with the arcade still standing today.

Construction company BAM Nuttal Ltd was appointed to oversee the demolition as the final phase of the restoration project.

Southwark Council have told the News that they expect to begin demolition of the arcade between the station and Rye

Lane in October, with works expected to take around 12 months.

The central arcade walkway will be closed during demolition and works, and access to the station will be maintained

throughout.

The land is Network Rail freehold, but part of the Arch Company head lease, and now on a long lease from the Arch Company to Southwark Council.

6 NEWS Advertorial

Photos by Hayley Bray Photography

‘It Takes a Village’: Why Local Support is Vital in the First Five Years

Raising a young child in London can be joyful, but it can also be exhausting, isolating, and expensive. For many families, especially those without relatives nearby or navigating life in a new country, the early years can feel overwhelming. As the African proverb tells us, ‘It takes a village to raise a child', meaning that raising a child should be a collective effort more than the responsibility of just one or two people.

The evidence is clear; a child’s first five years are crucial for brain development, emotional wellbeing, and long-term learning. It’s a window of opportunity, but one that’s hard to grasp without the right support. Research carried out by the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood found that 'our relationships, surroundings

and experiences during our first five years shape the adults we become and the society we create.'

A study by Early Education for the Early Years Coalition found seven main things that help a child grow and develop well.

These are: how they interact with others, their culture and community, the experiences

they have, being curious and active in learning, their emotional health, their physical health, and their own unique way of growing and learning.

Activities like playing, spending time outdoors, reading and writing, staying active, eating well, and helping kids with communication can all give young families a strong start.

It’s also important for parents and carers to look after their own wellbeing. Joining parent support groups or taking part in adult education classes and workshops can help.

At Coin Street’s Family and Children’s Centre, families can find the support they need to give their children the very best start in life. Our passionate team is dedicated to helping every child thrive - and every parent feel confident and empowered.

From playful sensory sessions and storytelling adventures to music, cooking, and outdoor fun, our Centre offers a wide range of free or affordable activities that nurture children’s growth and development.

Families can also benefit from friendly advice, wellbeing support, and adult learning opportunities, all in a welcoming and supportive space. Whether you're looking to connect with others, learn something new, or simply enjoy quality time with your little one, the Coin Street Family and Children’s Centre is here for you.

“We’re here to help families feel confident, connected and cared for,” says Jane Christofi, Strategic Head of the Centre.

“Our sessions are relaxed, inclusive, and designed with wellbeing in mind for both children and their grown-ups.”

There are dedicated groups for dads, for families with children with special educational needs and disabilities, and one-to-one support for those facing challenges. Whether you’re looking for a friendly place to meet other parents, or advice on routines, sleep, feeding or behaviour, there’s a door open at Coin Street.

“It feels like home,” says one

parent. “My child has made friends, and I’ve met people from all walks of life. It’s a relief to feel supported, not judged.”

Coin Street’s message is simple: every family deserves support, and every child deserves the best possible start.

Interested?

Visit https://coinstreet. org/latest/our-family-andchildrens-centre or drop into our Family and Children’s Centre, 108 Stamford Street, SE1 9NH we’d love to meet you.

Call: 020 7021 1600 Email: f.centreenquiries@ coinstreet.org @coinstreet @coinstreet

NEWS 7

By Issy Clarke TEACHERS AT a multi-academy trust with six schools in Southwark walked out on strike on Friday morning (11 July) - in what was due to be the first of four days of industrial action planned for this month.

Staff at the Charter Schools Trust were protesting against what they describe as an “unfair” maternity pay system, which a union says allegedly sees some staff members paid thousands more than their colleagues.

The strikes have affected six schools controlled by the Trust – Charter East, Charter North, Charter Bermondsey, Belham, Charles Dickens and Lyndhurst – and were scheduled for Friday 11, Tuesday 15, Wednesday 16 and Thursday 17 July.

However as the News went to press, we were informed by a spokesperson for the Charter Schools that the two remaining days of strike action planned for the 16 and 17 July had been called off, with the schools expected to open as normal.

The National Education Union, (NEU) were contacted but were not available for a comment by the time we went to press.

NEU members from Charter East Dulwich gathered outside the school gates on Dulwich Grove on Friday morning, holding a series of signs emblazoned with slogans such as: “No Trust in the Trust” and “Exec Pay Rises, Mat Pay Capsizes”.

Contracts vary across the schools depending on whether staff joined before or after they were taken over by the Trust.

This means staff employed at the same school can be on different contracts with contrasting maternity pay terms.

One teacher working at one of the Charter Schools in Southwark was allegedly paid £1,400 less in maternity pay than she would have done if she had been on a different contract at another school controlled by the Trust – the equivalent of two months’ rent.

The Trust has said it already pays staff “more than the national agreement for maternity pay – by over 30%” and claimed falling pupil rolls had left them with “no wriggle room to nearly double that commitment.” They added they had given way on three out of four of the union’s demands after several months of negotiations earlier this year.

Siobhan, 30, a maths teacher at Charter East Dulwich who is taking part in the industrial action, questioned why the school had declined the union’s request to increase maternity pay, while allegedly raising the salaries paid to some executives at the Trust.

TEACHERS AT SIX CHARTER SCHOOLS GO ON STRIKE AS TRUST SAYS FURTHER ACTION NOW 'CALLED OFF' She said: “It doesn’t make sense that we have to compromise, but they’re not willing to do the same.”

It has been claimed that last year the CEO of the Charter Schools took a pay rise of between £15-25k, placing her on £175,000 per annum, and that in the last year the number of leaders in the school earning more than £100k has also gone up from three to five. These figures were presented to the Trust and not challenged.

Another teacher at the school, Neema, 27, said: “Some people get the wrong idea and think we’re striking because we just don’t want to work. We wouldn’t be here at half seven in the morning if that was the case.

“We care about our colleagues, we care about fairness within the Trust. We’re meant to be a community, and that’s what we’re fighting for.”

Ed Harlow, the national Vice President of the NEU, said the maternity pay system was “hugely unfair”.

He told the News: “The cost of fair maternity pay is not that much. In a city which is experiencing a real crisis in pupil numbers, if teachers can’t get fair maternity pay then we’re going to continue seeing this population crisis.

Siobbhan (L) and Neema (R)

“It is difficult and expensive to have children in London these days. We’ve got a recruitment and retention crisis, and what we see with our members quite often it that they work in London and then when they want to have children and buy a house, they have to leave.”

The NEU and the Trust held negotiations earlier this year, which resulted in concessions being made on three out of four of the union’s demands. However Daniel Kebede, General Secretary of the National Education Union, said there had been a “complete intransigence” on the part of the Trust regarding maternity pay.

He said: “We at least expected the Trust to make some sort of offer for our members to consider – but so far they have not offered a single penny more.”

A spokesperson for the Charter Schools said they were “saddened” that the union had chosen to proceed with strike action.

The spokesperson said: “We have been in negotiations with the NEU for several months about four points related to union recognition, our pay policy, workload and maternity pay.

“These discussions progressed to us all getting around the table with ACAS at the end of last week. On many levels it was

Ed Harlow

a positive meeting. We are pleased that three of the four points raised by NEU are now off the table – not only because of the work done prior to the meeting, but also because we agreed to additional requests that we heard for the first time at the ACAS meeting itself.

“The one area that is still outstanding, however, is maternity pay. As a practical resolution could not be reached, we are saddened that the NEU are proceeding with strike action.

“While we value the contribution of

our staff hugely, we are one of only a few Academy Trusts who already pay our staff more than the national agreement for maternity pay – by over 30%. However, when trying to protect jobs because of the pressure of falling rolls and increased costs, we simply don’t have the wriggle room to nearly double that commitment.

“What we hope we have shown, however, is that we are listening and we have always sought to engage and try and find a resolution where one has been possible.”

Woman hospitalised after fire on the Brandon Estate

Locals were advised to 'avoid the area' as firefighters fought to contain the blaze

By Callum Smyth PART OF a block of flats on a Kennington estate went up in flames this week, gutting an 11th floor flat.

Firefighters were called just before 2pm to a reports of a fire in a block of flats on the Brandon Estate on Hillingdon Street. The blaze destroyed a flat on the 11th floor of a 17-storey building.

Three people were assessed on scene by London Ambulance Service crews and one woman was taken to hospital.

Station Commander Tony Perks, who was at the scene, said: “This was a very visible fire, and the area became increasingly busy as a result.

“People are advised to continue to avoid the area at this time, while crews damp down remaining hot spots.”

The Brigade received the first of around 70 calls at 1:55 pm and Control Officers mobilised crews from Dowgate, Dockhead, Soho, Whitechapel and surrounding fire stations to the scene. The fire was under control by 2:54.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

NEWS 9

CHAIR OF SOUTHWARK LABOUR DRAMATICALLY QUITS PARTY

EXCLUSIVE

By Issy Clarke SOUTHWARK LABOUR'S chair has sensationally quit the party and will serve as an independent, claiming an enforced re-run by Labour's high command of the "fair and transparent" leadership ballot which saw the election of left-wing councillor James McAsh should "never have happened".

In a dramatic email sent to colleagues on Saturday morning, which has been seen by the News, Kath Whittam said she could "not be convinced" that the first leadership ballot held by the party on Monday 30 June was was not "fair, transparent and legal", and hit out at unnamed colleagues "whose only aim is to gain power". While Labour has vainly attempted to draw a line under the two weeks of turmoil, the shockwaves that have ripped through the party continue to impact.

Southwark Labour held an election to appoint a new leader on June 30, which resulted in the election of McAsh in a closely-fought contest and saw him narrowly defeat Cllr Sarah King. A final round ended in a draw, but McAsh went through on first preference votes.

However, the election was subsequently called in and overturned by the central party, after concerns were raised about the use of two proxy votes in the election. One of the voices expressing concern was Bermondsey MP Neil Coyle, who has clashed with the left of his party in the past. He admitted McAsh, who has previously had support from the leftwing Labour faction Momentum, was not his first choice of leader but insisted he was only trying to ensure proper process was followed.

Despite the central party ruling that proxy voting was forbidden under the group's rules, yesterday we exclusively revealed that the two councillors who voted by proxy - who have since been identified as Cllrs Ketzia Harper and Laura Johnson - appear to have been told it was "fine" for them to do so by Southwark Labour's Chief Whip. It is understood that both had voted in favour of McAsh. The News has since seen an email sent to Harper by Labour Group Chief Whip Maggie Browning apparently granting Harper's request to nominate a colleague to vote on her behalf.

Responding to Harper's email request sent on June 23, several days ahead of the first election, Browning appears to have said it was "fine" for Harper to nominate a proxy to vote in her absence, which she requested because she had plans to be out of the country on the day of the election.

Laura Johnson is also thought to have received confirmation by email from the Chief Whip granting her a proxy vote.

In an email circulated to the Labour Group by Harper and Johnson and which has been exclusively seen by the News, the two councillors said that proxy voting was "well established within the Labour Group" and claimed both would have cast votes in person had they known their proxies would retrospectively be declared invalid by the central party.

At a meeting of Southwark Labour's Group Executive called in early June to draw up the timeline for the contest, proxy votes were set out as permitted in the process.

In a sign of a collapse of discipline within the party, the Harper Johnson, stood up in a meeting of the full council held last Wednesday alongside Cllr Sam Foster to vote against the confirmation of Sarah King as the next leader of the

Claiming she "cannot accept" decision to force a re-run of local leadership election

Cllr Kath Whittam, former Labour chair

Cllr Sarah King

Cllr Victor Chamberlain

council. Whittam, along with at least six other Labour councillors including James McAsh, did not attend the meeting.

The subsequent invalidation of the two proxy votes is thought to be the result of an ambiguity in the Standing Orders - a document drawn up by Southwark Labour's councillors regulating their own conduct. The document sets out the rules governing the use of proxies in AGMs - annual general meetings scheduled months in advance, around which councillors are expected to plan their holidays and other work commitments.

The rules state that proxies can only be used in 'exceptional circumstances' such as parental and carer responsibilities and serious illness "as determined by the Chief Whip and Group officer".

Harper and Johnson appear to have only obtained permission from the Chief Whip.

No explicit mention is made of the validity of proxy votes in EGMs. This is because councillors, many of whom have full-time jobs and carer responsibilities alongside their political commitments, are not generally expected to attend each meeting of the Labour group. In the past, similar issues regarding the use of proxies have not arisen because leader elections are usually held during AGMs. However, the sudden nature of Kieron Williams' resignation meant the contest for his successor was scheduled for an EGM. Despite the lack of explicit guidance in the rules setting out the correct procedure governing the use of proxy votes in EGMs, in a meeting of Southwark Labour's Group Executive in early June to draw up the timeline for the contest,

Cllr Ketzia Harper

it was decided that proxies would be permitted.

In the email circulated to colleagues by the two councillors, Johnson and Harper stated: "To be clear, if the interpretation of the Standing Orders adopted after the election had been stated at the beginning of the process, we would still have been able to cast our votes."

In an allegation likely further to fuel allegations by McAsh's supporters relating to the integrity of the central party's decision subsequently to raise questions around the permissibility of proxy votes, the two councillors claimed that proxy voting was "well established" in the Labour Group and pointed out that it was "an important way to ensure inclusion in some of our most important democratic choices. Disproportionately, those who lose out from a lack of proxy voting are women," they said in the email.

"Critically, reasons for these votes, and as far as possible the individuals, are kept anonymous. This intervention by region has undermined that, and exposed us, the two women who voted by proxy, to rumour and conjecture," they continued.

Setting out the reasons behind their absences, the two councillors claimed in the email sent to colleagues: "Laura asked for a proxy vote as she had to be at the airport at 5.30am the following morning to depart on a family holiday that was booked in February. Had she not been told throughout the preceding month that she could have a proxy vote, she would have attended the meeting in person, albeit at significant financial cost to herself.

"Ketzia is managing long term sickness.

As she receives no council support

Cllr James McAsh for this condition, she has sometimes chosen to avoid the stigma attached to sharing details of it. Had she been told the rules for proxy voting in advance rather than retrospectively, she would have had a valid proxy vote due to her illhealth. Ironically, this would have meant disclosing confidential details to a small number of people, rather than being put in a position of feeling obliged to share them more widely."

Re-iterating James McAsh's insistence on Wednesday night in an email sent to colleagues and leaked to the News, the councillors stated that "All of Group believed the election was run fairly and transparently", and finished by casting doubt over the validity of the online run-off vote held on Monday which saw Sarah King ushered in as the group's next leader.

"For this reason, it is important that this new election brings forward the same result as the one in which we all participated in good faith last Monday. " An online run-off was scheduled for the following Monday (July 7) which resulted in Sarah King, who would have won the first round had the two proxies not been taken into account, winning the leadership by two votes. The regional party has declined to explain why it insisted on an online vote, with McAsh telling colleagues both he and King had had requests for election monitors declined.

Whittam, who has admitted McAsh was not her first preference as leader, said in the email circulated on Saturday (July 12) she 'could not stomach' the central party's decision to overturn the vote. She said: "There comes a time in everyone's life when there is something

that we cannot accept, cannot be quiet about, cannot stomach.

"I've reached that point. No one will ever convince me that the result of the first ballot was not fair, transparent and legal. What followed was an unedified debacle which should never have happened."

Outlining her decision to resign from the party after more than "40 years of unwavering Labour Party membership" the ward councillor for Rotherhithe likened herself to a 'momma bear' who had been 'shot in the head', continuing: "I have decided that when you shoot momma bear in the head there is nothing left to fight for and all our hopes are lost.

"I'm sorry to those who were true to the first vote and Evelyn, Jasmine, Vikki and Susanne you are true democrats and deserve a lot of credit. I'm not sorry to be leaving behind people whose only aim is to gain power. I do not like you because you only look after yourselves."

Cllrs Evelyn Akoto, Jasmine Ali, Victoria Mills, Susanne Abachor and Stephanie Cryan submitted nominations to become the next leader of Southwark Labour in the first ballot held on Monday 30. It is understood that the four councillors chose not to stand in the run off vote. with only King choosing to run again.

Whittam closed the email by declaring her intention to stand as an independent councillor, noting that she had "better things to do with my life than get stressed and angry (like never before) with people who I used to call friends."

Liberal Democrat opposition leader Cllr Victor Chamberlain slammed the events of the past week during the full council meeting, stating: “It’s remarkable Mr Mayor and quite frankly embarrassing that Cllr King is the third Labour leader in a week, that this administration has held two leadership elections in seven days seemingly at the behest of Bermondsey MP, Neil Coyle. “It shows how divided and disorganised this Labour group has become even tonight, [three] of your members didn’t vote for the new leader. Residents don’t want this soap opera, they want leadership.”

King won by a majority of two votes in the second ballot held on Monday 7 July.

However McAsh has intimated that the online voting system used in the run-off election was no more robust than the inperson vote on Monday 30, and stated that there was "no evidence" that the votes cast by councillors were the same as the result issued the next day.

Many will now be waiting to see what next week will bring as Southwark Labour Party and its new leader Sarah King grapple with the fallout. Key questions remain - not least why an online system was chosen, whether it is correct as McAsh alleges that both he and King asked for election monitors but were denied this, and whether McAsh will look to challenge this latest decision.

While there is real disquiet in the Labour group over the lack of transparency in the online vote, key players have also so far opted not to shed any light on the proceedings.

Chief Whip Maggie Browning has not responded to requests for comment, while Sarah King told the News at Full Council that she also did not wish to make a statement.

In addition, the regional Labour party has also refused to comment - while in what looks like a concerted effort to close the door on the debacle, MP Coyle this week described a process that created two weeks of utter chaos and a divided Southwark Labour group as just an 'administrative hiccup'.

It remains to be seen whether the hiccup proves to be something more serious.

Kath Whittam declined to comment.

10 NEWS

TWO TOWERS BY MILLWALL'S STADIUM GIVEN GO-AHEAD Local Democracy Reporter PLANS TO build a student accommodation complex along with 79 new homes in Bermondsey have been approved by a Southwark Council.

Southwark Council’s Planning Committee gave the Ilderton Wharf development in South Bermondsey the green light following a meeting last Wednesday week (July 2).

The development would be right beside Millwall Football Stadium, which will in time undergoing change as part of a continuing plan to regenerate the area by the ground.

Fifth State’s plans will see the demolition of the existing buildings, located at 1-7 Rollins Street, to make way for a 477-bedroom purpose-built student accommodation development and an ‘affordable’ housing block which will be located next door.

Of the 79 affordable homes, 58 will be social rented homes while 21 are set to be shared ownership intermediate homes. The affordable housing block will be part 10 and part 13 storeys.

The student halls will be located in a part 23 and part 27-storey tower and will consist of 363 studios, 24 wheelchair accessible rooms and 45 ‘twodios’ – which are made up of two

© Southwark Coouncil documents

There will nearly 500 student rooms and 58 socially rented homes

By Ruby Gregory

The student tower block (pictured) is part 23 and part 27 storeys The plans were approved by Southwark councillors on July 2

London's top 20 crime hotspots named and will get police boost

Vauxhall City Farm heads north for farm day event

l Shoreditch Town Centre l Silver Street l Stratford

l Walthamstow l West End

l Whitechapel

By Evie Flynn ELEPHANT AND Castle has been named by the Met Police as one of the top 20 town centres experiencing the biggest challenge with anti-social behaviour, theft and street crime.

The named streets and communities will see an enhanced police presence this summer to reduce theft, burglary, robbery, ASB and retail crime in the capital.

Over the summer months, London welcomes five million additional visitors during peak tourist season so crime rates typically increase.

ELEPHANT AND CASTLE HAS BEEN NAMED AS A ‘TIER 1’ HOTSPOT, ALONGSIDE THE FOLLOW LOCATIONS: l Barking Town Centre l Brixton Town Centre l Camden

l Catford – Lewisham High Street l Croydon Town Centre l Ealing Town Centre

l Elephant and Castle l Finsbury Park

l Woolwich Town Centre l Ilford Town Centre

l Kingston Town Centre l Romford Town Centre l Seven Sisters

l Shepherds Bush Green

These top 20 locations make up a small percentage of London overall but account for almost 10 per cent of knife crime, 24 per cent of theft from the person offences and 6 per cent of all ASB calls.

The hotspot areas can expect to see increased police patrols, plainclothed operations and officers will target wanted and prolific offenders seeking long sentences and Criminal Behaviour Orders.

This also forms part of the Home Office’s national Safer Streets Summer Initiative running from 30 June until the end of September 2025, which will see officers in London focusing on reducing town centre criminality including shop theft, street crime and anti-social behaviour.

Deputy Commissioner for the Metropolitan Police, Matt Jukes, said: “We’re arresting 1,000 more criminals each month, neighbourhood crime is down 19 per cent and we’ve solved 163 per cent more shoplifting cases this year.

“In 32 of the hardest hit areas, we’re working with the community, councils, businesses and partners, to focus our resources and bear down on prolific offenders and gangs who blight too many neighbourhoods across the capital.”

bedrooms with a shared kitchen and bathroom.

Within the student halls, there will also be a gym, study area, studio space, screening room and WCs, as well as a games room and private dining area.

The development will also see a café on the ground floor and a pharmacy has been proposed.

Existing industrial buildings on the site are set to be demolished, and will be reprovided in a part 1, part 2 and part 4-storey building with an affordable workspace.

A total of £162,565 will go towards the delivery of a new public open space off-site, as well as the provision of an on-site open space measuring 830sqm.

Alex Springer, founder of Fifth State, told the committee: “Due to our extensive consultation, we are proud that our planning application has received multiple letters of support and zero objections.

“We are grateful to have received support from both Ilderton Primary School and Bonomy and Bramcote TRA [Tenants and Residents Association].”

At the end of the meeting, the committee unanimously voted to approve the plans, meaning the development will go ahead.

By Abigail Finney VAUXHALL CITY Farm will be heading to the heart of Covent Garden this month for an afternoon of animal cuddles, animal themed cocktails, and educational workshops.

Vauxhall City Farm is an education charity that ensures that even people born and raised in the city are able to have experiences with animals.

The farm is making its way across the river on Monday, July 28.

You won’t even need to leave city limits

to get a break from city life. Enjoy petting goats, sheep and alpacas, and have snuggles in the Cuddle Corner with rabbits and guinea pigs.

The event features more than just animals, as you can also make instruments from vegetables, get your face painted and relax during story time sessions.

While the event is free, a donation to go towards the charity is encouraged and some activities have an added fee.

Vauxhall City Farm’s alpacas, Rolo, Toffee and Cookie are scared of dogs, so it’s best to leave your pup at home for this family event.

Date: Monday, July 28 Time: 12pm – 5pm Address: Actors Church, Bedford Street, WC2E 9ED Booking: https://www. vauxhallcityfarm.org/events/familyfarm-day-in-covent-garden/

Police appeal after four in hospital following stabbing

By Kevin Quinn POLICE ARE appealing for information after a late afternoon stabbing took place on a busy Camberwell street last week.

Four people were taken to hospital with injuries and three later arrested after the incident at the junction of Denmark Hill and Camberwell New Road just before 4pm on Thursday (July 10).

None of the four taken by ambulance crews to hospital are believed to have life

threatening injuries, with three of them arrested by police shortly after being assessed.

Bus routes were on diversion and a crime scene remain closed off part of the road while officers undertook their enquiries.

They are now appeal for witnesses or anyone with information to call 101 with the reference 5446/10Jul. You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.

NEWS 11

Partnership

Rosemead Preparatory School and Nursery wins Independent Prep School of the Year at Tes Schools Awards 2025

Rosemead Preparatory School and Nursery, Dulwich, is proud to announce that it has been named Independent Prep School of the Year at the Tes Schools Awards 2025.

The prestigious awards, often referred to as the Oscars of education, celebrate the most outstanding schools and teachers across the UK’s state and independent sectors, recognising excellence from early years through to secondary education.

The glittering awards ceremony took place on Friday 20 June at the Grosvenor Hotel, Park Lane, London, where Rosemead was honoured alongside other exceptional schools and educators.

Speaking about the accolade, Head, Graeme McCafferty, said: ‘We are absolutely thrilled to have won this national award. It is a moment of immense pride for our entire community – staff, pupils and families alike.

‘At Rosemead, we adopt a child-centred approach, ensuring every child is truly known and celebrated. By recognising and nurturing individual strengths and talents, we enable every child to flourish and excel.

This award is testament to the dedication, passion and care of our brilliant staff team and the spirit of our children.’

Graeme continued: ‘This recognition strengthens our commitment to providing a nurturing and inspiring environment where children grow, learn, and thrive.

We will continue to champion the achievements, talents and aspirations of every pupil in our care.’

The judging panel, made up of leading figures from across the education sector, praised Rosemead for its personalised approach, vibrant community and holistic educational offering.

In February 2023, Rosemead joined the St Dunstan’s Education Group, a move that

has helped strengthen the school’s vision and strategic development.

Nick Hewlett, CEO of the Group, said: ‘This is a phenomenal achievement for Rosemead and richly deserved. The school has been on an extraordinary journey, and I pay huge tribute to Graeme and the leadership team who have transformed this school. It has been a joy to welcome Rosemead into the Group. The Good Schools Guide was absolutely right to call Rosemead the “one to watch” in south London – and now the Tes Schools Awards have confirmed it.’

This latest recognition builds on a series of recent successes. In the last academic year, Rosemead won two prestigious awards – for Excellence and Innovation in Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at the Independent Schools Association (ISA) Awards, and Best EDIB (Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging) at the Education Choices Awards 2024.

every pupil’s academic progress.’

Rosemead was also one of the first prep schools in the country to receive a significant strength in its most recent ISI inspection, which commended the school for its ‘highly customised approach to

Find out more about Rosemead’s award-winning education at their upcoming open morning on Saturday 4 October 2025.

Book at www.rosemeadprep.org.uk

Following the win at the Tes Schools Awards, Rosemead was also shortlisted for Independent School of the Year for Diversity, Equality, Inclusion and Justice (DEIJ) at Independent Schools of the Year Awards. Winners are announced later this year.

12 NEWS

The Walworth Society planning musical celebration in honour of St. Peter’s Church turning 200

By Abigail Finney THE WALWORTH Society is planning an event that will use music to tell the history of the area, in honour of St. Peter’s Church turning 200.

The event on Friday July 18 at the church is set to include music performed by local musicians from an array of time periods that will transport the audience through the eras of the area.

The church was built between 1823–25 and was the first church designed by Sir John Soane, in the wave of the church-building that followed the Napoleonic wars.

It was recently awarded £438,000

by The National Heritage Lottery Fund and part of this project will see a renovation of the Crypt to enhance and expand its use.

While the event is free, it is a fundraiser with a goal of raising £1,000 to help with the restoration work planned for the church on Liverpool Grove, off the Walworth Road, so there is a recommended £5

ANGELA RIPPON OFFICIALLY RECOGNISED AS THE DANCING QUEEN

entry fee.

Songs at the event include: Organ music composed by GF Handel, played at the procession and consecration of St Peter's Church in 1825.

Songs from local Victorian music halls including "Good night Mr. Brown! I'm Out!" by Charles Collins and "King of the Elephant and Castle"

by Barry Ono. As the finale, the audience will be asked to singalong, as it heads to the Music Hall to "Don't Dilly Dally" by Charles Collins.

Date: Friday, July 18 Time: 7:00pm Location: St Peter's Church, Walworth, Liverpool Grove London SE17 2HH Price: Free with donation encouraged

Booking: https://www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/walworth-history-throughsong-st-peters-church-is-200tickets-1422033062169

By Lily Erwood STRICTLY FAVOURITE Angela Rippon CBE has been recognised

by Morley College London for her advocacy of encouraging more people to dance through campaigns such as Let’s Dance and Silver Swans.

At their annual awards ceremony, the 80-year-old broadcaster was presented with the ‘Inspire Ambition Award’ for her initiatives, which have motivated millions to take up classes, ranging from the ages of two up to 93.

Angela said she was enormously honoured to receive the award. "I have a passion for dance and I've been very fortunate to have been able to combine my passion with my profession, and use my platform to persuade more people to dance."

Her most recent campaign Let’s Dance was kickstarted off the back of her success on the 2023 series of Strictly Come Dancing.

“After I took part in Strictly and had such an extraordinary reaction from the public, I wanted to use that reaction.” she told us.

Calling upon all of the dance teachers and organisations she has been involved with over the years for the national

‘London Black’ Nitro Porter dubbed 'Bermondsey's answer to Guinness' voted UK’s No. 1 beer of 2025

By Abigail Finney

ANSPACH & Hobday, a Bermondseybased independent craft brewer, has had its London Black hvoted the No. 1 British Beer of 2025 in the Top 50 UK Beer Awards.

Last year, Anspach & Hobday’s ‘London Black’ was fifth place, but the pour described as “a creamy, smooth, and sessionable nitro porter” climbed to the top of the ranks.

Some punters have previously dubbed it Bermondsey's answer to Guinness as Anspach & Hobday are based on the Bermondsey Beer Mile.

"The whole team is incredibly proud and grateful for this award,” Paul Anspach, co-founder of Anspach & Hobday brewery said. “London Black is the lifeblood of Anspach & Hobday, and is a distillation of who we are as a brewery and a business.

"As our contribution to London's rich and diverse brewing scene, we are proud to be reaffirming Porter as the original beer of London.”

Now in its second year, The Top 50 UK Beer Awards, celebrates the best-selling, best made and most influential beers currently available in the UK, organised and curated by beer experts We Are Beer, who also run the annual London Craft

Beer Festival.

Reflecting recent trends and the changing habits of what Brits like to drink at the pub, there has been a continued old school cask resurgence, with high quality cask beer at the forefront - three of which made the top 10 - Landlord (No. 2), Five Points Best (No. 5) and St Austell Proper Job (No. 7).

Fruit beers are also proving to be popular amongst beer drinkers, especially young drinkers. Blurring the lines between beers and other drinks, the likes of Jubel Peach (No. 15) and Vault City Triple Fruited Mango (No. 10) appear high in the Top 50.

campaign, Angela wanted to bring to light the health benefits of dance, rather than just seeing it solely as entertainment.

The Let’s Dance campaign now has the endorsement of the NHS, which officially recognises dance as a valid form of exercise.

Morley College, home to many ‘lifelong learners’ across the arts, acknowledges Angela’s instrumental progress in defying age stereotypes.

Appearing on Strictly Come Dancing aged 79, the former newsreader was the oldest contestant to have taken part in the programme.

On why it is important to challenge age stereotypes, she said - “because it is just that – an age stereotype. I say, die young as late as possible”, she added.

“Just have an attitude which says, ‘my age is just letters written on a piece of paper called a certificate saying I was born in this year, therefore my age is that’, if I’m here I’m here, heck, age doesn’t matter.”

This is the ethos behind adult education centre, Morley College, which boasts a range of dance classes from beginners upwards, from ballet to belly dancing.

The initiative has also managed to receive the endorsement of the NHS, which now officially recognises dancing

as a valid form of exercise.

“I realised that I had to get over this barrier of people just thinking of dance as an entertainment, which it is, but it is also one of the best forms of exercise that you can possibly do.” she said.

Whilst the Let’s Dance campaign aims to get people of all ages dancing, with the first national dance day having taken place in March earlier this year, the research behind the campaign highlights the health benefits for people particularly over 65.

The Sport+ Recreation Alliance report that dance and movement save the healthcare system £39 million annually through reducing around 1034 hip fractures each year. This is because of its benefits for strength, coordination, and balance, all of which reduce the likelihood of falls. Falls are a leading cause of injury for those over 65.

Let's Dance also estimates that regular dance activity results in 2.7 million fewer GP visits each year, by reducing health risks such as type 2 diabetes and dementia.

"If you want to be fit and healthy, and have fun whilst you're doing it, get yourself to a dance class!" Angela added. https://www.morleycollege.ac.uk/

Lambeth Bridge will be closed periodically this year.

Credit: TfL

14 NEWS

Water gushed down Ilderton Road after mains pipe burst overnight – with ‘fears roads could collapse’ © Michele Lisa via Facebook

Tulsemere Road, West Dulwich LTN

© Southwark Council

© Artur Lencki via Facebook

Residents were evacuated, with water restored now to most

By Issy Clarke DOZENS OF Bermondsey residents were evacuated from their homes after waking up on Tuesday 15 July to find water gushing through the streets due a burst mains pipe on Ilderton Road.

The flooding had been brought under control by midday, but the roads remain badly waterlogged - with fears they could be at risk of collapse.

Twenty seven people were evacuated from their homes by the Fire Brigade, which was first called about the burst mains pipe just after 4am.

Thousands more people across South London were left with low or no water pressure.

According to the latest update on the Thames Water website, water supply has now been restored to most households. Its teams are continuing to

The scene on Ablett Street

A cleanup effort is now underway work on repairing the burst water pipe on Ilderton Road.

Traffic in the area was also affected, with motorists advised to avoid surrounding roads.

Ilderton Road Primary School was closed, with part of the back of the school believed to have been damaged by the flooding.

Southwark Council teams were on-

site all day working with Thames Water, police, London Fire Brigade and others on the clear-up and recovery and have been door-knocking to check on vulnerable residents, managing traffic in the area, distributing water and sandbags and clearing up damaged roads.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "Firefighters responded to reports

of flooding caused by a burst water pipe on Ilderton Road, Bermondsey.

"Crews evacuated around 27 people from the immediate area as a precaution and worked to support Thames Water as they responded to the burst pipe.

"The Brigade was first called about the incident at 0413, and crews from New Cross, Deptford, Bethnal Green and surrounding fire stations were sent

What's On 2025

Box office 020 8463 0100 • blackheathhalls.com •

Spooky Men's Chorale Fri 5 Sep

Tue 23 Sep, Thu 25 Sep

to the scene. Firefighters remained on scene until 0751, when the scene was left with Thames Water."

This paper received an email over the weekend regarding a leak last week from a burst pipe on Galleywall Road.

When we asked Thames Water if this was connected to the burst mains pipe on Ilderton Road, we were told the new incidents were unrelated.

graham

Fri 24 Oct

Lady Maisery Sat 18 Oct

Sat 18 - Sun 19 Oct

Sat 27 Sep, Sun 28 Sep

Ashley Campbell Sat 1 Mar, 7.30pm Sat 8 Nov

NEWS 15

© WDAG (

© Colin Wing

© Diana Jarvis via London Gardens Trust

LAMBETH COUNCIL BEGINS REFUNDING £1 MILLION IN PCNS FROM ‘UNLAWFUL’ WEST DULWICH LTN

Tulsemere Road, West Dulwich LTN

By Issy Clarke LAMBETH COUNCIL has started refunding motorists ‘more than £1 million’ in wrongful penalty charge notices (PCNs) it earned from the West Dulwich LTN, which was overturned by a judge in May.

Despite earlier suggestions it could seek to challenge the ruling, Lambeth Council has now taken down the signage and traffic cameras and created an online form where motorists can apply for a refund for PCNs issued in relation to the scheme.

Motorists are believed to have been charged £1,080,580 in fines since the introduction of the traffic monitoring

cameras in February 2024.

The LTN, which Lambeth Council describes as the West Dulwich Street Improvements Scheme, was introduced in September 2024.

Angry residents took Lambeth to court this year claiming their concerns about the scheme had been ignored during consultation.

Central to the hearing was a 53-page dossier compiled by the group which contained several concerns about the LTN, including that it would worsen air pollution, displace traffic onto boundary roads and make surrounding residential streets dangerous for children.

The judgement, handed down on

May 9, ruled in favour of the West Dulwich Action Group (WDAG) on the grounds that the council had failed to consider concerns raised by residents before implementing the LTN between Rosendale and Norwood Road.

LTNs prevent vehicular traffic from entering, passing through or waiting within an area by using boards or traffic signs, and can see motorists slapped with fines of up to £130. Some – such as the LTN in Dulwich Village – are only in force at specific times of the day. Others, such as the West Dulwich scheme, were in constant operation.

The council was ordered to scrap the LTN, as well as pay West Dulwich Action Group (WDAG), the group of

Brockwell Lido named as the loveliest outdoor pool in the UK

By Evie Flynn

BROCKWELL LIDO in Herne Hill has be named as the loveliest lido in the UK and the most tagged on Instagram, praised for its grade II listed cafe, summer events and sunbathing lawns.

July marks the busiest month for lido searches online and The AA have analysed 164 lidos in the UK to compile a list of the UK’s favourites, coined ‘The Lido League’.

Taking the number one spot is Brockwell Lido, with a score of 82.97 out of 100.

This took into account the average monthly Google search volumes, average Google review scores, Instagram tags, entry and parking fees, as well as the average maximum temperature and hours of summer sunlight at each location.

Brockwell Lido has been praised by reviewers for its spacious sunbathing

lawns, Grade II listed cafe with healthy snacks and smoothies and frequent sunbathing events.

Following closely in second is Tooting Bec Lido, scoring 76.41 out of 100. Built in 1906, Tooting Bec Lido is the UK’s largest freshwater open-air pool at 91 metres long, charming visitors with its sheer size and strong community vibe.

For Brockwell Lido, adult tickets cost £9.50 and children tickets or £6.00 for children, concessions, and over-65s.

residents which brought the challenge, £35,000 towards their legal fees.

The council previously suggested it could seek to challenge the outcome, stating it was “carefully considering the implications” of the court’s judgement.

However High Court Judge Tim Smith subsequently ordered the effect of his ruling was to require the scheme’s removal.

Cllr Rezina Chowdhury, Deputy Leader of Lambeth Council and Cabinet Member for Sustainable Lambeth and Clean Air, said: “The council has delivered an ambitious and successful programme across Lambeth to make our neighbourhoods more pleasant, and roads safer, more vibrant, green

and accessible.

“We remain fully committed to working with local communities to transform streets across the borough and getting on with our programme to deliver benefits for everyone.”

More positive news for those in favour of low-traffic schemes could be found in a study published last week, which revealed LTNs helped cut injuries and deaths by more than a third.

The study, based on the analysis of 113 LTNs in London and other roads which did not have them, revealed the areas where low-traffic schemes were in effect were associated with a 35 per cent reduction in all injuries, and 37 per cent fewer deaths and serious injuries.

16 NEWS

WHERE DOES WALWORTH ROAD’S FUTURE NOW LIE?

By Emily Buckley Bunn HOME TO a growing number of fast-food takeaways and vacant shop fronts; afflicted by rising crime, and some of the highest incidences of sexual assault, anti-social behaviour and theft in Southwark - is the once-great Walworth Road doomed to decline? Or does the area have a different story to tell?

This once popular shopping destination is at a crossroads

© Get Living

If a well-used Marks and Spencer or Waitrose is a surefire indicator of whether a postcode is on the up or heading down, the closure of Walworth Road’s M&S marked a turning point in the area’s history. The store had been open since 1913 but, over a century later, finally succumbed to the declining fortunes of Britain’s high streets.

Home to around 45,000 people, and one of the most deprived neighbourhoods in Southwark, Walworth Road’s problems are well documented.

Once a pleasant country neighbourhood lined with elegant Georgian terraces and ‘famous for its peaches and gardens’, the Walworth Road developed into a popular shopping destination during the 19th century, as people converted their front gardens into shops and the trend for shopping grew.

As the south of the river became better connected to central London, Walworth was transformed into an inner-city suburb with a growing working-class population and bustling high street.

The shopping-mania continued in the early 20th Century with a rise in early chain stores and banks. Walworth Road survived relatively undamaged by the Blitz and remained a popular high street destination amidst the mass redevelopment of surrounding areas such as Elephant and Castle and Burgess Park.

But M&S was only the latest in a long line of closures. Over the last few decades, many independent, wellloved family-run institutions from record store A1 to Walworth Surplus Stores have shut up shop on the milelong stretch, increasingly replaced by takeaway fast-food outlets.

As we reported last year, the post office is now a Popeye’s fried chicken restaurant and Barclays morphed into a German Doner Kebab takeaway, while pubs lost to the mists of time include Globe, the Duke of Clarence, Giraffe, and the Station Tavern; all converted into - or replaced by - flats.

What’s more, around 20 premises are currently vacant, and many shops have their shutters down for at least some of the day, while residents complain of persistent problems with rubbish and anti-social behaviour.

In September 2024, the Walworth Society held a public meeting on the future of Walworth Road. The meeting had been sparked by the publication of Southwark Council’s 'Elephant and castle and Walworth Road Town Centre Action Plan'.

With the upcoming completion of the new Elephant Town centre due to open in 2026, which will introduce new shops, restaurants, entertainment and cultural spaces, the Council’s plan emphasises the importance of ensuring that businesses and residents along the Walworth Road benefit from the changes.

However, residents expressed concern over a huge range of issues already afflicting Walworth Road, some of which have been going on for years, from rising incidents of theft and sexual

assault, to concerns over accessibility and road safety.

One thing’s certain – there’s no quick fix.

A key theme that cropped up again and again was how the look and feel of the area was putting off potential visitors and negatively impacting local businesses. “We need to stop the rot”, said one attendee at the meeting.

And, while there are nearly 30 hair and beauty shops and over 30 food places, including over eight fast food chicken shops: “We don’t have a sports venue, or a cinema, or a music venue or even a bookshop,” said another. “Make Walworth a cultural hub and it will be a destination to come to.”

Jeremy Leach, who chairs Walworth Society, believes that Walworth Road is now at a crossroads, and could go either way. With the new, regenerated ‘Elephant Town Centre’ due to open in 2026, will Walworth Road have a renaissance? Or will it feel even more

unloved? Will the new Elephant draw people away? Or bring more people back to Walworth?

On a sunny afternoon last month, we asked passersby along the Walworth Road what they thought. While some lamented the changes, others saw a positive future.

“I think it’s disgusting, how it’s changed”, said Siobhan, who is in her 70s. “It’s all take-aways and no clothes shops.”

Julie, another resident who has lived in the area for 31 years, said: “All our nice shops that we had along the road and banks have gone”, while another resident simply put it: “Walworth has become a place to travel through, not a destination in itself.”

Luke, 31, who has lived in the area for 13 years, saw a more negative future for Walworth Road as a result of the redevelopment: “There’s going to be a lot more high up buildings coming.

Loads of unaffordable housing that

is pushing all the locals further and further away that’s definitely to come.

“More small businesses getting kicked out and shut down. So basically, all the little people getting pushed away, making room for all the stuff that no-one wants, really.

“In the future I’d like to see lots more affordable housing. Lots more locals being able to afford to actually live in the area and more things like community centres and things for youth and young people because there’s none of that nowadays.”

Some people welcome the direction the area to the north of the road is going in and see the redevelopment in the area as positive, anticipating that it will spread down the Walworth Road.

The reopening of Walworth Town Hall, gutted by fire in 2013, has been a landmark moment.

Linda, 48, who has been frequently coming to stay in the Elephant area for the past two years, said: “There’s a

really positive development in this area going on right now.

“In the next few years, I think the area will become more trendy" Reese, who has lived in the area for over ten years, thinks it has been “change for the better I think because now we’ve got really lovely restaurants and the communal space with the park for the children. On a summer's day, it’s lovely.”

Aisha, 15, who has grown up in the area, said: “I think over the years, it’s become really, really nice. It’s a really nice place to live in.”

She added: “I think there will be way more new shops and new houses and get more tourist-y, which will definitely be a good thing.”

Over the years, Southwark Council has made several attempts to address the issues faced by Walworth Road, from traffic management, to improving the mix of shops and services, to tackling crime and anti-social behaviour.

NEWS 17 © Emily Buckley Bunn

© Lianne Leung

Shuttered shops

The new Popeyes Fast Food Chicken Restaurant

Between 2021 and 2024, the area saw a 160% rise in total recorded offences, including a 330% rise in theft offences.

East Street Market

As early as 1981, the council produced a 10-year plan for Walworth road to improve shopping facilities, reduce traffic, protect existing industries and jobs, preserve the character of the area and improving the housing environment.

It said that problems faced by Walworth Road resulted from it having conflicting roles as both a traffic route and a shopping street. The plan also raised concerns over shops being sold off to non-retail uses and said, “the council believes this should not become too dominant.”

The Walworth Road Project 2007, intended to improve the accessibility of the street and widen pavements and the 2016 What Walworth Wants project, focussed on supporting businesses on and rejuvenating East Street market and other areas around Walworth including the Old Kent Road.

At the meeting last September, we heard the same opinion again and

again - claims that local people had contributed to all these plans but seen little progress. While projects like introducing bookable loading bays for deliveries have been successful, other problems are much harder to fix.

Data shows North Walworth (which covers the majority of the Walworth Road) has the third highest crime figures in Southwark, ranking top for public order and second for sexual offences, drug possession and possession of weapons between January 2021 and June 2025.

What’s more, between 2021 and 2024, the area saw a 160% rise in total recorded offences, including a 330% rise in theft offences.

Complaints of poor street lighting along the Walworth Road have contributed to women and girls feeling increasingly concerned for their safety. Despite council efforts to address women and girls’ safety through consultations in 2021 and

2023, the area saw a 225% rise in sexual offences between 2021 and 2024.

This week the Met Police announced they are having a summer crackdown on crime, with Elephant and Castle being a prime target of police efforts.

Mark Webb, who is Chair of The Southwark Neighbourhood Watch Association, says he spent £3,000 of his own money buying personal safety alarms he donated to women and girls in Camberwell and Walworth. “It's become open season on women and girls in Southwark,” he told us.

There are also ongoing concerns about high levels of road traffic and pollution, with fourteen bus stops and eight bus routes along the road.

Despite the somewhat controversial introduction of Walworth as a Low Emission Neighbourhood in 2020, Walworth Road remains an air quality focus area in Southwark’s Air Quality Action plan 2023-2027, as one of the most polluted roads in Southwark.

Every resident we spoke to agreed more police are needed and the authorities must crack down on crime, and the town centre plan has outlined ways it will do this, such as through working with businesses to deliver training to help prevent violence against women and girls, 24/7 monitoring of CCTV, increased warden visibility and working with young people at risk of crime.

But when it comes to what Walworth's identity is now - and in the future - the picture is far less clear.

With many housing developments going up in the Elephant, many of which boast luxury flats, as well as the huge scale regeneration of the Aylesbury, there is set to be an influx of wealthy residents into the area.

Will this lead to total gentrification of Walworth Road and if so, will its unique character disappear - or get a new lease of life?

The conundrum is encapsulated by the debated future of East Street Market. One of the oldest in London, trading since the 16th Century, the market was once a huge draw for day trippers from all over the city.

A highlight of many childhood weekends, East Street Market drew in shoppers from all around South London and even further afield in its heyday in the mid 20th century.

But while Borough Market has evolved and become a world-famous tourist staple, East Street has been left behind.

But its traders, like the people we met on the street, aren’t in agreement over what its future should be.

Shakil, 42, who has been trading for thirteen years on the East Street Market, said he had seen declining numbers due to thousands of regular customers having to move out of the area as a result of the demolition of the Heygate estate and ongoing redevelopment of the Aylesbury. "It's changed a lot,” he told the News. “It was the heart of the community. Customers change, demand changes.”

But is the market changing too?

In February 2024, Southwark News

reported on proposals for changes to East Street Market set out by the CIC lead Lindon Rankin, who proposed pedestrianising the area.

“On the weekends we could liven up the market a bit more; a bit of music, a bit of theatre or whatever, just popup little things.” A “night market” could also be introduced, and a courtyard selling “food from different parts of the world”, he suggested.

Amongst traders there were fears that introducing these things would change the market for the worse. Would less well-off locals be driven away by the expensive prices?

Ray Jones, 67, an East Street trader since he was fourteen, told us organisers didn’t “seem to understand” why the market exists.

“We cater for the bottom end of the market and they’re trying to bring the area up to cater to a different class of people”, he said. “We’re going to lose all the people we actually cater for.”

Evaewa Kocznur, on the other hand, an East Street trader for ten years, said adopting a Borough Marketstyle atmosphere could be “positive”, while another trader said: “For the customers, it’s going to be more fun and more of a pleasure to come to the market.”

Southwark Council has introduced a number of measures and opportunities to aid local businesses, in what appears to be efforts to help Walworth follow the example set in the South Bank and north Bermondsey.

The London College of Communication has been awarded a Thriving High Streets Grant from the council which will provide businesses with access to free expert digital support, and a new business improvement district has been proposed in the area. This would be a not-for-profit scheme funded by a small levy on local businesses, aimed to improve businesses through events, marketing and security improvements.

Market stall holders on East street would also be included even if they do not pay levy.

Additionally, the East Street CIC has received a grant to revitalise the market through installation of WiFi, gazebos and streetlights, as well as through providing training for traders.

“We can see that this is sort of a transition period,” Shakil says. “We are just trying to be positive. Maybe things will be better – that’s all we can hope.”

And it's certainly not all doom and gloom on the shop fronts as Lidl prepares to take over M&S’ building in September.

Whilst the council’s town centre plan acknowledges many of the issues residents expressed concerns about, noting top priorities as ‘tackling crime’, ‘improving people’s perception of the area’, ‘improving road safety’, and ‘improving the retail and service offer’ in order to attract visitors to the area and sustain the local economy, for Jeremy Leach, the future of Walworth Road is all to play for.

“I think it's unfair to rush to judgement on how quickly Southwark Council’s addressing the issues because, you know, we need to see what happens up at the Elephant that’s twelve months, eighteen months away.”

In an ideal scenario, he continues, “the Walworth Road survives and thrives with the opening of the Elephant and Castle town centre. These are the right conversations to be having, but I don't think anybody expects the answer straightaway. It's part of what's going to happen and there are just lots of questions we don't know the answer to.”

18 OPINION

Comment

Addressing concerns over healthcare access

I

T’S BEEN just twelve months since the public overwhelmingly rejected the chaos, deceit and damage that epitomised 14 years of Tory Governments (5 in Coalition with the LibDems). No one expected Labour to turn around all the major challenges facing our country in just a year, but I’m proud of the work underway to restore the public finances, rebuild public trust, and to fix our public services.

The NHS has seen enormous progress in just one year with over four million additional appointments, taking over a quarter of a million people off waiting lists, and over 1,900 new GPs recruited.

I hope people are feeling the difference in Southwark and know that Labour built the NHS, saved it in 1997 and we are back fixing it again today.

It was great to show a Health Minister

around some innovative work led by a local GP this week. Southwark has always been a pioneering community, and Dr Alfred Salter’s free healthcare here before he became the first ever Labour MP for our community contributed to Labour’s creation of the NHS under Attlee and Bevan.

I am aware of concerns about some access to healthcare locally. I’m seeing ‘Nexus’ soon. Nexus run several local GP surgeries including Decima Street, Princess Street, The Artesian Health Centre, The Dun Cow and Surrey Docks Health Centre and I’ve had complaints about getting appointments. Nexus run several local GP surgeries including Decima Street, Princess Street, The Artesian Health Centre, The Dun Cow Surgery and The Surrey Docks Health Centre and I’ve had complaints about getting appointments. Please get in

Southwark Community Energy Fund in action

“

WE’RE SAVING the club money that can go towards things we wouldn’t be able to experience otherwise.”

That’s how 14-year-old Jayden, a longtime member of Westminster House Youth Club in Nunhead, described the impact of their new solar panels. The club has seen its electricity bills fall from £10,000 a year to just £2,000 and they are on course to get to £0. And that saving has a huge impact for the club.

Westminster House youth club is more than bricks and mortar. It’s a place of safety, creativity and purpose for hundreds of young people. For over a century, it’s provided trusted support to children, teenagers and their families— offering everything from after-school clubs and mentoring to hot meals, residential trips and activities that boost health, wellbeing and confidence.

The club gives young people the tools to grow, learn and thrive—and offers families a sense of community and

support. So, when the club’s energy bills started spiralling, the question wasn’t just how to pay them. It was how to ensure that the club’s vital funds were protected to contribute towards the essential work the club does for its members and their families.

Their investment in renewable energy was supported by the Southwark Community Energy Fund.

The fund is a council initiative created by a Labour council which exists to support community and voluntary groups, co-ops, faith organisations, schools and youth services across the borough. It backs projects that reduce carbon emissions and provide benefit to the community — from panels and lighting to training and workshops that tackle fuel poverty. Most importantly, it provides our community groups with the opportunity to take back ownership over their energy supplies, bring down bills and invest the savings in service they provide.

At Westminster House, their investment

from

Westminster

NEIL COYLE

MP for Bermondsey & Old Southwark touch if you have any experiences you’d like me to raise with them; comments, compliments and complaints all welcome!

I also met Henrietta Hastings this week who is spearheading a campaign to improve access to epilepsy medication after her son Charlie tragically died after being unable to access his medication over two days in Southwark despite contact with GPs, NHS 111 and a local pharmacist. Henrietta’s campaign, entitled ‘SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy) Action’ ensures that people with epilepsy are able to request

a minimum emergency supply of regular anti-seizure medication from any chemist, to tide them over until the next prescription. I am pleased to support this initiative and have already raised it with our Integrated Care Board. I hope to help ensure that people know their rights.

As the hard work to fix the NHS shows, public services are now in better hands.

Our Labour Government has overseen record funding for police, the largest housebuilding targets, publicly owned energy, steel and railways, a £20 billion uplift in defence spending and the UK is

the fastest-growing G7 economy. All this in only a year; I hope people share my excitement at what more we can achieve!

The News has also been covering Southwark Labour’s administrative hiccup in electing a new leader. As News readers know, I will always challenge Labour locally and nationally if I have concerns. Now elected, I am sure Sarah King will be a fantastic leader for our borough – the first woman to head our council in over two decades – and I wish her every success as she takes on this tough role.

MIATTA FAHNBULLEH

MP for Peckham

in solar panels was made possible with investment from this Fund, supported by all three Nunhead Labour Councillors.

Solar panels now power the building and are saving the club £8,000 a year.

The money saved is going straight back into food, youth work, support sessions, Duke of Edinburgh programmes, activities which make a lasting difference in young people’s lives. At a place like Westminster House, a lower energy bill doesn’t just improve the balance sheet—it expands what’s possible for the community.

This is what community energy

looks like when it works. It’s freedom from soaring bills and prices set by far-away forces. It’s power staying with the people who need it most.

We’ve already seen how that’s playing out across Southwark. Bermondsey Central Hall has cut its electricity use by more than half. Kingswood Arts is reimagining a sustainable future that protects its heritage. Flashy Wings Ministry is using funding to empower women and girls with the knowledge and tools to manage energy costs and build resilience.

Each of these projects is different. But they’re all part of the same mission: local energy, local ownership, local benefit.

When a community generates its own power, it keeps more of its money, has more freedom to choose how that money is used, and is better able to protect the things it values most.

Later this month, the next round of funding will be announced. I’m looking forward to seeing who’s next—because every successful bid is a step closer to a borough where the places we rely on most can thrive, not just survive.

OPINION 19

O

WATER WASTED AND LIVES DISRUPTED n Tuesday morning, hundreds of south Bermondsey residents opened their curtains to the sight of water gushing down the streets.

Thousands more people across south London were left with no water or low pressure as a result of a burst mains pipe on Ilderton Road.

The council and emergency services quickly sprung into action, evacuating affected residents and delivering sandbags.

But questions remain outstanding about what caused the leak - and whether the damage could have been avoided.

The chaos which gripped south London yesterday is only the latest crisis to beset Thames Water, which is currently in emergency talks with creditors amid a 1.6 billion annual loss - with the looming threat of renationalisation should negotiatons fail.

The debt-ridden utilities company was fined 1.5 million by Southwark Council for delayed repairs in 2023 - while customers have been saddled with water bill increases as it scrabbles to plug its mounting debt pile. (However Thames Water bosses seem to have drawn the line at claiming back a £2.5 million bonus paid to senior managers from of an emergency loan designed to keep it afloat).

On Saturday, we received an email from a concerned resident about a leak on Galleywall Road which he said had gone unaddressed for a week, despite making numerous complaints to Thames Water.

When we got in touch, we were told the leak was unrelated to the mains pipe which flooded swathes of Bermondsey.

But how many more of these floods can we expect, and with such a great loss of water, even as we are told water reserves are running low?

T

COUNCIL RIGHT TO STAND FIRM ON 12%

he demolition of the Aylesham Centre is one of Peckham’s most significant and contentious redevelopments in a generation.

Berkeley Homes, which is developing the site, slashed the proportion of affordable homes on the site from 35 to 12 per cent in 2024 - then, earlier this year, it announced it would be bypassing the council’s planning committee and heading straight to the Planning Inspectorate for approval.

Despite the developer’s aggressive tactics, the council still held a planning committee meeting to consider the application this week, (Tuesday 15 July).

During the meeting, Cllr Emily Tester asked a representative from Berkeley Homes the pressing question: what meaningful changes in the economic landscape took place between July and December 2024 to render Berkeley’s earlier commitment to provide 35 per cent affordable housing suddenly ‘unviable’?

The Berkeley Homes spokesperson responded that “quite a bit” had changed since July 2024, citing increasing bills costs, shrinking sales markets and strict building safety regulations.

The major challenges facing the construction industry are well documented - many of which pre-date the submission of the first Berkeley application in July 2024. Labour shortages due to Brexit, rising material costs due to the disruption of global trade and high interest rates have all made building more expensive.

But is it really the case that these challenges materially worsened in the second half of 2024? And if so, do the challenges justify such a dramatic plummeting in the affordable housing offering?

A spokesperson for Berkeley did add that the developer intends to revise upwards the proportion of affordable housing “if market conditions improve” and said 35 per cent affordability remained a “target”.

But their assurances are unlikely to be greeted with much optimism by Peckham residents - whose disillusionment with the developer is such that many gathered outside the council’s offices before the meeting to stage an ‘Anti-Berkeley party’ in protest against the plans.

Equally, obeying local planning regulations should not be seen seen as a discretionary act of ‘goodwill’ by developers. And on a positive note, the council’s decision to hold the meeting to reject the application indicates it is willing to stand firm by its planning policies in the face of aggressive tactics adopted by developers. Councillors ultimately determined that the paltry offering of affordable homes was not enough to outweigh the disruption to Peckham’s town centre.

It remains to be seen whether the government's Planning Inspectorate will reach a similar conclusion, or if it will judge that a meagre supply of affordable housing is ultimately a price worth paying if it means getting shovels in the ground.

CRYPTIC PUZZLE Clues Across

Clues Down

QUICK PUZZLE

Clues Down

Clues Across

1 Begin a journey (3,3) 2 Edible seed (4) 3 Beyond description (13) 5 Mutual agreement (13) 6 Toughness (8) 7 Made taut (6) 9 Slow stately musical passage (5) 14 Sent back (8) 15 Greek city (6) 17 Discussion group (5) 18 Injury (6) 21 Narrative poem (4)

1 Hold back the chorus (7) 5 Shapes the actors (5) 8 Lose one's step in the dance (4) 9 Somehow veins put years on face (8) 10 Reproducing for existence ends in scolding (13) 13 He has good taste (4) 14 Encourage 21 to lose his head (4) 17 With which the birdbrained housewife clears the house? (7,6) 19 Read aloud in part (8) 20 Tree in which you hear the sap rising (4) 21 Swell surgeon, who fails to get on (5) 22 Contrary to presentday poetry (7)

4 Reddish-brown (6) 8 Everlasting (7) 10 Firedog (7) 11 Unit of weight (5) 12 Wash lightly (5) 13 Savage (9) 16 Disparaged (9) 19 Digit (5) 20 Reverie (5) 22 Dignify (7) 23 Alighting (7) 24 Unforeseen (6)

2 Strays include alternative mistakes (6) 3 Drive back the enemy although about beat (7) 4 Fine fable beggars description (9) 5 Feature a type of porcelain (5) 6 Where one doesn't mind being stranded (7) 7 It sounds a trifling trick (7) 11 Would he never have behaved in cavalier fashion? (9) 12 Where the schoolboy betrays his friends (7) 13 Hear about the girl? Who? Erica! (7) 15 Sure to get movement (7) 16 It's about places in the races (6) 18 He gets a welcome lift (5)

SOLUTIONS TO LAST WEEK’S CROSSWORD CRYPTIC

Across: Tricks 8 Weak tea 10 Lateral 11 Digit 12 Igloo 13 Sartorial 16 March past 19 Arena 20 Motor 22 Blasted 23 Suspend 24 Layers Down: 1 Swedes 2 Gang 3 Stationmaster 5 Retail chemist 6 Carolina 7 Saloon 9 Alibi 14 Rosemary 15 Gambol 17 Reeds 18 Tirade 21 Tied

QUICK

Across: Russet 8 Eternal 10 Andiron 11 Ounce 12 Rinse 13 Ferocious 16 Impeached 19 Thumb 20 Dream 22 Ennoble 23 Landing 24 Sudden Down: 1 Set off 2 Bean 3 Indescribable 5 Understanding 6 Strength 7 Tensed 9 Largo 14 Returned 15 Athens 17 Panel 18 Damage 21 Epic

ARTS 21

what’s on

THE WELCOME return of Tim Price's Nye opens with Aneurin Bevan dying, we see the heart monitor as a projected backdrop looking close to flatlining. His life ticks away in beeps, writes Michael Holland.

The privacy curtains are rolled away to reveal Nye Bevan (Michael Sheen) recovering from a long operation, around his bed the halcyon days of the early NHS, with fully-staffed wards. His wife, Jennie Lee (Sharon Small), a trailblazing politician in her own right, does not want to tell him that the doctors say his days are numbered.

Michael Sheen is one of the nicest men

in his industry so it is fitting that he gets to play his fellow Welshman, the workingclass hero who spearheaded the creation of the National Health Service in Clement Atlee's post-war Labour Government.

We flashback to Nye's schooldays in Tredegar, where the fathers were miners and the sons followed them down the pit. He was mocked for his stutter by a spiteful teacher and nasty school kids, but eventually devised a strategy for getting around the 'trigger' words by using alternatives found in library books - A device that widened his vocabulary and made his speeches that much better when

FOREVER YOUNG, FOREVER TRUE: DYLAN’S SONGS REBORN

Old Vic review Colin Bates (Gene Laine), Justina Kehinde (Marianne Laine), Katie Brayben (Elizabeth Laine) and Colin Connor (Nick Laine) in Girl THE OLD Vic’s revival of Girl from the North Country feels like a long-overdue homecoming, writes Luigia Minichiello.

After premiering here back in 2017 before taking the West End and Broadway by storm, Conor McPherson’s poetic musical—set to the timeless music of Bob Dylan—returns to where it all began for a strictly limited run (24 June to 23 August 2025).

And the cast? It’s a reunion of heavyhitters. Katie Brayben reprises her mesmerising turn as Elizabeth Laine, with Colin Bates back as Gene and Colin Connor grounding things as Nick.

There’s something fitting about this ensemble of drifters and dreamers

returning to the place where they first found their footing.

Set in 1934 Duluth, Minnesota, in a crumbling guesthouse during the Great Depression, the story follows a fragile web of characters—each carrying secrets, grief, and flickers of hope.

Elizabeth Laine, even as her health fails, is a force of nature: cutting, comic, and prone to wild honesty. At times she moves like a chaotic Stevie Nicks, equal parts feral and graceful. When Mr. Perry—a suitor of 70—is proposed for her daughter, Elizabeth doesn’t hold back, slyly calling out his age and a past moment of inappropriate contact. It’s sharp, and oddly funny—like much of the show.

Photo by Johan Persson

He lives, he dies, he even sings and dances

the time came.

We see his anger at how the coal company owned the pits and the houses and the shops - ultimately owning the people. His oratory skills came to their notice and he was sacked and blacklisted, his whole life was ripped away, spurring him on to take on the authorities and take charge of the council himself along with other blacklisted men.

Nye's political career had begun and we are swept through some of his Then there’s the Reverend Marlowe, the so-called Bible seller. The moment he appears, there’s a hint of Nick Cave about him—his look, the subtle offnotes in his outfit. You just know he’s trouble.

The cast are top-tier performers across the board. There’s bags of talent on that stage. They glide seamlessly between characters’ stories and interactions, slipping into Dylan’s songs—some classic, some more obscure—with completely fresh arrangements. One minute it’s just a line or two dropped in, the next it’s a full, transformative rendition. They dance, they play multiple instruments, they shift the mood from tender to heartbreaking in an instant.

I can’t help but wonder what Dylan (who was actually born in Duluth, Minnesota) would make of it all—the many voices, the bold new arrangements, breathing fresh life into his wonderful songs.

The a cappella moments like To Make You Feel My Love are genuinely moving, and Elizabeth Laine’s haunting version of Forever Young will stay with you long after the curtain falls.

This is an enthralling performance from start to finish. Whether you’re a Dylan fan or not, you won’t be disappointed.

Tickets are on sale now, and with a run this limited, I wouldn’t wait.

The Old Vic, The Cut, SE1 until 23rd August.

Booking and full details: https://www.oldvictheatre.com/

greatest hits: berating Churchill during wartime; constantly calling out Tories and Capitalism in ways that shocked the recipients of his ferocity but would not look out of place in a pit village pub.

Between each return to the past where we see how Bevan became the man he was, we come back to the hospital where he and his wife look back at their lives together. As his life ebbs away, we get a picture of his achievements, how he will be remembered for the institution that

every one of us has benefitted from.

Michael Sheen is tremendous in this play. He lives, he dies, he even sings and dances, but most of all, clad in pyjamas throughout, he once again proves what a great actor he is.

THIS SHOW written by Sean Daniels is described as a Dry Comedy about Drying Out and the ‘White Chip’ is a token given to attendees of Alcoholics Anonymous to celebrate periods of sobriety, and Steven, played brilliantly by Ed Coleman, has quite a few, which points to the fact that the journey to sobriety is not very easy at all, writes Linda Emmanuel.

#1 and #2 who populate and illustrate Steven’s story with a wealth of characters from his youth, family home, love life, and career. #1 is played by fabulous actress Mara Allen, who presented amongst other characters Steven’s Mormon mother with a fondness for dropping the ‘F’ word, and #2 is played by wonderful Ashlee Irish who took on multiple roles, including Steven’s dad who has Parkinson's Disease.

I left this play thanking Sean Daniels for sharing his truths and insight into how destructive alcohol can be for those who use it to self-medicate, the mental health challenges that come with it, and that every “White Chip” earned should be celebrated.

It is indeed the hardest journey anyone can find themselves on, and the fact that this story is told with humour and compassion is a gift that builds empathy.

The staging by Lee Newby is a simple black box with chairs propped at the back of the stage with tables in front, much like one finds in any community centre, upon the tables are the props which are used to build the visual representations of the spaces in which each chapter of the story takes place. Lighting is by Jamie Platt and Sound design is by Max Pappenheim.

The Olivier Theatre, National Theatre, South Bank, London, SE1 9PX until 16th August.

Booking and full details: https://www. nationaltheatre.org.uk/productions/nye/

“I’M A RECOVERING MORMON”

Steven’s story is told with plenty of humour and in a way puts up a mirror reflecting the traits that we all have to some degree, such as making excuses for behaviour as a result of alcoholism that can be detrimental to our lives.

Some of us remember being persuaded by friends to have that sneaky first sip of alcohol in our early teens, and how we made a funny face and said ‘yuk!’ then tried it again and liked it, which brought the laughter of recognition in the audience. We then see him partying hard at college, more laughs; then he’s at lunch meetings always with a drink in hand. Then he lands the job of his dreams - being at the top of a theatre company vodka and diet coke all the way, every day.

Although he is told that he is quirky by his colleagues, he begins to recognise that he needs help, so he attends his first of many AA meetings.

This is a three-person production, with the character Steven, accompanied by two accomplished actors with the titles

Southwark Playhouse Borough until 16th August.

Booking and full details: https:// southwarkplayhouse.co.uk/productions/ the-white-chip/

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Southwark Pensioners’ Centre 305-307 Camberwell Road London, SE5 0HQ 020 7708 4556 info@southwarkpensioners.org.uk southwarkpensioners.org.uk

EVERY SUNDAY AND BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY PEDHAM PLACE BR8 8PP

FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS

Funeral Announcement JAMES MULVIHILL “KERRY JIM”

WANTED

CARS + VANS ANY CONDITION ANY AREA PROMPT & POLITE SERVICE TELEPHONE

020 8659 8988 ANY DAY, ANY TIME, 7 DAYS MOBILE

07850 323 508 CLASSIC & UNSUAL CARS ALSO WANTED

CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH

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07951 037 094

Access all of our content online

ENQ: 01795 426 400 MOB: 07920 111 904

WEBSITE: SMBBOOTSALES.CO.UK

Interior & Exterior Painting ● Decorating ● Tiling Wallpaper hanging ● Laminated Flooring ● Fencing ● Decking ● Carpentry ● Kitchens & Bathrooms Free estimates Call Ricky

www.southwarknews.co.uk / www.southlondon.co.uk

SMB EVENTS GIGANTIC SUPER BOOTSALE

OUT ON THE FLOOR RECORDS 30 Years in Camden NW1

RECORDS WANTED! REGGAE RECORDS + SKA, ROCKSTEADY, ROOTS ETC ALSO 60’s & 70’s ROCK, SOUL, JAZZ, HIP HOP, METAL ETC

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It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our much-loved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather who gained his angel wings on the 6th July 2025. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A funeral mass will be held on 28th July 2025 at 10:00 AM at Most Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church, Bermondsey.

SE1 followed by a cremation at Honor Oak crematorium.

Following the service, a wake will be organised, so please join us to share memories and raise a glass of Guinness to celebrate his life.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend.

To place a funeral announcement, birthday, death notice, birth, anniversary or memorial in the paper, please email katie@cm-media.co.uk and she will price it up for you Announcements must be placed by 4pm on the Tuesday before that week's publication

F.A.A.

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24 PUBLIC NOTICES

Thursday, July 17th 2025

LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK

THE LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK (TUSTIN ESTATE - HEVERSHAM HOUSE) COMPULSORY PURCHASE ORDER 2025

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 SECTION 14(1) (GROVE PARK, CHADWICK ROAD, LINWOOD CLOSE)

COMPULSORY PURCHASE OF LAND IN SOUTHWARK 1. Notice is hereby given that the London Borough of Southwark ("the Acquiring Authority") has made The London Borough of Southwark (Tustin Estate - Heversham House) Compulsory Purchase Order 2025 under Section 226(1)(a) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended). It is about to submit this Order to the Secretary of State for Housing Communities and Local Government for confirmation, and if confirmed the Order will authorise the Acquiring Authority to purchase compulsorily the land described below for the purpose of carrying out the continued development, re-redevelopment and improvements to the Tustin Estate to deliver new high quality homes, amenity space, parking, landscaping and ancillary infrastructure which will contribute to achieving the promotion or improvement of the economic social and environmental well-being of the area.

(TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC) 1.

The Council of the London Borough of Southwark hereby gives notice that to enable various works to be carried out, it made, an order, the effect of which will be to prohibit vehicular traffic from entering part of the above named roads.

2.

Whilst the works are in progress, or whilst the authorised traffic signs/road markings are displayed, no person shall cause any vehicle to enter, proceed, stop, wait, load or unload at any time in: 2(a) Grove Park will be closed at its junction with Linwood Close and Chadwick Road 3 (a) Grove Park/Chadwick Road, located between Linwood Close and No’s 155 Chadwick Road, south west side – 11 permit holders or paid by phone bays location 801178, will be suspended.

3(b) Chadwick Road, located between Linwood Close and No’s 133, north east side – 19 permit holders or paid by phone bays location 801178, will be suspended.

3(c) Chadwick Road, located between No’s 147 and Draymans Mews, south west side, – 17 permit holders or paid by phone bays location 801178, will be suspended.

2. A copy of the Order and of the accompanying map may be seen at • The Reception Desk, Southwark Council Offices, 160 Tooley Street, London SE1 2QH on Mondays to Fridays (excluding Bank Holidays) between 9 am to 5 pm, and • Peckham Library, 122 Peckham Hill Street, London SE15 5JR on Mondays to Fridays (excluding Bank Holidays) between 9 am to 8 pm and on Wednesdays between 10 am to 8 pm.

3. A copy of the Order and of the accompanying map may be viewed online on the Acquiring Authority’s website at www.southwark.gov.uk/housing/tustin-estate.

4. Any objection to the order must be made in writing to the Secretary of State for Housing Communities and Local Government c/o The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Planning Casework Unit, 23 Stephenson Street, Birmingham B2 4BH or sent by email to pcu@communities.gov.uk before 8 August 2025 and should state the title of the order, the grounds of objection and the objector’s address and interests in the land.

5. In submitting an objection it should be noted that the personal data and correspondence relating to any objection will be passed to the Acquiring Authority in order that they can contact the objector directly to address the issues raised. If any person does not wish personal data to be forwarded to the Acquiring Authority, they should state why when submitting the objection and the Secretary of State will copy the representations to the Acquiring Authority with the name and address removed and if there is to be a local Public Inquiry, the representations will be seen by the Inspector who may give them less weight as a result.

DESCRIPTION OF LAND TO BE ACQUIRED The land particularised in the Order and the accompanying map being land not owned by the Acquiring Authority, but including flats and premises and gardens at 1 to 98 (inclusive) Heversham House, London SE15 Dated: 17 July 2025 Sharpe Pritchard LLP Elm Yard 10-16 Elm Street London WC1X 0BJ

4.

The alternative routes for affected traffic (2a) Grove Park, Camberwell Grove, McNeil Road, Lyndhurst Way, Chadwick Road.

5.

Exemptions will be provided in the Order to permit reasonable access to premises, so far as it is practical without interference with the execution of the said works.

6.

The restrictions will not apply to any vehicle being used in connection with the said works, or for fire brigade, ambulance or police purposes or anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform.

7.

The closure will be in operation on the following dates (2a) 29th July – 16th October.

8.

Further information may be obtained by contacting Road Network Management at ttmo@southwark.gov.uk

Dated this 17th July 2025 Ian Law Traffic Manager, London Borough of Southwark, Network Management, Environment, Neighbourhoods and Growth 160 Tooley Street, PO Box 64529, London, SE1 5LX Ref: (2a) TWL0070GROVEPARKMW/thames /TWL0070CHADWICKMW/thames/ TWL0070LINWOOD/thames LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 SECTION 14(1) (SNOWSFIELDS, RYE LANE, HORSELYDOWN LANE, ILDERTON ROAD, PARK STREET, PLAYFIELD CRESCENT, SOUTHWARK PARK ROAD)

Solicitors to the London Borough of Southwark Licensing Act 2003 Application for a Premises Licence Name of Applicant: Sainsbury’s Supermarkets Ltd. Address: Sainsbury’s, Units 56-57, London Bridge Station, 6163 St Thomas Street, London, SE1 3QX Licensing Authority: London Borough of Southwark Council. Licensing Authority Address: Licensing Team, London Borough of Southwark Council, Hub 1, 3rd Floor, 160 Tooley Street, London, SE1 2QH (where a record of the application may be inspected during normal office hours) Licensing Authority Website: www.southwark.gov.uk The applicant has applied to the Licensing Authority for a premises licence for the above premises for the following licensable activities: 1. To allow the sale of alcohol between the hours of 0600 and 2400 daily for consumption off the premises. 2.To allow for the provision of late night refreshment between the hours of 2300 and 2400 daily. Any person or responsible authority (as defined by the Licensing Act 2003) may make representations to the Licensing Authority no later than 6 August 2025.

Any representations made to the Licensing Authority must be in writing to the address above or by email to licensing@southwark.gov.uk It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application and the maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction for the offence is an unlimited fine.

Dated: 9 July 2025 Winckworth Sherwood LLP, Arbor, 255 Blackfriars Road, London, SE1 9AX Ref: AGS/26508/02250/RPB Solicitors and authorised agents for the applicant

To place a public notice, please email em@cm‐ media.co.uk or call 020 7232 1639 Deadline is 3pm on Wednesdays

Transport for London Public Notice

(TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC) 1.

The Council of the London Borough of Southwark hereby gives notice that to enable various works to be carried out, it made, an order, the effect of which will be to prohibit vehicular traffic from entering part of the above named roads.

2.

Whilst the works are in progress, or whilst the authorised traffic signs/road markings are displayed, no person shall cause any vehicle to enter, proceed, stop, wait, load or unload at any time in:

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 THE A202 GLA ROAD (CAMBERWELL NEW ROAD, LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF STOPPING AND SUSPENSION OF BUS LANE) ORDER 2025 1. Transport for London hereby gives notice that it has made the above named Trafc Order under section 14(1) of the Road Trafc Regulation Act 1984 for the purpose specied in paragraph 2. The effect of the Order is summarised in paragraph 3.

2. The purpose of the Order is to enable railway bridge examination and maintenance works to take place at A202 Camberwell New Road.

3. The effect of the Order will be to prohibit any vehicle from: (1) stopping on Camberwell New Road between its junctions with Comber Grove and Camberwell Station Road; (2) stopping at the south-eastern kerb-line of Camberwell Station Road adjacent to number 296a Camberwell New Road.

The Order will be effective at certain times from 21st July 2025 until 23rd July 2025 every night between 11.30 PM and 5.00 AM or when the works have been completed whichever is the sooner. The prohibition will apply only during such times and to such extent as shall from time to time be indicated by trafc signs.

The Order also permits all vehicles to use south-eastern bus lane on Camberwell New Road between its junctions with Medlar Street and Camberwell Station Road.

4. The prohibitions will not apply in respect of: (1) any vehicle being used for the purposes of those works or for re brigade, ambulance or police purposes; (2) anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform or a person authorised by Transport for London.

Dated this 17th day of July 2025 Andrew Ulph Co-ordination Manager, Transport for London Palestra, 197 Blackfriars Road, London, SE1 8NJ

View all weekly and archive public notices at www.southlondon.co.uk/category/ public‐notices/

(2a) Snowsfields, between Kipling Street and Crosby Row (2b) Rye Lane, slip road at its junction with the main connecting carriageway of Rye Lane and Its junction with Copeland Road. Suspend the bus & cycle lane at Rye Lane, located between Rye Lane slip Road and opposite the main connection carriageway of 200 Rye Lane.

(2c) Horselydown Lane, at its junction with Queen Elizabeth Street for 20m Northbound.

(2d) Ilderton Road, northbound lane of carriageway located between Wagner Street for 50m north of the junction of Hornshay Street.

(2e) Park Street, between Bank end and Tate Modern (2f) Playfield Crescent, between Colwell Road and Lytcott Grove (2g) Southwark Park Road, between Alma Grove and Dunton Road, (cycle lane closure) 3.

The alternative routes for affected traffic (2a) Crosby Row, Long Lane, Weston Street, Snowsfields (vehicle diversion). Kipling Street, Porlock Street, Crosby row (cycle/pedestrian diversion) (2b) Rye Lane, Peckham Rye, Nunhead Lane, Consort Road, Heaton Road. (2c) Queen Elizabeth Street, Lafone Street, Gainsford Street (vehicle diversion). Queen Elizabeth Street, Horselydown Lane (pedestrian diversion) (2d) (east bound) Old Kent Road, New Cross Road, Amersham Road, Parkfield Road, Lewisham Way, New Cross Road. (west bound) Old Kent Road St James Road, Rotherhithe New Road. (2e) as indicated by the signs displayed. (2f) as indicated by the signs displayed. (2g) not applicable.

4.

Rye Lane, slip road, suspend the loading bay located between the main connecting carriageway of Rye Lane and Its junction with Copeland Road for item No’s (2b)

5.

Exemptions will be provided in the Order to permit reasonable access to premises, so far as it is practical without interference with the execution of the said works.

6.

The restrictions will not apply to any vehicle being used in connection with the said works, or for fire brigade, ambulance or police purposes or anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform.

7.

The closure will be in operation on the following dates (2a) 26th & 27th July, if due to adverse weather conditions, then the closure will be operational on the 2nd August. (2b) 28th – 31st July (2c) 28th July – 22nd August (2d) 28th July – 29th October. (2e) 15th September – 28th October and the works will be carried out in phases. (2f) 25th July – 25th August and the works will be carried out in phases (2g) 29th July – 31st August.

8.

Further information may be obtained by contacting Road Network Management at ttmo@southwark.gov.uk

Dated this 17th July 2025 Ian Law Traffic Manager, London Borough of Southwark, Network Management, Environment, Neighbourhoods and Growth 160 Tooley Street, PO Box 64529, London, SE1 5LX Ref: (2a) LBSCR14108/1/2 (2b) SLS00081396574-0100 (2c) 67162879 (2d) 23437108 (2e) 22587185 (2f) W121347344-01988/SGN (2g) 19156998UKPN

PUBLIC NOTICES 25

Thursday, July 17th 2025

LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK TOWN & COUNTRY PLANNING ACT 1990 (as amended) PLANNING (LISTED BUILDINGS AND CONSERVATION AREAS) ACT 1990 (as amended) The planning applications listed below can be viewed on the planning register at https://planning.southwark.gov.uk/online-applications/ You can use facilities at your local library or 'My Southwark Service Points' to access the website.

How to comment on this application: You should submit your comments via the above link. Comments received will be made available for public viewing on the website. All personal information will be removed except your postal address. Online comments submitted without an email address will not be acknowledged and those marked 'confidential' will not be considered. Written comments can be submitted to; Southwark Council, Planning division, Development Management, PO Box 64529, London SE1 5LX. Reason for publicity. The applications are advertised for the reasons identified by the following codes: AFFECT - development affecting character or appearance of a nearby conservation area; OR development affecting setting of a nearby listed building(s); DEP - departure from the development plan; EIA - environmental impact assessment (these applications are accompanied by an environmental statement a copy of which may be obtained from the Council - there will be a charge for the copy); MAJ - major planning application; PIP - application is for Permission in Principle; S106 - ; STDCA - development within a conservation area; STDLB - works to or within the site of a listed building; ST THOMAS'S CHURCH 9A ST THOMAS STREET LONDON SOUTHWARK SE1 9RY (Ref: 25/AP/1231) Advertisement consent for retention of the hanging sign; display of new signage to the external stone plaque to the left of the entrance door; display of a new sign to the railings to the right of the building. Considered to fall under deemed consent but noted for reference: Retention of illuminated signage in the window Display of a free-standing menu board to be placed by the front entrance door. (Within: Borough High Street CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: James Holmes 020 7525 0803) 158A CAMBERWELL GROVE LONDON SOUTHWARK SE5 8RH (Ref: 25/AP/1794) Demolition of existing outbuilding and erection of single-storey replacement outbuilding with garden pond and privacy screening. Minor alterations to rear extension of existing dwelling, including new roof, rooflight and glazing. Inclusion of a bin and bike store to front garden and replacement of front boundary railings. (Within: Camberwell Grove Conservation Area Camberwell Grove Conservation Area CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Agneta Kabele 020 7525 3148) DULWICH SPORTS CLUB GIANT ARCHES ROAD LONDON SOUTHWARK SE24 9HP (Ref: 25/AP/1838) Replacement of existing sports flood lighting on tennis courts 1 to 3 at Dulwich Sports Club. Flood lights to court 1 have already been changed to

modern LED fittings and permission is sought to normalise this installation. Flood lights to courts 2&3 are proposed to be changed to reduce glare to neighbouring houses. (Within: Dulwich Village CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Andre Verster 020 7525 5457) 47-48 ADDINGTON SQUARE LONDON SOUTHWARK SE5 7LB (Ref: 25/AP/0970) Listed Building Consent for the removal and/or retention of internal and external changes including minor internal walls, plus the retention of the staircase and conversion works at first and second floors to form a residential unit.

Replacement of 4 UPVC windows with timber sliding sashes. (Within: Addington Square CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDLB (Contact: Rosie Poser 020 7525 7924) THE IVYHOUSE 40 STUART ROAD LONDON SOUTHWARK SE15 3BE (Ref: 25/AP/1764) Listed building consent for installation of solar panels to the rear flat roofs of public house.

Reason(s) for publicity: STDLB (Contact: Tracy Chapman 020 7525 1948) 297 WALWORTH ROAD LONDON SOUTHWARK SE17 2TG (Ref: 25/AP/1902) Display of static non-illuminated fascia sign and static projecting sign. (Within: Walworth Road CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Alex Lambert 020 7525 1353) 1 BARFORTH ROAD LONDON SOUTHWARK SE15 3PS (Ref: 25/AP/1834)

Public Notice Licensing Act 2003 Section 17 An application has been made by Bino Hospitality Ltd For the Application of a Premises Licence, in respect of premises known as and situated at; Smacks Hamburgers, 347 Walworth Road London SE17 2AL The application contains a statement of the following relevant Licensable activities proposed to be carried out on or from the premises: The provision of late-night refreshments from 23:00 to 03:00 Daily.

A register of all applications made within the Southwark area is maintained by: The Licensing Service, Hub 1, 3rd Floor, 160 Tooley Street, London, SE1 2QH A record of this application may be inspected by visiting the office during normal office hours by appointment on 020 7525 2000; details are also available on our website at http://app.southwark.gov.uk/licensing/licenseregister.asp It is open to any interested party to make representations about the likely effect of the application on the promotion of the licensing objectives. Representations must be made in writing to the Licensing Service at the office address given above or by email via licensing@southwark.gov.uk and be received by 7th August 2025.

It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application punishable on summary conviction by an unlimited fine.

View all weekly and archive public notices at www.southlondon.co.uk/ category/public‐notices/

To place a public notice, please email em@cm‐ media.co.uk Deadline is 3pm on Wednesdays

Replace timber and uPVC glazing with reproduction timber sash windows facing the street, and aluminum powder coated glazing to the side and rear. Introduce a painted timber gate to the side passage. Replace concrete tiles to the bay window with artificial slate/lead installation.

Strip non-original paint from brickwork to front elevation and refurbish substrate. Introduce 3no. rooflights to top roof slope rear. (Within: Nunhead Green CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Alex Lambert 020 7525 1353) 16 GRANGE WALK LONDON SOUTHWARK SE1 3DT (Ref: 25/AP/1684) Replacement of existing windows and doors with timber sash units to the front elevation and uPVC casement units to the rear elevation. (Within: Bermondsey Street CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Agneta Kabele 020 7525 3148) 1 COURT LANE GARDENS LONDON SOUTHWARK SE21 7DZ (Ref: 24/AP/2670) Installation of 12 no. solar panels to side extension roof (Within: Dulwich Wood Dulwich Village CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Ibrahim Azam 020 7525 2876) Dated: 15 Jul 2025 - comments to be received within 21 days of this date (or 14 days for Permission in Principle, 30 days for EIA development).

STEPHEN PLATTS Director of Planning and Growth

26 PUBLIC NOTICES

Thursday, July 17th 2025

LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK

LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK

DEAN’S BUILDINGS NEW ‘ZEBRA’ PEDESTRIAN CROSSING

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 SECTION 14(1) (MELIOR STREET, WESTON STREET, MELIOR PLACE, MELIOR STREET

The London Borough of Southwark (Waiting restrictions) (Dean’s Buildings) Order 202* 1. Southwark Council hereby GIVES NOTICE that it proposes to make the above Order under sections 6 and 124 of and Part IV of Schedule 9 to the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, as amended.

2. The effects of the Order, would be in DEAN’S BUILDINGS on both sides from a point 2.5 metres south-west of the south-western kerb-line of Flint Street and a point 5.5 metres south-west of the common boundary of Nos. 25 and 27 Dean’s Buildings (outside English Martyrs’ Roman Catholic Primary School & Nursery) and for the purpose of accommodating the new raised ‘zebra’ pedestrian crossing, to remove a total of 65 metres (north-west side 33.5 metres and south-east side 31.5 metres) of existing ‘at any time’ waiting restrictions (double yellow lines). Notes: (1) ‘at any time’ means at all hours on every day of the week. (2) All measurements are approximate.

(TEMPORARY WAITING AND LOADING RESTRICTIONS AND TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC) 1.

The Council of the London Borough of Southwark hereby gives notice that, because of development works, it made, an order, the effect of which would be to introduce various waiting and loading restrictions in part of the above named roads.

2.

Whilst the restriction is in place, and whilst the authorised traffic signs/road markings are displayed, no person shall cause any vehicle to wait, including waiting for the purpose of loading and unloading at any time in: (a) Melior Street - the existing ‘waiting restrictions’ (single yellow lines) will be converted to ‘at any time’ ‘waiting and loading’ restrictions (double yellow lines) located on the south west side from the junction with Fenning Street for a distance of 20m west

3. Southwark Council hereby GIVES FURTHER NOTICE that:(a) under section 23 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, approval for the provision of a new raised ‘zebra’ pedestrian crossing in DEAN’S BUILDINGS the centre of which would be located at a point 10 metres north-east of the common boundary of Nos. 25 and 27 Dean’s Buildings.

‘Zig-zag’ markings, on which vehicles would be prohibited from stopping at all times, would be laid on the carriageway on both sides of the road for a distance of approximately 17 metres north-eastward of the crossing and for a distance of approximately 13 metres south-westward of the crossing; (b) under sections 90A to 90I of the Highways Act 1980 and in accordance with the provisions of the Highways (Traffic calming) Regulations 1999, propose to construct a speed table of flat-top construction having a maximum height level with the surrounding kerb and covering the entire width of the carriageway in DEAN’S BUILDINGS (at the site of the new raised ‘zebra’ pedestrian crossing mentioned in item 3a above) extending from a point 5 metres north-east of the common boundary of Nos. 25 and 27 Dean’s Buildings north-eastward for a distance of 9 metres (the measurement includes the ramps and any existing crossing features at the exact location above will be removed to accommodate); and (c) remove a total of 63 metres of existing ‘School Keep Clear’ markings (31.5 metres per side) in DEAN’S BUILDINGS outside English Martyrs’ Roman Catholic Primary School & Nursery.

(b) Melior Street – the existing ‘waiting restrictions’ (single yellow lines) will be converted to a12m loading/unloading bay located on the south west side near No’s 14 loading will be 40 minutes, with no return within 2 hours (c) Weston Street – the existing ‘waiting restrictions’ (single yellow lines) will be converted to ‘at any time’ ‘waiting and loading’ restrictions (double yellow lines) located on the south west side outside No’s 50 for a distance of 8m (d) Melior Street - the existing ‘waiting restrictions’ (single yellow lines) will be converted to ‘at any time’ ‘waiting and loading’ restrictions (double yellow lines) located on the south west side outside No’s 14 to the junction with Weston Street. (e) Weston Street – ‘disabled parking space’ 6m will be allocated from the end of the existing ‘paid by phone’ parking spaces located on the south east side between No’s 52/54 (f) Melior Place, ‘disabled parking space’ 6m will be allocated from the end of the existing ‘paid by phone’ parking spaces located on the north west side between No’s 1 and No’s 2 to 4

4. For more information contact the Council's Highways team Highways@southwark.gov.uk 5. Copies of the supporting documents (this Notice, the proposed Order, and a statement of Southwark Council's reasons for making the Order) may be found online at https://consultation.appyway.com/southwark; and paper or digital copies of a plan showing the location and effect of the Order and the supporting documents may be requested by emailing traffic.orders@southwark.gov.uk, or inspected by appointment only at: Highways, Southwark Council, Environment, Sustainability and Leisure, 3rd floor hub 2, 160 Tooley Street, London SE1 2QH - from the date of this Notice until the end of a period of six weeks from the date on which the Order is made.

Email traffic.orders@southwark.gov.uk (or call 077 3132 4742) for booking details.

6. Anyone wishing to make any representations either for or to object to the proposals, may use our consultation portal https://consultation.appyway.com/southwark or send a statement in writing to: Traffic Order Consultations, Highways, Southwark Council Environment, Sustainability & Leisure, P.O. Box 64529, London SE1P 5LX or traffic.orders@southwark.gov.uk quoting reference ‘TMO2526-010 Dean’s Buildings’ by 7 August 2025. Please note that if you wish to object to the proposals you must state the grounds on which your objection is made.

7. Under requirements of current access to information legislation, any letter, form or e-mail sent to the Council in response to this Notice may be subject to publication or disclosure, or both, including communication to other persons affected.

Dated 17 July 2025 Steven Grayer Interim Head of Service - Highways, Environment, Sustainability & Leisure

LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 SECTION 14(1) (BARNHAM STREET, CONSORT ROAD, JOHN RUSKIN STREET, PLOUGH LANE, REDCROSS WAY) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC) 1.

The Council of the London Borough of Southwark hereby gives notice that to enable various works to be carried out, it intends, to make an order, the effect of which will be to prohibit vehicular traffic from entering part of the above named roads.

2.

Whilst the works are in progress, or whilst the authorised traffic signs/road markings are displayed, no person shall cause any vehicle to enter, proceed, stop, wait, load or unload at any time in: (2a) Barnham Street, between Great Yard and Crucifix Lane (2b) Consort Road, between Scylla Road and New James Court (2c) John Ruskin Street, between Dartford Street and Pelier Street (2d) Plough Lane, at its junction with Lordship Lane (2e) Redcross Way, between Union Street and Southwark Street

3.

The alternative routes for affected traffic will be as indicated by the signs displayed.

4.

Exemptions will be provided in the Order to permit reasonable access to premises, so far as it is practical without interference with the execution of the said works.

5.

Redcross Way, between Union Street and Southwark Street, will be made ‘two-way’ for access and egress purposes.

6.

The restrictions will not apply to any vehicle being used in connection with the said works, or for fire brigade, ambulance or police purposes or anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform.

7.

The closure will be in operation on the following dates (2a) 2nd – 3rd July (2b) 4th – 5th July ( 2c) 4th – 5th July (2d) 4th – 18th July (2e) 4th – 8th July

8.

Further information may be obtained by contacting Road Network Management at ttmo@southwark.gov.uk

Dated this 17th July 2025 Ian Law Traffic Manager, London Borough of Southwark, Network Management, Environment, Neighbourhoods and Growth 160 Tooley Street, PO Box 64529, London, SE1 5LX Ref: (2a) 24888823/UKPN (2b) LBSCR13843-1/Cheveron (2c) LBSCR14163/Amey (2d) PLOUGHLN/Thames (2e) 754606/Lanes

(g) Melior Street, closed at it’s junction with Weston Street (h) The alternative route will be indicated by the signs displayed for (2g) 3.

Exemptions will be provided in the Order to permit reasonable access to premises, insofar as it is practical without interference with the execution of the said works.

4.

The restrictions will not apply to any vehicle being used in connection with the said works, or for fire brigade, ambulance or police purposes or anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform.

5.

The restriction will come into force on the 24th July – 31st September 2025

6.

Further information may be obtained by contacting Road Network & Parking Management at ttmo@southwark.gov.uk

Dated this 17th July 2025 Ian Law Traffic Manager, London Borough of Southwark, Network Management, Environment, Neighbourhoods and Growth 160 Tooley Street, PO Box 64529, London, SE1 5LX PO Box 64529 London SE1 5LXextension

To place a public notice, please email em@cm‐media.co.uk or call 020 7232 1639 Deadline in 3pm every Wednesday

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SPORT 29

PATEL HELPS SURREY TO CRUSHING WIN

Surrey 201-6 beat Somerset 134 all out by 67 runs

By Jon Batham at the Kia Oval SURREY BOOKED a home tie in the Vitality Blast knockout stages as they thrashed Somerset by 67 runs in the battle of the South Group’s top two at the Kia Oval.

Reece Topley (3-20) led the charge for wickets, while Jamie Overton, Sam Curran and Adam Zampa all got two apiece as Somerset collapsed from 73-2 to 134 all out in pursuit of 202 to win, Tom Kohler-Cadmore top-scoring with 38.

Earlier Will Jacks with 57 in 37 balls with four sixes provided the backbone of Surrey’s 201-6, Migael Pretorius the pick of the visitors’ attack with 1-28.

Jacks lofted the second ball of the match from England spinner Jack Leach into the crowd. Pace too got the treatment early on as Ryan Patel sent one from Riley Meredith over the ropes and Jacks planted the last ball of the over into the crowd at cow corner as 61 came from the powerplay.

Leach broke the stand a run later, luring Patel down the pitch to be stumped, but another six helped Jacks to 50 in only 30 balls as he and Jason Roy kept up the pressure with a secondwicket stand of 49.

Jacks’ departure lbw to Lewis Goldsworthy sparked a slump, the allrounder then castling Surrey skipper Sam Curran first ball.

Roy thumped another huge six and looked to be moving into overdrive, but when he under-clubbed another from Leach and found the hands of Tom Abell in the deep Surrey were 127-4.

Lawrence threatened to pick up from his century two days earlier with two maximums in a breezy 16-ball 32, but it needed a last-over six into the

sightscreen from Chris Jordan to set Somerset 202.

That target looked larger 15 balls into the chase when Topley splayed Tom Lammonby’s stumps with 13 on the board, but five fours from Jordan’s first over, four of them from the bat of Kohler-Cadmore put the Cidermen on the charge.

A collector’s item followed as Ben Foakes dropped Kohler-Cadmore on 20 from an attempted ramp off Topley.

In search of a momentum shift skipper Sam Curran brought himself on and struck immediately, Will Smeed

bowled Tim Dixon and while skipper Lewis Gregory sent one from Sam Curran high into the seats, he perished trying to repeat the feat and Somerset collapsed.

"We were very good,” Overton said.

“The way Jacksy and Patsy set us off at the top said we'd come to play today. The chat in the changing room beforehand was we wanted to win the two powerplays and we did that pretty well.

"I think potentially we left a few out there with the bat, but I felt like we had enough. With our pace attack and with

Surrey close to clinching top spot

Zamps as well we feel we can pretty much confine any side to any score.

"In the last couple of years I've pretty much bowled in the middle, so that sort of stuff is my bread and butter and I feel quite natural and easy doing it.

"If you look at Somerset, they are normally very hot in the outfield, but it was one of those days where it didn't go quite there way and there were one or two miss-fields. But they are the benchmark we want to try and get up to and today was very good."

Surrey are in Hove this Friday to take on Sussex Sharks at 6.30pm.

“We gained a bit of momentum and a bit of confidence in being able to execute our skills and we have got a lot better at dealing with pressure.

“I was happy my batting went that way. We lost a couple of early wickets,

but me and Jonesy [Emma Jones] got a good partnership going which set us up.

“That’s Myers’ [head coach Johann Myburgh] philosophy to go in move well, play your game and be attacking.

“We pride ourselves on our fielding.

We’ve got such an athletic squad and you can win the game with fielding, so any catches, any runout opportunity or boundary save, everyone chucks themselves around and it really impacts the game.

“Dani Gregory and wickets just come as a pair.”

Somerset all-rounder Amanda-Jade Wellington felt her side had done well.

She said: “I think coming up against Surrey we know they are a strong side.

I’m pretty proud of the way we bowled in the powerplay where we contained them really well.

“I thought Monaghan batted really well with Jones at the back end, but we were happy with their score which we thought was gettable on a Kia Oval wicket like this as batting here is beautiful.

“We didn’t put up a fight with the bat and it is pretty disappointing. If we’d got one or two partnerships at even a run a ball we could have stayed in the fight a little bit longer. In T20 cricket if you have one big over of around the 20-mark you are in with a chance, but we never really got that big over to continue the chase hard.”

Surrey host Bears at the Kia Oval this Friday at 6.30pm.

By John Kelly

bantamweight world champion as she added to her perfect 11-0 professional record on the undercard of Katie Taylor vs Amanda Serrano 3 in New York, part of Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions.

Durham professional fighter Georgia O’Connor died from cancer at the age of just 25.

Catford’s Scotney, 27, is one belt away from being an undisputed world champion.

"I have had a real test in the past few months as everyone knows. I lost my dear friend Georgia, so tonight was for her," Scotney said.

"She was 25 years old, she was a fighter and she lost her battle to

cancer. Tonight, I made sure her name is remembered in Madison Square Garden."

Scotney dominated Mercado over ten rounds and just missed out on the £185,000 performance bonus, which went to Shadasia Green, who defeated Hartlepool’s Savannah Marshall.

Photo by Keith Gillard

ALICE MONAGHAN’S maiden T20 half-century was the catalyst for Surrey’s 68-run win over struggling Somerset to all but clinch top spot in the qualifying table.

Ellie dedicates win to close friend who passed away

slapping the first delivery straight to cover.

A tight following over from Overton lifted the rate over 11, but KohlerCadmore’s response was to spank one from Zampa into the JM Finn Stand for 6. The Australian leg-spinner’s revenge was swift as three balls later KohlerCadmore skied a top edge into the gloves of Foakes.

And top edges were catching with Abell following suite from the bowling of Overton, Lawrence the catcher on this occasion.

As the rate soared, Overton caught and

Photo by Keith Gillard

Seamer takes first wicket of season to bowl out Bairstow

By Jon Batham

The Hampshire academy graduate, who missed part of the season with a broken finger struck four sixes in her 57 (32), sharing a stand of 85 for the fifth wicket with Emma Jones (34) in Surrey’s imposing 175-6. Chloe Skelton and Erin Vukusic took two wickets apiece for Somerset.

In the face of a brilliant fielding display in which Alice Capsey and Kalea Moore both took catches which had to be seen to be believed, Somerset were never in the hunt in reply, bowled out for 107 spinner Dani Gregory finishing with 4-13.

“It’s a very happy dressing-room. I feel like we have played really well the last few games,” Monaghan said.

Surrey’s Ryan Patel

Surrey’s Alice Capsey makes a spectacular catch

ELLIE SCOTNEY dedicated her Madison Square Garden victory to a close friend who passed away in May.

Scotney defeated Mexican Yamileth Mercado on points to become the WBO, IBF and WBC super-

30 SPORT

Millwall release 2025-26 away kit

Alex Neil leading training

By Will Scott MILLWALL HAVE released their away kit for the upcoming season.

The strip consists of a cream shirt with 'MFC 1885' embossed throughout, and a mint and navy collar, a pattern also on the sleeve trims.

Cream shorts and socks complete the kit.

The strip continues to be sponsored

by MyGuava, who became Millwall’s kit sponsor last season, and manufactured

by Erreà.

The shirt is made from Future fabric, designed to reduce its carbon footprint by 30 per cent and increase the use of eco-friendly materials by 20 per cent by 2030.

Millwall lose to Eagles in preseason friendly

By Will Scott MILLWALL LOST 1-0 to Premier League side Crystal Palace in a behind-closed-doors friendly on Saturday, July 12.

Alex Neil fielded a different starting eleven in each half - with new signing Max Crocombe starting between the sticks in the first half, and recordsigning Josh Coburn partnering Macaulay Langstaff up front.

Several under-21 players also featured, including Rafiq Lamptey, Jack Howland, Ben Drake, Sheldon Kendall, and Alfie Massey.

The Lions came close to opening the scoring early on after Ben Drake's mishit pass was deflected into the path of Langstaff, but after some good work, the striker fired over.

The Eagles took the lead early in the second half when Jesurun Rak-Sakyi finished off a counter attack.

Both teams failed to create much for the rest of the game, with the blazing heat affecting the quality of football.

The Lions have four more friendlies arranged after they return to England on Saturday, July 19.

They have three away fixtures against AFC Wimbledon on Tuesday, July 22 (kick-off 7:30pm), against Bromley on Saturday, July 26 (kick-off 3pm) and against Sutton United on Tuesday, July 29 (kick-off 7.45pm).

They then complete their friendly schedule at The Den with a clash against Primeira Liga side GD Estoril Praia on Saturday, August 2 (kick-off 1pm).

‘WE WANT TO KEEP THEM HERE’ Alex Neil insists Millwall do not want to sell best players

By Will Scott ALEX NEIL said that Millwall "were not actively looking to try and sell anyone" this summer - and insisted the club wanted to retain its best players.

There have been several reports suggesting various clubs are interested in signing Mihailo Ivanovic, who was the Lions' top goal-scorer last season, and Japhet Tanganga, who won the Millwall Supporters' Club 2024-25 Player of the Season award.

When asked if he expects Tanganga to still be at the football club come the start of the new season, Neil said: "I hope so.

I don't think there's anything at the moment that suggests otherwise for us.

"I know there's a lot of speculation, as there always is, whether it be with Japhet or whether it be with Mihailo or

whether it be with anybody else. There are always little bits that are doing the rounds, but we are focused on trying to be the best version of ourselves in terms of making sure we try and retain our best players.

"But as always, we're not naive. We are not actively looking to try and sell anyone. We want to try and retain the squad, and we want to try and grow and build and be good this season. Equally, if somebody comes in with offers that are way beyond what we would maybe have as an evaluation of a player, then certain decisions may well get made.

"But that's understandable. That goes for any club. It goes for clubs like Liverpool when Trent AlexanderArnold is leaving and all that sort of stuff. So this isn't exclusive to Millwall.

"What I will tell you is we have no ambitions or certainly no effort is going

into trying to move any of our players.

We want to keep them here. We like them. We think they've got real growth in terms of them individually, but also us as a team. And we want to try and make sure this year is a good year for us."

When asked if a 'mind-blowing' offer had come in, Neil said: "No. I don't really read too much, but I need to make myself aware when things are getting talked about. All I would say is don't believe everything you read. There's a lot of just sort of speculation of people putting things out there that haven't got any sort of fact behind it."

The Scottish head coach also confirmed the Lions would be looking to add to their squad before the window shuts on September 1.

“I think we're certainly going to need to add some players to the squad,” Neil

said. “We're all aware of that. We're working really hard behind the scenes to try and make that happen.

“But as always, with deals, it could really speed up, and we might have a couple sort of relatively soon. Or, like, with a lot of deals, it doesn't sort of get through the process quickly, and we need to work on things, and the deals will happen when they happen.

“I think what we need to bear in mind is the fact that we played Crystal Palace the other day. They've only been back two or three days. So a lot of these teams haven't even made their mind up on what they're doing with parts of the squad. Some of the squad are still on holiday if they're internationals.

“There’s a lot of time between now and the start of the season. But equally, we're full steam ahead in trying to get some in.”

contract, signed after two separate trials.

Nugent explained how potential trialists are spotted.

“There are numerous things,” Nugent told our paper. “ [lead emerging talent scout] Lucas [Millgate] is on the recruitment side of it. He gets a lot of players in, and [Head of Academy Recruitment] Ade [Adeniran] as well.

Ade gets quite a few players in.

“Sometimes we need certain positions, but again, it's not an overnight thing. These things have been going on. So Lucas and Ade have been tracking players. Sometimes, I'm sure they get a tip-off about a player.

It could be an agent that phones, but obviously, they'll be out and about and watching, and the whole network that

they'll need to get players in. That's generally how it works.

“It’s tough. It's tough getting them in, but we say: ‘Do you know what? Don't even ask too much. If there's any doubt, just get a player in, and we'll have a look at them.’

“We treat our trialists very well. We don't keep them here if we don't think they're going to be suited for us. I do feel for them. Coming in on trial, it is really tough.

“But every player here, every person at this football club, at one stage of their career was a trialist. So we've got to remember that. Even though we've been here a long time, we've got to look back and think, what was it like that first day you went in as a fourteenyear-old or a sixteen or an eighteen-

year-old? So we've got to be mindful of that as well.”

When asked how they decide which trialists they retain, Nugent said: “It could be something where they have a super skill. It could be their technique, it could be their physicality, it could be someone who wins every single header.

“So there's something that you want to see, something that stands out. Like I said, it's really difficult. Being that trialist is really hard because we've already got a group of players in.

“So when you come in, you need to be possibly better than what we've already got. That is tough when you don't always have that long to be in to show that, to promote it. But we look for someone we think there's progression in.”

How Millwall assess under-21s trialists

By Will Scott KEVIN NUGENT has outlined how Millwall identify trialists for the under-21s - and decide who to sign permanently.

The Lions currently have seven players on trial as Nugent’s side step up their pre-season preparations.

Several members of Nugent’s side earned deals after impressing on trial, including Jaiden Celestine-Charles, Rafiq Lamptey, Jet Dyer, and Ben Drake.

All four arrived from either non-league clubs or after being let go by other academies.

Ra’ees Bangura-Williams, who has made thirteen first-team appearances following his debut in January and recently signed a new long-term

SPORT 31

LIONS CLOBBER COBBLERS

Mihailo Ivanovic celebrates his opener with Macaulay Langstaff

Mihailo Ivanovic picks up where he left off last season

By John Kelly at the Pinatar Arena MILLWALL KICKED off their preseason friendly schedule in front of supporters with a 3-0 win over Northampton Town at the Pinatar Arena on Tuesday evening.

Mihailo Ivanovic headed Millwall in front from Adam Mayor’s right-wing corner in the third minute.

Luke Cundle added the second on 39 minutes after running through and firing high past goalkeeper Ross Fitzsimons.

Two substitutes combined eleven minutes from time as Josh Coburn finished first-time from Benicio Baker-Boaitey’s cross.

The Lions were impressive, clearly trying moves they had been practising on the training ground. They showed their Championship class against Kevin Nolan’s League One Cobblers, who offered very little in attack.

Millwall brought on Massimo Luongo at half-time and made a further ten substitutions an hour in.

Luongo, who was listed as ‘Trialist’ on Millwall’s team sheet, showed some neat touches in midfield, as would be expected

from someone who played eleven games in the Premier League last season for Ipswich Town.

Some of Ivanovic and Macaulay Langstaff’s link-up play was good. If Lions boss Alex Neil is going to play two up front as his favoured formation, it could offer Langstaff a chance.

Millwall fans also got a glimpse of BakerBoaitey’s quick feet and crossing ability as he aims to make an impact this season.

Of the substitutes in the second half, right-back George Beaumont arguably most impressed. He looks composed on the ball and knows how to pick the right pass.

It was still almost 30 degrees with 60 per cent humidity close to the 7pm kick-off local time, though mercifully there was a nice cool breeze blowing across the pitch.

The Lions wasted little time going in front. Cundle slipped Langstaff into the inside-right channel for a shot that was blocked. Mayor swung in the corner with pace and Ivanovic headed past Fitzsimons at the near post.

Millwall were easily the dominant side, and played some lovely one-touch football.

Goalkeeper George Evans drilled a low

ball into the centre-circle for Langstaff to combine with Cundle and Ivanovic.

Rafiq Lamptey showed some impressive footwork in midfield, at one point taking out two opponents after receiving the ball facing his own goal before quickly spinning.

Millwall were zipping the ball around well and looking for opportunities to play out from the back, without being too risky.

Ivanovic seemed determined to get a hat-trick or more in his hour on the pitch.

Although he will probably notice a Max Dyche-shaped elbow in the back of his neck tonight. Max has clearly learned a thing or two from his dad, former Millwall defender Sean.

Langstaff was also a man out to impress after a difficult first season in SE16. He headed just wide after Wes Harding had brilliantly controlled Casper De Norre’s pass before crossing.

Mayor was linking well with Sheldon Kendall down the left side of Millwall’s 4-42 formation. There is plenty of pace in this squad.

Evans had just one save before half-time as he comfortably got down to collect Cameron McGeehan’s shot. Although the 20-year-old stopper did have to be

alert after Elliott List broke into the box, Evans getting there a fraction ahead of the forward.

While Neil was happy with what he was seeing, Cobblers chief Nolan appeared to want to get on to the pitch to clobber a few of his players. To be fair, they did improve and finally had a good spell a half an hour in, McGeehan’s shot dragged wide of the near post the only thing they had to show for it, though.

Meanwhile, the Lions created chances much more easily but Langstaff couldn’t beat Fitzsimons from the edge of the box after Ivanovic had laid the ball off to his strike partner.

Millwall went 2-0 up with a move started by that drilled low pass from Evans into Langstaff in midfield. Langstaff flicked it first time around the corner for Ivanovic who headed on to invite Cundle to run from deep and finish past Fitzsimons.

There was an impressive Millwall attendance as it looked like a few hundred made the trip. During the first-half water break for the teams, a Lions supporter shouted, “Can we have a drink?” Stadium rules dictate no alcohol in the stands, so they had to wait another 20-plus minutes

to quench their thirst.

The second half was naturally scrappier, especially after Neil made those changes.

Two of the substitutes almost combined for a third only for Aidomo Emakhu to drag his shot wide of the right post from Coburn’s pass.

In a competitive game, Baker-Boaitey would surely have had a penalty after his shirt was pulled in the box.

But the winger made up for that disappointment by making space on the right and supplying a quality delivery for Coburn to tuck home from six yards.

Millwall: Evans (Crocombe, 60); Harding (Beaumont, 60), Tanganga (Leonard, 60), Cooper (Crama, 60), Mayor (Drake, 60); Cundle (Baker-Boaitey, 60), Lamptey (Luongo, 46), De Norre (Massey, 60), Kendall (Emakhu, 60); Langstaff (Howland, 60), Ivanovic (Coburn, 60).

Northampton: Fitzsimons (Burge, 46); Burroughs (Ireland, 84), Baldwin (Dyche 71), Dyche (Willis, 46), Hoskins (Dobson, 84), Perkins (Tomlinson, 84), Fornah (Campbell, 46), Wormleighton, Jacobs, McGeehan, List (Fornah, 75).

Millwall boss sees youngster’s future in defence Adam Mayor

By John Kelly ALEX NEIL has explained his decision to start Adam Mayor at left-back in Millwall’s 3-0 friendly win against Northampton Town in Murcia on Tuesday evening.

Mayor set up the first goal after just three minutes when he curled in a dangerous corner from the right that was headed in at the near post by Mihailo Ivanovic.

Those two almost combined again in the first half, this time from Mayor’s corner from the left, but the Serbian striker headed over.

The left-footed Mayor joined Millwall

as a winger from Morecambe in January 2024. The 20-year-old has made four substitute appearances in the Championship.

Mayor was handed his first Lions start by Neil, on the left wing in a 3-0 win against Dagenham and Redbridge in the third round of the FA Cup last January.

Mayor then went on loan to League Two Bromley for the second half of the season, making seventeen league appearances, fifteen of them starts.

Mayor linked well down the left with Sheldon Kendall in the Lions’ commanding win against Kevin Nolan’s League One side.

“I think with Adam, he’s better when he’s got the game in front of him,” Neil told NewsAtDen. “You get some wingers that play with their back to goal a lot and I don’t think that that’s what he is, self-admittedly from him, speaking to him.

“I think we play him high and he holds width on the left-hand side or even better drop him deeper and he can step into the game with his left foot.

“He puts a few great crosses into the box. I think he’s comfortable there.

“I watched him last year when he was on loan at Bromley, he played some good games there at left-back as well.”

INSIDE

Sport Southwark

MARESCA MASTERECLASS PAGE 30

MILLWALL WEIGH UP MIDFIELDER DEAL

EXCLUSIVE

By John Kelly

© Action Plus

MASSIMO LUONGO is set to get another opportunity against Elche on Friday as Millwall weigh up a deal for the Australia International.

Midfielder Luongo, 32, came on for Rafiq Lamptey at half-time in Millwall’s 3-0 friendly win against Northampton Town in Murcia on Tuesday evening.

Luongo has been training with the Lions after his release by Ipswich Town this summer.

The midfielder played eleven times in the Premier League last

season and the Lions want to add experience to their midfield after the departures of George Saville and George Honeyman.

Millwall boss Alex Neil wants to have a further look at Luongo before a decision on a potential deal.

“We’ve only had Mass for a training session before we came here,” Neil told our paper. “We’ve only been here a couple of days in terms of doing seasons.

“He got 45 tonight, he’ll get 60 on Friday and it will give him an opportunity to have a look at us, it will give us an opportunity to ave a look at him - and we’ll go from there.”

Millwall were 2-0 up at half-time

Massimo Luongo has made 45 appearances for Australia

against the League One Cobblers after goals from Mihailo Ivanovic and Luke Cundle.

Josh Coburn added a third from Benicio Baker-Boaitey’s cross late on at the Pinatar Arena in southeast Spain.

Northampton offered little as Millwall had far too much physicality for their opponents.

“I thought it was good,” Neil said.

“To score three goals in any game is pleasing. I think we could have scored more,.

“I thought they made it a game.

They were aggressive in the game which meant there were a lot of duels, we had to play off the front and link it. The pleasing thing is

when we did that well we looked like we were going to score every time we went forward.

“To keep a clean sheet as well is always pleasing. Then to get minutes in all the lads’ legs without picking up any injuries is important.”

Academy graduates Evans, Rafiq Lamptey and Sheldon Kendall started the game. George Beaumont, Ben Drake, Alfie Massey and Jack Howland came on in he second half.

Neil said: “We’ve got a lot of younger players over with us from the under-21s. We’ve got eight of them, and I thought they performed well.”

By Will Scott MILLWALL HAVE completed the signing of Chelsea left-back Zak Sturge for an undisclosed fee.

Sturge has signed a long-term deal with the club.

The 21-year-old first joined the Lions on loan in the January transfer window and made five appearances in all competitions, starting the final three games of the season.

Sturge started his career at Cre8tive Football Academy before joining Brighton & Hove Albion’s academy in 2019.

He then moved to Chelsea in 2022, where he trained with the first team and made five appearances for their under-21s side in the EFL Trophy.

The former England under-18s international went out on loan to League One side Peterborough in the 2023-24 season, making fifteen appearances.

"We're so pleased to bring Zak in on a permanent basis," Millwall Director of Football Steve Gallen told the club's website.

"He came in on loan in January and whilst we knew how good of a player he was, Joe Bryan was playing exceptionally well and therefore Zak was unable to get many opportunities on the pitch.

"When he did come in, though, he was excellent. He played in the last three games of the season and was very good, too. Everyone knows Zak now and how he is a player; he has a great left foot and loves to get forward, but he is also good in one-vone situations defensively.

"He is also a very good personality around the training ground and is a good signing for the club - it shows the direction that we're going in."

Zak Sturge in action against Norwich City THE RECYCLED PAPER CONTENT OF UK NEWSPAPERS IN 2014 WAS 83.5%

© Brian Tonks

Massimo Luongo is a free agent after leaving Ipswich Town

Millwall sign Zak Sturge