From Police Station to Affordable Homes: Lewisham Conversion Gets Green Light
Ambitious plans to transform a disused police station in South London into dozens of new affordable flats have taken a significant step forward. A proposal from resident-led housing association Phoenix Community Housing to convert the former Catford Police Station on Bromley Road has been recommended for approval and is set to be decided by Lewisham Council's Planning Committee.
Redevelopment Details and Housing Mix
The project involves partially demolishing the site to make way for 63 new homes, a slight reduction from the initially proposed 65. Crucially, the development will be 100 per cent affordable, addressing a critical need in the local area. The housing mix will consist of 29 social rent flats and 34 intermediate rent flats, the latter being offered at approximately 20 per cent below local market rates.
The accommodation will be spread across a variety of sizes to cater to different needs, comprising 26 one-bedroom, 29 two-bedroom, and 8 three-bedroom units. Under the plans, the locally listed main police station building will be retained and converted, preserving a piece of Catford's architectural heritage. However, the ancillary buildings will be demolished and replaced with two new residential blocks ranging from four to six storeys in height.
Overcoming Objections and Looking Ahead
During the public consultation phase, the project received some local opposition. A total of 10 formal objections were lodged, alongside a petition bearing 37 signatures. Residents voiced concerns about potential over-development, the height of the new buildings being "visually intrusive," and fears over a loss of privacy for neighbouring properties.
Despite these objections, planning officers for Lewisham Council have thrown their support behind the scheme. They highlighted the "exceptional amount" of much-needed on-site affordable housing it would deliver, which aligns perfectly with the council's policy. Furthermore, the development received no objections from key statutory consultees, including Transport for London (TfL), the London Fire Brigade, and the Environment Agency.
Catford Police Station closed its doors at the end of 2017. Since its closure, the vacant building has been occupied by Live In Guardians, who provide security by living on the premises at a reduced cost. Phoenix Community Housing purchased the site in February 2022. If approved at the planning committee meeting scheduled for November 25, 2025, the project will not only provide new homes but also enhance the local area by creating new playspace, landscaping for urban greening, and converting Carstairs Road into a pedestrian-only street to improve connectivity.
