Policy information sourced from Lewisham Development Management Local Plan

DM Policy 15 Neighbourhood local centres

Within the designated neighbourhood local centres of Brockley Cross, Crofton Park, Downham Way, Grove Park and Lewisham Way, the Council will require the retention of Class A1 shops, to support the provision of essential daily goods and services, and ensure a range of uses consistent with the local character to contribute to its vitality and viability for shoppers.

A change of use to non-A1 uses will only be considered if the following criteria are satisfied:

  • a high standard of design and appropriate layout is achieved, including high quality shopfronts, in accordance with DM Policy 19 
  • provision of an attractive window display
  • reasonable attempts have been made to market vacant shop units, for more than 12 months, at an appropriate rent
  • the availability of similar alternative shopping facilities within a comfortable walking distance (approximately 400 metres or less)
  • a balance to the number and type of units within the centre (where 40% of A1 uses are maintained)
  • there is no harm to the amenity of adjoining properties, including that created by noise, smell, litter, and incompatible opening hours (all of which may be controlled by appropriate conditions)
  • there is provision of adequate delivery arrangements and no adverse effects arising from traffic generation
  • that adequate provision for access for people with disabilities is made, and
  • the use would not result in adverse effects caused by crime, disorder and anti-social behaviour.

A change of use to residential at ground floor will only be permitted:

  • at the end of a row of a retail parade, but not in corner shops, in order to preserve the continuity of retail frontage, and
  • where the design and materials of the residential frontage is of the highest quality and relate well to the proportion, scale and detailing of the entire host building, adjoining buildings and make a positive contribution to the streetscape.

For more information please see the Local Plan