The long-neglected stables in Ruskin Park could soon be transformed into a cafe and community hub, under plans submitted by Lambeth Council.
The building, also known as the old coach house, has been unused for 15 years. The new plans, which have been in the works for a while, would see the removal of its first floor and staircase to create a double-height ceiling.
It would also include outdoor seating, promising a welcoming space for locals to relax and connect.
Once used as staff accommodation, the Victorian building is a surviving feature of the original villa landscape that remained when the park was established in 1907.
For the Friends of Ruskin Park (FoRP), it’s a development they’ve been waiting for. “This is encouraging news,” a spokesperson told the News. “We’ve spent the last decade campaigning and developing proposals to bring the building back into use.”
However, FoRP has urged a cautious approach, pointing to a previous refurbishment attempt in 2021 that fell through. “While Lambeth Council has allocated some funding, the final costs haven’t been confirmed yet,” the spokesperson said.
“We’re hopeful this will lead to a full restoration, making the building viable for an appropriate tenant – whether that’s a café or a broader community space.”
The application is available to view here and comments can be made until Tuesday, February 11, 2025.
