Lewisham’s Mayor has hailed “a new vision” for the redevelopment of land surrounding Millwall’s stadium adopted by the council last night.
Plans for the New Bermondsey redevelopment of ten hectares of land close to the Den and Surrey Canal Road have previously proved controversial after Lewisham attempted to forcibly buy land near the stadium for developer Renewal’s use.
The move raised fears among fans that the Club could be forced out of the area. Both the stadium and Millwall Community Trust occupy space at the heart of proposed development site.
Since then, however, the Club, Renewal and Council have spoken repeatedly of “positive talks” and a “new approach” to the plans, which would allow Millwall to deliver stadium enhancements.
Strategic objectives at the heart of the plan, adopted by Cabinet last night, include “to facilitate the future aspirations of Millwall Football Club at the heart of the site.”
“Millwall Football Stadium will be enhanced and expanded to accommodate a larger crowd as the Club seeks promotion to the English Premier League,” it states.
“The Stadium will sit proudly at the heart of the Development Area welcoming visitors every day to new up to date conferencing and banqueting facilities.”
“Following positive discussions with Millwall FC and Renewal, we have agreed a new vision for the area around Millwall at Mayor and Cabinet tonight,” said Mayor of Lewisham, Cllr Damien Egan.
“Local residents can now have their say on Renewal’s plans to deliver new homes and new jobs.”
Also included in the plans are proposals for 3,500 new homes, a new Overground station near Surrey Canal Road and a new indoor sports centre.
However, the council also raised the spectre of compulsory purchase powers for “certain interests” in the site “to acquire and facilitate the delivery of Surrey Canal Triangle as a whole.”
“Ongoing dialogue needs to continue between the principal landowners and those with smaller interests to enable the successful delivery of the regeneration,” add council documents.
A public exhibition to discuss Renewal’s proposals will be held at The Thunderdome on Stockholm Road, SE16 3LP on Tuesday 11 February, 4pm – 8pm and Sunday 16 February, 10am to 2pm.
Comments can also be left on a dedicated website here.