It was a packed agenda at Cabinet on Wednesday where I presented our proposals for the Budget 2025/26. The proposals set out how we will tackle our financial challenges, whilst , owing to demand pressures, we are investing £72.1 million in vital services. I remain absolutely committed to making responsible choices for Croydon’s future and safeguarding our essential services to meet increased demand. Having been approved by Cabinet, the budget proposals will now go to Full Council on Wednesday 26 February.

Over the past year, we have been transforming our housing service – so that all residents can live in homes that are high-quality, safe, and sustainable. There were two important papers that went to Cabinet this week that will put us in a stronger position to achieve this. Our Housing Revenue Account (HRA) business plan sets out how we are investing in our housing stock and increasing our budget for repairs for the next 30 years. We also presented proposals to consider introducing a Selective Licensing Scheme, which would help to raise the standard of housing in the private rented sector. We do not want to see any of our residents living in poorly managed rented properties which are unsafe and will be asking for your views on the proposals soon.

Support for carers

Carers hold families together and play such an important role in our communities. We have been working with carers in Croydon on our Croydon Carers Strategy 2024-2029 and on the commissioning of three new contracts to providers, to make sure how our carers health and wellbeing needs are being met. This will mean there will be a new provider working to enhance outcomes. We know change can be unsettling, but there will be no loss of service and we are working to have a seamless transition. My thanks go to the John Whitgift Foundation for their many years of service. Find out more.

Cleaner Croydon

The blitz clean in Addiscombe concluded today. On my visit I saw the hard work that has improved the high street – the new bins, trees and repainted street lines, and cleaner streets. I am really excited about this project, which is part of our Cleaner Croydon campaign to create more pride in our borough. The next stop for the blitz squad will be South Norwood, which will start on Monday, 24 February.

New playground

I was delighted to open Waddon Ponds playground today, which has been refurbished just in time for the school half term. It was designed with residents, using section 106 money from developers and looks great. I also reopened the furnished viewing platforms, which were closed for five years after falling into disrepair. It is my priority to make Croydon cleaner, safer and healthier and these improvements will help to get our children playing outside.

Have a good weekend

Jason Perry

Executive Mayor of Croydon