“Good progress” has been made on the proposed Woolwich Creative District as plans emerge for the public to name what is hoped to be a landmark destination. 

A new report reveals that the council will be asking the public to come up with a name for what has so far been dubbed the Creative District.

The multi-million pound revamp of wartime buildings in Woolwich will eventually feature artistic performance spaces, a courtyard, market area and exhibition zones.

The final scheme will include a 450-seat theatre, 600-seat performance courtyard as well as rehearsal studios, offices, restaurants and community spaces.

The huge project is “nearing the end of the design phase”, with a contractor having started initial work.

In a new report updating councillors on the scheme’s progress, it is explained: “Good progress has been made to develop the branding, signage and narrative

for the Creative District.

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“This is a crucial stage and the outputs will show how the design team has managed to integrate the history and heritage of the site and link it to the visitor experience.

“A community consultation is planned to consider the formal name of the site

and the buildings.

“A business plan has been developed and agreed that seeks to attract world

class cultural institutions, host events, offers performance and rehearsal space for local community and cultural groups and delivers tangible benefits for local people including opportunities to access skills and jobs.

“Not only are we expecting a place making attraction that will put Woolwich on the tourist destination map but we have agreed a number of benefits for local residents including jobs, apprenticeships, discounted tickets and a schools’ outreach programme.”

Punchdrunk has been confirmed as the first act to move in, coming with a large international following for their immersive theatre.

It is hoped that the £31m creative quarter will kick-start regeneration in the riverside town.

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The final project will have converted the old munitions buildings into a 2,000 capacity music hall, exhibition space and an improved courtyard.

Bars and cafes have also been included in the project, along with rehearsal and dance studios and space for an outdoor market.

Earlier this year the cabinet member in charge of the third sector and leisure was pressed on whether the project would deliver value for money for Greenwich residents.

Councillor Miranda Williams said in January: “I’d like to reassure the council that I take ownership of everything in my portfolio, I don’t need to be asked to.

“It will deliver for the whole of the borough, we need to be an outward looking borough in these troubled times. Residents will benefit from this for decades to come, it will be one of the best cultural hubs in London.”