Over the next month we have a fantastic programme of cultural events taking place across the borough. These will bring people together, showcase our unique heritage and creativity, and add a real buzz to Croydon – all part of my commitment to raising Croydon’s profile as a cultural destination.

Tomorrow marks the start of London’s Open House Festival and here in Croydon we will be opening the doors to some of our most iconic and architecturally significant buildings, for everyone to enjoy. Step back in time at the historic Whitgift Almshouses, or enjoy a tour of the David Lean Cinema and Croydon Town Hall. We will also be welcoming the Caravan Gallery to locations across the town centre, alongside a series of Build/ Shape/ Play activities for all ages. Find out more.

Next month, we will once again be celebrating the harvest season with the return of the Croydon Harvest and Walnut Fair on 3 and 4 October. This unique, free event is a proud part of Croydon’s history, inspired by the historic Walnut Fair that dates back to 1314. Visitors can enjoy a packed programme of folk music, acrobatic performances and family-friendly activities. Keep an eye out for the giant hedgehog, which is always a crowd favourite. Find out more.

I had the pleasure of attending the opening of the Museum of Croydon‘s new exhibition, Shaping Croydon: Architecture and Ambition, this week. I highly recommend a visit to see both artwork from Croydon’s archives as well as pieces from current artists. There is only one week left to see the Grayson Perry exhibition, which runs until 19 September. It is a rare opportunity to see the work of a Turner Prize-winning artist on our doorstep and completely free of charge for residents.

Evacuation of Zodiac House

We have been supporting residents of Zodiac House, in London Road, after a power outage meant we had to evacuate the building on Tuesday. We have secured temporary accommodation for all Zodiac House residents and are continuing to support them.

Contractors are assessing the situation and are working to restore power. The cause of the outage is also being investigated, and extra security measures are in place whilst the building is vacant. We thank all the residents for their patience whilst we make the necessary repairs.

Thank you to our emergency services

We raised the flag outside Croydon Town Hall on Thursday to mark Emergency Services Day. It was great to be joined by representatives from the Metropolitan Police, London Fire Brigade, Croydon University Hospital, the Judiciary and the RNLI, as well as students from Winterbourne Junior Girls’ School, who brought along posters to thank members of the emergency services.

My thanks go to all emergency service workers and volunteers for everything they do for Croydon. Your dedication, care and commitment make a real difference to residents every day.

Out and about meeting residents

This week I popped into the Eldon PHAB Club in South Croydon. They have a great building in Dering Place and are keen to get more people along to their Wednesday night socials from 5pm – 8pm. Anyone over 18 can attend so do pop along if you can. They are looking to launch a monthly Film Night in the near future.

This weekend I am looking forward to joining the Addiscombe Railway Park Apple Day and anniversary celebrations marking 20 years of the park, 15 years of the Friends’ volunteer group and 10 years of the community garden and orchard. Find out more.

I hope you have a lovely weekend and have a chance to visit many of the Open House sites that will be open.

Jason Perry

Executive Mayor of Croydon