We took an important step to protect the local character of Croydon’s neighbourhoods for years to come when Full Council voted to support my policy to revoke the suburban planning guidance, SPD2, this week. I’m pleased to have delivered on this promise to residents, but what matters now is what comes next.
If we want Croydon to be the success it deserves to be, we must plan for its growth and its regeneration. I know we must put our local communities at the heart of these plans, listen to what you want and need and let your voices guide our roadmap for future development. In the coming months we will be asking you to get involved and help us develop new planning guidance that will ensure our borough thrives, whilst also preserving its unique character.
A great example of protecting our local character, is the South Norwood conservation area plans, developed in partnership with the community and Historic England, and approved at Full Council this week. The plans set out how we will preserve the historic character of the high street, but also ensure we protect its future as the thriving and beating heart of the community.
I’m looking forward to the return of Croydon Carnival this weekend. The Carnival is back for its 11th year at the heart of our West Croydon communities, with London Road coming alive with a steel band and samba dancers. This celebration of West Croydon’s communities, their culture and their resilience, is something that everyone across our borough can take pride in and enjoy. We’re supporting this year’s carnival as part of our warm-up events for Croydon, London Borough of Culture 2023 – and I hope to see many of you there.
Finally, I spoke to BBC Radio London this week about my priorities for the borough, you can listen to the interview here.
Jason Perry
Executive Mayor of Croydon.
