Greenwich & Lewisham Weekender - December 7th 2022

That’s a wrap!

Over 15,000 visitors make free Christmas light trail a sparkling success

Thousands of Royal Greenwich residents were dazzled by the Council’s free festive event, Sparkle in the Park in Well Hall Pleasaunce.

For four spectacular nights, the park was transformed into an enchanted winter wonderland, where a kaleidoscope of light installations, choir performances, street food and festive market stalls entertained families from across the borough.

On Saturday 3 December, International Day of Disabled People, the Council paused any moving lights and performances to make the first hour of the event quiet and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities friendly. This ensured that visitors with sensory sensitivities could enjoy the event.

The Royal Borough of Greenwich is keen to hear from visitors to find out what made this year’s Sparkle in the Park such a roaring success. We’ll be sharing a survey with all attendees, so if you enjoyed the event, please look out for it and take a few moments to tell us why.

Don’t miss our final Christmas Market in Thamesmead on Saturday 10 December. Head to the Clocktower on Joyce Dawson Way for some festive family fun.

To see all the best pictures from Sparkle in the Park, visit royalgreenwich.gov.uk/sparkle-in-the-park

Holly O'Mahony

as well as daily news and events, on our website: www.weekender.co.uk The Greenwich & Lewisham Weekender covers all aspects of life in the boroughs, including music, theatre, comedy, film, events, and food and drink, as well as all your community events and campaigns.

Weekender

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Feel Christmassy in Thamesmead

Thamesmead is being dressed for Christmas this weekend. As well as stalls selling sweets, jewellery and everything in between, its Christmas market boasts a mystery festive trail, a DIY card-making station and carol singers. Fun for the whole family, a trip here will have you feeling thoroughly festive.

Thamesmead Clock Tower, Joyce Dawson Way, Thamesmead, London, SE28 8RA. December 10, 10am - 4pm. Admission: FREE. www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/events/ event/8748/thamesmead_christmas_ market

Pick of the Week

By Holly O’Mahony

Dose up on winter wellness

In the cold, dark lead up to Christmas, our wellness often takes a backseat as we prioritise the season’s hedonism, present buying and making the day special for everyone else. But when a dose of wellness comes free of charge, there’s really no excuse. Greenwich Peninsula’s Thrive Winter Series is an 11-week programme of wellbeing classes and workshops for both adults and children – all of which are free to enjoy. There’s zumba, yoga and pilates for working the muscles, but it’s not all exercise: there’s also festive wreath making for those keen to get creative with their hands.

The Hour, The Jetty, Greenwich Peninsula, London SE10 0JF. November 14 - February 12, times vary. Admission: FREE. www.greenwichpeninsula.co.uk/ whats-on/events/thrive-wellbeing-festival

Climb inside a cosy jumper – literally

Award-winning fashion designer and artist Matty Bovan is the name behind NOW Gallery’s 2022 fashion commission. His show, Ribbons, is a chance for visitors to climb inside a giant, hand-knitted jumper created specially for the gallery. Cosy up inside its multicoloured, tent-like structure, and contemplate the fashion and textiles industries from within. Can becoming an ‘insider’ shift your perceptions of the trade? Regardless, this is a chance to encounter immersive art in the most literal sense of the term.

NOW Gallery, The Gateway Pavilions, Peninsula Square, Soames Walk, London SE10 0SQ. November 30 - February 20, Tuesday - Friday 10am - 7pm; Saturday 10am - 5pm; Sunday 11am - 4pm. Admission: FREE. www.nowgallery.co.uk/

Having a ball

Unleash your inner dancing queen and show off your best dad dancing moves with zero judgement at Blackheath Halls’ Big Xmas Disco Ball. The famous concert hall is turning back the clock to the 70s and 80s, when pop was in its prime – like you! This big old party is just for proper grown-ups (let your 20-something kidults make their own way to and from their parties for once!). DJ Lord Anthony is spinning the decks, promising to get you grooving with tracks like ‘Car Wash’ (complete with shiny rags) and ‘Disco Inferno’. Fancy dress is optional, but retro outfits will be rewarded.

Blackheath Halls, 23 Lee Road, Blackheath, London SE3 9RQ. December 10, 7:30pm. Admission: £18.

www.blackheathhalls.com/whats-on/havent-stopped-dancing-yet-bigxmas-disco-ball/

Tune in for the Royal Observatory’s annual Christmas lecture

Take a break from the assault course of festivities and head to the Royal Observatory’s Peter Harrison Planetarium, where Professor Sanjeev Gupta is delivering the annual Christmas lecture. This year, all eyes are on planet Mars, and how astronomers are using rovers to uncover the planet’s secrets.

Royal Observatory

Greenwich, Blackheath Avenue, London SE10 8XJ.

December 9, 7pm - 8pm. Admission: £10/£5 children.

www.rmg.co.uk/ whats-on/royalobservatory/ annual-royalobservatorychristmaslecture

Make a list, check

twice Make sure the kids have their Christmas wish lists at the ready, because Father Christmas is back in his grotto at Greenwich Market. Find him on select days in the run up to Christmas and tell him whether yours have been naughty or nice this year.

Greenwich Market, 11 Durnford Street, Greenwich, London SE10 9HZ. December 9 - 11, 16, 21 & 23; 10am - 6pm. Admission: £10. Advanced booking is essential. All proceeds go to Greenwich and Bexley Community Hospice. www.communityhospice.org.uk/ support-us/events/gmgrotto/

© National Maritime Museum, London

T HREE LOCAL CONCERTS TO CATCH THIS WEEK

SWAY...

Jazz the ticket

Take a break from all the Christmas campiness and let live music touch your soul as Greenwich Peninsula welcomes back its popular winter jazz event. At Bureau, the Design District’s coworking space, kick back listening to sets from rising names on London’s jazz circuit. On Thursday December 8, the event welcomes Daisy George, Waldo’s Gift and Maria Chiara Argirò. Then on Friday December 9, return to listen to Olive Jones, Ben Marc and Jackson Mathod. There’s a wellstocked bar on site, but head to nearby Design District Canteen for a bite to eat between sets.

The Bureau, 13 Soames Walk, London SE10 0AX. December 8 & 9, 6:30pm - 11pm. Admission: £15.

www.greenwichpeninsula.co.uk/whatson/events/winter-jazz-at-bureau

SHAKE… Everybody Dance

‘I Was Made For Lovin’ You’, ‘Le Freak’, ‘Good times’... everybody has a favourite song (or 10) by Nile Rogers and Chic. The proprietor of disco, funk and soul, whose career spans 50 years, he has collaborated with many of the biggest artists of past and present: from Sister Sledge, Diana Ross and David Bowie to Daft Punk, Madonna and Lady Gaga. Whatever your favourite track, consider this your invite to boogie to it this Friday, as Woolwich Works hosts ‘Europe’s premier Chic tribute show’ for one night only. Before and after the act itself, Woolwich Works’ house DJ will be spinning the decks, keeping with the disco theme. Basically, what we’re saying is, ‘Everybody Dance’.

The Fireworks Factory, 11 No 1 Street, Royal Arsenal, London SE18 6HD. December 16, 7pm - 11pm. Admission: £20.25 - £28.75.

www.woolwich.works/events/everybodydance-a-tribute-to-chic-nile-rodgers-1

SNUGGLE…

The greatest snowman

Swim in a frozen sky and drift over icy mountains floating by as East London Brass – one of the oldest bands in London – perform Howard Blake’s memorable, wintry score to Raymond Briggs’ classic Christmas film at Blackheath Halls. A great one for audiences of all ages, this thoroughly atmospheric concert is accompanied by a screening of The Snowman movie itself, so you can watch the little boy and his snowy creation fly over fields to an icy party in the dead of night, while listening to the score. If you feel the lyrics to ‘Walking in the Air’ practically bursting from your lungs, stick around for a Christmas singalong after the film. Arrive early for some festive refreshments before the show.

Blackheath Halls, 23 Lee Road, Blackheath, London SE3 9RQ. December 11, 2pm - 2:40pm. Admission: £15/£9 concessions.

www.blackheathhalls.com/whats-on/thesnowman-with-east-london-brass/

© Lou Jasmine

Take responsibility to double up with seasonal jabs

Take responsibility to double up with seasonal jabs

Take responsibility to double up with seasonal jabs

Experts warn that COVID-19 and flu pose an even greater risk this year. So stay safe, protect yourself and your loved ones this winter and get jabbed now.

Why are vaccines important?

Why are vaccines important?

BOTH COVID-19 and flu spread more easily in winter with older people as well as those under 50 with underlying health conditions more at risk of serious illness and hospitalisation.

BOTH COVID-19 and flu spread more easily in winter with older people as well as those under 50 with underlying health conditions more at risk of serious illness and hospitalisation.

are immunocompromised are offered additional primary doses - book an appointment online or find a walk-in centre.

Why are vaccines important?

n Protection provided by COVID-19 vaccines decreases over time – if you’re 50 or over, in an at-risk group or pregnant boost your immunity now

n Protection provided by COVID-19 vaccines decreases over time – if you’re 50 or over, in an at-risk group or pregnant boost your immunity now

n The flu and COVID-19 vaccines have a good safety record – they are the best protection we have against these viruses this winter

n Protection provided by COVID-19 vaccines decreases over time – if you’re 50 or over, in an at-risk group or pregnant boost your immunity now

conditions are more at risk this winter and will need the COVID-19 booster and flu vaccine

BOTH COVID-19 and flu spread more easily in winter with older people as well as those under 50 with underlying health conditions more at risk of serious illness and hospitalisation.

are immunocompromised are offered additional primary doses - book an appointment online or find a walk-in centre.

conditions are more at risk this winter and will need the COVID-19 booster and flu vaccine

n The flu and COVID-19 vaccines have a good safety record – they are the best protection we have against these viruses this winter

n The flu and COVID-19 vaccines have a good safety record – they are the best protection we have against these viruses this winter

conditions are more at risk this winter and will need the COVID-19 booster and flu vaccine

n People who have weakened immunity due to certain health

n People who have weakened immunity due to certain health

n People who have weakened immunity due to certain health

n Those aged 50 years and over

n Within 14 days of receiving your COVID-19 booster, your immunity against COVID-19 will be increased to about 90% protection against serious illness

n Within 14 days of receiving your COVID-19 booster, your immunity against COVID-19 will be increased to about 90% protection against serious illness

The protection that the COVID-19 vaccine provides decreases over time and the flu virus can change every year. That’s why it is vital to get both the flu vaccine and the COVID-19 booster. Medical experts are urging us all to get vaccinated as this is the best way we can protect ourselves. And remember, if you’re in an eligible group and not yet had your first, second and third booster dose. Also people that

The protection that the COVID-19 vaccine provides decreases over time and the flu virus can change every year. That’s why it is vital to get both the flu vaccine and the COVID-19 booster. Medical experts are urging us all to get vaccinated as this is the best way we can protect ourselves. And remember, if you’re in an eligible group and not yet had your first, second and third booster dose. Also people that

The protection that the COVID-19 vaccine provides decreases over time and the flu virus can change every year. That’s why it is vital to get both the flu vaccine and the COVID-19 booster. Medical experts are urging us all to get vaccinated as this is the best way we can protect ourselves. And remember, if you’re in an eligible group and not yet had your first, second and third booster dose. Also people that

n Within 14 days of receiving your COVID-19 booster, your immunity against COVID-19 will be increased to about 90% protection against serious illness

n Those aged 50 years and over

n Under 50s (over 5 years old for the COVID-19 booster) with...

l Chronic liver disease

n Those aged 50 years and over

n Under 50s (over 5 years old for the COVID-19 booster) with...

Professor Steve Powis, NHS England National Medical Director says: “With many people in hospital with COVID-19, and flu posing an even greater risk this year, I urge everyone eligible to book both vaccines as soon as possible to protect themselves and their loved ones.

are immunocompromised are offered additional primary doses - book an appointment online or find a walk-in centre.

Professor Steve Powis, NHS England National Medical Director says: “With many people in hospital with COVID-19, and flu posing an even greater risk this year, I urge everyone eligible to book both vaccines as soon as possible to protect themselves and their loved ones.

Professor Steve Powis, NHS England National Medical Director says: “With many people in hospital with COVID-19, and flu posing an even greater risk this year, I urge everyone eligible to book both vaccines as soon as possible to protect themselves and their loved ones.

“With thousands of GP practices, local pharmacies and other NHS sites across the country offering both vaccines, it’s never been easier to get this protection.”

“With thousands of GP practices, local pharmacies and other NHS sites across the country offering both vaccines, it’s never been easier to get this protection.”

“With thousands of GP practices, local pharmacies and other NHS sites across the country offering both vaccines, it’s never been easier to get this protection.”

UK Health Security Agency Chief Medical Advisor Dr Susan Hopkins adds: “We are extremely fortunate to have vaccines against these two diseases. Most eligible groups have been selected because they are at higher risk of severe illness.”

UK Health Security Agency Chief Medical Advisor Dr Susan Hopkins adds: “We are extremely fortunate to have vaccines against these two diseases. Most eligible groups have been selected because they are at higher risk of severe illness.”

UK Health Security Agency Chief Medical Advisor Dr Susan Hopkins adds: “We are extremely fortunate to have vaccines against these two diseases. Most eligible groups have been selected because they are at higher risk of severe illness.”

So, don’t delay, visit nhs.uk/ wintervaccinations to check your eligibility and book your free flu vaccine and COVID-19 booster appointments now.

So, don’t delay, visit nhs.uk/ wintervaccinations to check your eligibility and book your free flu vaccine and COVID-19 booster appointments now.

‘Protect yourself from everything’

“It is important to protect yourself from everything” is Trevor Cruickshank’s ringing endorsement for COVID and flu jabs to prevent threatened winter “twindemic”.

So, don’t delay, visit nhs.uk/ wintervaccinations to check your eligibility and book your free flu vaccine and COVID-19 booster appointments now.

owner suffered a stroke that left him with weakness down the right side of his body, struggling to walk and move his right hand.

“Due to the coronavirus pandemic my husband Chris was unable to visit me in hospital.

owner suffered a stroke that left him with weakness down the right side of his body, struggling to walk and move his right hand.

n Under 50s (over 5 years old for the COVID-19 booster) with...

l Chronic liver disease

l Chronic neurological conditions such as stroke or a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) multiple sclerosis or cerebral palsy

l Chronic neurological conditions such as stroke or a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) multiple sclerosis or cerebral palsy

“It is better to have vaccinations than end up in hospital or worse,” confirmed the 45 year-old. “I believe in all vaccinations and in science.

l Chronic liver disease

l Chronic neurological conditions such as stroke or a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) multiple sclerosis or cerebral palsy

l Immunosuppressed

– lowered immunity due to disease or treatment such as steroid medication or cancer treatment

l Immunosuppressed – lowered immunity due to disease or treatment such as steroid medication or cancer treatment Visit nhs.uk/wintervaccinations for the full eligibility list

“I just say ‘jab it in!’ There’s lots of misinformation out there about vaccines but we have been using them for hundreds of years and they have been saving lives.”

The Surrey catering business

Visit nhs.uk/wintervaccinations for the full eligibility list

l Immunosuppressed – lowered immunity due to disease or treatment such as steroid medication or cancer treatment Visit

Vaccines

“Due to the coronavirus pandemic my husband Chris was unable to visit me in hospital.

owner suffered a stroke that left him with weakness down the right side of his body, struggling to walk and move his right hand.

“Due to the coronavirus pandemic my husband Chris was unable to visit me in hospital.

“I’ve realised a stroke can happen to anyone at any time but, if you are of African or Caribbean origin, you may have a higher risk than other people in the UK. Advocating jabs, he added: “There is nothing to be afraid of. The vaccinations are over and done with quickly. You do not feel anything. You can also have a conversation with professionals doing the vaccinations. They are kind and reassuring and will answer all your questions and give any information you want.”

“I’ve realised a stroke can happen to anyone at any time but, if you are of African or Caribbean origin, you may have a higher risk than other people in the UK. Advocating jabs, he added: “There is nothing to be afraid of. The vaccinations are over and done with quickly. You do not feel anything. You can also have a conversation with professionals doing the vaccinations. They are kind and reassuring and will answer all your questions and give any information you want.”

“I’ve realised a stroke can happen to anyone at any time but, if you are of African or Caribbean origin, you may have a higher risk than other people in the UK.

Advocating jabs, he added: “There is nothing to be afraid of. The vaccinations are over and done with quickly. You do not feel anything. You can also have a conversation with professionals doing the vaccinations. They are kind and reassuring and will answer all your questions and give any information you want.”

Vaccines are your best protection against flu and COVID-19, which spread more quickly in winter and can both cause serious illness. To find out if you are eligible and book your appointment visit nhs.uk/wintervaccinations

Dr Susan Hopkins and Sir Stephen Powis

Dr Susan Hopkins and Sir Stephen Powis

Dr Susan Hopkins and Sir Stephen Powis

Tramshed reopens after

£4m refurb

Almost exactly three years after its doors swung shut, Woolwich arts venue Tramshed reopens to the public. Step inside and you might not recognise it: the listed building has undergone a drastic £4m makeover – a mega glow-up, if you like – to make the space more accessible and flexible, while kitting it out with state-of-the-art equipment, writes Holly O’Mahony…

A programme of performances and talks is relaunching the venue on December 8 and 9, then on Saturday December 10, Tramshed is hosting a free, family open day with talks and workshops aimed at all age groups.

“The site was declared not fit for purpose in autumn 2019. Since then, the whole building has been redesigned with flexibility and community as the focus. The space is absolutely wonderful,” beams artistic director Jeremy James, who clocks his 20-year anniversary with the organisation in 2023.

While the redevelopment was in progress, the performing arts organisation, which along with the Tramshed venue is funded by the Royal Borough of Greenwich, was based just five doors away, in a

former branch of Barclays bank. It was an uncertain time. “At that stage, we didn’t know whether the Tramshed was going to be refurbished and if we’d be able to move back in,” Jeremy recalls.

Fortunately, Tramshed was swept up in a larger refurbishment project to transform General Gordon Square into a leisure quarter – and as an important, well-used resource of the community, the redevelopment of the arts venue was fast-tracked.

Tramshed is now the name of both the arts hub and the performing arts organisation that calls it home. Founded in 1971 by former Greenwich Theatre boss Ewan Hooper, who made it his mission to establish a home for youth theatre in the east of the borough, the company was originally called Greenwich

Young People’s Theatre (GYPT), and later Greenwich and Lewisham Young People’s Theatre (GLYPT).

In 2019, 10 years after the company took up residence at the Tramshed, Jeremy and his team of stakeholders decided to drop its “outdated” name, and rebrand simply as Tramshed.

“We don’t only do young people’s theatre, which was confusing for

audiences. It just made sense to bring the [organisation and venue] together,” Jeremy explains.

A new-look Tramshed

So, what’s new inside? “The theatre has been upgraded and it’s now a 153-seater venue with retractable seating,” reveals Jeremy. The main space previously sat just

100 visitors. There’s also two new studio spaces, which can be booked by anybody, in which local community groups and fellow arts organisations like Greenwich Dance are already congregating.

There’s a small media wing, which young people are using to record music, and a large foyer with a café/bar that’s being used as a

flexible community space.

Crucially, the space is now accessible to visitors of all abilities. “It was accessible in ethos [before],” Jeremy stresses, referencing the venue’s regular club night for adults with learning differences and disabilities as one example of its fostering inclusivity, “but areas of the building were a nightmare,” he adds, pointing the finger at a former slope difficult

for wheelchair users to navigate.

The refurbishment has taken the whole building down to two floors, with a lift that allows access between the two, and new hearing loops around the auditorium have improved acoustics for the hardof-hearing. “It’s now a warm, working, accessible building, which one would expect in 2022,” says the artistic director, proudly.

Highlights in Tramshed’s 2022/23 programme

Whether you’re a regular visitor, an occasional frequenter or have never even heard of Tramshed before now, there’s plenty of events to entice you in over the next year. “In terms of big highlights, our new programme sees us working with families in the

winter and spring as well as in the summer [when the company runs its annual Family Arts Festival in local parks]. Look out for a mixture of shows and workshops,” says Jeremy.

Then in March of next year, award-winning playwright Roy Williams – whose recent trilogy of plays, Death of England, was staged at the National Theatre – is presenting his new play, All Routes, at Tramshed.

Fast forward to summer 2023, and “we’ve got a flagship project in the form of a community opera, Ignatius, in Greenwich Park, for which we’re currently recruiting people to be part of the chorus,” Jeremy grins. (Check the Tramshed website, if you’re interested!)

First up, this Christmas, is some unusual billing in the form of a Muslim nativity play, staged by the award-winning Khayaal Theatre Company.

Then there’s Tramshed’s regular events, including its monthly comedy night and its Tramtastic Club Night, which remain staples of the programme.

While Tramshed no longer only produces work for young people, next-gen performers and theatremakers remain a focus of the company’s outreach work. “Tramshed is for communities to

use,” stresses Jeremy. “We do a lot of work with emerging artists and having a building where they can come and work gives them a great platform.” What’s more, “for the first time ever, we have proper technical facilities, rather than a real mish-mash of kit,” he says, and this can be used to train new artists in light rigging, sound engineering and recording their own music.

Tramshed has had quite a history – comedians, jazz artists and world-famous bands including Dire Straits and Fleetwood Mac have performed there in the past – but its future looks just as bright. So embedded is the organisation in the community that the council has just granted them a 50-year lease.

“We’ve already been working here for 50 years… An organisation that’s been based in the borough and committed to the borough for 50 years in a world where things are ever more transient, that’s quite a strong foundation.”

Tramshed, 41 Woolwich New Road, London SE18 6ET.

Launch events on December 8 & 9, 7pm - 10:30pm, followed by a free family open day on December 10, 11am - 3:30pm.

THE MOON

IN

How CACT is encouraging more young girls to get involved in sport

The Lionesses have set a strong precedent for young people everywhere with their incredible performances on the way to winning Euro 2022 last summer. After her four goals in the tournament including the famous backheel against Sweden, I was reminded of Alessia Russo’s time training at Charlton’s Centre of Excellence as a young girl.

As a former Charlton Athletic Women captain, I’m delighted that women’s football is gaining a new following from younger audiences with the likes of Alessia inspiring the next generation.

In my current role at CACT, I am a strong advocate for creating opportunities for young girls in football.

One programme I work on is Premier League Kicks Targeted which works on a referral basis and offers the chance for young girls to be mentored one-to-one. This works alongside CACT’s wider crime reduction work which aims to offer support to young people and reduce anti-social behaviour.

The Premier League girls satellite

football sessions are another way for young females to get involved in sport, specifically those who have not engaged with football before. CACT found that young girls felt more comfortable playing football in a school environment and as a result, I am delighted that we can bring the satellite football sessions into schools with additional funding from London Marathon Charitable Trust.

Our Post-16 Football & Education Academy encourages girls to continue developing their football skills alongside their education after leaving school. If you are interested in finding out more about the programme for those aged 16-18, please visit: cact.org.uk/post-16

CACT is also recruiting for a dedicated Women and Girls Football

Development Officer. Within the role, you will be creating new and exciting opportunities for women and girls in sport whilst working closely together with Charlton Athletic Women’s team. If you are interested in applying, please visit: cact.org.uk/job-opportunities

Kim Dixson, CACT Social Inclusion/ Kicks Mentoring Manager

If you would like to find out more about CACT’s football offer for girls, please visit: cact.org.uk/girls-football

If you would like to help support CACT in creating more opportunities for young girls in sport, please consider becoming part of our regular giving scheme. For more information visit: cact.gives/donate

Lime Villa - a factory among houses

While I’m writing about Lime Villa I also want to pay tribute to three local historians who wrote about this works. First of all is the write up of it in John Smith’s History of Charlton Volume 3 – which is a constant source for these articles. Vol 3 was published in 1984 but John’s research was done in the 1960s and 1970s. He was the first Chair of the Charlton Society and very, very knowledgeable about every hole and corner of the area.

John had left Greenwich, and then died, before we first set up Greenwich Industrial History Society in the 1990s. To start with we used to produce a proper paper newsletter which went to all our members. In the end this got too much work to send out and I started putting stuff on the Facebook page instead, which I’ve done ever since

One of the earliest contributors to the newsletter and one of the first members of the GHIS committee was the late Barbara Ludlow. I am sure lots of people reading this will remember Barbara, who was the senior assistant at the Woodlands Local History Library in Mycenae Road. Barbara had lived in Greenwich all her life and was one of the well known local Wellard family. Everybody knew Barbara and that she was an amazingly good historian who wrote a number of books about Greenwich. One of the earliest articles she wrote for GIHS was about Lime Villa.

Her article was picked up by Paul Sowan. Paul wasn’t a Greenwich person, in fact he was based in Croydon where he was well known as the local historian and a geologist. He was one of the founders of Subterranea Britannica, which,

now a national organisation, is looking at all things underground. Personally he was a specialist in the stone, lime and chalk industries and mines of the North Downs. Paul was more than a bit, well, eccentric and I must not get hung up on lots of stories about him (for example sitting next to him at a very boring and pretentious dinner event. All the company was in evening dress. Paul in an immaculate formal white shirt, jeans, and around his neck a whistle and a compass on a bit of string). I very much enjoyed his company and was sad to know he died recently.

Paul picked up what Barbara had written about Lime Villa and extended it to a much bigger story which was about chalk extraction in the area south of Croydon and on the boundaries of the North Downs.

Barbara had explained in her article that Lime Villa was built by a Thomas Nichols who had come from Dartmouth and settled in Charlton in the late 1840s, establishing himself as a carpenter and lime merchant in Hardens Manorway. His business prospered and in 1866 he moved to the site in the Woolwich Road to work as a lime burner.

In the past I’ve written about lime burning in Greenwich in connection with the area known as The Lime Kilns on Blackheath hill and Greenwich South Street, which was called Lime Kiln Lane. There will be a whole chapter of this in my new book on Deptford Creek. There were also kilns in other areas and many of them were in the chalk extraction sites to the south of the Woolwich Road. Some of this area was owned by Louis Glenton – who I will come to in a later article in connection with what are now Charlton Football ground and the Glenton Railway.

Thomas built Lime Villa on a site of the Glenton’s works and brought up his family there, and at the rear of the house built two Staffordshire style bottle kilns. It is thought he replaced earlier kilns along with new ovens. He began to specialise in producing items for the local gas industry. The 1871 census shows that Nichols employed 13 men in Charlton and they all lived nearby. However there was not enough chalk and limestone for a

local supply and Thomas began to bring in chalk from the Riddlesdown Quarry near Whyteleafe in Surrey.

And this is where Paul came in and wrote an article himself for our newsletter about the various pits in Charlton and picking up on the Thomas family’s use of chalk from the Riddlesdown area. Paul said that the large chalk pit which Nichols used was the huge and very dramatic Rose and Crown pit at Kenley. This is the pit which has the railway line from South Croydon to Oxted passing through the centre on a bridge. But despite this there is no interchange with the railway for goods transfer.

Paul also said that Nichols used nearby Whyteleafe chalk pits and kilns in the Godstone Road – they are now not recognisable since the site has now been used for housing. He also pointed out that these Whyteleafe works had a siding at Upper Warlingham station, which would have made it easy for chalk to be sent from there to Charlton.

Paul said that as a result of the Quarries Act 1894 all open pits for mineral working over 20 feet deep were subject to inspection and regulation. Data for the two pits which Nichols used is published from 1837. This shows that he had a local manager A.E. Mead, and employed inside and outside men with 19 men for the smaller pit and

Mary Mills

I guess I am not the only person who will remember a strange Gothic looking building which stood among the terraced houses in Woolwich Road, in Charlton along past the anti-Gallican pub. I used to see it and had no idea what it was but I know now that it was called Lime Villa and that it was a small factory.

13 for the larger one. There are no accidents or prosecutions.

Thomas Nichols’ son Fred was employed in the Rose and Crown pit for 12 years and then in 1887 took over management of the business from his father. The business expanded as Fred took on about a dozen men from Austria and Surrey with expertise in ceramics. Production began on many new items. Fred retired around 1914 and his son Eric took over. The family is shown as being in possession of the Surrey pits as lime burners up until 1924.

In 1920 Eric Nichols went into partnership with the Crown Gas Stove and Fuel Co. which specialised in makig ‘Asbestos fuels’. If you think about it, gas fires had these little white elements inside them which the gas heated up and they became radiant. They were called ‘fuels’ and they were made by the pottery industry from clay containing asbestos fibres. These were made at Lime Villa along with a wide range of ceramics which young women were employed to decorate. In the 1950s Crown seem to have left the business and it was known as the Greenwich Pottery. For the Festival of Britain the firm made little statues of decorated pottery, but they were for export only despite being advertised in the 1951 Greenwich Festival Guide. By the late 1950s this had all closed down leaving a kiln on site.

The site was bought by the Greater London Council in 1965. Everything was eventually demolished and the Barney Close flats built there. Barney Close was the last estate built by the GLC and I remember well it being built when I worked adjacent to it in Floyd Road in the late 1970s.

Barbara says that an industrial archaeologist surveyed the sites before it was pulled down and I think it must be the man in the photograph which I reproduced in my book Greenwich and Woolwich at work. I don’t know who this industrial archaeologist was and no one that I know who has researched the early days of the Greater London Industrial Archaeology Society seems to recognise him. Has anyone any ideas?

I am sorry that the kiln was demolished by the GLC because it would’ve made an interesting feature in the area and something which we would come to look at in the future. I can imagine that today there would be a petition and a bit of a fuss to keep it but it wasn’t like that in the 1960s.

I do remember Lime Villa and how strange it was sitting in the terrace of houses and I had no idea it was a factory - I thought it was just an eccentric house built by a wealthy resident.

„ archaeologist in the pottery

royAL BorouGH oF GrEEnWicH roAD trAFFic rEGuLAtion Act 1984 – sEction 14(1) tEmPorAry trAFFic rEstrictions – VArious roADs

1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Council of the Royal Borough of Greenwich intends to make an Order to facilitate works for the repair of the carriageway under Section 14(1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984.

2. The effect of the Order will be to temporarily prohibit all vehicles from entering into, exiting from, proceeding in, or waiting (including waiting for the purposes of loading or unloading) in the following lengths of roads:

(a) Godstow Road, for its entire extent.

(b) Plumstead High Street, for its entire extent.

(c) Orchard Road, for its entire extent.

(d) Knee Hill, for its entire extent.

(e) Charlton Road, for its entire extent.

(f) Church Hill, for its entire extent.

(g) Plumstead Road, for its entire extent.

(h) Pettman Crescent, for its entire extent.

(i) Ravens Way, for its entire extent.

(j) Griffin Road, for its entire extent.

(k) Millennium Way, for its entire extent.

(l) Charlton Church Lane, for its entire extent.

(m) Crossway, for its entire extent.

(n) Swingate Lane, for its entire extent.

(o) Garland Road, for its entire extent.

(p) Sandy Hill Road, for its entire extent.

(q) Bloomfield Road, for its entire extent.

(r) College Approach, from its junction with Greenwich Church Street to its junction with King William Walk.

(s) King William Walk, from its junction with College Approach to its junction with Nelson Road.

(t) Nelson Road, from its junction with King William Walk to its junction with Greenwich Church Street.

(u) Greenwich Church Street, from its junction with Nelson Road to its junction with College Approach.

(v) Woolwich New Road, for its entire extent.

(w) Woolwich Road, for its entire extent.

(x) Edge Hill, for its entire extent.

(y) Tewson Road, for its entire extent.

(z) Bardsley Lane, for its entire extent. (aa) Fairfax Gardens, for its entire extent.

(bb) Brook Lane, for its entire extent.

(cc) Cantwell Road, for its entire extent.

(dd) Alwold Crescent, for its entire extent.

(ee) Anchor and Hope Lane, for its entire extent.

(ff) Blackwall Lane, for its entire extent.

(gg) Bugsbys Way, for its entire extent.

(hh) Charlton Lane, for its entire extent.

(ii) Eastern Way, for its entire extent. (jj) Frances Street, for its entire extent. (kk) Garland Road, for its entire extent.

(ll) Horn Lane, from its junction with Woolwich Road to its junction with Peartree Way. (mm)Peartree Way, for its entire extent. (nn) Thomas Street, for its entire extent.

(oo) Tunnel Avenue, for its entire extent.

(pp) Wellington Street, for its entire extent.

(qq) Westcombe Hill, for its entire extent. (rr) Western Way, for its entire extent.

3. The above prohibitions will only apply to such times and such extent as shall be indicated by the placing or covering of appropriate traffic signs and alternative routes for diverted vehicles would be available via local roads.

4. Whilst the closures are in operation, vehicular access to properties affected by these works would be maintained wherever possible subject to the extent and operations of the works.

5. The Order would come into force on Thursday 8th December 2022 and works are expected to last a maximum of one week. However the Order will remain in force for 18 months, or until the works have been completed, whichever is the sooner.

6. Queries concerning these works should be directed to traffic.team@royalgreenwich.gov.uk quoting reference 11-22 Highways Maintenance Road Closures. Assistant Director, Transport, Communities, Environment and Central, Royal Borough of Greenwich Dated 7th December 2022 royAL BorouGH of GrEEnWicH roAD trAFFic rEGuLAtion Act 1984 – sEction 14(1) nEWHAVEn GArDEns PLAnnED roAD cLosurE (orDEr)

1. The Royal Borough of Greenwich makes this Order in exercise of powers under section 14(1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984. This is to facilitate works by Thames Water who needs to install a new connection.

2. The Order will come into operation on 19th December 2022 and would continue to be valid for 18 months. However, the works are expected to take 5 days. The duration of the Order can be extended with the approval of the Secretary of State for Transport.

3. The effect of the Order would be to temporarily prohibit vehicles from entering, exiting, proceeding, or waiting (including waiting for the purposes of loading or unloading), in Newhaven Gardens outside 24.

4. Whilst the Order is in operation traffic will be diverted via Purneys Road, Penford Gardens, Briset Road & vice versa. Prohibitions remain in force; pedestrians are not affected, and vehicle access will be maintained wherever possible.

5. Nothing in this Notice will apply to anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform or traffic warden, to emergency service vehicles, or to vehicles being used in connection with the works.

6. The restrictions described above will apply only during such times and to such extent as shall be indicated by traffic signs as prescribed by the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016.

7. Queries concerning these works should be directed to the Royal Borough of Greenwich’s Directorate of Regeneration, Enterprise & Skills on 020 8921 6340.

Ryan Nibbs Assistant Director, Transport.

The Woolwich Centre, 35 Wellington Street, SE18 6HQ Dated 07/10/22

(INTERNAL REF: PL/444/LA440238)

royal Borough of Greenwich

town & country Planning Act 1990 (As AmEnDED)

town & country Planning (Development management Procedure)(England) order 2015

Planning (Listed Buildings & conservation Areas) Act 1990 (As AmEnDED)

Planning (Listed Buildings & conservation Areas) regulations 1990 (As AmEnDED) town & country Planning (control of Advertisements) regulations 2007 (As AmEnDED)

Notice is hereby given that application(s) have been made to The Royal Borough of Greenwich in respect of the under mentioned premises/sites. You can see the submissions and any plans at http://www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/planning.

If development proposals affect Conservation Areas and/or Statutorily Listed Buildings under the Planning (Listed Building and Conservation Area) Act 1990 (As Amended) this will be shown within the item below. Anyone who wishes to comment on these applications should be made in writing to Development Planning within 23 days of the date of this notice. Please quote the appropriate reference number.

Date: 07/12/2022

Victoria Geoghegan

Assistant Director - Planning and Building Control

List of Press Advertisements - 07/12/2022

Publicity for Planning Applications

Applicant: Mr Shoyab Master 22/3448/HD

Site Address: 29 FAIRFIELD GROVE, CHARLTON, LONDON, SE7 8UA

Development: Demolition of existing rear extension and construction of a part 1 part 2 storey rear extension; internal alterations; alteration to fenestration; removal of paint to brickwork on rear elevation; replacement rear windows; parapet wall along shared boundary; insulated render to rear projection; replacement rainwater goods to rear with metal gutters and down pipes; removal of existing concrete hard standing to rear garden; new landscaping to rear garden; repairs to back of pavement boundary wall; new loft hatch; installation of bathroom to first floor; Minor alterations to the first floor layout to include a new opening in existing spine wall; new lightweight partitions to form bedroom entrance lobby; removal of non-historic flue and hearth in rear addition; enlarged openings in non-historic rear addition structural walls and associated external alterations.

Conservation Area: CHARLTON VILLAGE

Applicant: Mr Doran 22/3752/mA

Site Address: 24 HERVEY ROAD, KIDBROOKE, LONDON, SE3 8BS

Development: An application submitted under Section 96a of the Town & Country Planning Act 1990 for a non-material amendment in connection with the planning permission dated 14/07/2021 (Reference: 20/3644/F) for creation of basement level to provide two 2-bed self-contained flats together with one new private sunken courtyards at rear, one new private sunken courtyard at the side, one new private rear terraces for existing ground floor flats with balustrades and metal walkways to allow:

- Minor extension of basement level flat to enlarge two bedrooms and living room

- Minor change to the basement level doors within the west elevation

Conservation Area: SUN IN THE SANDS

Applicant: London and Quadrant Housing Trust 22/3773/F

Site Address: 18 WHITWORTH STREET, GREENWICH, LONDON, SE10 9EN

Development: Removal and replacement of sash windows on front elevation with timber double-glazed alternatives and removal and replacement of rear elevation timber windows with double-glazed uPVC alternatives.

Conservation Area: EAST GREENWICH

Applicant: London and Quadrant Housing Trust 22/3783/F

Site Address: 29 WHITWORTH STREET, GREENWICH, LONDON, SE10 9EL

Development: Removal and replacement of sash windows and front door on front elevation with timber double-glazed alternatives and removal and replacement of rear elevation timber windows and rear door with double-glazed uPVC alternatives.

Conservation Area: EAST GREENWICH

Applicant: London and Quadrant Housing Trust 22/3784/F

Site Address: 32 WHITWORTH STREET, GREENWICH, LONDON, SE10 9EL

Development: Removal and replacement of timber front and rear doors and replacement with timber and uPVC alternatives.

Conservation Area: EAST GREENWICH

Applicant: London and Quadrant Housing Trust 22/3785/F

Site Address: 35 WHITWORTH STREET, GREENWICH, LONDON, SE10 9EL

Development: Removal and replacement of timber front and rear doors and replacement with timber and uPVC alternatives.

Conservation Area: EAST GREENWICH

Applicant: London and Quadrant Housing Trust 22/3786/F

Site Address: 14 WHITWORTH STREET, GREENWICH, LONDON, SE10 9EN

Development: Removal and replacement of sash windows and front door on front elevation with timber double-glazed alternatives and removal and replacement of rear elevation timber windows and rear door with double-glazed uPVC alternatives.

Conservation Area: EAST GREENWICH

Applicant: London and Quadrant Housing Trust 22/3787/F

Site Address: 16 WHITWORTH STREET, GREENWICH, LONDON, SE10 9EN

Development: Removal and replacement of sash windows and front door on front elevation with timber double-glazed alternatives and removal and replacement of rear elevation timber windows and rear door with double-glazed uPVC alternatives.

Conservation Area: EAST GREENWICH

Applicant: London and Quadrant Housing Trust 22/3788/F

Site Address: 37 WHITWORTH STREET, GREENWICH, LONDON, SE10 9EL

Development: Removal and replacement of sash windows and front door on front elevation with timber double-glazed alternatives and removal and replacement of rear elevation timber windows and rear door with double-glazed uPVC alternatives.

Conservation Area: EAST GREENWICH

Applicant: Mr Cooper 22/3792/HD

Site Address: 16 KINGS ORCHARD, ELTHAM, LONDON, SE9 5TJ

Development: Construction of two storey rear extension, change use of existing garage to habitable room and infill extension between the existing property and garage building.

Conservation Area: ELTHAM PALACE

Applicant: Mr Stephens JCDecaux UK Limited 22/3896/F

Site Address: PAVEMENT OPPOSITE 10 VICTORY PARADE, PLUMSTEAD ROAD, WOOLWICH, SE18 6FL

Development: The installation of a multifunctional communication Hub including defibrillator and display

Conservation Area: ROYAL ARSENAL WOOLWICH

Applicant: JCDecaux UK Limited 22/3906/F

Site Address: PAVEMENT OPPOSITE 3 GREENS END, WOOLWICH, SE18 6HX

Development: The installation of a multifunctional communication Hub including defibrillator and display.

Conservation Area: Woolwich Conservation Area

Applicant: Mr Macdonald 22/3945/HD Site Address: 55 HERVEY ROAD, KIDBROOKE, LONDON, SE3 8BS

Development: Formation of a vehicular crossover and hardstanding to front garden, including the partial demolition of, and alterations to the front boundary wall (including new brick piers), together with the installation of electrical upstand to create a charging point and all associated works.

Conservation Area: SUN IN THE SANDS

Applicant: Abder Rahman Ben Lamkadem 22/3968/HD Site Address: 27 RICHMOUNT GARDENS, BLACKHEATH, LONDON, SE3 9AE

Development: Construction of a single storey rear extension. Conservation Area: BLACKHEATH PARK

Applicant: Mr Satinder Dhillon 22/3987/HD Site Address: 155 WESTCOMBE HILL, BLACKHEATH, LONDON, SE3 7DP

Development: Demolition of conservatory and construction of a single storey rear and side extension including internal alterations.

Conservation Area: WESTCOMBE PARK

Applicant: Aisling Kelly 22/3993/HD Site Address: 161 PLUMSTEAD COMMON ROAD, LONDON, SE18 2UQ

Development: Demolition of existing lean-to and construction of a new rear extension with replacement of front door Conservation Area: PLUMSTEAD COMMON

Applicant: Mr & Mrs Sargent 22/4001/HD Site Address: 25 PARKGATE, BLACKHEATH, LONDON, SE3 9XF

Development: Enlargement of existing front light well; enlargement/ alteration of the existing entrance canopy; construction of a subterranean activities room in rear garden; enlargement of existing rear dormer window and addition of juliet balcony; alterations to fenestration including installation of windows in South, East and West elevations.

Conservation Area: BLACKHEATH PARK

Publicity for Listed Building Consent

Applicant: T4 UK franchise Ltd 22/2077/L

Site Address: SHIVA, 24 GREENWICH CHURCH STREET, GREENWICH, LONDON, SE10 9BJ

Development: Display of 1 x non-illuminated fascia sign, 1 x nonilluminated projecting sign and 1 x internally illuminated display screen - (Re-consultation)

Conservation Area: WEST GREENWICH

Listed Building: Grade 2

Applicant: Mr Shoyab Master 22/3449/L

Site Address: 29 FAIRFIELD GROVE, CHARLTON, LONDON, SE7 8UA

Development: Listed Building Consent for the demolition of existing rear extension and construction of a part 1 part 2 storey rear extension; internal alterations; alteration to fenestration; removal of paint to brickwork on rear elevation; replacement rear windows; parapet wall along shared boundary; insulated render to rear projection; replacement rainwater goods to rear with metal gutters and down pipes; removal of existing concrete hard standing to rear garden; new landscaping to

rear garden; repairs to back of pavement boundary wall; new loft hatch; installation of bathroom to first floor; Minor alterations to the first floor layout to include a new opening in existing spine wall; new lightweight partitions to form bedroom entrance lobby; removal of non-historic flue and hearth in rear addition; enlarged openings in non-historic rear addition structural walls and associated external alterations.

Conservation Area: CHARLTON VILLAGE

Listed Building: Grade 2

Publicity For Advertisement

Applicant: JC Decaux UK Ltd 22/3870/A Site Address: Bus Shelter, On Forecourt O/S Greenwich Railway Station, Greenwich High Road, Greenwich, SE10

Development: A double sided six sheet advertisement display sign forming part of the bus shelter. The signs show static advertisements images that are illuminated and feature an automatic sequencing of different advertisements.

Conservation Area: WEST GREENWICH

Applicant: Jennings Racing Ltd 22/3871/A

Site Address: JENNINGS BET, 3 GREENWICH CHURCH STREET, GREENWICH, LONDON, SE10 9BJ

Development: Installation of a non-illuminated hand painted fascia sign.

Conservation Area: WEST GREENWICH

Applicant: JCDecaux UK Limited 22/3897/A

Site Address: PAVEMNET OPPOSITE 10 VICTORY PARADE, PLUMSTEAD ROAD, WOOLWICH, SE18 6FL

Development: The installation of a multifunctional communication Hub with advertisement display. Advertisement to be integrated into the Communication Hub unit and comprises an LCD portrait screen that will be used to show static illuminated content.

Applicant: JCDecaux UK Limited 22/3907/A

Site Address: PAVEMENT OPPOSITE 3 GREEN END, WOOLWICH, SE18 6HX

Development: The installation of a multifunctional communication Hub including advertisement display, as illustrated in the attached documentation. Advertisement to be integrated into the Communication Hub unit and comprises an LCD portrait screen that will be used to show static illuminated content.

Conservation Area: Woolwich Conservation Area

Applicant: Funeral Services Partners 22/3933/A

Site Address: BLACKHEATH FUNERAL SERVICE, 8 STRATHEDEN PARADE, BLACKHEATH, LONDON, SE3 7SX

Development: Installation of a new non illuminated fascia sign painted in black and gold.

Conservation Area: BLACKHEATH