Support fund set up for Peckham Levels tenants after company’s ‘unexpected collapse’

The site had been managed until last month by Really Local Group, under a limited company: Peckham Levels Ltd until it went into administration.

In a statement on August 27, made by the management of Peckham Levels they apologised for the ‘disruption’ it would cause to tenants.

Now, site owner Southwark Council has taken back the building and has appointed a new operator to manage the site called The Trampery.

The new company runs similar ventures in east and north London.

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Peckham Levels is a former multi-storey car park on Rye Lane, which has served as a home for creatives, local entrepreneurs and the community since 2017.

The venue has created workspace for more than 200 people, from artists and creative studios, to co-working space and a food hall with bars and event spaces.

Following the unexpected collapse of Peckham Levels Ltd an artist support fund has been set up for performers and small businesses with unpaid debts.

In a statement on social media Peckham Levels management said: “Independent artists are the lifeblood of Peckham Levels, and we understand the impact recent events have had on them.

“On August 27 2024, The Trampery was appointed by Southwark Council as the new operator of the site. The Trampery is an independent social enterprise. We don’t have any connection with the previous operator, Peckham Levels Ltd. However we’re keen to help anyone who’s suffered.

“We are therefore establishing an Artist Support Fund, with a commitment that the first £20,000 of profits from the building will be dedicated to artists and small businesses who have unpaid debts from the previous operator. 

“Anyone affected will be able to apply. Funds will be allocated on a completely transparent basis. Full details will be announced in the coming weeks.

“We are dedicated to keeping Peckham Levels a home for grassroots performance and are contacting everyone affected personally as a priority.”

Peckham Levels Ltd said that all the existing Peckham Levels staff will come across to the new company and all public events will be unaffected.

Cllr John Batteson, Cabinet Member for Climate Emergency, Jobs and Business, said: “We had to act quickly at very short notice to ensure continuity for tenants and visitors alike, which was our first priority. The Trampery’s dynamism and strong track record, especially towards diversity and inclusion, makes them a great fit for Peckham Levels.

“Peckham Levels is a much-loved destination for culture, creativity and affordable workspace. We want to make sure it continues to serve local people’s needs in the very best way possible, while being commercially successful in the long term. We will be exploring this in more detail over the coming months, working closely with The Trampery, businesses, and the local community.”

Charles Armstrong, Founder and CEO of The Trampery, said: “I’ve been a huge admirer of Peckham Levels ever since the building opened in 2017. It’s a huge privilege, and also a great responsibility, to pick up the baton for managing Peckham Levels. Our team will work tirelessly to build on the successes of the past seven years and amplify the impact the building creates in the Peckham community.”

LondonWorld has contacted Peckham Levels Ltd and The Trampery for further comment.