Croydon (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Local leaders are urging Coulsdon residents to rally around the high‑street, aiming to revive struggling businesses and strengthen Croydon’s town centre economy.
In the south of the borough, a citizens’ group is urging its members and their neighbors to focus their efforts and consumer spending on Croydon‘s district centers, while unsuccessful Mayor Jason Perry congratulates Westfield on reopening a few kiosks in Allders after 14 years.
As Perry and the multibillion dollar corporation Westfield were celebrating the successful opening of the Allders kiosks, which were funded by the £6 million “fine” imposed on the developer for failing to deliver the £1 billion shopping mall it had promised in 2012, the Coulsdon West Residents’ Association made its call yesterday.
“With so much money and effort having been spent by the council (both Tory and Labour administrations) on failed attempts to regenerate the ghost town that is currently central Croydon, it is time to recognise that perhaps the future is in the satellite towns around it, and that more should be spent on helping them to grow,”
an official at CWRA posted on social media.
The influential residents’ association, one of the largest and most active in Croydon, made the remarks as two new businesses are about to begin trading on the high street in Coulsdon.
“‘Good news on the high street’ is a rare headline these days, but there’s cause for celebrations in Coulsdon,”
the CWRA posted.
“Two previously vacant sites will soon be opening up for new business, and a big name that has been part of the community since the 1970s has heavily invested in a refurbishment that underlines their commitment to the town and belief that continued trade will support that decision.”
In addition to Waitrose, a longstanding Coulsdon presence that has undergone some updating, the CWRA was referring to recent arrivals Costa Coffee and Core 6 Studios.
“They’ve been actively recruiting for staff to run it,”
CWRA says.
“While we still have some empty shops in and around central Coulsdon, the signs are positive, and it is to be hoped that the newcomers help to bring more people into the town, and so support our independents such as Cozy Glow, Puzzle Kitchens, Woods Jewellers and many others.”
The old Andrews Estate Agents will soon be a Costa Coffee location, while what was once The Light Cafe and tattoo parlor Notorious Ink is being prepared for Core 6 Studios.
According to CWRA, it could be feasible.
“In 1981, Sergio and Bruno Costa opened their first ‘Costa’ coffee shop on the Vauxhall Bridge Road. Now look at them.
Our independents can succeed too, with our help.
With so much money and effort having been spent by the Council (both Tory and Labour administrations) on failed attempts to regenerate the ghost town that is currently central Croydon, its time to recognise that perhaps the future is in the satellite towns around it, and that more should be spent on helping them to grow.”
What specific initiatives are local leaders proposing to support Coulsdon high street?
Inspired by London-wide programs like the High thoroughfares for All Challenge, plans include establishing community capitals and spaces that support new startups, social enterprises, and foster social engagement. Organizing regular community events, requests, and artistic conditioning to draw footfall and produce a vibrant atmosphere that benefits original dealers.
Government- backed “Pride in Place” enterprises aim to give original people unknown control, including powers to seize boarded- up shops, save derelict cafés , block infelicitous businesses like vape shops, and drive original renewal. Original authorities plan to give promotional support and structure advancements acclimatized for small and independent retailers, encouraging residents to shop locally.
Enhancing streetscapes, adding greener spaces, and perfecting walking and cycling installations to make the high road more seductive and accessible.
