Having been gifted to the South London Gallery (SLG) by an anonymous benefactor, the derelict, four-storey building will now be transformed into a new cultural centre thanks to National Lottery players.

The gallery has now started construction work on the former Peckham Road Fire Station to restore the building with a view to opening it to the public in 2018, and develop a programme of activities involving people from across the local community, setting up traineeships and a volunteering scheme which will focus on expanding the SLG’s archive to document the social, economic and cultural history of the local area.

[quote=Stuart Hobley, Head of HLF London]"We’re delighted National Lottery players are able to support this excellent example of the close relationship between heritage and the arts."[/quote]

Alongside the £1.65million from HLF, the project received a substantial grant from the Mayor’s London Regeneration Fund as well as funding from a number of trusts, foundations, individuals and commercial galleries to raise a total of £3.3m.

The project is a unique and timely opportunity for the SLG to build on its achievements to date and will secure the building for public benefit at a time of rapid change in the local area. The Fire Station will extend the scope of the gallery’s exhibition, events and education activities, and its role and impact on a local, national and international level. The project complements other key regeneration initiatives taking place across Peckham and Camberwell, enhancing the area as an important creative hub in London.

Stuart Hobley, Head of HLF London, said: “This project combines the restoration of a Grade II Victorian fire station, the opening up of a fascinating archive, and the opportunity for an innovative arts organisation to expand and develop their exhibition, events and educational offerings. We’re delighted National Lottery players are able to support this excellent example of the close relationship between heritage and the arts.”

Margot Heller, director of the SLG said: “The exceptionally generous gift of the fire station and support of our funders will be truly transformative for the South London Gallery. Our expansion into this distinctive building will enable us to undertake a major step change in the scope and impact of our artistic and education programmes, championing the importance of art, culture and public space that is free to all at a time of rapid change in the local area.”

For regular updates on the Fire Station project visit the South London Gallery's website.