The arch at Peckham Library Square is set to be removed to make space for a vibrant community and cultural space for the town centre.

The decision was announced at last night’s co-design meeting in Peckham Library. Following three co-design workshops architect Carl Turner presented the council with two options: keep the arch, which would limit the options to bring more uses to the square, or remove it and build space for new cafés, cultural space and a mix of new homes.

Cllr Mark Williams, cabinet member for regeneration and new homes, said: “The arch has been a part of Peckham for many years and we know that there are a range of views on whether it should be kept or not. After listening to local residents and weighing up the options we have decided to remove the arch so that we can improve the square and have new cafés, cultural space and some new homes.

“We want to build on Peckham’s success and make sure there are opportunities for local businesses and cultural organisations to grow. In addition there will be new council homes, with half reserved for local residents who are overcrowded. We are investing in Peckham’s future: this includes the new square in front of Peckham Rye Station, the Heritage Lottery Fund to improve shop fronts on Rye Lane and Peckham High Street, and we are working to bring Mountview Theatre Academy to Eagle Wharf. Together these plans will improve Peckham for local residents and open up more opportunities for our young people.”

Removing the arch will also provide better views through the square and open it out into the high street, as well as allowing the ground to be levelled off to provide safer, better access to the square. It will also allow for a ‘wrap around’ façade that will have a range of shop fronts and cafes opening out into the square making it feel safer and more inviting, especially during the evenings, and encouraging people to stop and pass the time throughout the day.

The next stage will be for Carl Turner Architects to develop the options for the two development sites and square and submit an application for planning permission.