Local Labour councillors in Rye Lane have welcomed progress being made in upgrading Peckham Rye Station Square.

The square will revitalise the space outside Peckham Rye Station, with buildings removed to open up the area. The development follows the amazing work on the station façade, which uncovered the building’s Victorian splendour. The removal of surrounding buildings will open up the front of the station and reveal the restored façade.

The newly-renovated front of the station building will also be enhanced by new surroundings, with the original forecourt reinstated with planting, seating and lighting, exposing arches along the north and south side of the square.

Arches under the railway will be upgraded for local businesses to use.

Labour-run Southwark Council, in collaboration with the Greater London Authority and Network Rail, have now appointed a contractor to complete the works.

Demolition of the old arcade currently in front of the station will take place over the summer.

Meanwhile a full upgrade of Peckham Rye Station, which received planning permission in 2023, is awaiting final sign off from the Treasury. The upgrade would make the station fully accessible and fit for the future, with new lifts, wider platforms and an improved concourse meaning the station could handle more passengers.

Welcoming the news, Cllr Esme Dobson, councillor for Rye Lane Ward, said: “It is fantastic to see progress being made in establishing this amazing space in front of Peckham Rye Station. The square will bring welcome open space on Rye Lane and reveal the recently restored station façade, making the area cleaner, greener and safer for our local residents.”