The area surrounding historic Croydon Minster is set to see major change as part of the regeneration of Croydon town centre.

Croydon Council will make the area greener and safer by closing the subway and carefully restoring the area around the Minster, funded through its Growth Zone programme.

The project supports Executive Mayor Jason Perry’s Town Centre Vision – to create a more welcoming, accessible, and vibrant town centre, and to celebrate its rich history.

Croydon Council worked closely with Croydon Minster, residents and community groups to shape the plans. Among the agreed priorities were to preserve and protect the medieval church – which dates back to the 9th century as a place of worship – and create a more welcoming space that tackles antisocial behaviour by targeting hotspots.

An exhibition will open at Croydon Minster from Tuesday 25 November until Saturday 29 November, where the community can see the designs in detail. Find out more on the Croydon Urban Room website.

The proposals include a new public area in front of the Minster, a sculpture, trees framing views of the Minster, wildflower planting and lighting to highlight and celebrate the Minster at night.

The subway will be in-filled and there will be improved access to the pedestrian crossing and to the Minster, making it easier to walk from the town centre to the church and its grounds.

The Council has been working closely with the community on this, through focus groups, public exhibitions and heritage walks. These have helped shape a more focused and achievable plan – that reflects community priorities and delivers long-term benefits for the area.

Construction is due to begin on site in early 2026 and is expected to be completed by next summer.

“We are very proud and fortunate to have such a historic church as Croydon Minster in our borough.

“This project aims to celebrate and protect the Minster – creating a safer, more accessible and pleasant green space, so that everyone can enjoy this local landmark. I am delighted that we will be able to deliver these improvements by next summer.”

Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon

The project is funded through the Growth Zone, which allows the Council to reinvest business rates into local infrastructure and regeneration improvements. Growth Zone projects are delivered by the Council with the support of the Greater London Authority and Transport for London.