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Former North Woolwich Old Station Museum to become a church
The former North Woolwich Old Station Museum site has been sold off – to a church and registered charity just over the other side of the River Thames.
The grand old building has been standing empty since 2008 and had been severely vandalised and falling into disrepair for many years. But works had been carried out during 2019 and 2020 to stop it getting any worse and people have been living on site to help keep it secure.
The former railway station, built in 1947 ran as part of the Great Eastern Railway Service and it was electrified on the now defunct North London Line. It became a museum in 1984.
* The run down state of the premises two years ago
Since it closed there have been a vast number of schemes put forward – from community arts spaces to offices and some living quarters.
Last week plans were lodged with Newham Council, by the new owners are the New Convenant Church in Woolwich Church Street, Woolwich Dockyard, which include a ground floor and first floor extension and internal alterations to turn the building into a church.
Included in the application is a report by Fred Richard and Associates, Architecture, Planning and Project Managers, which said: “The site is currently underused so the proposal will make the best use of this Grade II listed building in accordance with central and local government policy.”
A report from Newham Council last year said that some works had been undertaken to remove vegetation from the platform area.
And discussions had been taking place to explore the potential for repair and re-use of the building in connection with creative enterprises. Some funding from the London Regeneration Fund had been secured to this end. Historic England and Newham Council became involved and advised the owners on necessary works to stabilise the building.
* Wartime damage to the building
The Grade 2 Listed building was put on the market by Strettons last summer with an asking price of £1 million. They confirmed that it had now been sold. There are currently custodians living in the building keeping it safe.
* The balcony of the old station last summer
The new owners are the New Convenant Church in Woolwich Church Street, Woolwich Dockyard. They are a church and registered charity.
Councillors will now have to meet to discuss the plans.
I have contacted the church’s local and national headquarters to get more details on their plans for the future. They are still to reply.
Updated: February 7
* Pictures: Colin Grainger, David Conroy, Strettons and Newham Archives and Local Studies Library