Peckham hairdressers are split over council plans to move them to a new ‘beauty boulevard’.
As plans to redevelop Peckham Rye Station have got back on track, a number of mainly Afro-Caribbean hairdressers and nail bars residing in units along Blenheim Grove are being forced to move.
Southwark Council commissioned artists and business support specialists to come up with a bespoke centre for hair and beauty in Bournemouth Road called ‘Peckham Palms’.
A council statement on the plans said although some businesses were anxious about how the move would affect their trade, “most are looking forward to getting into their new premises.”
But barber, Adam Mizou, who runs a business opposite the station, said he would give the plans the chop.
“We’re not happy,” said the 27-year-old, whose barber shop is thriving. “It’s going to kill our business completely. There is no footfall over there.
“All of us are not happy,” continued Adam. “Some of us have got families and kids – where are we going to go?”
Tessy, from Divine Destiny Hair and Beauty Salon, said she was happy to be moving to Bournemouth Close. : “… we don’t know if it will be busy but it will be safer for our children and customer’s children,” she said.
“I am looking forward to seeing works start and for things to happen,” added Charlene of PEACE Unisex Hair & Beauty Salon. “We have been told we will get help for our businesses to move, which will be good.”
Cllr Mark Williams, cabinet member for regeneration and new homes, said: “The Palms will see investment into this underused area of Peckham and will create a new destination for Afro-Caribbean hair and beauty in our borough, and will provide key support to local businesses affected by the redevelopment of Peckham Rye Station.”
Adam and some other businesses are planning formally to oppose the application for Peckham Palms when it is submitted to the council in the New Year.