RESIDENTS say the closure of three flagship buildings proves multi-million pound improvements are "much-needed".

In recent weeks Forest Hill's library and swimming baths have closed along with the Louise House building, which has been empty for six months.

Now Lewisham Council has reiterated its promise to bring the buildings back into use and return the facilities to the people of Forest Hill.

Last month the 120-year-old Forest Hill Pools, in Dartmouth Road, was closed after a health and safety inspection revealed structural damage to the roof.

On April 13 the Grade II-listed Forest Hill library also closed its doors because of damage to the ceiling.

Parts of the library have now re-opened but the main adult fiction section remains closed to the public.

Both buildings are set to be improved the pools are having a £4m makeover and the library will undergo major refurbishment.

The Sydenham Society, which represents residents in Forest Hill and Sydenham, says this is vital.

Society chairman Pat Trembath said: "The investment is much-needed and what has happened recently proves this.

"The council should be credited for acting on the library but it has not invested properly in the pools.

"It deserves to be looked at accusingly for this."

A third building, Louise House, in Dartmouth Road, which used to house social security services, has been boarded up for the past six months.

Mrs Trembath added: "Someone needs to take some serious decisions about what is going to happen at this site."

Forest Hill resident Andrew Parker, 44, said: "These old buildings are absolutely central to the character of Forest Hill. It is vital we preserve them."

A Lewisham Council spokesman says "major works" to refurbish the library will start in early summer.

The council also says it remains committed to the revamp of Forest Hill Pools, which will see the two existing pools retained and improved.