Plans to redevelop a mostly derelict shopping centre in Lee Green to build almost 400 flats have been submitted to Lewisham Council.

Leegate Shopping Centre opened in the early 19060s but has become run down over time.

It was once voted the worst in the country and has been described by reviewers on Google as “a miserable place to visit”, and a “bit of an armpit”.

In June 2017 Asda confirmed that they would not moving into the shopping centre, which prompted owners St. Mowden to redo their plans entirely.

The number of flats has expanded from 229 homes to 393, and the proposals also include a food store, pub, cafes and restaurants and a gym.

St Mowden also said that an open public square would also be included as this was one of the most requested details as part of the public consultation they ran.

Nick Smith, development manager at St. Modwen, said: “The submission of the planning application takes us a step closer to transforming Leegate.

“We know local people are keen to see the area improved and following the consultation we’ve undertaken, we’re confident that we have been able to incorporate the aspirations and wishes of local people and realise Leegate’s full potential as a local centre.

“We want to deliver a well-designed, high-quality scheme that meets local needs and we’re pleased that the plans for a new public square, private and affordable housing and a mixed retail offer were well supported during consultation.”

The plans now sit with Lewisham Council’s planning department and St Mowden said that if the plans were approved, construction would begin in 2020 and complete in 2024.