WHat’s gOing On at 567 Old kent ROad?

struggle with is training young people so they may be less likely to take them on.

“So they could come through here and be taught the basics to able to get a more permanent job,” he said.

Nicholas saw the need for a space that everyone felt they could use and get something from. “Lots of places are being built under the guise of community,” Nicholas said.

“But what they really are is gated communities. And I really don’t want this to be another gated community - it needs to be approachable.”

The buildings are being constructed with £313,861 council investment, £267,300 from the Greater London Authority Good Growth Fund and £18,000 in Livesey Exchange crowdfunding.

After visiting the building and hearing plans for it, Cllr Kieron Williams said he was “convinced” of the benefits the centre would bring to the community.

“There’s obviously a lot of change happening here on Old Kent Road,” he said.

“All the change often involves new people coming into an area, but what really matters is those who’ve been there all along or most of their life, feel there’s something in it for them.

“Why I’m excited about it is that it’s a real pathway for people. This is not just a building, it’s a way into skills provision, into different industries.

“I can absolutely see a really wide group of people from the community coming in and seeing what’s going on here.

“You might come in for lunch, but you might leave thinking ‘I could get an apprenticeship’,” he added.

Luca Cruz Cahn, 24, who lives in Peckham, is making a film documenting the development and will be using the space for videography. He said: “Nicholas, born and bred in south London, has helped so many in our community to better their lives.

“The new Livesey Exchange will be a community hub for people in Southwark to thrive, and I’m so excited to see it in action.

“The most important is the idea of community business, which is important for young people to understand. Young people need to know, that in order to compete in London, you have to have a viable business model and something tangible to offer,” Luca added.

So what’s different about LEX 2?

“The difference here is, it’s nicer, more aesthetically pleasing, it’s got a smaller footprint to LEX 1. It’s for everyone.

Come, we’ll listen to your plans, we’ll see how we can help you,” Nicolas added.

There is the opportunity for local businesses to deliver training sessions at the centre too.

Anyone wanting to get involved in any way or to enquire about the space, email info@pempeople.com.