Leader's blog

Library, leisure facilities and more

In politics, it can take a while to get things done but it is great to finally see things change for the better - and this week’s opening of the new Plumstead Centre is a truly brilliant example of this!

I’ll never forget my first visit to the old Warehouse building – it was separate from the library and housed an indoor bowling green. I was told there was a leak in the roof, but the reality was more like a cascading waterfall. It was abundantly clear to me at the time that the people of Plumstead deserved better and we needed to develop a plan to deliver a space, and services, that are fit for the 21st century.

Having gone back on Monday (and many times in between!) I can confidently say that those aims have been achieved and the Plumstead Centre is brilliant! The heritage features that exist on the footprint of this old Carnegie Library have been uncovered and enhanced and now sit alongside a whole range of first-class facilities. A shiny new gym, a book mountain, a stunning new library, dance studios – it’s almost a bit of a Tardis! I’m so proud of the result - one that is extra special to me as I was responsible for developing the plans for the community hub in in my previous role as Cabinet member for Regeneration.

What has been created is a brilliant new civic building, right in the heart of Plumstead. With spaces and activities to help you work, rest and play. I want to thank everyone who has been involved in helping make this happen. The grand opening will take place on Saturday 29 February, from 10am to 1pm - hope to see you there!

Borough of Culture

Tuesday saw the Mayor of London announce the next winners of the London Borough of Culture programme. We worked with many community groups and partners from the arts and culture sector to create a bid we were all proud of.

The process was a long one, but it was a fantastic way to see the huge wealth of talent and creativity we have here in Royal Greenwich and I was truly inspired along the way.

Despite our high hopes and positivity, we sadly didn’t win and were pipped to the post by Lewisham and Croydon, but as a south Londoner born and bred, I’m really pleased for them and I know we can all benefit from showcasing our corner of London in such a big way.

And while I would have loved us to win, we have some absolutely fantastic events and activities coming up this summer - something for everyone to enjoy! The latest addition to our events programme is the hosting of the Euro2020 fan zone in Greenwich Park which received planning permission this week. Watch out for more details on tickets coming soon.

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