A new gateway has been unveiled at Croydon’s historic Surrey Street Market as part of the Amplifying Surrey Street regeneration project.
Standing more than seven metres tall, the striking new structure welcomes visitors. Its design is inspired by the market’s new branding, which was developed with traders, businesses, residents and Surrey Street Action Group, led by Croydon Council.
Surrey Street Market is one of the oldest markets in Britain, with a history stretching back more than 750 years. Located within Central Croydon Conservation Area, a market was formally established in the town centre through a Royal Charter. Information panels on the gateway celebrate this rich history, with more heritage displays and directional signs planned as the project continues.
Decorative tiles around the base of the gateway feature the market’s new branding, which was created by Bob Design after working with students from Croydon School of Art. The designs were inspired by the colourful fruit and vegetables sold at the market, as well as local landmarks including the former Grants department store, the distinctive brickwork of the pumping station and the Victorian drinking fountain that was restored last year.
John Hickman, of local history group Croydon Natural History and Scientific Society, said: “There’s been a market here for a very long time and we got involved to contribute towards the conservation of this marvellous area. The elements of the arch can be found in Surrey Street, which makes it unusual. This is just the beginning of things that are going to happen in Surrey Street over the next two or three years.”
The gateway and the resurfacing of Overton’s Yard, making access easier for traders, mark the first phase of the project. Further improvements include a Surrey Street sign at the northern entrance and new trees and shaded seating areas. Traders will benefit from practical upgrades, including new anchor points for gazebos and improved power supplies.
Community events are also helping attract more people to the market. Activities have included visits from The Curiosity Rover, which encourages creativity through hands-on activities. Free haircuts, school uniforms and stationery were offered to children preparing to start the new school year.
Amplifying Surrey Street is part of Executive Mayor Jason Perry’s commitment to regenerating Croydon town centre and restoring pride in the borough. The project also supports Croydon’s Growth Plan and Town Centre Vision.
The £4.4m Amplifying Surrey Street project is supported by £3m from the Croydon Growth Zone, a long-term partnership between Croydon Council and the Greater London Authority that reinvests business rates into town centre regeneration. The project has also received £814,000 through the Mayor of London’s Civic Partnership Programme, following a successful bid by the Council.
“Amplifying Surrey Street is one of many projects we are delivering to improve our town centre, celebrate its history and restore pride in our borough.
“This project has been shaped by traders, businesses, residents, local history groups and students from Croydon School of Art. Thank you to everyone who has played a part. It’s fantastic to see their ideas brought to life and to ensure this historic market continues to be celebrated for generations to come.”
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon
