I spoke briefly at the Forest Hill Society AGM last night to increase public information about where we are in terms of future plans for Louise House. An informal group called Friends of Louise House has been formed in early August. The aim of this grouping is to act as a channel of communication between the Council and interested local people about the uses which the Council might support. A group of us have been working all summer and to date to explore possible options for the future of the buildings. Possible plans have included reuse as a nursery, a library extension, a museum, an arts centre (for visual or musical or theatrical arts or a combination of the three), a health centre, serviced offices, a hotel, and a number of other possibilities.

Since early August we have had informative discussions with Council officers, councillors and other organisations. We have also had wider discussions with people from outside the area, such as national museums. In the current economic climate and atmosphere of contraction in the arts and museums sector not all avenues are likely to be fruitful. We are working actively on at least two possible proposals and will go public with them when they have got beyond the exploratory stage.

It is worth pointing out that the decision about the future of the building is in the hands of the Council. The Friends of Louise House are not gate keepers and anyone can contact the Council direct about any proposal they may have.

I think Roz is wasting people's time seeking to appeal the listing. My understanding is that the building owner (i.e. Lewisham Council) needed to do this within 28 days of the listing. The grounds for appeal are quite limited and difficult, mainly concerning issues of fact which are not contestable. In any case, Lewisham Council decided not to explore this avenue at the time and it is hard to see how it can be reopened now.

If any wishes to contact me about any aspect of Louise House, please email me at friendsoflouisehouse@googlemail.com