A new toucan crossing has been built in Wellesley Road, improving connectivity between Croydon town centre and East Croydon. Executive Mayor Jason Perry opened it on Wednesday (3 December) after ensuring that the complex engineering project was delivered on schedule.
Wellesley Road is one of 10 projects under way in Croydon after the Council secured £40m funding from the government and other external sources. The projects support the Executive Mayor’s Town Centre Vision and Growth Plan – to drive regeneration, attract investment and deliver exciting developments in the borough.
The surface-level toucan crossing, at the junction of Lansdowne Road, will boost local businesses by linking the town centre shops more easily with East Croydon.
It was a complex engineering project as it spans six lanes on a busy highway, Tram and bus route and central reservation. The Council worked closely with partners – including FM Conway, Fitzpatrick Advisory and Transport for London – to design and deliver the project, and to keep trams, buses and vehicles moving throughout.
The crossing replaces the underpass, which was closed last year following fire damage caused by antisocial behaviour. The underpass has been in-filled with concrete as part of the project.
The Council is also kickstarting work this month in Dingwall Road to improve footpaths, cycle paths and public areas as part of the connectivity projects. New planting and upgraded street furniture will improve the area near East Croydon station for everyone who lives, works and visits.
Meanwhile, in George Street, new fencing has been installed between the tram and highway, unused street furniture removed and improvements to paving and drainage will be made early next year.
College Green is also set to be redeveloped into a new green space with a play area, a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) for sports, picnic area and cafe terraces. A planning application expected to be submitted soon. Like Minster Green, this is a Growth Zone-funded Programme delivered by Croydon with the support of the Greater London Authority (GLA) and Transport for London (TfL).
“The Wellesley Road crossing was a complex engineering project, and our partners have worked with us to deliver it on schedule, in time for Christmas shopping in our town centre.
“We are delivering 10 projects as part of my vision to improve the look and feel of the town centre. I am committed to driving these forward – to create a more welcoming, accessible and vibrant town centre, of which we can all be proud.”
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon
