Firstly, I want to thank all our emergency services who responded so quickly to the fire in a Southern Housing block on Whitehorse Road this week. Whilst the fire was serious thankfully there were no serious injuries. Please contact Southern Housing if you wish to know any further information. I would also like to thank the Selhurst Ward councillors who attended and assisted on the night.
During National Carers Week, I had the privilege of visiting Red Court Care Home and the Carer Support Centre. I’d like to thank everyone in Croydon who looks after a friend or family member, for the help they give and the important role they play in our community. If you are a carer, there are some fantastic support networks available locally – find out more.
A cleaner, safer and healthier place to live
On Monday we launched a consultation on a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) for Thornton Heath. Do have a look at the proposals, particularly around the proposed boundaries, and take this opportunity to have your say through the consultation. Tackling antisocial behaviour has been one of my priorities since taking office and a PSPO would give police more powers to address problem behaviours, helping to restore pride in the area and ensure residents feel safer.
London Borough of Culture
It’s been great to see everyone coming together to take part in and celebrate Croydon’s London Borough of Culture events. I went to see Recognition this week, a powerful story bringing the great composer and conductor Samuel Coleridge-Taylor to life. The production, by the brilliant Talawa Theatre at Fairfield Halls, has had great reviews – well done to everyone involved – and it’s running throughout June with tickets starting at £5, so do not miss the chance to see it.
We will also be announcing the line-up for our Summer Festivals series which will begin in July. It will feature events such as Croydon Food & Music Festival, Croydon Mela, Croydon PrideFest and a new youth festival showcasing Croydon’s finest performers called CR Fest.
Croydon’s Music Heritage Trail launches next week. The trail will be an exploration of Croydon’s music history, celebrating the people and places that have helped to create the rich musical culture that we can be so proud of today.
Join us for the launch day in The Queen’s Gardens on Saturday 17 June, for a day of free family fun, including a silent disco and the unveiling of a special mural in the heart of our town centre as part of the trail.
Find out more about these and other events at www.culturecroydon.com
Jason Perry
Executive Mayor of Croydon
