The structural demolition of 1–87 Regina Road has now started, marking a major milestone in transforming the estate. Over the coming months, the block will be taken down level by level, making way for the next stage of the regeneration.
As part of this, 23-year-old Lewis, who has grown up on the estate, is starting his career in construction. He has completed an online training course provided by Colemans, the demolition contractors for Regina Road, and gained his Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card with support from Croydon Council’s jobs brokerage team.
With this qualification, Lewis will begin paid work experience in September with Colemans at Regina Road, the same place where he grew up. This could lead to an apprenticeship with Colemans and the opportunity to progress further with the National Federation of Demolition Contractors. He received his certificate from Colemans during a visit to the site attended by the Executive Mayor of Croydon, Jason Perry, and members of the Regina Road project team.
Croydon Council’s social value programme makes sure contractors bring benefits for local people as well as delivering the main work. This includes new jobs, training and support for community projects. Colemans’ support for Lewis is part of this commitment, providing opportunities during the demolition at Regina Road and after the work is finished.
Lewis said: “I have tried the conventional job search approach, but recently I have overhauled my method to focus on meeting people directly. Demo work appeals to me because it allows me to work outside and get fresh air.”
Andy Crawford, project manager at Colemans, said: “Working with Croydon residents like Lewis is a big part of how we deliver social value. The Regina Road regeneration is an important project for this community and giving local people the chance to work on it helps build skills and creates opportunities that last beyond the demolition. We are pleased to be supporting Lewis as he starts his career in construction.”
The regeneration will be delivered in two phases and will include around 340 new homes, landscaped areas, a preschool and a new community facility. Phase one will provide at least 225 new affordable Council homes and has been supported by a £54 million Greater London Authority grant.
Croydon Council has also submitted the full planning application. The proposals will be reviewed by Croydon’s planning committee later this year. Residents have helped shape the plans and will be involved in the process to choose the contractor for the next stage of the regeneration.
“The start of structural demolition at Regina Road marks a huge step forward in delivering the regeneration that residents have been waiting for. Regenerating Regina Road has been a priority for me and is a key part of my plan to make Croydon a cleaner, safer and healthier borough, a place we are all proud to call home.
Seeing residents like Lewis benefit directly from this project shows how it is creating opportunities as well as new homes and why getting this right matters so much to the community.”
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon
