The New Year is in full swing – and what a chilly start to 2026 it has been. Our gritting teams have been out on the roads, keeping Croydon safe and moving. There are 604 grit bins around the borough, and we do encourage residents to use these on slippery pathways. These are currently being refilled. We are closely monitoring the weather and conditions. Residents can report any concerns via the Love Clean Streets app.

Update on Selhurst Park development

There is good news for Palace fans! We have completed the sale of five Council houses in Wooderson Close, paving the way for Crystal Palace FC’s main stand redevelopment to move forward. The regeneration of the site is a huge investment that will not only improve the match experience at the Club, but also benefit the wider Croydon community for generations to come.

Speaking of our FA Cup-winning team, I had the pleasure of attending the opening of The ART of Waiting exhibition in the stunning Crystal Palace Subway. It celebrates the Club’s heritage and their historic FA Cup victory in May 2025. The exhibition runs from 9-11 January. It is a great chance to explore this beautiful Grade II* listed space, which was formerly an entrance to Crystal Palace train station.

Serving our community

I also attended a thanksgiving service for the Reverend Andy Dovey, who has retired after many years as Head Chaplain at Croydon University Hospital. His support for our community, especially during the tragic New Addington tram crash in 2016, has been invaluable. We wish him all the best in his retirement – he will be greatly missed.

Improving our playgrounds

Looking ahead, we have exciting plans for playground upgrades in Bourne Park in Kenley, North Downs Rec in New Addington, and Trumble Gardens in Thornton Heath. Council staff will be in these parks on Saturday 9 January to speak with residents and gather feedback – please come along and share your ideas.

Have a fantastic weekend.

Jason Perry

Executive Mayor of Croydon