New Cross Cyber Centre reopens to public after five-year closure

Residents of the Winslade Estate in New Cross can now access a newly refurbished Cyber Centre, thanks to a collaboration between Lewisham Homes, United Living and Winslade Tenants’ and Residents’ Association (TRA).

The centre was last used in 2013 by a youth service provider. It has now been fully redecorated, with new lighting, a brand new kitchen and newly installed work surfaces. Construction company United Living has also donated two laptops.

Lewisham Homes consulted local residents on plans to reopen the centre. The response was overwhelmingly positive with digital support on the estate cited as a priority for many. “We are very much appreciative of the support in getting the centre back into use,” said James Henderson from Winslade TRA.

The centre is near Hatfield Close and Gerrard House, where Lewisham Homes and United Living have been removing dangerous cladding, and is another example of the companies’ commitment to the local community. Further consultation is required to determine how the centre will be used in the long-term, but from today residents can access the computers or use the space to host community events.

Alys Exley-Smith, Community Relations Manager, Lewisham Homes, said: “We’re thrilled with the transformation of the centre and can’t wait for people of all ages from the estate to start using the new facilities. Projects like this prove that collaborating with residents can produce fantastic results which contribute positively to communities, so we’re grateful to have had such great feedback from our tenants on the Winslade Estate.”

Tommy Nightingale, Contracts Manager, United Living, said: “When we were told about the plans for the unused centre we were keen to get involved and make a difference. During the refurb, we had people from United Living and our sub-contractors alongside staff from Lewisham Homes, helping to transform the space for the community to use again. Making a difference in the communities where we work is central to what we do as a business.”