New Addington has been getting the ‘blitz-clean’ treatment this week as part of our Cleaner Croydon campaign. Our ‘blitz squad’ has been in Central Parade and the surrounding area doing a deep cleanse and clearing fly-tipping, all supporting our priority to create a cleaner and safer Croydon and restoring pride in our borough.

Regina Road

The regeneration of Regina Road reached an important milestone this week as the pre-application for the development was discussed at Planning Committee. We are working to improve the standards of homes across the borough and putting residents at the heart of decisions about housing. Regina Road is an important part of this and will create around 380 high quality, energy efficient homes, with new and improved green and play spaces. We are continuing to work with residents on the estate to make sure their voices are heard in every step of the project.

Today, the empty tower block at 1-59 Regina Road was used by the London Fire Brigade (LFB) carrying out a training and full evacuation exercise. We were happy to support LFB and are glad the vacant building was able to be put to good use ahead of demolition next year. It was also a great honour to hand Coronation medals to some of the firefighters there. Seeing our emergency services working at close hand was truly inspirational.

Croydon Remembers

On Saturday, the Croydon community will commemorate the eighth anniversary of the Sandilands tram derailment. It’s hard to believe that eight years have passed since the tragic incident that claimed seven lives and injured many. My thoughts are with the victims’ family and friends and the communities impacted. All residents are welcome to attend the ceremony. Find out more.

Services of remembrance will be held on Remembrance Sunday this weekend, at 11am at the Minster and 12.30pm at the Cenotaph in Katharine Street. On Armistice Day, Monday 11 November, there will be a service at 11am at the Cenotaph. We hope to be joined by many residents as we pay our respects to the fallen of many conflicts. It was also a privilege to attend a multi-faith peace event on Thursday evening, to hear prayers from our many different communities here in Croydon.

Culture Croydon

The annual Croydonites festival launched this week, bringing theatre and performances from around the world to our town centre. It runs until 24 November and more details can be found on our Culture Croydon website.

Have a good weekend.

Jason Perry

Executive Mayor of Croydon