Really Local Group to build Catford cultural hub

The Really Local Group has received planning consent from Lewisham for its first site in Catford, SE6. The 25,000 sq ft scheme will provide a three-screen cinema, pop-up food stalls, live entertainment stages, a rooftop bar and coffee shop, recording studios and artist workshops. The mixed-use retail, food and leisure offer is designed to provide a diverse community-based programme and replaces an existing retail unit within Catford Centre shopping mall – a site Lewisham Council plans to redevelop in the long term. Another similar site in Reading, Berkshire – a five minute walk from the new Crossrail station – is set to feature the world’s first micro-brewery, tap room and cinema under the same roof. Other projects are also planned for Sidcup and Hayes, and it is understood the company plans to have 10 sites operational within the next four years. Preston Benson, managing director of The Really Local Group, said: “For decades the residents of Catford and the wider borough of Lewisham have been underserved with respect to leisure offerings, which motivated us to launch this new multi-functional cultural space. “2018 has been an ‘annus horribilis’ for the UK high street with changing consumer trends permanently altering its composition. The Really Local Group believe this change presents an exciting opportunity to create a positive story through the provision of local arts and leisure spaces throughout London and the wider UK.” To send feedback e-mail paul.wellman@egi.co.uk or tweet @paulwellman eg or @estatesgazette