A community wellbeing space in Lewisham Shopping Centre has been honoured with a prestigious award from the London Sport Awards. The CommUnity Space was recognised for its outstanding impact on local health, physical activity, and social inclusion.
The Active Design Award recognises outstanding projects that promote physical activity, health, and well-being through innovative design solutions. This category highlights designs in various sectors, urban planning, architecture, landscape architecture, and product design, that encourage movement and active lifestyles. The Active Design Award celebrates organisations and projects that are working to ensure that communities have an environment that encourages physical movement and have access to provision of safe, inclusive and accessible facilities and spaces, which is key to promoting positive wellbeing throughout that community.
Since its transformation from a former retail unit in 2023, the Lewisham CommUnity Space
has done just that, and is a vital resource for residents, combining an inclusive and safe community space, with free wellbeing sessions, advice, and activities to support those most in need. To date, it has delivered over 500 activity sessions, engaging:
266 young women in fitness and wellbeing programmes
560 parents and adults in physical activity and social initiatives
250+ drop-in participants, providing accessible opportunities for all
Praised for its impact on mental and physical health, the once disused space has become a vital community resource, providing accessible fitness, social connection, and support for those who need it most. Beyond regular programming, the Community Space has also hosted pop-up workshops, work experience for 40 students, and volunteer opportunities, further strengthening its role as a cornerstone of local support.
“This award is an incredible honour and a testament to the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and community members,” said Nick Atkins, Chief Community Officer. “This space was built with the community, for the community, and it’s inspiring to see the positive change it has created in Lewisham.”
The initiative has been made possible through the collaboration of Landsec, London Sport and Lewisham Council. Cllr Paul Bell, Lewisham Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said:
“We are incredibly proud that the Lewisham CommUnity Space has won the Active Design Award. I want to congratulate all the volunteers, community partners and Enable staff whose tireless efforts made this possible.
“Together, we have transformed a once disused space into a vibrant hub that promotes physical health, mental wellbeing, and social inclusion for all our residents.”
As it continues to grow, the Community Space remains committed to expanding its reach and making a lasting impact on the health and wellbeing of Lewisham residents.
