Woolwich Works seek to increase visibility in new plans

Plans have been submitted to install new signage and branding for Woolwich Works after years of criticism about lack of awareness.

The venue has had a tricky gestation with construction costs – paid for by Greenwich Council – running more than £13 million over an initially stated total. When Greenwich councillors tried to gain more information at a scrutiny meeting, information wasn’t forthcoming.

Since opening the venue has struggled with a number of issues requiring a £2 million bailout as well as £300,000 sponsorship from council company GSPlus.

Signage and advertising for the venue was almost non-existent not only across Woolwich but in the Arsenal site itself. After some tepid steps at improvement, further plans are now in.

Banners will be applied to the main entrance and café. One sizable blank wall will see signs attached.

This mirrors one of the few signs that have been applied in the three years since opening.

Previous efforts

Over the past two years signage has been applied outside as well as in the town centre including to the rear of the big screen on General Gordon Square – though that’s all looking a bit shabby now.

About two ago after disembarking a Thames Clipper I thought I’d imaging what it’d be like if this was my first time arriving. Would I have any clue there was an expensive new music and cultural venue seconds away?

And no, there was nothing. Even walking to the venue and past the entrance didn’t really show much unless specifically looking for it.

As the application states: “Having been opened for more than 3 years, with the exception of one exterior wayfinding sign attached to the southern side of the venue, there is no other permanent signage to direct patrons to the venue.”

So clearly work needed to be done – and it has in parts. These extra banners and signs should help.

Aside from posters other changes have been submitted after “clients using the Fireworks Factory have requested that the windows in the Fireworks Factory on the southern side are blacked out to benefit the audience experience at events, of which the bottom row will feature the Woolwich Works zig zag design and the title of the venue.

“Finally, for matters of privacy to dressing rooms, stock rooms and toilets, the windows on the west elevation of the building are to be frosted and will again feature the Woolwich Works zig zag design and the title of the venue in keeping with the proposed installation on the Fireworks Factory.”

In recent weeks Woolwich Works’ Managing Director stated the venue is for the first time on course not to lose money this financial year with a small surplus due.