News Releases

Southwark is a vibrant and diverse borough that regularly hits the headlines – use the search below to check out the latest news, or visit the Press Desk for general information on Southwark and details of how to contact our Communication Unit's Press Team.

This is also the place to download a wide range of photos from around borough and the Council, and browse the online version of Southwark Life….

Sumner Road fire update 08/02/2010

Sumner Road fire update

A sparkling new watersports facility opens in Southwark 05/02/2010

Following Southwark Council’s £2.39 million investment in Surrey Docks Watersports Centre in Rotherhithe, a new modern gym, studios and an outstanding, improved watersports facility opens on Thursday 11 February for use by the local community.

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender residents celebrate freedom through pictures 05/02/2010

The Mayor of Southwark, Cllr Jeff Hook, and Peter Tatchell are just two of the famous local faces who have agreed to take part in a photographic exhibition to celebrate Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) History Month in February.

Southwark Council sparks up a deal with leading electrical body 04/02/2010

Southwark Council and leading electrical contracting body NICEIC have announced a formal partnership today to help ensure that all electrical work in the council’s properties is carried out to the highest standards.

New sports centre for Southwark 04/02/2010

A replacement for the existing sports centre in Southwark Park got the go ahead on Tuesday (2 Feb), as Southwark Council’s planning committee decided it was a worthy community facility.

Employment joy for Southwark's young apprentices 04/02/2010

Southwark Council today awarded certificates to 15 fully qualified apprentices at its Tooley Street headquarters near London Bridge, to celebrate National Apprentice Week.

Sam King, Southwark's first ever black mayor, gets blue plaque 29/01/2010

The first ever black mayor in Southwark is to be honoured with a blue plaque.

Are you putting your neighbours at risk? 29/01/2010

For years, tenancy agreements and housing leases have told residents not to make changes to their homes without the council’s permission. Southwark Council is now coming down hard on those who breach this.

More money for residents to help improve safety and security on their estates 29/01/2010

Southwark Council today launched its annual funding programme, which aims to improve community safety on housing estates.

Southwark regeneration plans get Assembly approval – bright new future for Aylesbury residents 28/01/2010

Two of Europe’s biggest regeneration projects cleared the final hurdle last night at Southwark Council’s full Assembly.

Special opening for Southwark registry office for Valentines' Day weddings 28/01/2010

Southwark Council has taken the unusual step of opening its registry office on Valentine's Day

Surrey Quays leisure site and the Decathlon to be rebuilt 27/01/2010

Southwark Council's planning committee recently resolved to grant outline planning permission for the Surrey Quays Leisure Site to be redeveloped to provide a new residential and entertainment complex

Sam King, Southwark's first ever black mayor, gets blue plaque 27/01/2010

The first ever black mayor in Southwark is to be honoured with a blue plaque.

Southwark Trading Standards warns public on cheap extension leads 22/01/2010

get a quality electrical extension lead

Southwark Trading Standards warns public on cheap extension leads 22/01/2010

No matter how tight your household budget, it’s better to spend a few more pounds now and get a quality electrical extension lead – that’s the message from Southwark Trading Standards today.

Council helps social landlords to beat housing fraud 22/01/2010

Southwark Council fraud stoppers are stepping in to help Registered Social Landlords (RSLs) to combat the problem of people fraudulently living in social housing.

Residents urged to help to protect children from abuse 22/01/2010

Southwark residents are being given the chance to play a part in protecting the borough’s children from abuse, with the launch of a new council tool kit.

Southwark’s schools in top ten as children triumph in GCSE results 15/01/2010

This week, as national averages for GCSEs are published, Southwark is identified as one of the top ten most improved boroughs in the country.

Groundbreaking move to help leaseholders with bills is signed off 13/01/2010

As of January 12 2010, Southwark Council will be able to offer loans to help leaseholders who are struggling to pay major works bills.

Council proposes a clampdown on things that go bump in the night 13/01/2010

Noisy neighbours can be a real nuisance, and one London borough is currently asking residents how the council can help.

Noise polluters fined in Southwark 12/01/2010

Southwark Council’s environmental enforcement team has carried out a successful prosecution against noise pollution.

Pioneering council scheme puts unwanted items at the heart of a good cause 11/01/2010

Southwark Council is working with one of UK’s largest charities to trial an innovative furniture reuse partnership.

Youth club opens Friday nights for the first time in century 07/01/2010

For the first time in Downside Fisher’s 100 year history, the Bermondsey youth club is now regularly open on Friday nights

Southwark planning future well on track 07/01/2010

The Annual Monitoring Report (AMR), one of a number of significant planning documents for Southwark, was forwarded to the Government Office for London today.

Seven youths in Peckham together given anti social behaviour order 05/01/2010

Seven anti social behaviour orders (ASBOs) have been successfully obtained by Southwark Council and the police, in a ground breaking approach to tackle groups causing serious nuisance, threats and intimidation to the local community.

Get New Year resolutions underway by enrolling in council's adult learning courses 04/01/2010

Ceramics, fashion, creative writing and fitness are just some of the adult learning courses available from Southwark Council this January, whether you’re looking for a new hobby, brushing up your skills or just want to get up off the sofa.

Golden Ticket proves a success for all 30/12/2009

A competition to get more Southwark residents to use their libraries over the summer has proved a success.

Private developments deliver £23m in community funds to Southwark residents 30/12/2009

Better systems, tougher negotiation and knowing what the community wants have resulted in £23m of local projects delivered via agreements secured by Southwark Council with private developers - an £8 million increase on the previous year.

Residents' change of law ideas to go to government 24/12/2009

Local people’s radical ideas for changes to the law which would improve the borough have moved a step closer to implementation and are now to be discussed by the government.

A first for the capital as Southwark Council offers affordable immigration advice service 22/12/2009

Southwark Council has now become the first local authority in London to offer people born in other countries the full range of immigration advice services.

Statement re SHRREB funding 22/12/2009

Southwark Council will be seeking a new partner to deliver human rights and equalities functions.

Southwark Council ready for snow and urges residents to be as prepared as possible 17/12/2009

The council’s highways and environment teams are reassuring residents that they are as prepared as possible for the severe winter weather that is forecast from tonight.

Pupils at Southwark school send green message to Copenhagen 17/12/2009

A letter written by students at St. John’s Roman Catholic Primary School in Rotherhithe has been taken to Copenhagen to be presented to the Danish Prime Minister.

Don’t cheat shoppers this Christmas warns Southwark Council, as they remind traders of confiscation powers 17/12/2009

Dodgy Duracells, counterfeit condoms, bootleg bags – all products that traders should definitely not contemplate selling this Christmas, according to Southwark Council’s Trading Standards team.

Thumbs up given to much needed new council homes 16/12/2009

Southwark Council’s executive last night approved the financing to enable 24 new council homes to be built to ease the burden on Southwark’s overburdened housing waiting list.

Council’s ‘fewer calls’ customer service scoops national award 15/12/2009

A service that means residents only have to provide their details once when they get in touch with Southwark Council has beaten off competition from the great and the good of the private sector to scoop a high profile customer service award.

Hassle free parking set to save Southwark Council thousands 15/12/2009

From this week (Dec 7 2009) parking in Southwark becomes a lot less hassle, as cashless parking is rolled out across the entire borough.

Harold Pinter’s “one criminal act” – a stolen library book - discovered 60 years on 14/12/2009

An antiquarian bookseller has helped resolve the ownership of one of the most celebrated books in the library of Harold Pinter, the Nobel Prize winning playwright.

Southwark Council spearheads call on Government to do more to tackle violent crime 11/12/2009

Local authorities have the potential to make a huge difference when it comes to tackling violent crime

Children’s services rated as “performing well” by government inspectors 10/12/2009

Children’s services in Southwark have been rated as performing well by government inspectors.

Southwark Council’s response to the new Oneplace assessment 09/12/2009

Southwark’s approach to improving community cohesion has been praised as `outstanding’ in a new assessment of the area published today, December 9.

Southwark Council continues to question validity of CQC report 09/12/2009

Annie Shepperd, Chief Executive of Southwark Council, questions the CQC report into Southwark's social care services

Southwark traders get boost from free weekend parking 08/12/2009

One London borough has decided to drop car parking charges in all council-run car parks over Christmas to boost support for local traders.

One month left to visit Turner prize shortlisted art work created in former council house 08/12/2009

Final month to see Turner prize shortlisted art work by Sculptor Roger Hiorns - an empty Southwark Council flat with blue copper sulphate crystals.

Southwark traders get boost from free weekend parking 08/12/2009

Southwark Council drops car parking charges in all council-run car parks over Christmas to boost support for local traders.

The Cuming Museum prepares to tell the city’s stories for the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad 07/12/2009

Southwark’s Cuming Museum is proud to announce that it has been selected to work with the London Museums Hub on the London: World City project, as part of MLA’s national Stories of the World programme.

Council calls for urgent Parliamentary review of social care regulator, the Care Quality Commission 03/12/2009

Southwark Council has today demanded an urgent Parliamentary review of the national social care regulator, the Care Quality Commission (CQC), after dismissing its latest inspection results as `flawed’ and `inaccurate.’

Important milestone reached for the transformation of the Elephant and Castle 01/12/2009

Southwark Council’s Executive has today, November 30th, approved the terms of a Heads of Terms agreement with Lend Lease Europe Ltd.

Southwark’s Young Advisors get to Number 10 30/11/2009

Southwark Young Advisors met the Prime minister on Thursday Nov 26 in recognition of their work on the Spirit of London Awards

Purple light at end of tunnel gives off positive regeneration aura 24/11/2009

Southwark Council and developers More London have delivered a dramatic tunnel refurbishment project to regenerate the area south of City Hall.

John Harvard library breaks records on opening day 24/11/2009

The number of visitors to Southwark’s new John Harvard library on its opening day was over twice the normal daily average.

Renowned author appears at closing event of Southwark’s first children’s book festival. 24/11/2009

Multiple award winning author and former Children’s Laureate Michael Morpurgo closed Southwark’s Children’s Book Festival on Sunday (November 22) with a special reading and book signing.

The future of arts and culture in London - the big debate 20/11/2009

A major cultural debate is to take place this week at Tate Modern in Southwark, addressing the most important issues facing the arts in London.

Southwark's CGS programme 2010 now open 17/11/2009

Residents and community groups are being urged to start thinking about their neighbourhood and how they want to improve it, as Southwark Council’s Cleaner Greener Safer Programme gets underway.

Southwark residents tackling domestic violence 17/11/2009

Peckham Community Council and its partner agencies are giving residents the opportunity to talk about domestic violence and the victims a chance to come forward and get advice on Saturday 28 November 2009 from 11am to 3pm at Harris Academy.

Winning design of multi million pound revamp of Burgess Park unveiled 16/11/2009

LDA Design has been awarded the contract to carry out the design behind a major £6m revamp of Burgess Park in Southwark, the winner of the Mayor of London’s ‘Premier Park’ competition.

Winner of design contest to revitalise London’s ‘Premier Park’ is announced 16/11/2009

LDA Design has been awarded the contract to carry out the design behind a major £6 million revamp of Burgess Park in Southwark, the winner of the Mayor of London’s ‘Premier Park’ competition.

£1.4m library opens in Southwark with a first for the borough 16/11/2009

Southwark’s John Harvard library opens today following a year long refurbishment that incorporates over £1.4m worth of improvements.

Six months on - pioneering move to give community wardens new powers proves its worth 12/11/2009

Figures show that the new enforcement powers granted to Southwark Council Community Wardens are making a real impact in tackling nuisance and antisocial behaviour.

Council launches bid to help faith groups understand planning regulations 12/11/2009

With an increasing numbers of churches, temples and mosques looking to open in Southwark, the council has launched a bid to ensure that groups have all the information they need to get started and make a positive impact on the community.

Six months on - pioneering move to give community wardens new powers proves its worth 11/11/2009

Figures show that the enforcement powers granted to Southwark Council Community Wardens are making a real impact in tackling nuisance and anti-social behaviour.

Colourful characters help launch Southwark Council’s first children’s book festival 03/11/2009

Southwark’s first ever children’s book festival launches on Saturday November 7

People urged to have their say on final two designs for Burgess Park redesign 29/10/2009

The search for the winning vision to revamp Burgess Park is nearly over.

Southwark honours Peckham civil rights campaigner with statue 29/10/2009

Peckham civil rights campaigner Dr. Harold Moody is being formally recognised with a permanent sculpture at Peckham Library.

New blue plaque for Southwark is a real triumph 29/10/2009

A blue plaque has been unveiled in Southwark to the designer of the most iconic British motorbike ever, the Triumph.

Court confiscates assets from benefit fraudster 29/10/2009

Southwark Council has won a court battle to confiscate assets gained from criminal activities on two properties worth half a million pounds

Rule change means more housing benefit for poorer families 29/10/2009

More families with children will now be able to get help towards paying their rent, thanks to new changes to benefit rules Southwark Legal Advice Network said this week.

Southwark Council publishes details of fire risk assessments and its response 29/10/2009

Southwark Council has published the full fire risk assessment (FRA) reports relating to three residential blocks in the borough, along with details of the extensive work the council is carrying out in response.

Water is the key for next phase of Canada Water library site 28/10/2009

The signal for work to crack on at the new Canada Water library sounded today with the erection of hoardings around the 3,165 sqm site

Southwark honours Peckham civil rights campaigner with statue 27/10/2009

Peckham civil rights campaigner Dr. Harold Moody is being formally recognised with a permanent sculpture at Peckham Library.

Southwark fireworks set to sparkle 27/10/2009

Southwark residents are being urged to get down to Southwark Park to savour a sparkling night’s entertainment at the annual fireworks display. The free celebrations will take place on Thursday 5 November 2009 from 6pm with the fireworks happening at 7pm.

New blue plaque for Southwark is a real triumph 26/10/2009

A blue plaque has been unveiled in Southwark to the designer of the most iconic British motorbike ever, the Triumph.

Retirement is a time to... pump iron 26/10/2009

This week, Southwark’s gyms welcomed their 267th Silver gym user, just six months after the scheme’s launch

Southwark Council rewarded for its action to tackle the impact of the recession 22/10/2009

The Southwark Financial Inclusion Forum which is led by the voluntary sector in partnership with Southwark Council has been recognised with an award for its work to tackle the impact of the recession.

Minister visits Southwark to launch national energy saving programme 22/10/2009

Two estates in Peckham were the location for the launch of the Government’s Community Energy Saving Programme this week (Weds 21), which will see up to £350m of funding being awarded to low incomes areas across the UK.

Aylesbury Estate: countdown begins to £2.4 billion regeneration 22/10/2009

The demolition and redevelopment of one of the capital’s largest and most well known estates moved a step closer this week.

Alma Primary School, the 100th registered Eco-school in Southwark 22/10/2009

Southwark is celebrating its100th registered Eco-School this week, as well as securing fifth place in the Eco-Schools ranking in England.

Council hunts for credit crunch hero - the resident with the best scheme will sit on a special council panel 22/10/2009

Southwark Council wants to hear residents’ amazing schemes for beating the credit crunch in a bid to find a recession defying resident that can sit on a panel of experts to help it choose an idea to help the authority do more for less.

Council launches bid to help faith groups understand planning regulations 22/10/2009

With an increasing numbers of churches, temples and mosques looking to open in Southwark, the council has launched a bid to ensure that groups have all the information they need to get started and make a positive impact on the community.

Turn Yourself Green this Halloween 20/10/2009

This Halloween, Veolia Environmental Services, working in partnership with Southwark Council, promises to help Southwark residents turn themselves green.

Know your limit 19/10/2009

Southwark Council is holding a series of 'know your limits' events from Monday 19 October 2009 to mark National Alcohol Awareness Week

Southwark making progress on important fire safety work 16/10/2009

Southwark Council has today published details of the progress that it has made in improving fire safety at Perronet House in Southwark, including the full details of the enforcement notice served on the authority by the London Fire Brigade in August.

New ball court for residents 16/10/2009

Millpond Estate residents are celebrating after Southwark Council's £40,000 Cleaner Greener Safer fund helped to renovate the Millpond ball court on West Lane, Rotherhithe.

Investment in Southwark markets smashes past £1m 16/10/2009

More than £1m is being invested across Southwark Council’s markets to improve conditions, boost sales and drive up visitor numbers.

Small change makes big difference 16/10/2009

Telephone Helplines Association (THA), the charity which enables free calls to charity helplines from mobiles...

Blue is the colour of convenient communal recycling in Southwark 16/10/2009

Sharp eyed residents in the north of Southwark will soon start to notice a difference to their local communal recycling bins.

Music student Tina wins Southwark’s second Golden Library Ticket 16/10/2009

Southwark Council is delighted to reveal the winner of the second Golden Library Ticket.

School place deadline clashes with postal strike 16/10/2009

Southwark Council is warning all those applying for secondary school places to note that the postal strike could affect their applications reaching the council on time.

You pay for it, come and get it! 15/10/2009

Southwark Council is offering residents a showcase day of all its expert services on October 27.

Southwark Council’s new mobile library unveiled 14/10/2009

Library fans should keep their eyes peeled for a brand new mobile library wending its way round the borough from this week.

Borough and Bankside area to be declared alcohol saturation zone 13/10/2009

Tuesday 13 October 2009: Southwark Council plans to introduce a third alcohol saturation zone covering the Borough and Bankside area, after 95% of residents and 64% of businesses consulted over the past six months gave it their backing.

21 year old Peckham bus driver becomes Southwark’s 15,000th citizen 13/10/2009

At a citizenship ceremony held in Southwark Town Hall today (Tuesday October 13 2009), 21 year old Atikur Rahman became the 15,000th person to go through the borough's citizenship process

Your recyclables need love too! 13/10/2009

This autumn look out for giant bottles, cans and newspapers finally getting the love they deserve from enthusiastic recyclers.

Southwark Council lights the way for human rights 12/10/2009

The government is looking into how local authorities fulfil their duties in relation to the Human Rights Act. The duties include respecting cultural differences and the rights of people of all ages and backgrounds when providing public services.

Hidden population costs council millions 09/10/2009

Outstanding – a Southwark school is one of 20 best in the country 07/10/2009

Michael Faraday School in Walworth has achieved exceptional scores nationally, with 25 outstanding features. This makes the school one of just 20 in the country which Ofsted feels has ‘excelled against the odds’

Southwark Council a finalist in prestigious awards 06/10/2009

Southwark Council is a finalist in this year's combined British Computer Society and Computing Journal Award for the Best Information Technology Strategy.

Mobile CCTV launched in Southwark to combat illegal parking outside schools 02/10/2009

This week sees the launch of two new council vehicles equipped with state-of-the-art cctv technology to help prevent parents from parking dangerously outside schools

Visualise Southwark competition attracts cultural icons as judges 02/10/2009

Tate Modern and the London College of Communications (LCC) are the prestigious organisations providing judges for the first ever Visualise Southwark competition, launched recently by Southwark Council.

Southwark Council Gets Tough on Dangerous Parking Outside Schools 01/10/2009

This week sees the launch of two new council vehicles equipped with state-of-the-art technology to help prevent parents from parking dangerously outside schools.

Southwark’s answer to Ellen MacArthur makes waves at yachting spectacle 01/10/2009

Surrey Docks Watersports Centre’s very own Tideway Sailability team is sending over 20 crafts to defend its title from years one and two.

Southwark scouts for school skivers this autumn 01/10/2009

Autumn term marks the return of Southwark Council’s truancy patrols which will begin their beat on Southwark’s streets from October to look for children who should be in school.

Southwark agencies bring in independent chair to oversee safeguarding children 01/10/2009

An independent person with huge experience in the field has been appointed to oversee the work done by the police, the council, schools, health and other agencies to protect children in Southwark from abuse.

Where the wild things are 30/09/2009

A new wildlife garden has been created using a £10,000 grant from Southwark’s Cleaner, Greener, Safer fund at Nunhead Library.

Local school girl enjoys council summer fun and wins Nintendo 29/09/2009

Local school girl enjoys council summer fun and wins Nintendo

From the Parthenon to picture perfect for Southwark’s stone ladies 29/09/2009

Two elegant Grecian ladies (called caryatids) were airlifted out of their temporary home on the Heygate estate at the Elephant and Castle to storage for safekeeping before demolition of the estate starts next year

Carnaval del Pueblo exhibition opens at the Cuming Museum 25/09/2009

Southwark’s Cuming Museum is set to come alive with the vibrant sights and sounds of Europe’s biggest Latin American carnival, the Carnaval Del Pueblo, from October 1 2009.

Black History Month returns 25/09/2009

Whether it’s a talk by a critically acclaimed author, a film premiere, a musical workshop or a history walk through the borough, there is bound to be something for everyone in Southwark’s 2009 Black History Month.

Southwark council encourages children to tell tales 25/09/2009

Storytelling is at the heart of Southwark Council’s new drive to give children and teenagers the chance to influence the policies and strategies that will affect their lives

Young entrepreneurs to face Southwark’s own Alan Sugar 24/09/2009

Are you young, ambitious and ready to hit the ground running with your amazing business ideas? If so, you’re the type of person Southwark Council is looking for, to enter London's first ever Southwark Young Trader of the Year competition

New exhibition shows how Southwark has changed over the centuries 21/09/2009

Southwark residents will be able to see just how much regeneration has changed in the borough over the centuries, in a new regeneration exhibition by Southwark Council

From historic to futuristic – Southwark’s finest architecture opens its doors this weekend 16/09/2009

From the grand and historic, such as the Imperial War Museum, to cosy and eco friendly homes, Southwark has 45 exciting properties listed for the Open House weekend (19-20 September 2009).

Get Job Ready 15/09/2009

One London borough is doing its bit to tackle unemployment and help young people avoid offending by launching a work experience programme for school leavers, to give young people a new exposure to the world of work.

Southwark Libraries announces first Golden Ticket Winner 14/09/2009

Golden ticket, Lewis Robinson, Competition, Rephaiah Appiah, Library

Creative kids enjoy boxing and making bath bombs at Summer Uni 11/09/2009

Summer University is targeted at 10 to 19 year olds and is in partnership with the University of London. The Summer University programme opens its doors to all 32 boroughs in London.

Creative kids enjoy boxing and making bath bombs at Summer Uni 11/09/2009

Summer University is targeted at 10 to 19 year olds and is in partnership with the University of London. The Summer University programme opens its doors to all 32 boroughs in London.

Millions spent on Southwark improvement programmes through development 10/09/2009

Over £15m was committed to affordable housing, new parks and open spaces, improved transport, education and employment programmes and the arts, via Section 106 agreement funding in Southwark during the last financial year.

Inner city kids volunteer for concert ticket money can't buy. 09/09/2009

Around one hundred young people from the London Borough of Southwark will be descending on Burgess Park.

Southwark’s residents are worth £800m 09/09/2009

council made the first steps to promise the delivery of £80m of investment in major works for council residents each year for the next decade.

Youngsters from Elephant and Castle make artistic headlines 09/09/2009

A collaborative adventure between famous local artist Reuben Powell and local 6-10 year old children has resulted in unique artwork which is now on show at the Elephant and Castle Shopping Centre.

New skate park shows big buildings can also mean big local rewards 09/09/2009

A popular skate park beneath the railway arches at London Bridge held a big launch party to celebrate its new facilities

New era of improved calculations for leaseholder service charges 08/09/2009

A ground breaking audit of council leaseholder charges will pave the way for a fairer method of calculating how much those home owners will pay in the future.

Help for heroes? Smarties have the answer for one London mayor 08/09/2009

Southwark Mayor Jeff Hook wants to raise at least £10,000 for the charity “Help for Heroes”, which supports soldiers wounded in Iraq or Afghanistan during his year in office.

Grant opportunities for Southwark Young people 03/09/2009

Young people in Southwark have the chance to apply for up to £5,000 to create activities for their peers in the area.

How many council officers does it take to change a light bulb?* 03/09/2009

This week sees the move to gradually replace every tungsten filament lightbulb in the country with low energy bulbs.

£2.5 billion Aylesbury regeneration plan heads towards finishing line 28/08/2009

The finishing line for planning for one of Europe’s biggest regeneration projects is in sight, with a visit by the Secretary of State’s Planning Inspector on Wednesday 2 and Thursday 3 September 2009.

Inner city kids volunteer for concert ticket money can't buy. 27/08/2009

Friday 21 August 2009 - Around one hundred young people from the London Borough of Southwark will be descending on Burgess Park this Saturday (August 22) to clear the area of bramble, weeds and rubbish.

£4.5m grant will save tenants £50 each on heating bills 27/08/2009

Council tenants in one inner city borough are set to save a recession-busting £50 each.

Come and make your library noisy - and watch librarians rock the joint 17/08/2009

Libraries across Southwark are set to get very noisy this Saturday (Aug 22nd) when the borough holds a noisy libraries day, including computer games competitions, poetry sessions and even pop groups of library staff performing on the day.

Southwark's wildlife enriched by the discovery of rare Hairy Armed Bat in the borough 13/08/2009

Animal lovers in Southwark are celebrating after the news that a rare bat species, Leisler’s bat, formerly known as the Hairy Armed Bat, has been recorded in Southwark Park.

Golden Ticket for three Southwark library users 13/08/2009

To reward loyal Southwark library users this summer, Southwark Council is giving away ‘Golden’ Library Tickets, which will allow the ownerto borrow all of their books, films and music at absolutely no cost, for an entire year.

Man Caught After Dumping Furniture Outside Council’s Anti-Flytipping HQ 13/08/2009

Southwark Council fined a man £200 for flytipping right outside a council building.

Napoleon rocks the Rockingham 13/08/2009

The annual Rockingham Youth Festival kicks off this Friday to offer young people fun with a focus.

Southwark plot-holders get composting for National Allotment Week 09/08/2009

To celebrate National Allotment Week (10-16 August 2009), Southwark Council, working in partnership with Veolia Environmental Services, is giving away free composting bins to community groups in the borough.

Assembly decides on residents’ ideas for government action 08/08/2009

Local people with radical ideas for action by government which would improve the area will have their plans put to the government.

Squalor to splendour for Peckham’s new posh terrace 07/08/2009

This month, ten Londoners got the keys to their beautiful, brand-new home, one of four six-bedroom properties, which, less than six months ago, were squalid squats.

Simplified detail changing service a success with Southwark locals 05/08/2009

Southwark Council is celebrating the success of a one step pilot scheme designed to make updating government and council records easier.

Southwark schools among the best in London 05/08/2009

In a year that has seen nearly a quarter of Southwark's primary schools recognised at 'outstanding' by Ofsted, that achievement has been reflected in our best ever results at Key Stage 2.

Southwark Council Community Warden honoured for extraordinary bravery 03/08/2009

One of Southwark Council’s community wardens has been awarded one of the highest
Police awards for bravery, for his actions in breaking up a violent attack.

Burgess Park ‘speed dating’ event hears hopes for park’s future 03/08/2009

The five shortlisted firms of landscape architects hoping to revamp Burgess Park spent a day meeting local community groups and residents to hear what locals want to see in the park.

Southwark skate park gets major face lift from regeneration funds 02/08/2009

A popular skate park beneath the railway arches at London Bridge is celebrating new and upgraded facilities, funded through £80,000 of Section 106 investment from Southwark Council and its development partners, and will have a party in September.

728K boost for jobless in Southwark 30/07/2009

Friday 31 July 2009: In a huge boost for unemployed people in Southwark, the borough has won almost three quarters of a million pounds of government money to support the creation of more than a hundred jobs.

Potters Fields development reaches major milestone 29/07/2009

Plans for the redevelopment of derelict land at Potters Fields have reached another important milestone

Bin it to Win it 29/07/2009

Residents of Southwark are to be rewarded for their anti-littering behaviour with £20 notes from Southwark Council.

Southwark rejects poor design in latest planning decision 29/07/2009

A proposal by Kings College Hospital to pull down and rebuild existing student accommodation on Champion Hill is going back to the drawing board after being deferred by Southwark Council’s Planning Committee.

Southwark planners give thumbs up to Paralympic practice track 29/07/2009

As London enters the three year countdown to the 2012 Olympics, more Games links were forged last night when Southwark Council’s Planning Committee approved the rebuilding and refurbishment of Southwark Park Sports Centre.

Southwark now boasts seven Green Flags 23/07/2009

Seven Southwark parks have scooped seven Green Flags that prove they are the place to be this summer - up from five parks last year.

Boost for Elephant and Castle plans 22/07/2009

The council’s executive agreed on Tuesday 21 July to enter in to a new exclusivity deal with its preferred development partner, Lend Lease Europe Ltd.

Stereotype busting mental health festival comes to Southwark 21/07/2009

Southwark residents are being encouraged to put aside stereotypes of people with mental health issues and think again about the words they use to describe them.

Action plan for Canada Water reaches preferred options stage 21/07/2009

Southwark Council today launched its vision of how Canada Water could be transformed over the next 15 years.

The Lost Zoo of Walworth remembered, 175 years on 21/07/2009

A corner of South London is this weekend celebrating the 175th anniversary of one of the least known, but perhaps most colourful, chapters in the history of the capital - the Lost Zoo of Walworth

Southwark opens its doors to get into Olympic spirit 20/07/2009

Cultural venues across Southwark will be opening their doors to visitors this weekend (24 – 26 July) with a full programme of exhibitions, open studios, artist talks, theatre performances, visits to museums and workshops for children.

Work Starting to Transform Michael Faraday Primary School 20/07/2009

Construction work has commenced to modernise Michael Faraday into a state of the art primary school, with increased places, expanded community facilities and a new integrated adult learning centre.

Local people given expert advice in struggling job market 15/07/2009

A two-day event starting tomorrow, Friday 17, hosted by Southwark Council will bring experts from across the borough together to tackle unemployment for people struggling to find jobs during the recession.

Assembly decides on residents’ ideas for government action 09/07/2009

Local people with radical ideas for action by government which would improve the area will have their plans put to the government.

Ancient trough gets pride of place in Rotherhithe 07/07/2009

A fully restored stone drinking trough has been put in place in Rotherhithe to mark the spot where the original – stolen in 2006 - stood for nearly 150 years.

There’s Loads to Do for Southwark’s Young People over the Holidays 06/07/2009

Wondering how to spend the summer break? Well look no further than the range of exciting activities on offer in Southwark for children and young people.

Southwark Business Converts Green Into Gold 02/07/2009

A company in Southwark has been awarded a gold medal in recognition of its efforts at putting the environment at the heart of its day-to-day operations.

Southwark Council and HOLT save Grade 2 listed Concrete House from “cultural murder” 01/07/2009

One of the last Victorian concrete-built homes was visited by Ed Vaizey, Shadow Minister for Heritage and the Arts, Southwark Councillors and the Heritage Office for London Trust (HOLT), as part of a London-wide tour of historic sites.

Southwark residents win £4,000 just for recycling 30/06/2009

Recycling has certainly paid off for some lucky Southwark residents whose efforts have earned them a £200 reward. On Friday (June 26), 20 of the borough’s keen recyclers were invited to a prize giving ceremony for the ‘Recycling Rewards’ scheme.

Dulwich Aiming to Be the Most Flower Friendly in Britain 29/06/2009

One corner of Southwark is hoping to be the best in the land when the Britain in Bloom judges make their decision later this summer.

Southwark Teachers Top Teaching Awards 29/06/2009

Two Southwark teachers have proved they are among the best in the London by winning categories in the Teaching Awards 2009.

Work Starting Today to Transform Primary School 29/06/2009

Construction work began this week to transform Southwark Park Primary School into a state of the art new school, with Victorian parts of the building being carefully restored to their former glory.

Southwark Council set to get new powers to control dogs 16/06/2009

A London council is planning to introduce new powers to clamp down on people who allow dogs off their leads on one of the UK's biggest estates.

Tenants ask for no-stink bins and Southwark Council supplies them 16/06/2009

This month, all Peckham’s tenants and leaseholders will be able to take advantage of brand new stink-free bins.

Aylesbury Estate to LA – Southwark girl wins travelling fellowship 15/06/2009

A young resident of the Aylesbury Estate in Southwark has been awarded a travelling fellowship to Los Angeles and New York this summer to pursue her passion for dance.

Dye your hair grey and you could be a £1 gym-member 11/06/2009

Southwark Council is this week promoting the special offer, available exclusively for older residents.

Aylesbury time capsule to see light of day in ten years’ time 08/06/2009

Children from Surrey Square School and Aylesbury locals have buried a time capsule on the first building site of the major regeneration of the estate.

Carers Week says thanks to hidden carers in Southwark 05/06/2009

Southwark residents are being encouraged to learn more about Carers Week (8-14 June), which is being held to celebrate over 20,000 local people who have given up personal time and freedom to care for a family member, partner or friend.

Design supremos pick Canada Water library design for Royal Academy show 03/06/2009

The stunning Canada Water library design commissioned by Southwark Council has been put in pride of place at this year’s Royal Academy Summer Exhibition (8 June-16 August), the world’s largest open-submission contemporary art exhibition.

Eco Canopy Helps Primary School Achieve Highest Green Award For Second Year 20/05/2009

Charles Dickens Primary School in Southwark is proud to have been awarded another Green Flag, the highest Eco School award going, for a second year.

Saturday night fever? Donate to see if councillors have the X Factor 15/05/2009

Councillors tend to be praised for standing firm, but a group of politicians are hoping to impress residents with their ability to move at the Mayor's Ball.

Southwark Local Education Partnership Reaches Financial Close 14/05/2009

Balfour Beatty, Southwark Council, Partnerships for Schools and Building Schools for the Future Investments (BSFI) are very pleased to today announce the contract award of Southwark’s £200m Local Education Partnership (LEP) agreement.

Dog Poo - Shocking Figures Reveal A Weighty Problem 14/05/2009

As Southwark Council launches its Summer round of ‘Flag The Poo’ events, new figures are revealed that show the extent of the challenge facing its enforcement team.

Multi-million Pound Work Starts On Dulwich Leisure Centre 12/05/2009

Work has begun on Southwark Council’s multi-million pound plans to refurbish Dulwich Leisure Centre.

Census chief comes to Southwark as council kicks off 2011 preparations 08/05/2009

Southwark Council’s bid to make sure its government funding reflects its population will take another step forward when the civil servant responsible for the 2011 census comes to the borough.

Southwark Council’s answer to Everest: Camberwell’s scaffold mountain 08/05/2009

Scaffolding and debris netting currently cover the whole of Castlemead Estate.

Schools To Be Given Free Composting Kits in Southwark 06/05/2009

Southwark Council, with its partner Veolia Environmental Services, is getting behind Compost Awareness Week (May 3rd to May 9th) by giving away composting kits to schools across the borough.

New Vision for Goose Green Mural 06/05/2009

Peckham and Dulwich residents are being encouraged to head down to Goose Green this weekend to enjoy a piece of artwork that’s been given a second lease of life thanks to local residents, with help from Southwark Council.

The Blue In Line For Three Quarters of A Million Pound Revamp 28/04/2009

The Blue shopping centre and market in Bermondsey is set to benefit from £670,000 of council investment to help improve its shops, businesses and the surrounding area.

Grants For Childcare Providers 23/04/2009

Southwark Council is calling on eligible childcare providers to apply for funding.

Success For Wardens 23/04/2009

Some 11 seizures of alcohol were made this week (21 April) by Southwark Council’s Community Wardens following the introduction of new powers.

Young People Helping to Make Southwark Safer 23/04/2009

Young people in Southwark are going to be working side by side with Community Wardens to help make the borough safer.

Southwark Council Does Exactly What It Says On The Sticker 21/04/2009

Southwark Council has its own version so tenants can keep an eye on the process of a repair being fixed.

Southwark Is A Beacon Of Success Says Central Goverment 14/04/2009

People in Southwark know and love their neighbours better than most boroughs in Britain.

A First For London- Wardens Get Five New Powers 14/04/2009

Southwark Council’s community wardens will become the first local authority officers in Greater London to be accredited by the Metropolitan Police.

Selling Illegal Skin Lighteners Cost Trader £13,000 14/04/2009

Southwark Council’s trading standards officers have won another success in their long-running campaign against businesses in the borough selling illegal and dangerous skin lightening products.

Dramatic new Canada Water library construction underway 07/04/2009

Canada Water residents will soon have a stunning new library to enjoy and use, with community and council facilities at its heart, as Southwark Council today signed the £13.7m construction contract with ISG Jackson.

Camberwell Baths Awarded £1.45M Towards Upgrade 02/04/2009

Southwark Council was today awarded funding of £1.45m to go towards improving Camberwell Leisure Centre.

Wiser and smarter - the Council’s plan for homes as Southwark grows 02/04/2009

Southwark residents will have access to larger numbers of affordable homes in the future despite the recession, according to commitments in Southwark Council’s Housing Strategy for the next seven years.

Southwark proves attractive for investors as Tate Modern extension agreed 01/04/2009

In what the head of Southwark Council’s Planning Committee described as “absolute proof that Southwark is a great place to live, visit, admire and learn,” the Tate Modern extension was approved tonight.

Government endorses Southwark Council approval for Blackfriars Road developments 30/03/2009

Bankside residents will benefit from more social housing and improved local facilities, shops and public spaces.

Hidden Homes To Be Uncovered in Southwark 19/03/2009

Empty laundrettes, disused offices, abandoned garages and even vacant spaces under blocks of flats are all being targeted in an innovative move by Southwark Council to increase its housing stock.

Building project turns cash into computers for Southwark adult learning 18/03/2009

Funding from the new Bankside development project is being used to improve the IT skills of local parents with the purchase of new equipment at two local schools.

Parking Attendant Safety Reaches New Levels with Pioneering Panic Alarm in Southwark 09/03/2009

Parking Attendants (Civil Enforcement Officers) patrolling the streets of Southwark are now safer than ever, and better connected, thanks to brand new technology that’s being described as the ‘Holy Grail’ of parking enforcement.

Southwark Council welcomes Government announcement on De Menezes trial bill 05/03/2009

Southwark Council today welcomed today’s announcement by Secretary of State for Justice, Jack Straw that the Government has agreed to reimburse four local authorities for the costs of the De Menezes inquest

Champagne Corks Fly as Burgess Park Wins Boris’ Millions 04/03/2009

Burgess Park in Southwark is set to get a six million pound windfall, after scooping the two million pound Premier Parks prize awarded by the Mayor of London.

ASBO for Dog Owner 19/02/2009

A Dulwich animal owner has received an ASBO (anti-social behaviour order) and a bankruptcy order after she allowed dangerous dogs to run wild in the borough.

New Magazine for Southwark’s Kids Hits the Streets 05/02/2009

The latest edition of Whtvr, a magazine written and produced by young people in Southwark, has hit the streets. It’s packed full of information about activities for young people to do in Southwark.

Council tax in Southwark frozen until 2010 04/02/2009

Southwark Council is planning to freeze council tax this year, guaranteeing that residents’ council bills will stay fixed at April 2008 rates until April 2010.

Vote for your favourite stories and get ready for Silver 2009 22/01/2009

Maybe you’re a fan of the classics, such as Pride and Prejudice and Hard Times?
Or perhaps you were moved by the Kite Runner, enchanted by Lord of the Rings, or uplifted by The No1 Ladies’ Detective Agency?

Dulwich Pool Makes a Splash 22/01/2009

Southwark Council has approved multi-million pound plans to refurbish Dulwich Leisure Centre as the first phase of its Leisure Investment Programme across the borough.

Famous stars to unveil plaque recognising 33 years of local film-making 20/01/2009

Renowned English actors Miriam Margolyes and Derek Jacobi will unveil a Southwark Blue Plaque at the Rotherhithe Picture Research Library and Sands Films Studio on Friday 23 January 2009.

Southwark Council approaches final hurdle in £2.5 billion regeneration project 20/01/2009

The £2.5 billion regeneration of one of London’s biggest and most well known estates came a step closer, as Southwark Council’s executive agreed the last technical details required for the Aylesbury Area Action Plan (AAP).

Southwark wins planning enforcement case in Camberwell 19/01/2009

Southwark Council recently won an enforcement case against the owner of 115 Camberwell Road (SE5 0HB) for building and refusing to take down an illegal extension on the side of his house.

Chaucer the choice for Southwark’s streets and landmarks 06/01/2009

Southwark Council research into street names this week shows that a 12th century poet beats Shakespeare in the popularity stakes for street names and buildings.

Potters Fields: Cultural user shortlist announced 17/12/2008

The shortlist to become the cultural centrepiece of central London’s last undeveloped riverside site was announced by Southwark Council and Berkeley Homes