2016 - Here's how it's going down

These are my predictions for 2016. I am of course, just plucking them out of my arse, but that technique proved reasonably prophetic in 2015.

The Wickham does a Talbot

I've predicted a radical makeover for The Wickham Arms pub on Upper Brockley Road in the past - because commercial reality insists that it must. In 2016, with so many other local pubs getting overhauled, it will finally run out of excuses and get the investment it needs to thrive. The Talbot has proven that a small pub, a little off the beaten track, can be successful in Brockley and a similar format, married to the Wickham's musical heritage, would work here.

Greater Brockley gets a cinema

Lewisham's lack of a commercial cinema is the go-to complaint for any critic of the borough. This year, that market failure will be consigned to history - with at least one, possibly two cinema schemes unveiled at locations within walking distance of most BCers.

Beauty for Brockley Road

Brockley has accumulated a wealth of hair dressers and nail bars. The next logical step is to add a beauty therapy venue, either in Crofton Park or the development around Brockley Station.

Something big for Brockley Cross

London is suffering from a shortage of affordable shared workspace. Something big is due to happen at Brockley Cross, one of the few development opportunities for commercial space in the area. Dragonfly Place has bedded in and proven that Brockley is a popular place to locate a micro business. This year, a large development scheme will be announced.

Ladywell's undercroft 

The troll hole beneath Ladywell will get an occupier in 2016. A cafe / bar aimed at Ladywell's growing population of young people and students would make sense here - especially with relatively few direct competitors nearby.