“My thoughts are first and foremost with those Debenhams employees who have lost their jobs, and how we can support them at this very difficult time. We have already made contact with Debenhams head office to understand more detail around the closure, including timelines, and how best we can work with them to help those who are impacted. We are working with our jobs and training hub, Croydon Works, and adult education and training provider CALAT, to develop a package of support and ensure they are able to access training and other employment opportunities as quickly as possible.
“We are also keen to work closely with Debenhams and Hammerson, who own Centrale shopping centre, regarding the future of this important space in our town centre and are seeking early discussions with both on this. The economic revival of our town post-Covid-19 is an absolute priority for us, and we have been working hard to support our local businesses throughout so that we can emerge from this in the strongest possible position. We are pleased that Next have chosen Croydon as one of five destinations to trial a new beauty hall on one floor of the Debenhams site, demonstrating their confidence in our town, and we look forward to working with them and others on their plans for the site – including what we hope are some opportunities for those who have lost their jobs – in the coming weeks.”
Councillor Tony Newman, leader of the council
