Lewisham Council: Relaunching Local Business Grants to Revive Empty Shops

Lewisham Council is proud to relaunch its Empty Property Capital Grants scheme, offering ten awards of £10,000 each to help local firms convert vacant retail premises into vibrant business spaces. Applications open on Monday 7 July and close on Sunday 4 August, inviting Lewisham-based enterprises to bid for funding to refurbish and reopen empty units in key borough locations.

Building on a £1 million investment in 2024 to create affordable workspaces, back independent traders and enhance our high streets, last year’s initiative saw more than 60,000 sq ft of commercial space spring back to life including at Blue Garage UK, Springbank Studio and V22.

Prospective applicants are urged to submit their proposals as soon as possible, since the limited funding pot may be allocated before the deadline if interest is high. Full eligibility details and application guidance can be found on the Council’s business support webpage.

Councillor Ese Erheriene, Cabinet Member for Business, Jobs and Skills, said:
“This second round of Empty Property Grants builds on the success of our first round from 2023-2025, which saw £1 million invested and over 60,000 square feet of new commercial space reactivated across the borough. This new allocation will support even more local businesses, create additional workspace, reduce the number of empty shops, and boost our high streets and local economy.

“Last year, 55% of the businesses we supported through these grants were from underrepresented groups - 15% were BAME-owned and 40% female-owned. This year, we’re committed to ensuring the funding reflects the diversity of our borough and prioritises areas that previously received little to no support.”

This initiative is funded through the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, administered by the Greater London Authority (GLA).

Historic Catford Venue to Reopen as Community Hub Under New Operator

Following a comprehensive restoration, the former Catford Constitutional Club and its original farmhouse will relaunch this autumn as The Catford House, operated by the Greenwich Co-operative Development Agency (GCDA).

Since 2021, the Council has partnered with conservation specialists to reveal the building’s layered past—as a farmhouse, social club and pub—and prepare it for its next incarnation as a vibrant community space.

Visitors will discover a refurbished pub and landscaped garden, a purpose-built community kitchen, adaptable meeting rooms and, for the first time ever, public access to Catford’s oldest surviving structure, the Georgian Hall.

GCDA, a not-for-profit with more than forty years’ experience in creating community hubs across southeast London—and active in Lewisham for the last fifteen years—is delighted to establish a permanent base in Catford, forging an exciting new collaboration with the Council.

Believing The Catford House should be much more than a place to drink, GCDA will curate a diverse programme—from informal meet-ups and private events to food pop-ups, fitness classes, clubs, workshops, exhibitions and performances. Residents and local organisations are invited to help shape the venue’s future by submitting event ideas to GCDA.

As a London Living Wage employer, GCDA will generate local employment and boost neighbouring businesses by sourcing from area suppliers. For The Catford House project, they have teamed up with Portobello Brewery (who also run The Catford Bridge Tavern) and other local partners. Businesses and community groups are encouraged to explore collaboration opportunities.

The renovation of this valued Council-owned property has been made possible by a £1.8 million grant from the Mayor of London’s Good Growth Fund.

The project—led by Turner Works and Hayatsu Architects—is now nearing completion and represents a key milestone in Phase 1 of the Catford Town Centre Framework. Adopted in 2021 and shaped by the input of thousands of residents, the framework outlines a long-term vision for Catford’s regeneration.

The Catford House embodies the Council’s ambition for Lewisham to become a cultural neighbourhood within the wider London area, advancing its mission to build an inclusive economy through local partnerships and community-driven projects.

Earlier this year, the Council also approved the Thomas Lane Yard development—a mixed-use scheme delivering over 100 affordable homes, green public spaces and new workspaces on a former car park north of Catford Broadway—furthering the area’s revitalisation.

Find out more about The Catford House here. 

The Big Catford Weekender - Friday 27 June - Sunday 29 June

Get ready for three unmissable days of festivities at the inaugural Big Catford Weekender!

From Friday 27 to Sunday 29 June, Catford town centre will transform into a vibrant hub of entertainment, laughter and community spirit—completely free of charge. This brand-new, three-day extravaganza celebrates everything that makes SE6 unique, with something to delight every age and interest.

Stroll along Catford Broadway, explore the Jubilee Ground and wander around Catford Bridge Station to discover live music and performances, family-friendly activities, street food vendors, artisan stalls and more. Look out for stand-out experiences like a silent disco under the summer skies, captivating street theatre, and creative workshops—including a yoga taster session at Yoga House. Local makers from House of Lewisham will showcase their wares at the craft market, while children can enjoy a fun-packed play street party. Music and performances have been hand-picked by Sister Midnight to showcase the best of our local talent.

The Council has teamed up with community groups, businesses and sponsors to bring this festival to life. St Dunstan’s College is also on board, hosting its own programme of events on the Jubilee Ground as part of the Catford Weekender.

Councillor Sakina Sheikh, Cabinet Member for Culture, Communities and Sports, said:

“I’m thrilled to launch the first-ever Big Catford Weekender—a true celebration of our fantastic community. Come along to experience live gigs from local artists, browse handcrafted gifts, and sample delicious fare from the wonderful food traders we have right here in Catford. With sunshine expected, don’t forget your sunscreen and water bottle. Let’s make memories together—I look forward to seeing you all!”

To minimise congestion, please consider walking, cycling or using public transport. A small number of paid and Blue Badge parking spaces will be available nearby, though traffic restrictions will apply on Catford Broadway on Saturday.

For the full schedule, travel information and opportunities to get involved, head to:
www.lewisham.gov.uk/inmyarea/events/the-big-catford-weekender