The Greyhound: good news

Closed on 13 August last, protected by Conservation Area status granted on 5 September and behind dreary grey hoardings for over 6 months, the Greyhound suffered what local residents had feared most – an arson attack on Christmas Eve. Five fire engines attended to put out the fire. The hoardings hindered the Fire Brigade who had to smash their way in; the Fire Brigade also had to break a number of windows in order to vent the smoke. A Building Control officer from Lewisham Council attended and reports that the fire in the cellar destroyed the ceiling and part of the floor in the bar area. However the building is reported as being structurally sound. But now there’s good news – the following was posted on Sydenham Town website on 20 February:

Dear Sydenham residents, I write to you as a director of Wealdfrost Ltd (the owner of the Greyhound pub and adjoining land). I thought that you should all be aware that we are making all efforts to try and keep the site (especially the pub) as secure as possible. We have been to the site last Friday and this Monday. We are also speaking to some security Companies re a monitoring service. I would also like to add that we are currently speaking to the council re a new scheme for the site, which includes the retention of the pub. We will keep you updated with our progress. I look forward to hearing from you and any comments that you may have.
Kind Regards
Antony Gerrard