Brockley's Victorian houses

The unique environment we appreciate today in Brockley was created by the 1870s with foresight and care. In a coordinated approach to development by the landowners, the Tyrwhitt-Drake family, layouts were designed to respond to the alignment of former country lanes and respected field patterns and footpaths. The unusually well preserved enclave of architectural and environmental history has survived into the 21st century almost intact, uniquely rich in High Victorian and Edwardian domestic architecture. As the houses fell into disrepair after the war they faced threats including piecemeal attack by property speculators during the property boom. Lewisham Council's plans to upgrade facilities to modern standards included proposals to build on back gardens and demolish some houses. But the 1967 Civic Amenities Act led to designation of the Brockley Conservation Area, preserving the largest area of intact and unspoiled Victorian housing in south London.

Development in the Conservation Area

Where modern houses and flats occur in the Brockley Conservation Area they are almost all replacements for houses damaged by bombs in the London Blitz during World War II. Designation of the conservation area means attempts to demolish or damage the appearance of Victorian houses can be challenged and refused by Lewisham's planning officers.
Some regrettable developments have nonetheless taken place within the range of Victorian buildings. But modern buildings of good design quality, in the right places, can enhance the conservation area and add to its architectural interest.