Construction begins on new homes on site of Aylesbury Estate in Walworth

Construction has begun on a new community hub in a controversial regeneration of an enormous estate.

The Aylesbury estate in Southwark has been a point of contention for a decade as the council has battled with residents and campaigners to move them out of their properties so that demolition and regeneration of the estate can begin.

On Tuesday, children from Surrey Square Primary School were joined by children’s book and TV character Horrid Henry to mark a new chapter of the Aylesbury Estate regeneration.

The work on the site, known as Plot 18, will create a brand new library, health centre and more than 100 homes for social rent.

The event, in Inville Road, off Thurlow Street, saw the pupils handed goody bags and books.

A total of 122 new homes will be built in this phase of the project, in addition to the library, health centre, early years facilities and commercial space.

A water feature will act as the centrepiece of the hub.

Southwark councillor Johnson Situ, cabinet member for growth, development and planning, said: “It is fantastic news for the local community that work is starting on the area known as Plot 18.

“The community facilities on Plot 18 will be the keystone of the wider work to ensure the local community is at the heart of plans for the Aylesbury, and will feature a new library, early years centre and medical centre that will not only be used by the residents but also the wider community.

“At a time when councils are still having to consider closing or reducing the number of libraries and other front line services, we are particularly proud to be building another new, modern library to provide valuable services and spaces to our local community.

“In addition the site will include homes for local people aged over the age of 55 that have been co-designed with a group of older Aylesbury Estate residents.”

Pictured is the site this week