A new creative hub has opened as part of Croydon’s Creative Enterprise Zone – providing a vibrant home for the borough’s creative community.

The new space, on the lower ground floor of Centrale Shopping Centre, will provide an area for independent businesses and local artists, such as the Croydon Creative Network, to work, meet other artists, and host events and upskilling workshops for residents.

It will also be available for hire by organisations committed to supporting creativity and innovation at affordable prices, making it a valuable community resource.

The first venture is Made By Croydon, a festive market celebrating local art and unique Christmas gifts presented by the newly established Croydon Creative Network. The market runs for four weeks and items on sale include handcrafted jewellery, sustainable skincare, unique art prints, festive food gifts, bespoke accessories and more.

Flora Oworu, of Flakies Fashion, is one of the artists selling her clothing at the market. She said: “There’s no other space like this where we can afford to showcase our art. It’s been brilliant to be part of this and have this exposure.”

Esther Julius, of Starest Natural Skincare, added: “This space is absolutely amazing. We’ve used it to show our talent. It’s wonderful to have a place here in Croydon where we can shine and meet other artists.”

The space supports Executive Mayor Jason Perry’s priority to support Croydon’s thriving creative and cultural economy as part of his Growth Plan. He officially opened the space on Wednesday 26 November at an event attended by local artists and residents.

The Creative Enterprise Zone programme is a Mayor of London initiative that supports artists and creative businesses to put down roots in the city and grow – with access to affordable creative workspace.

Croydon was named as one of the first Creative Enterprise Zones in 2018. Since then, 4,000 square metres of creative workspace has opened in the borough, which can be used by artists as studios and performance spaces. Croydon’s Creative Enterprise Zone has also offered paid work placements and internships and established the Croydon Creative Digital Lab for training.

There are now twelve Creative Enterprise Zone’s across the capital. Following its year as London’s Borough of Culture in 2023, Croydon is fast becoming known as a place where creative industries can flourish.

Lizzy Lambie, Chair of Croydon’s Creative Enterprise Zone said: “I am proud to be part of opening a space that feels both supportive and full of possibility. With dedicated creative workspace, event areas, collaboration opportunities, and hands-on training, this unit is here to help Croydon’s creators grow with confidence and continue strengthening our borough’s creative economy. Watch this space!”

Find out more and keep an eye out for upcoming events at Croydon Creative Directory.

“Croydon’s creativity has always been one of our borough’s greatest assets, and this new space for local artists is a fantastic step forward in supporting local entrepreneurs. It will help Croydon as it continues to grow into a destination for culture and innovation, which we are supporting through Croydon’s Growth Plan.”

Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon

 

Notes to editors

  • Croydon’s new Creative Enterprise Zone space can be found on the LG Floor, Croydon Centrale, 21 North End, Croydon CR0 1TY.
  • Made By Croydon is open until 24 December from Wednesday – Sunday, 10am – 6pm. Please note opening times may vary slightly due to Croydon Centrale’s Christmas holiday opening hours.