Mayor's disappointment over pool

12:53pm Monday 8th September 2008

A MAYOR says he is "disappointed" by the listing of a building which has upset redevelopment plans.

Last month, Louise House, in Dartmouth Road, Forest Hill, was listed by English Heritage, protecting it against demolition.

Under Lewisham Council plans, the building was due to be demolished along with Forest Hill Pools to create new housing and leisure facilities, following a public consultation.

Protestors against the development who want to save the pools' historic facade are now demanding further consultation.

Mayor of Lewisham Sir Steve Bullock told News Shopper saving the facade was unlikely but would be considered, though there would not be another full consultation.

He said: "I'm disappointed this listing has happened.

"What I don't want to do is reopen the whole thing. I'm not going to go back to the drawing board."

The issue will be discussed at a Lewisham Council Mayor and Cabinet meeting on September 17.