I want to update you following the Government’s recent announcement that it is “minded to” appoint commissioners to Croydon. This is a deeply serious step that, if confirmed, would override local democratic leadership and hand powers to unelected officials.

This week I wrote to the Secretary of State to express my deep concerns about the proposals. My letter sets out clearly that, despite the severity of Croydon’s historic financial challenges, we have already delivered more savings than any other London council – £167 million since 2020 – begun a fully funded transformation programme and worked with the Improvement and Assurance Panel (IAP), who have never used their powers of direction.

My focus remains on protecting our residents, restoring pride in this borough, and continuing to do everything possible locally to fix the finances responsibly, but the full solution lies outside of the Council.

We have put forward alternative proposals and we look forward to receiving their response. As the elected Mayor of Croydon, I have always put the needs of Croydon residents first and will continue to do so. I will not standby and allow the decimation of our home borough because of the past actions of a reckless few. Find out more.

Celebrating South Norwood

South Norwood was a hive of activity on Saturday for The Pavement Party in Selhurst Road. This year’s event teamed with the newly relaunched Clock Tower Market. Through our South Norwood Regeneration Programme, we have been working with the traders on creating improvements to the parade. The project on the south side continues and mobile planters were delivered to five businesses to add to the vibrant environment.

Celebrating Be Different 365

It was a pleasure to join the sixth anniversary celebration of the Be Different 365 Foundation in Broad Green – a fantastic day which brought families together with food, entertainment and awards. I even joined in with some drumming – a great way to soak up the atmosphere.

Legacy Youth Zone fundraising

On Wednesday, I was at the launch of the Legacy Youth Zone Charity Golf Day at The Addington, which raised over £55,000 to support the centre’s vital work with young people in Croydon. It was a pleasure to support Myke Catterall, who leads the Youth Zone and whose own journey from adversity to CEO is truly inspiring. Among the supporters was Croydon resident and Dragons’ Den entrepreneur Levi Roots, who generously donated his time as a chef as part of a raffle prize – a great gesture in support of this brilliant local cause. Find out more.

Armed Forces Day

It was an honour to meet uniformed veterans and current members of the Armed Forces, as we raised the Armed Forces Day flag outside Croydon Town Hall on Monday, to mark the national week. It reminds us of the many people from Croydon who serve our country and is an opportunity to thank them for the huge sacrifices they make. Events continue this weekend at Kenley Aerodrome, celebrating Croydon’s proud military ties.

Saturday, 28 June, brings two brilliant events: the Green Spaces Open Day at Croydon Central Library, from 11am–4pm, and the Learning Disability Carnival in North End, from 10.30am-5pm. Both are free to attend and reflect the best of Croydon.

Have a good weekend.

Jason Perry

Executive Mayor of Croydon