Croydon is an incredibly entrepreneurial place and I want us to be a borough where people with an idea can start a business, existing businesses can grow and businesses from outside Croydon want to invest here. This week we held a Croydon Means Business event, a programme we launched in March that will provide £500,000 of support to local businesses through grants, advice and practical support.

We are already seeing that support make a difference. Five businesses have received £10,000 Empty Units Grants to help bring vacant premises back into use. Six businesses are also receiving Shop Front Improvement Grants, helping to improve individual businesses as well as the look and feel of our high streets.

As someone who has spent much of my working life running a business, I know how challenging the current environment is. That is why I am determined that we do everything we can locally to support our entrepreneurs, remove barriers and create opportunities. From bringing empty units back into use and improving our high streets, to investing in public spaces, transport connections and major regeneration projects. We are working to build confidence in Croydon and attract new investment.

As a Croydonian, I know what this borough is capable of achieving. We have history, heart and hustle. By working in partnership with our businesses I believe we can build on the momentum we are already seeing and create a stronger, more vibrant Croydon. Find out more on the Croydon Means Business website.

Father Michael’s induction at St Peter’s Church

It was a pleasure to attend the induction of Father Michael Nayagam as vicar of South Croydon Benefice at St Peter’s Church earlier this week. It was a very special occasion for the local community, and I wish Father Michael all the very best in his new role.

Growing a greener Croydon

A big thank you to the students from Minster Junior School who joined our community planting day outside Croydon Minster this week. They did a great job planting flowers that will help make the area greener and brighter. I am looking forward to seeing them in bloom next spring. Over the coming months, residents will see more projects like this across Croydon, helping to make our neighbourhoods greener, brighter and more welcoming.

Sticking with the floral theme, I am also looking forward to St Paul’s 125th Anniversary Flower Festival at St Paul’s United Reformed Church in South Croydon this weekend. It should be a lovely way to mark a long history for the church, and all are welcome.

Have a great weekend everyone.

Jason Perry

Executive Mayor of Croydon