Permanent memorials to be unveiled on anniversary of Croydon tram derailment

Two permanent memorials in honour of those affected by the Croydon tram derailment are to be unveiled on the first anniversary.

The memorials will be at two locations in the borough, with one in honour of the seven people who lost their lives placed close to the incident site in Sandilands, and a second civic memorial in New Addington.

A stone plinth has been commissioned for the Sandilands site which will be inscribed with the names of those who lost their lives and the date of the incident. Seating will also be installed close to the plinth – which will be surrounded by saffron crocuses – the flower associated with Croydon, to provide an area of reflection.

A second plinth with a carved inscription will also be installed in the centre of New Addington, with additional seating set to be built around it. Similarly to the Sandilands sites, saffron crocuses which bloom at the same time of year as the anniversary, will be planted to create a floral display.

The lasting tributes have been designed in consultation with the families of those who lost their lives and preparation works at both sites will begin this week.

 An artist’s impression of the New Addington memorial

On the morning of the anniversary (Thursday 9 November), a civic ceremony will take place in New Addington during which the permanent memorial will be unveiled. A minute’s silence will also be held as part of the ceremony and the public are welcome to attend and join Croydon in reflecting and remembering those who lost their lives, as well as others deeply affected by the tragedy.

Councillor Tony Newman, leader of the council

“Almost a year has passed since the tram derailment, but those who lost their lives, their families and others affected by this terrible incident are never far from Croydon’s thoughts. This tragedy had a big impact on Croydon and it is right two fitting memorials are in place because we will never forget.

“The civic ceremony will be the time to come together as a community to reflect and remember, and is also an opportunity to pay tribute to the tireless efforts of the emergency services and all those who helped in the aftermath of the incident. I’d encourage anyone who wants to attend to join us in New Addington and show their support.”

2021-11-15T15:25:36+00:00 October 10th, 2017|Recent news|