CAMPAIGNERS escalated their protest against the proposed demolition of a housing estate in South Thamesmead on Saturday by occupying an empty home on the block.

Residents and activists took over the Lesnes Estate home, demanding that empty houses be opened immediately and the entire estate be renovated instead of torn down.

They insisted that John Lewis, executive leader of Peabody, the social housing provider turned developer in charge of the “regeneration scheme,” agree to meet residents in person and listen to their demands.