WOOLWICH could be at risk of turning into a “commuter town” without cultural value if plans to knock down a theatre are pushed through, it has been claimed.

It comes after a planning application has been submitted to Greenwich Council to demolish The Woolwich Grand Theatre, in Wellington Street, to make way for housing.

News Shopper: Woolwich Grand Theatre demolition plans poses threat to arts and culture

A petition has been set up calling on the council to reject the application and list the building as an Asset of Community Value under the Localism Act 2011.

Stewart Christie, 39, of Roydene Road, set up the petition which has already gathered 100 signatures.

The IT consultant said: “I think with everything going on in Woolwich, we really need to keep the Grand open which needs some investment.

“There isn’t anything that could replace it for the arts.

“I have nothing against more housing, but there are thousands getting built and for the sake of 40 flats, we need to concentrate on other things other than housing and retail, otherwise we are going to end up with a commuter town with nothing of value in it.”

Director of Woolwich Grand Theatre Adrian Green encouraged residents to support the theatre by turning out to its shows and getting local performers involved.

He said: “Getting people to come here and perform here can only be a good thing, and to highlight the building and bring people to Woolwich.”

A Gentleman of Horror is running at the theatre from November 27 to 29 followed by children’s play The Boy Who Cried Wolf. For more information visit thewoolwichgrandtheatre.com/ and to sign the petition click here.