The Lewisham Strategic Planning Committee has unanimously approved Lewisham Council's ambitious regeneration plans for Achilles Street in New Cross.

The scheme is set to deliver greater security for existing residents, substantial investment, and new economic opportunities for local businesses and the wider community.

The regeneration initiative is designed to strengthen the neighbourhood for the long term by providing an increase in affordable homes, improved public spaces, and safer streets—all of which have been directly shaped by local people.

The approved scheme will deliver a total of 278 high-quality new homes, with 60% allocated as affordable housing. This includes 122 homes for Council-owned social rent—an increase from the current 87—and 44 homes for shared ownership.

Further housing specifications include:

• Almost all homes (98%) will be dual or triple aspect to ensure optimal light and ventilation.

• A third of all new homes are specifically designed for families.

• The remaining 40% of homes will be for market sale.

In addition to housing, the plan sets out significant community and economic benefits:

• 1,411 sqm of commercial space, creating flexible workspaces, retail units, and maker spaces.

• 15% more public space, featuring improved social areas and play facilities.

• Better connections to Fordham Park and improved links across New Cross, Deptford, and Lewisham.

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The project has been heavily influenced by residents since 2016, with engagement efforts including a Resident Steering Group, a youth panel, and workshops with local schools. This resident involvement was formalised in a 2019 estate ballot where 92% of eligible residents voted, with a majority of 73% in favour of the plans. The Council has committed to continuing collaboration with residents to shape their new homes as the project progresses.

The design prioritises a strong neighbourhood feel, featuring secure bicycle parking and accessible public spaces. New maker spaces along Pagnell Street and the Makers' Yard are intended to offer affordable, flexible space for local artists and entrepreneurs, bolstering New Cross's role as one of Lewisham's most creative districts.

The Achilles Street scheme is expected to be completed by 2033 and marks a major milestone for Building for Lewisham, the Council's programme backed by the Mayor of London to increase affordable housing and support local jobs.

Councillor James-J Walsh, Lewisham Council's Cabinet Member for Inclusive Regeneration and Planning, commented: "Achilles shows what regeneration should be: rooted in the community, improving everyday life and helping local people stay in the neighbourhood they love. With 60% affordable homes, safer public spaces, better connections and new opportunities for local businesses, we're delivering the Good Growth vision in our Local Plan – creating a thriving New Cross shaped by its residents, for the future of Lewisham."

Councillor Will Cooper, Cabinet Member for Better Homes, Neighbourhoods and Homelessness, emphasised the focus on social housing: "With the Achilles Street Estate regeneration, we're putting social rent homes first. We know some of our estates and homes are not up to standard and need regeneration, and we are doing that regeneration with social housing tenants at the heart of our plans. The increase in social homes on this site means that families stuck in temporary accommodation or overcrowded in their properties will get the opportunity to move in to secure, safe and well-designed homes, giving them the chance to thrive at the heart of our community."

Jo McCafferty, Director at Levitt Bernstein, praised the community involvement: "It's testament to an incredible working collaboration between the community, our client, ourselves, WR-AP Architects and ZCD Architects and the wider design team including Max Fordham and Price & Myers. The Achilles Estate steering group have been at the forefront of all decision-making and have shown such personal commitment to the project over this period, from the original ballot in 2019."