Final planning permission has been granted for the redevelopment of up to 340 new homes for local people on the Regina Road estate in South Norwood.
This key decision follows the plans receiving unanimous approval at Croydon’s planning committee in October, and successfully passing a two-stage review by the Greater London Authority (GLA) in December.
The redevelopment, which was awarded £54m in grant funding, is one of the biggest regeneration projects in Croydon in decades. It will end years of underinvestment in the estate and delivers on Executive Mayor Jason Perry’s commitment to build well-designed, affordable homes for residents.
Croydon Council announced Lovell as the preferred contractor for the main redevelopment last month. The build works are on track to start later this year, following the demolition of 1-87 Regina Road, which is nearing completion.
The Regina Road redevelopment will replace the existing blocks with up to 340 new homes, including at least 215 Council homes. There will also be green open spaces, a multi-use games area, improved lighting and security, a new preschool, a community hub, and improved walking and cycling routes. It will create a safer, greener and more welcoming community that reflects the needs of residents.
Residents have been at the heart of developing the regeneration plans. After serious concerns about living conditions on the estate in 2021, a resident working group was set up. Since his election in 2022, it has remained a priority for the Executive Mayor to have tenants and leaseholders at the core of Croydon’s housing services. The working group has continued to play a key role in the programme, shaping the plans through meetings, workshops and consultations. More recently, residents have been closely involved in the selection of Lovell, who they will continue to work with as they deliver the homes.
Daniel Blundell, who has lived on Regina Road since 2011, said: “It is amazing news that planning permission has finally been given the go‑ahead. I am really excited to watch these new homes being built.”
Cllr Lynne Hale, Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Homes, said: “We could not have done this without the Regina Road residents who have got behind the regeneration from the start, helping us to shape change that is right for the local area.
“Thank you to the Regina Road Resident Working Group and everyone who has joined a workshop or given their views through one of the many consultations. Your input has helped us to put forward plans to create a wonderful neighbourhood that people are proud to call home.”
“I am committed to creating new, high-quality homes for residents in Regina Road. I am delighted we have reached this huge milestone in making sure the estate gets the homes that residents expect and deserve.
“This programme has been a great example of how Croydon can overcome the legacy issues it faces. The significant grant and approval from the Greater London Authority shows its confidence in our regeneration plans. We have put residents at the heart of these plans, demonstrating how we are working with our tenants and leaseholders differently, treating them with respect and making sure their voices are always part of their housing services.”
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon
