A campaign to rebuild one of Sydenham’s oldest landmarks after it was demolished without consent more than two years ago has been launched today.

The Greyhound, an 18th century pub located in conservation area Kirkdale, was knocked down without consent by developer Purelake leading to £13,000 in costs and a £5,000 fine.

But a new petition launched by the Sydenham Society aims to get the pub rebuilt following complaints about the state of the site – dubbed an “eyesore.”

Sydenham Councillor Liam Curran, who originally campaigned against the closure of the venue, said: "Sydenham residents are fed up that this pub has been closed since August 2007. They're fed up that a successful pub was closed and they're fed up that Purelake has demolished this historic pub in a conservation area without permission. Demolition in a conservation area without Conservation Area Consent is a criminal offence. Purelake pleaded guilty and I have asked the Mayor and Cabinet what legal options are open to the Council to enforce the rebuilding of the pub.

“I have been told that top legal advice has been sought and we are now waiting to hear the outcome of that legal advice. Lewisham should not and must not get a reputation for being a pushover for unscrupulous developers."

Visit www.ipetitions.com for information on the petition.