It was great to open the doors at Croydon’s newest Family Hub at the Samuel Coleridge-Taylor Centre in South Norwood. This wonderful new space will provide vital support for families – with a focus on services for older children and young people – working closely with schools, health and community partners. It will help our borough’s young people to stay safe, feel supported and thrive. It was great to mark this milestone with the dedicated staff, Cabinet Members and partners who all made it possible, and to meet parents, such as Abigail Michael and her baby daughter, Ruqayyah, a reminder of who this hub is here to serve. A true community effort – restoring pride and investing in Croydon’s future.

Keeping Croydon safe

As Executive Mayor, I am making sure the Council plays its part in keeping Croydon safe. Last week I met with police and much-valued volunteers at Neighbourhood Watch Croydon’s crime prevention day and reported on everything we are doing to tackle antisocial behaviour and other issues. Our officers are on the ground every day – issuing fines for fly-tipping, enforcing Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) and responding to concerns that residents are telling me about. Today I have been out with officers picking up unroadworthy cars parked dangerously on highways in Thornton Heath. It is not just talk, we are taking action. I know how easily pride can be eroded – that is why we are taking a zero-tolerance approach and tackling issues before they escalate. We have made great progress and will continue as we work to restore pride in our borough.

Better housing for Croydon

The redevelopment of Regina Road, in South Norwood, is one of the biggest regeneration projects in the borough and supports my commitment to providing more affordable, safe and well-designed homes across Croydon. I welcome the positive support from Croydon’s planning committee last night, marking another big step forward in rebuilding the estate and creating better homes for local people. Thank you to all residents of the estate who have continued to shape the plans, including for safer and greener shared community spaces – the planning committee was an important milestone in the project.

Diwali – festival of lights

Monday is the start of Diwali, a time of light, of renewal and of coming together. It was an honour to take part in Coulsdon’s Diwali celebration and to see residents and businesses coming together for the celebration. Shubh Deepavali to all communities celebrating this coming week!

Samuel Coleridge-Taylor weekend

This year Croydon has been celebrating the life and legacy of the great Croydon composer and conductor, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor (1875-1912), through an exciting cultural programme. The events culminate this weekend as part of Black History Month, with The BRIT School takeover in Croydon Clocktower, The Anniversary Concert at Fairfield Halls and the opening of an exhibition at Museum of Croydon. Do visit the town centre to see the performances by many talented artists as part of the celebrations.

Have a good weekend.

Jason Perry

Executive Mayor of Croydon