People who live in, work in or visit South Norwood are being asked to help shape plans to preserve the historic high street and reinforce it as the vibrant heart of the community.
From now until 17 February, Croydon Council is consulting the public on a new draft Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan (CAAMP) for South Norwood.
South Norwood is part of Historic England’s £95 million government-funded High Street Heritage Action Zone programme and Croydon Council is working with them to strengthen the high street and celebrate local heritage.
The CAAMP highlights the area’s rich history, and sets out plans to protect its unique character and ensure that the High Street thrives now and in the future.
It includes guidelines for future change in the area, and will inform local projects, planning decisions and future management. Changes are also proposed to the boundaries of the Conservation Area, to make sure that important buildings and streets are included and can benefit from careful management.
Read more about the draft CAAMP online, join a public consultation event, and have your say on the proposals by taking part in our short survey at www.croydon.gov.uk/heritagenews.
South Norwood dates back to the 19th century. It originally developed as a stopping point on the Croydon Canal, which opened in 1809. The subsequent railway expansion created a sought-after residential district and by the 1870s the High Street was the focus of local commercial and social activity. Growth was influenced by the inventor and philanthropist, William Stanley who ran a local factory, funded educational projects and bequeathed his estate to local schools and students. Stanley designed and built the Grade II listed Stanley Halls, now a local arts and community centre. Today, South Norwood retains much of its fine Victorian architecture and rich history.
“Anyone who visits South Norwood knows it’s a special place – the High Street is the beating heart of the community and much valued by residents. The Heritage Action Zone programme is a unique opportunity to make sure it thrives, and to provide important support for our local businesses and wider community. The new management plan is an important step in this, and we want it to reflect local people’s priorities and needs, and so I encourage everyone with an interest to take part in the consultation.”
Councillor Oliver Lewis, cabinet member for culture and regeneration
The public consultation is available at www.croydon.gov.uk/heritagenews from now until 17 February 2022. The document can be viewed online and there are print copies available at council libraries, including South Norwood Library, and selected locations around South Norwood. The document will also be available at the council offices by appointment only – Bernard Weatherill House, 8 Mint Walk, Croydon CR0 1EA. To view the document at the Council offices please email ldf@croydon.gov.uk to arrange a suitable time.
A public meeting will be held on Tuesday 25 January from 5pm – 8pm at No.241 Norwood, 241 Selhurst Road, London, SE25 6XP. There will be a short presentation and display, and council officers will be on hand to answer questions. The public event may change if there is any change in local Covid-19 restrictions – check the above web address for updates closer to the event.
Comments can be made by;
- completing a questionnaire at croydon.gov.uk/heritagenews
- emailing ldf@croydon.gov.uk with the subject title “South Norwood Conservation Area Review”
- posting to Spatial Planning Service, 6th Floor Zone B, Bernard Weatherill House, 8 Mint Walk, Croydon CR0 1EA.
