I've confirmed with the planning department at Lewisham council that a launderette is considered 'sui generis', so planning permission would be required to convert this property into an estate agent (A2). However, there is no specific protection for 'sui generis' (unlike A1 in a core shopping area).

It does look likely, according to the rumours I hear, that Pedder will be moving to this site, presumably subject to planning permission.

The other sad rumour is that St Davids coffee shop is likely to close in the next few weeks, unless somebody would like to take over this business. [Seperate topic here -admin]

The rumour that the Forest Hill Society is going to set up a launderette are not true as far as I'm aware. But if anybody would be interested in setting up a launderette in one of the empty shops, we would be happy to provide any advice we can (email@foresthillsociety.com)