Design changes revealed for Lewisham College site in Deptford
Plans for a major development at a former Lewisham College site have been substantially revised.
Following an initial application back in spring 2025, the site near Deptford Bridge DLR station has seen the main tower altered which will top out at 100 metres. Housing totals have reduced from 908 to 802.
The site straddles both Lewisham and Greenwich boroughs and revised totals now see 548 homes in Lewisham (down from 597 homes), and 254 homes in RBG (down from 306)
The above view shows the tallest block from Deptford Church Street. The Bird’s Nest pub is in the foreground. New builds beside the pub are proposed as part of a separate development.
Borough boundary
As stated 802 homes are proposed in total with eight buildings across the site. Lewisham borough will see four blocks: Building A at 30 storeys, Building B at 11 storeys while Building C is 15 storeys and Building D is 18 storeys.
Greenwich borough also sees four structures: Building E is 19 storeys (reduced from 24 storeys originally submitted), Building F is 10 storeys, Building G is 10 storeys and Building H is 1 storey.
Distinctive designs are the result of architects CZWG. The developer is RER London.
Lewisham College vacated the site in 2024 while Goldsmiths occupy some of the current site. DLR tracks run close by as does Deptford Creek. Public space is proposed alongside the water/mud.
The application contains an excellent comparison between the site in 1952 and now. Many buildings survived world war two before demolition in part for road widening. The current buildings on site have little architectural merit.
The Bird’s Nest pub is just about the only survivor along this stretch of Deptford Church Street.
One image shows the view down Deptford Church Street post-revision. The road has recently been redesigned.
I was down there recently taking photographs of the new cycle lanes and redesigned street alongside new homes at the former Tidemill school and will hopefully get them online soon.
Transport
Public transport links are excellent with Deptford Bridge DLR station beside the site.
It’s a short walk to both Greenwich and Deptford stations for fast services to London Bridge and beyond. London Bridge takes just six minutes from Deptford station.
Numerous bus routes also pass the site.
The below image shows high density buildings around the DLR station.
To view changes including the new comprehensive Design and Access Statement totalling 227 pages click here.
This looks better than the original proposal. Still too tall. The choice of materials will decide whether it’s an enhancement to the area or not.
Yes still too tall .
Do wonder who will buy these flats . See dozens of flats for sale all over Docklands and other relatively new developments. Agree current buildings on site of little merit but is this the best that can be done ? The area deserves better.