Greenwich: Redesign for shopfronts on Plumstead High Street

Planning permission has been granted for 11 redesigned shop-fronts in the area, the first phase of a project which will see up to 40 shops given a major facelift by spring 2022.

Jointly funded by The Royal Borough of Greenwich and the London Mayor's Good Growth Fund, improvements are taking place to regenerate Plumstead High Street, Lakedale Road and White Hart Road.

Shops have been given expert advice from a team of architects, builders and designers for their redesign, with mock-ups drawn up and planning permission now granted.

Cllr Denise Scott-McDonald, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Good Growth, said “Plumstead is a priority regeneration area for the Council."

"All the positive changes as part of this project are the culmination of listening to the local community and putting their ideas into action.

"With the combination of improvements to shop-fronts and public spaces, to make the area greener, more attractive and feel safer - real change is on its way."

The project was developed from ideas put forward by the local community. People thought more public artwork would improve the appearance and atmosphere of the area, with murals on the walls, shopfronts, shutters and lampposts suggested due to the restricted space on the High Street.

A colourful feature mural will also decorate the railway bridge and underpass on White Hart Road, inspired by patterns created by Plumstead Manor students and based on local architecture along with West African and South Asian textiles.

The mural will be added later in the year in a joint project with Network Rail to make White Hart Road a "cleaner, greener and safer route" for walking and cycling, connecting the High Street, railway station and power station to the Ridgeway, an off-road path that runs to Thamesmead.

Cllr Mariam Lolavar, Cabinet Member for Business and Economic Growth, said: “We’ve engaged with every business in area.

"Now at least 30 will get a bespoke shop-front that’s professionally designed with high quality materials, that pays close attention to the building’s original architectural features, and 90 per cent of cost will be subsidised by the Council and Mayor of London’s Good Growth Fund.

"Alongside help with the first impression their shop makes, 18 businesses have also been getting help with how their merchandise is displayed on the inside too, to maximise sales and bring customers back.

The road and pavement are being resurfaced and low maintenance planters will increase greenery and deter flytipping.

Another four locations - outside the Church of Christ the King on Lakedale Road, outside Boots and Poundland, White Hart Road and Abery Street car park have all been proposed for getting a greener makeover.

Some work has already started and subject to planning approval all should be completed by beginning of next year.

Last September residents planted more than 600 bulbs on the grassy space outside Gavin House which will be turned into a community garden with a path, more trees, hardwearing steel flower beds, and planting that stimulates the senses.