Expert: Neil French

Neil spent 46 years working as a structural engineer, the last 35 years in the Practice he co-founded in 1972. One of the most prestigious clients of the Practice was the Savoy Group, who commissioned his professional services over many years – including for the 3-year restoration and extension works of the Savoy Theatre, following its almost total destruction by fire in 1989.

Since his retirement in 2007 Neil has lived in Streatham, in an Edwardian house purchased by his grandfather (a Music Hall Artiste) who bought it, with several others in Streatham, for investment; perhaps one of the early ‘Buy to Let’ landlords. Sadly, only two of these properties survived the indulgent lifestyle the grandfather enjoyed!

Once retired Neil has actively pursued his interests in local history, theatre and the arts generally. He is a member of The Streatham Society, a member / ‘friend’ of several other art and heritage institutions (as well as FoSHT) and is the Honorary Archivist and Benevolent Fund Trustee of the alumni association of his former school.