The Greenwich Heritage Centre is “guaranteed” to return following speculation after the announcement of its abrupt closure.

The centre is closing for a “period of redevelopment” from Saturday, July 21 – an announcement that surprised many people, including Greenwich councillors.

The council has ambitious plans to redevelop Royal Arsenal in Woolwich into a creative district, including market squares, bars and exhibition venues.

In order for those plans to progress, the heritage centre will be seeking an alternative location for a new museum – but the council has assured residents the popular centre will have a space at the creative district.

Responding to Cllr Nigel Fletcher on Wednesday, (July 18), Cllr Miranda Williams, the cabinet member for culture, leisure and the third sector, said: “I can confirm that space has been reserved for the heritage centre as part of the plans for the creative district, and I can guarantee that the heritage centre is able to return, should the Royal Greenwich Heritage

Trust wish to do so.

“Interim access arrangements are being finalised for access to the collection during the closure period, and will be published once they are complete.”

The abrupt announcement of the closure earlier this month raised eyebrows with councillors, including ward councillor John Fahy and opposition spokesman for heritage Cllr Fletcher.

The museum team can still be reached at Charlton House to organise access to the archive.

Plans for the creative district took a major step forward earlier this year when proposals were submitted to the council.