Derelict New Cross
New Cross’s empty buildings tell a story of economic crisis
In recent years it’s become very noticeable that pubs, bars and clubs have been closing at an alarming rate across London. It’s hardly a surprise, with Londoners now spending on average over 50% of their income on rental costs.
The cost of living crisis following Covid-19 has also seen alcohol prices shoot up, with pints of beer in some pubs now costing over £7. Rising prices keep people at home, further eating into pub profits.
Recent data from the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) shows the rise in numbers of shuttered pubs across the UK. CAMRA has been calling on the government to ease the tax burden on pubs suffering higher costs, but the new government’s early policy proposals, including banning smoking outside pubs, and reducing opening hours have all contributed to further worry in the sector.
These trends are noticeable in New Cross, in the many closed pubs near the Goldsmiths campus. On Queen’s Road, leading to Peckham, The Montague Arms has sat empty for years, with the local Peckham Peculiar reporting its closure in 2018.
