Tenders from exceptional architects and landscape architects to shape one of the most important public spaces in Croydon’s town centre are now being accepted.
Last month Croydon Council announced it was looking for the best in local, national, and international architects and landscape architects to express their interest in wanting to help shape the Fair Field public space in the town centre.
More than 220 expressions of interest have been received from interested organisations wanting to be a part of this exciting tender opportunity to create a world-class public space on the site formerly known as College Green or Fairfield Gardens.
Situated in Croydon’s new cultural quarter, Fair Field will be important for the town centre as a cultural, civic and community hub, providing the setting for the Fairfield Halls, which is reopening in September of this year following a multi-million pound investment by the council.
It is anticipated Fair Field will incorporate the use of water, lighting and other innovative technologies, providing a platform for cultural and community activity linked to the Fairfield Halls. While the site will surround Fairfield Halls, the council is looking for the public space to be of importance in its own right.
The ambitious public realm design will complement Croydon’s new outstanding performance arts centre, as well as the new housing development by Brick by Brick, the development company set up by Croydon Council.
“We’re delighted we’ve had so much interest in Fair Field. It tells me architects and landscape architects understand the importance of this space.
“For centuries, fairs were held annually on Fair Field, its name before it was College Green or Fairfield Gardens, including the Walnut Fair and Croydon’s Great Fair which took place on the site, providing entertainment for all ages.
“Fair Field will be important not only for Croydon’s town centre, but the borough as a whole. The area surrounding Fairfield Halls needs to be of the highest quality to match the calibre the venue’s programme will be providing. It also needs to be fun, welcoming and safe, for future generations to enjoy.
“I hope a good percentage of those who have expressed an interest in the project now come forward with proposals for an inspiring, sustainable and resilient public space.”
Councillor Paul Scott, cabinet lead for planning and regeneration
Tender submissions need to be made by 12noon on 7 March. This is then followed by a shortlisting process, where a small number of teams will be invited to the second stage of the tender process.
The tender opportunity is live here.
