Woolwich supermarket readies for opening

A new supermarket is set to open in Woolwich at the western end of Powis Street beside Travelodge.

TFC will open their latest store soon after initial plans in 2021 were rejected owing to inappropriate frontage and concerns over a goods lift.

That was revised and plans approved in 2022.

TFC were founded in 1995 and have a number of stores across London focusing on Mediterranean food.

Opening in Woolwich ensures another unit opens in the Grade II listed Royal Arsenal Cooperative Society building which operated as a Greenwich Council centre for some time after RACS departed.

Since then Travelodge opened as did an ice cream shop. This latest restoration is another positive sign that after some decades life is returning to the western end of both Powis and Hare Streets.

Last week it was visible that many units along Hare Street were also occupied by an eclectic mix of businesses. Given how poorly many High Streets are doing, Woolwich is showing some welcome signs of life.

With development of housing down this end of Woolwich – plus ongoing conversion of upper floors of buildings into residential units – they’ll be greater footfall in years to come.

Buildings are also under renovation as part of a Heritage project, with the corner unit café seeing work.

This end of town also has excellent food outlets in the Woolwich Market building ranging from sushi to South African and crispy duck.

It brings good mix of independent outlets alongside major brands that also attract shoppers.

Many of the biggest High Street brands are located this way such as Sports Direct, Primark, TK Maxx and Boots.

One of the interesting things is many people believe the eastern end of town and area around General Gordon Square is the strongest part of town and write off areas to the west, but this is where the biggest name can still be found.

If Woolwich can sustain both in this area while new homes are built and businesses continue to open it should have a bright future.