The Albert Association

"It's far more sociable than where we lived before, and the communal garden is an unexpected sanctuary"

Ian Tree

Our beautiful communal garden was formerly the site of four houses in Colnbrook Street.

An empty plot

The buildings and land were sold in 1970 to the Greater London Council (the GLC) by their owner, the Rt Hon Harold Julian Amery. The houses were demolished in preparation for an extension of St Jude's School. Ultimately the school was not extended and the site, surrounded by corrugated iron fencing, became overgrown. When the GLC was abolished the London Residual Body was charged with disposing of its assets, and it eventually sold the land to Southwark Council.

Formation of the Albert Trust

"Our streets have the strongest sense of community of anywhere I've ever lived! I suspect our communal garden plays a big part in that..."

Jessica Kennedy

In 1996 a number of households in Colnbrook Street and Gladstone Street formed the Albert Trust and collectively raised funds to buy a 125-year lease from Southwark Council. The lease stipulated that the garden would be of communal benefit, including access for St Jude's School. It has a play area for children and it is used by the Association for our annual Garden Party and other events.

Access

Residents can obtain a garden key from Irene Hall in return for a £10 deposit.

Contributed by Desmond Healey

Composting scheme

A number of residents contribute to the compost heaps in the communal garden, get in touch for details.

Booking the communal garden

Members can book the communal garden for private parties etc. Get in touch to book.