One to watch: Deptford

For decades Deptford has attracted people from a wealth of different backgrounds, but large-scale development and investment in the area means there’s an exciting period of change ahead.

As Deptford has grown in popularity, increasing numbers of businesses, cultural projects and creative innovators have flocked to the neighbourhood – while some of the local stalwarts have gone from strength to strength. “Deptford has an amazing history,” explains Patrick Henry (above), director of the annual Deptford X contemporary arts festival. “The people have always been cosmopolitan, with strong international links through the area's seafaring history. There's no other place like it.

“The festival fits really well with the community of artists around Deptford and its proximity to Goldsmiths. Deptford X is all about the place and the place is all about the people.”

Joe Ringwood, head brewer at Brockley Brewery, saw potential in the area and has taken his chance to be a key part of the community. “Brockley Brewery is about local beer for local people,” says the Londoner. “It's very important for us to be a pillar in the community; a lovely place for people to come by and have a drink and a chat.

“It's about the community and what we can bring to it. It's all tightly knit and gives a lovely local feel to the area. That's what this place is all about.” he says.

It’s not just newer ventures that make Deptford such an exciting place to be. Performing arts centre The Albany has history stretching back to the 1890s, but has experienced something of a reinvention of late, re-establishing itself as a significant London arts venue, with family-focused events to boot.

“The identity of the Albany is inextricably linked with Deptford, and we’re very much the centre of a vibrant, thriving community,” chief executive and artistic director Gavin Barlow explains. “It's a social and community space for the area as well as a busy performing arts centre.

“Deptford has a really strong character. It sometimes feels like a slightly forgotten corner of London, a real hidden gem. Most significant is the mix of people, lots of students and artists, alongside established families and new people moving in.

“Deptford is fast changing, but I really think it will retain its unique, vibrant character as it adapts to change.”

Deptford Foundry is a new project from Anthology, a property developer that prides itself on creating homes that are “built from London”. Transforming a disused trading estate into a new neighbourhood, the development aims to enhance the existing community and provide homes, employment, creative studios and public open space.

Anthology Deptford Foundry will soon be selling one, two and three-bedroom apartments, prices starting from £345,000. Don’t miss your chance to invest in this flourishing community, register now at anthology.london to receive more information about the properties available.