Goldsmiths, University of London, is set to open a new campus in Catford through a major partnership with Lewisham Council.
Over 600 students are expected to be based in the town centre at the Old Town Hall under a 10-year lease agreement, subject to approval by the council’s Mayor and Cabinet.
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.”
The proposal marks a major investment in Catford’s future and is expected to boost businesses, attract footfall, and contribute to the area’s ongoing regeneration.
It builds on a long-standing relationship and reflects a shared commitment to using education, culture and creativity as drivers for inclusive regeneration.
Goldsmiths has been a fixture in south east London since opening its doors to students in New Cross 120 years ago.
The university was also the first in London to launch a Civic University Agreement which includes Lewisham Council as a key partner.
Councillor Brenda Dacres, Mayor of Lewisham, 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.”
Goldsmiths has been working closely with the council to secure additional space for students, and is expected to sign a 10-year lease for the Old Town Hall.
Preparatory works to convert the building into a functioning campus will begin later this year.
Existing services currently housed in the Old Town Hall will be relocated to other sites.
Councillor James-J Walsh, Lewisham’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.”
The partnership agreement is due to be formally approved by the council’s Mayor and Cabinet.
The council’s report on the agreement also highlights further planned investment in Catford, as well as the pending release of Transport for London’s business plan, which is expected to confirm funding for public realm improvements in the area.
