This week I welcomed the confirmation from central government, that Croydon Council can continue to lead its own financial recovery over the next two years.
The Direction, which came from the Department for Levelling up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) on Thursday, reflects the progress the council has made under my leadership. It also acknowledges the difficult decisions we have had to take to deal with the council’s toxic debt burden and to protect essential services for the people of Croydon.
It demonstrates the government’s confidence that the council is on track to delivering on its Best Value Duty for our residents, at the pace that’s needed, and we are committed to continuing on this pathway.
We will continue to work closely with our improvement and assurance panel, who have provided external advice, challenge and expertise to the council since 2020. Read the full Written Ministerial Statement (WMS).
Liberty Festival comes to Croydon
I’m delighted that Croydon will be welcoming the Liberty Festival for the first time as part of This is Croydon, our year as London Borough of Culture. The festival, from 1-3 September, celebrates the creative work of Deaf, disabled and neurodivergent artists. We hope you’ll join this inclusive event that reflects the positive impact This is Croydon is having on our borough. See the Culture Croydon website for more details.
As the school year draws to a close, don’t forget Croydon is running a range of activities throughout the holidays to keep children busy and engaged in fun and healthy activities. The libraries’ Summer Reading Challenge will help children with their reading practice and participants will be entered into a free prize draw. Find out more about this and other activities on the council website.
I would like to wish our young people and their families a happy and enjoyable summer.
Jason Perry
Executive Mayor of Croydon
