I am delighted that Croydon has been shortlisted for a national local government award in the Most Improved Council category. The Local Government Chronicle (LGC) award recognises councils that have successfully led change to deliver major improvement. We have more to do and will continue working to improve services for residents, and restore pride in our borough, through my Mayor’s Business Plan and Future Croydon. Thank you to all our residents, staff and partners for their ongoing support.
The government has accepted our request for £136m exceptional financial support for 2025/26. This is not new money from government, but rather permission to use borrowing or asset sales to help mitigate the extreme funding pressures all councils are experiencing, as well as those caused by Croydon’s historic debt burden. This is not sustainable and we need a longer-term solution. The government must take action on the financial challenges local authorities are facing; in the meantime, I am pleased that they have demonstrated their confidence in our plans to tackle these issues locally. I will continue to work with the government for a sustainable solution for Croydon.
Preserving our heritage
There has been concern this week about the future of Heathfield House. I regard Heathfield as a jewel in our crown and a special place in our borough. Sadly, with the Council’s financial pressures, we are not in a position to restore this building. That is why we are looking to lease Heathfield House on a 125-year lease, to find a use that will bring it back to its former glory. We are not selling the building and will make sure that it remains publicly owned. Many residents enjoy using the beautiful grounds and access to this green space will continue. Heathfield House is an important part of our history, and we will protect it for future generations.
Purley In Bloom
Purley in Bloom has been invited to participate in the ‘Britain in Bloom’ competition – after scooping Gold in the London in Bloom awards last year. The volunteers’ have helped to restore pride in the area – they are a shining example of community spirit and its fantastic to see them recognised on a national level.
Archives Can Be Anything
Croydon Clocktower and the Museum of Croydon have been a hive of activity as our Young Archivists prepare to show their artwork. Archives Can Be Anything is a free exhibition of artworks, films and poetry, created by young people sharing their perspectives on Croydon, heritage and underrepresented histories. It opens on Wednesday 26 February. Thank you to everyone who took part and to National Lottery Heritage Fund for funding the project.
Have a good weekend
Jason Perry
Executive Mayor of Croydon
