Croydon is on the move – regeneration and improvement projects are happening across the borough and they’re already making a real difference.
Earlier this year, Croydon Council became the first borough in London to launch a local Growth Plan, backed by nearly £40m from government funding, Growth Zone support and other sources, to kickstart investment in key regeneration projects.
An update report approved by Cabinet on Wednesday (24 September) shows how Executive Mayor Jason Perry’s Growth Plan and Town Centre Vision are helping to transform Croydon. From better transport links and greener streets to cultural events and festivals that bring communities together, the changes are creating a more vibrant and welcoming town centre.
The Council is working closely with partners like Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) on plans to redevelop the Whitgift Centre, refurbish Centrale, and deliver new homes, restaurants, shops, venues and a public square. The new ‘Allders Parade’ is also opening this autumn, bringing fresh retail and food options to North End.
Connectivity is improving too. A new surface level pedestrian crossing in Wellesley Road will better link East Croydon with the town centre, while George Street, Dingwall Road and North End are being upgraded with greenery, lighting and cultural activities.
The historic Surrey Street Market is getting a boost to help local market traders and shops thrive, whilst the Council is working with London South Bank University and other partners to help residents gain new skills and access job opportunities as Croydon’s economy grows.
Investment is also reaching district centres across the borough. Through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) 2024/25, the Council has delivered £833,000 worth of improvements in New Addington, Thornton Heath, Selsdon, Purley and West Croydon. Another £1.28m has supported community projects and public space upgrades in South Norwood, funded by the Mayor of London’s Good Growth Fund and Historic England’s High Street Heritage Action Zone, a total of £4.6m of investment.
The Council’s long-term plan is all about creating new homes, jobs and businesses – boosting the local economy and creating opportunities for everyone who lives and works in the borough.
“Since launching the Croydon Growth Plan earlier this year, we’ve seen real progress across our district centres, whilst the town centre regeneration is picking up pace.
“Our Growth Plan and Town Centre Vision are already making a real difference for residents and businesses. I’m committed to keeping this momentum going and working closely with the Croydon community to restore pride in our borough and make Croydon a place where people want to live, work and visit.”
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon
