Croydon Council is to consider the addition of several new conservation areas as part of Executive Mayor Jason Perry’s commitment to protecting the unique character of Croydon’s districts and restoring pride in the borough.

Nine areas of special architectural or historic interest will be considered for conservation area status.

From the 18th century charm of Sanderstead Village, with its medieval parish church, to the striking modernist design of Fairfield Halls in the Civic Quarter, each site showcases the remarkable diversity of Croydon’s rich heritage.

The areas include:

  • Whitgift Estate
  • Croham Park Estate
  • South End, Ye Old Market
  • St Peter’s Road
  • London Road
  • Fairfield Civic Quarter
  • Sanderstead Village
  • Brighton Road, Purley
  • Court Avenue, Coulsdon

The areas will now be researched in more detail and assessed against national, local and Historic England criteria. Residents will be invited to share their views on which ones they believe should receive conservation area status.

A conservation area is an area of special architectural or historic interest, the character and appearance of which should be preserved or enhanced.

The review supports Executive Mayor Jason Perry’s priority to listen to residents on planning and to protect the unique character of Croydon’s districts, as set out in the Mayor’s Business Plan 2022-26.

Mayor Perry removed the suburban design guide in July 2022, whilst Croydon’s Local Plan Review emphasises respecting local character and protecting green spaces. The Local Plan Review is currently with the government’s Planning Inspectorate for examination.

Since the late 1960s, Croydon has designated 21 conservation areas, with each one varying in size, layout and special character. The Council will continue its rolling programme of updating Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Plans (CAAMPs), to make sure these remain properly protected and relevant.

“Croydonians are rightly proud of the unique character of the many different neighbourhoods that make up our borough.

“Our architecture and our public spaces tell the story of our rich history and evolution, from a medieval market town to the economic powerhouse of South London, linking the coast and the capital. Croydon’s is a story of growth, hustle and drive that spans centuries, and one that we should celebrate.

“As Mayor I have listened to residents and taken action to do just that to protect our unique character through planning. The designation of conservation areas builds on this, bringing with it not just protection, but opportunity – fostering regeneration, design quality, and a stronger sense of place.”

Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon