The new Achilles Street neighbourhood has been in the works for almost a decade
Lewisham Council’s plans to deliver 278 new homes have been approved.
The regeneration of Achilles Street in the New Cross area will include 60% affordable housing, comprising 122 council homes for social rent and 44 for shared ownership. The remaining 40% of homes will be for market sale.
Commercial space with retail and workspace facilities targeting BREEAM Excellent as well as improved play and social areas also form part of the new neighbourhood.
Meanwhile, new ‘maker’ spaces along Pagnell Street and the Makers’ Yard behind the estate will provide creative workspace to local artists.
Expected to complete in 2033, the Achilles Street project has been in the works since 2016, when resident engagement panels were established alongside workshops in local schools and neighbourhood events.
In 2019, an estate ballot saw 92% of eligible residents vote, with 73% in favour of the plans.
The scheme forms part of the local authority’s Building for Lewisham, a programme backed by the Mayor of London to provide more affordable homes, improve public spaces and support local jobs.
James-J Walsh, Lewisham Council’s cabinet member for inclusive regeneration and planning, said: “With 60% affordable homes, safer public spaces, better connections and new opportunities for local businesses, we’re delivering the ‘Good Growth’ vision in our local plan – creating a thriving New Cross shaped by its residents, for the future of Lewisham.”
The plans were submitted to the local planning authority in August 2025 by architects Levitt Bernstein, WR-AP, and ZCD Architects.
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