The fishmonger was next door, where the charity shop is now, wasn't it?

I think the bottom line here is that the launderette occupies one of the most prominent sites in Forest Hill and there was always a chance that a more profitable trade would eventually take over.

However, this could be seen as an opportunity for someone. I don't know how good the machines are or how profitable a launderette can be but, presumably, someone could buy all of the equipment and set it all up in a cheaper unit somewhere within walking distance of this one.

Regarding Micheal's comment about change of use - a launderette is A1, which means that if it were within Forest Hill's core District Centre the council would been justified in refusing change of use to A2 for the simple reason that it would exceed Lewisham's target of a maximum of 30% non-A1 units. However, I believe this unit is No.2 London Road, which, due to the council's stupidity, appears to fall just outside the core, which, for some reason, starts next door at number 4 London Road. This means the planning restrictions for this particular unit are far more relaxed and it will take some serious and valid objections to prevent it going through.