Goldsmiths University to Launch New Campus at Catford's Old Town Hall

Catford town hall to house Goldsmiths Uni campus Lewisham Council's Old Town Hall in Catford, south-east London, is to become a new campus for Goldsmiths, University of London. The university's Fine Art and Design department needed a new site after needing to vacate its current location at the former Lewisham College site by July 2027. The local authority said it was a "landmark partnership agreement". Staff and services currently based there will be moving to alternative locations, the council said, including into another building in the town centre. 'Opportunity for Catford' Mayor of Lewisham Brenda Dacres, along with the Cabinet, are expected to formally approve the plans on Wednesday, 21 January. Mayor Dacres 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." The mayor added: "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." Goldsmiths is expected to enter a 10-year lease with Lewisham Council, while work to prepare the Old Town Hall for the university will begin later this year. The move is the latest regeneration project to come to Catford town centre, after the council opened a new pub called The Catford House at the end of 2025. This year will also see work commence on the construction of more than 100 affordable homes at Thomas' Lane Yard, an underused car park site located north of Catford Broadway. The major regeneration scheme will also see green public spaces, commercial and affordable workspace built on the same site. Listen to the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk