The regeneration of Croydon town centre remains a top priority and I have been working with a range of external partners to drive forward my Town Centre Vision and Growth Plan for the borough.

Our partnership with Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) is key and speculation around the sale of Whitgift and Centrale shopping centres is unfounded. URW remains committed to investing in Croydon and working with the Council, residents and businesses on its masterplan to create a vibrant mixed-use development for the North End Quarter. The second stage of their consultation opens next week in Centrale shopping centre, where more detail can be seen on their vision. I got a sneak preview and it is well worth a visit to find out about the exciting plans to transform our town centre. There is an opportunity to take part in a community workshop. Find out more.

It was great to meet local traders and businesses at the Town Hall this week for a networking and partnership event, called Croydon Smile. Hosted by Croydon Business Association, which is working to bring our town centre businesses together, the event showcased a programme of events they have planned including: an AI Summit, Business Awards, a Film Festival, and celebrations in Surrey Street

Investing in our district centres

I was delighted to unveil the new Colliers Water Garden in Thornton Heath, in Colliers Water Lane, which will be used by local school children to learn about nature, gardening and observing micro-habitats. It was great to see pupils from nearby Whitehorse Manor School – Brigstock site enjoying the green space. The project was co-designed with the community and used funds from a £833k grant from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) for 2024-25, which we invested into our district centres to restore pride in our borough.

Coulsdon blitz clean

Our blitz clean crews have been out in Coulsdon this week, as part of our Cleaner Croydon campaign. Throughout their visits they will be clearing drains, fixing broken paving, removing graffiti and tidying up trees and bushes. Don’t forget to report waste concerns on the Love Clean Streets app.

Schools out for summer!

I visited Good Shepherd Catholic Primary School in New Addington, where I was given a tour by the school council and took part in a Q&A. Thank you for being so welcoming. I also hear that the Astrogazers at Croydon High School completed the first phase of their satellite launch, which must have been very exciting!

As the school year draws to a close, I wish all pupils, teachers and staff a very well-deserved summer break.

Have a good weekend.

Jason Perry

Executive Mayor of Croydon