In a landmark partnership agreement, Lewisham Council has announced that Goldsmith’s, University of London, will be setting up a new campus in Catford’s historic Town Hall. The move is expected to breathe new life into the town centre, boosting the local economy and creating opportunities for businesses.
The university’s Fine Art and Design department had been seeking a new location after needing to vacate its current site at the former Lewisham College by July 2027. Lewisham Council described the agreement as a “powerful example of what long-term partnership can achieve.”
Mayor of Lewisham, Brenda Dacres, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating: “Bringing Goldsmith’s into the heart of Catford is not just about a new campus – it’s about anchoring creativity, learning and opportunity in our town centre.” She added that the move would support local businesses, attract new visitors and open up opportunities for residents to engage with one of the UK’s leading creative universities.
The council hopes the new campus will bring in over 600 students to the town centre, revitalising the area and providing a significant economic boost. Staff and services currently based at the Old Town Hall will be relocated to alternative sites, including another building in the town centre.
Goldsmith’s is expected to enter a 10-year lease with Lewisham Council, and work to prepare the Old Town Hall for the university will begin later this year. This is the latest in a series of regeneration projects for Catford, following the recent opening of a new pub, The Catford House, and the upcoming construction of over 100 affordable homes at Thomas’ Lane Yard.
Mayor Dacres concluded: “This is a major step forward in our vision for Catford as a vibrant place to live, work, study and spend time.”