LEWISHAM is set to be London's next top property hotspot according to developer St James Urban Living, thanks to a £250m regeneration project.

The redevelopment of the town centre, dubbed Lewisham Gateway Development, is part of a wide-range investment taking place across the south and east of London.

Touted the renaissance of Lewisham, the development will benefit from £15.9m of government funding and more than £200m of private sector investment.

The project, which will improve the area's infrastructure, is due to be completed in 2010.

Catherine Oliphant, head of sales and marketing for St James Urban Living, said: "Lewisham is fast gaining a reputation for progressiveness and rapid growth and now is the time to invest here.

"The local council is committed to improving the area and the river, supporting existing businesses and encouraging new enterprises."