This week I was pleased to announce a significant milestone in returning a swimming pool to the heart of Purley.
I know how important it is to people in Purley and the surrounding areas to have a pool back in their community and I am proud to reveal these exciting proposals which will also help to revive the town centre.
Developer Polaska is preparing to submit plans for the regeneration of the Purley High Street site, which will include a new six-lane swimming pool, training pool, fitness studio and gym, as well as a soft play area and a café. The plan is for the pool to be fully funded through the development, whilst the council will run and operate the new facility. Polaska is holding public exhibitions on Tuesday 20 June, from 5-8pm, and Friday 23 June, from 4-7pm, at Christ Church in Purley.
The designs will also be on view at Purley Fete on Saturday 24 June, from 12pm to 4pm so come along and have your say on the plans. Find out more.
Grenfell – always in our hearts
Wednesday marked the sixth anniversary of the Grenfell Tower tragedy. We lit up the Town Hall in green and observed a minute’s silence in remembrance of all those who lost their lives and those whose lives were changed forever on that terrible day. We will never forget them, and my thoughts and deepest condolences go to them and their families.
Cut It Out – Tackling knife crime
I also attended the Cut It Out football tournament at Selhurst Park on Monday evening, which unites the Croydon community in tackling knife crime. It is an excellent demonstration of the partnership between our young people, community groups and the police.
The sad killing of a 20-year-old in the early hours of Wednesday morning in Thornton Heath highlights there is still much to be done to tackle the scourge of knife crime.
This is Croydon – London Borough of Culture
June is a jam-packed month for Croydon’s London Borough of Culture programme so do not forget to join us for the launch of the Croydon Music Heritage Trail on Saturday 17 June, where we will celebrate the wonderful past and present musical culture of the borough.
It promises to be a fun-filled day with a free, family-friendly, silent disco in The Queen’s Gardens from 1.15pm to 3.15pm and live Jazz at The Oval Tavern from 5pm onwards.
Jason Perry
Executive Mayor of Croydon
