Croydon (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Exciting new regeneration plans for Croydon town centre have been unveiled, outlining a bold vision to transform the area with modern development.
College Green is getting a facelift that might feature a new café, sports facilities, and children’s play area. The cultural quarter’s new public area would make use of the underutilized area that serves as a public link between Fairfield Halls and Croydon College. Additionally, it is intended that the improvements will improve the connection between the town center and East Croydon Station.
A children’s play area, a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) for sporting events, a picnic area, and terraces for seating and coffee are all part of the ideas for a modern, social green space. With plenty of greenery, including trees and wildflower planting, the plans are inclusive and easily accessible.
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon, said:
“Multiple projects are taking shape to improve connectivity and public spaces in our town centre, and the re-landscaping of College Green is a key part of this.
I remain committed to delivering a pleasant green space in our cultural quarter for all our residents. Do visit the public exhibition to see the designs in detail and have your say.”
The Council, under the Growth Zone funded programme, hopes that the plans will make a more “welcoming, accessible and vibrant” town centre which will attract visitors and investment in the area. These plans are part of the wider Fairfield Masterplan – a long-term framework for transforming the area.
Ten initiatives are underway to enhance Croydon’s downtown, including College Green. Additional proposals call for constructing a new Wellesley Road crossing to link East Croydon to the town center. The Council works with partners, the Greater London Authority (GLA) and Transport for London (TfL), to undertake projects under the Growth Zone Programme.
After the project is exhibited to the public later this year, a planning application is required. Monday, October 13 through Saturday, October 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a late opening on October 14 until 8 p.m. On Monday, October 13 from 12 to 4 p.m.; Tuesday, October 14 from 12 to 8 p.m.; and Saturday, October 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the project team will be present at the exhibition.
What are the key projects in Croydon’s £30m growth plan?
Enhancements within five defined areas—North End Quarter, Heritage Quarter, Cultural Quarter, East Croydon Quarter, and West Croydon Quarter—improved streets, squares and public space as well as pedestrian links.
Growth of Croydon’s creative sector, utilising landmarks like Fairfield Halls and the BRIT School, while supporting over 4,800 creative businesses to position Croydon as the best place for arts and culture.
Development of 100,000 sqm of commercial space to attract and retain businesses particularly in the experience economy and creative industries.
Growth of the Purley Way industrial corridor close to Gatwick Airport as a logistics hub essential to London’s economy, with a focus on sustainable, high-tech manufacturing.