A PUB left derelict after a series of planning disputes could be turned into a customer care centre.

Phoenix Community Housing Association plans to use the Green Man pub in Bromley Road, Catford, for the centre and offices.

Previous plans to turn the pub into high-rise flats were subject to a public inquiry and a sit-in protest by campaigners.

The association has exchanged contracts on the building and says it will be consulting with people in the area on the pub’s use.

Association chairwoman Pat Fordham said: “We are delighted by this first step forward.”

Completion of the transfer is now subject to various conditions, including consent from Lewisham Council and the Tenant Services Authority.

The development could be completed by the end of 2014.