The abandoned bank on New Cross Road, with proposed plans to turn it into a microbrewery. Pic: William Taylor-Gammon
Plans have been proposed to Lewisham council, requesting that a vacant bank building on New Cross Road be refurbished into a microbrewery and performance space.
The Grade 2 listed building, which has been empty for the past 17 years, would be redeveloped into a bar/restaurant, a microbrewery and a café, per the council’s authorisation of the propositions.
The plans also include a flexible space, which will be used for performances, such as music, dance, readings, and student-centred activities, such as workshops, exhibitions and study spaces.
A drawing of New Cross, outlining the bank building in red, and the adjacent nightclub The Venue, in blue. Pic: T A Greig Architects and Consulting Engineers
The three-storey building would feature a garden area on the roof of the planned extension, and a lit courtyard forming a planted outdoor space, to be used as seating and eating areas.
The building was first constructed in 1903 in a neoclassical style, as a Midland banking hall (which is now part of HSBC). It was then used as a fast-food takeaway restaurant until the mid-1990’s, from when it has been deserted.
The building is a historical asset of New Cross, as it accompanies the rich history of other nearby buildings, including The Venue and the New Cross Inn, built in 1927 and 1857 respectively.
The site is designated in the Deptford Town Hall Conservation Area and is an Area of Archaeological Priority, however, work has previously been accepted on the site.
In 2004, reconstruction of the bank began, with intentions to turn it into a bar, but it was never fully completed.
Some residents have welcomed the suggested plans.
This would be a fantastic addition for the area, especially if a taproom is included.
— Mark Doig (@MarkDoigFC) March 14, 2018
The application was submitted by Light Act Limited, the owners of the site, and The Venue, a nightclub situated adjacent to the building.
Light Act Limited has appointed T A Greig Architects as designers of the revamp.
