Goldsmiths, University of London is preparing to open a new Catford campus after reaching a partnership agreement with Lewisham Council that will see students based in the borough’s Old Town Hall. The proposal is expected to bring more than 600 students into the town centre and is subject to formal approval by the Mayor and Cabinet later this month.
The initiative marks a significant investment in Catford’s future and is intended to increase footfall and support local businesses. The Goldsmiths Catford campus forms part of a broader programme of regeneration that seeks to use education, culture and creativity as long term drivers for growth.
Goldsmiths has been rooted in the borough since opening in New Cross 120 years ago and was the first university in London to establish a Civic University Agreement with Lewisham Council as a key partner. The new arrangement builds on that relationship and is expected to involve a 10 year lease for the Old Town Hall.
Preparatory work to adapt the building for university use will begin later this year, with services currently located there relocating to alternative premises. The university has been working with the council to secure additional space for teaching and student activity as demand continues to grow.
Professor David Oswell, Vice-Chancellor (Interim) of Goldsmiths, said: “We are deeply proud to call Lewisham home and it is fitting that in our 120th year we are extending our civic commitment. With the theatre and existing makers Catford already has a creative heart and our students will both contribute to and benefit from being part of this community. We look forward to seeing what this new space unlocks for our students and for Catford.”
Mayor of Lewisham Brenda Dacres OBE, said: “This is a powerful example of what long-term partnership can achieve. Bringing Goldsmiths into the heart of Catford is not just about a new campus – it’s about anchoring creativity, learning and opportunity in our town centre. By working together, we’re creating the conditions for Catford to thrive: supporting local businesses, attracting new visitors, and opening up opportunities for residents to connect with one of the UK’s leading creative universities. This is a major step forward in our vision for Catford as a vibrant place to live, work, study and spend time.”
Councillor James-J Walsh, Lewisham Council’s Cabinet Member for Inclusive Regeneration and Planning, said: “The new Goldsmiths campus in Catford shows that our work to regenerate the town centre is truly delivering results. Having an institution like Goldsmiths choose the Old Town Hall in Catford for its new campus will bring more people into the town centre, boost local businesses and strengthening our high street both economically and socially.”
Council leaders believe the presence of hundreds of students will help diversify the local economy and encourage new cultural activity in Catford. The project is also expected to complement existing creative organisations already operating in the area.
The agreement to establish the Goldsmiths Catford campus is scheduled to be considered for formal approval on Wednesday 21 January. If confirmed, the university hopes the first students will be able to use the building after refurbishment work has been completed.
