Good news for Croydon this week as an independent review concluded that our Council has made significant progress. The Local Government Association (LGA)’s Corporate Peer Challenge found improvements in Croydon’s leadership, financial management, organisational culture, working with partners – and a new focus on listening to residents and customer care. I’m particularly pleased that their review team noted our culture of openness, honesty and transparency – as Executive Mayor this is something I have been determined to embed. There is more for us to do, but this independent external validation is an important milestone for Croydon. It shows that we are making strong progress and heading in the right direction as we work to improve our Council for residents and restore pride in our borough. Find out more.
New library hours
If your New Year Resolution was to read more, we’re making it easier for you to enjoy your local libraries. As part of our new and improved library service, public opening hours in some of our branches are being extended from this week. Coulsdon and Ashburton Libraries are returning to full time opening hours, with New Addington, Purley and South Norwood open an extra day. This is the first phase as we transition to full time opening hours in all libraries from this April; for more information click here.
New bus shelters
For the eagle-eyed residents who spotted Transport for London (TfL) contractors surveying bus stops in Croydon, I can confirm it’s positive news. I met with Transport for London (TfL) this week to confirm the rollout of new bus shelters across our borough. It has been a priority for me to restore these for residents and we’ll be sharing more information, including a list of the sites, in the coming weeks.
Growth for Croydon’s Future
On Wednesday I visited London South Bank University (LSBU) Croydon campus, in my role as Executive Mayor and as London Councils’ lead for Business and Economy. As leaders in education and innovation, LSBU are a hugely important asset for Croydon, creating a wealth of opportunities for residents and businesses and helping to drive economic growth – in our borough and beyond. As the gateway between London and the South-East, I am clear that Croydon has a vital role to play in our capital’s economic future. As we prepare to launch the London Growth Plan, I look forward to continuing to work with all our partners, locally and regionally, to unlock Croydon’s potential and get our borough back on the map for the right reasons.
Thank you to St Michael & All Angels, Croydon for their invitation and warm welcome at the Epiphany Carol Service last Sunday.
Finally, it was a privilege to visit the Alhidaya Mosque and community centre in Thornton Heath. Alhidaya is a charitable organisation, working for all our communities, regardless of faith, and supporting those in need. Thank you for all you do for our borough.
Have a good weekend.
Jason Perry
Executive Mayor of Croydon
