John Whelan outside the Peabody Community Hall

Thurlow Park Conservative Councillors are working with Peabody residents and voluntary groups to ensure the continuation of the Community Hall on the Rosendale Road half of the estate.  Peabody Trust officials at a meeting last week said there were no resources immediately available for the replacement or refurbishment of the hall which is a listed building with English heritage.

Councillor John Whelan, Conservative Group Leader, says:  “It is vital for the whole community on the estate that the hall continues in use—the regular uses include a pre school group and other users include dancing as well as regular meetings of the very active residents association.”

Although Peabody officials have promised a consultation with residents and to examine various options for repairs or replacement of the leaky roof, the extent of the problems has taken residents by surprise. Councillor Whelan says:  “We have written as elected members of Lambeth Council to the Chief Executive of Peabody Steve Howlett asking him to attend a meeting with residents to address the issues.  If the hall is closed there will be no focal point for the estate and the pre-school group will have nowhere to function.”