Plans for a new leisure centre on the Purley Pool site, and the regeneration of the surrounding area, have been approved by Croydon’s Planning Committee.
Croydon Council received an application from developers Polaska, the long-term leaseholders, to redevelop the High Street site. Their proposals included a new leisure centre, a later living housing scheme (with 180 homes and a care home), and a new public square to help regenerate and create a focal point for the town centre.
The leisure centre will include a 25 metre six-lane main pool, training pool, 80 station fitness suite and studio space. It will also have a café overlooking the training pool and soft play.
Executive Mayor Jason Perry has made returning a swimming pool to the heart of Purley a priority, following the closure of the former pool in March 2020. The plans also support the priority in the Mayor’s Business Plan 2022-26 of making the borough cleaner, safer and healthier.
A key part of Polaska’s designs is the regeneration of the area with a new public square and enhanced public realm. There will also be a pedestrian route connecting Whytecliffe Road South and the High Street, helping to improve connectivity from Purley railway station.
Since the initial application was submitted last year, the proposals have been revised. It now includes 10% affordable homes and a locally distinctive public realm strategy to reflect Purley’s character. The changes were open to public consultation from 9 January.
The Planning Committee also approved a planning condition to increase the proposed public car parking from 50 to 74 spaces, for visitors to the town centre.
The proposal was approved by Croydon’s Planning Committee on Thursday, 28 February. It will next go to the Greater London Authority for consideration, as a referable application, before a decision on the application is formally issued.
“I remain committed to bringing a pool back to the heart of Purley, to make it easier for local people of all ages to enjoy healthy, active lifestyles.
“We have been working with Polaska on their proposals and listening to the views of our residents to make sure that the proposals are right for the Purley community. The proposals have changed significantly following consultation and this has resulted in more parking spaces and 10% of affordable housing, which will help to meet the housing needs of the borough.
“I welcome this decision by the Planning Committee, which brings us closer to seeing a leisure centre being delivered, as well as much-needed regeneration for the High Street. I look forward to continuing to work with Polaska as it brings the scheme forward.”
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon
