Despite the improvements we have made in recent years, the Government has decided to appoint commissioners at Croydon for two years. We feel it is the wrong decision for Croydon and its residents, particularly as it does not feel fair and consistent in line with the lower levels of intervention placed on other councils.

However, we will engage with the Government-appointed team constructively, just as we have engaged with all Government intervention over the last four years. We welcome their advice, challenge, and support, and we will continue to put Croydon’s residents at the heart of every decision we make. Our commitment remains the same: to do everything in our power to overcome the challenges facing Croydon.

Let me be absolutely clear, I will not allow our residents to carry the cost of historic failure. I will not support any proposals that would destroy vital local services or impose further Council Tax increases above the Government cap. Find out more.

Love Our Parks

Croydon’s parks have been awarded four Green Flags for 2025 – two more than last year. Coulsdon Memorial Garden, Wettern Tree Garden in Sanderstead, Wandle Park and Happy Valley have all been recognised as some of the best green spaces in the country. This is a fantastic achievement that reflects the hard work of our brilliant ‘friends of’ groups, dedicated volunteers and our parks team – thank you for helping make Croydon greener, prouder and more welcoming for all.

It was also great to visit Norbury Park, South Norwood Country Park and South Norwood Lakes yesterday to see the impact of nearly £240,000 in capital investment. New paths, viewing platforms and upgraded infrastructure are making our parks more accessible, supporting wildlife and improving the experience for all visitors. Great to meet ‘friends of’ groups and thank them for their vital work. Together, we are putting pride back into our green spaces.

HAF summer holiday clubs

The summer holidays have arrived and we are working with our partners to make sure support and activities are available for families over the next six weeks. Our Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme is providing a range of fun clubs for those receiving benefits-related free school meals. Find out more.

Forge: Industries of Croydon

Check our Culture Croydon website for what’s on this summer – from children’s films at David Lean cinema, to wellbeing walks at Farthing Downs. The Forge: Industries of Croydon exhibition opens at Museum of Croydon today, celebrating the borough’s rich industrial past. See images of Addington Forge blacksmiths, taken by local photographer Lee Williams. Dating back to 1740, the blacksmiths’ forge is still in full use. Find out more.

Have a good weekend.

Jason Perry

Executive Mayor of Croydon