The Heritage Action Zone
What is a Heritage Action Zone
Woolwich is one of 68 High Streets Heritage Action Zones across England, and one of only five in London, that will be given a new lease of life thanks to a £95 million government-funded programme. The fund is being delivered by Historic England and will unlock the potential of high streets across England, fueling economic, social and cultural recovery and breathe new life into town centres for future generations.
The town centre suffers high levels of vacancy in historic properties at its western end. The High Street Heritage Action Zone aims to help reconnect the historic retail core, working with other major initiatives to deliver widespread regeneration.
Woolwich is home to a number of historic buildings, including the Grade II* Town Hall, the former Granada and Odeon cinemas, alongside grand shopping parades and early cooperative buildings.
Some historic buildings in Woolwich Conservation Area are run-down and others are being changed, particularly at street level, masking and damaging their heritage and character. Vacant shops are also a growing problem.
How the High Streets Heritage Action Zone will help
The High Streets Heritage Action Zone will:
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Improve links from the Royal Arsenal to the town centre via Beresford Square market
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Restore shop fronts and facades
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Explore how buildings can be repurposed
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Deliver cultural events promoting local history and diversity
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Make improvements to the public open spaces to make them more attractive and welcoming.
The aim of the scheme is to attract residents from nearby communities to the market and the town centre, increasing spend and footfall, supporting local businesses and increasing the diversity of what's on offer in the town centre for residents.
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For more information about the programme, visit the website