Croydon (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Council gives green light to the plan to transform Whitgift Centre, Centrale, and surrounding areas, paving way for major redevelopment.
The developers of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) have filed a planning application framework detailing their intentions to transform the “North End Quarter” into a vibrant mixed-use hub.
Homes, stores, cultural centers, and public areas would all fall under this category.
It was created by URW in partnership with Croydon Council after discussions with locals, companies, and community organizations at the Croydon Urban Room.
According to the Masterplan Framework, a network of green spaces, pedestrian-friendly roadways, and public spaces would improve the town center’s connectivity.
Historic sites, such as the famous Allders building and the Whitgift Almshouses, will be preserved and included into the long-term plan.
According to the Mayor’s Business Plan 2022–2026, Executive Mayor Jason Perry has made Croydon’s revitalization a top priority in order to rebuild the borough’s pride.
The goal of URW’s Masterplan Framework for the North End Quarter is to harmonize with the Partial Local Plan Review that was submitted and the Council’s vision for the larger town center region.
Simultaneously, a new inward investment plan called “Unlocking Croydon’s Potential” outlines how the Executive Mayor and Council will collaborate with communities, developers, investors, and partners to promote economic opportunity and redevelopment.
Also in progress is the Amplifying Surrey Street initiative, which intends to preserve and promote the historic market, revitalize vacant stores and areas for cultural organizations, and establish greener, safer public areas.
The Croydon Growth Zone and the Greater London Authority (GLA) are providing funding for the project.
On Thursday, February 27, the Croydon Planning Committee approved URW’s Masterplan Framework.
Before presenting a planning application to the council, URW will need to advance more intricate design and master planning work.
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon, said:
“Croydon has so much potential, and the regeneration of our town centre is crucial to maximising this, putting our borough back on the map and restoring pride.
This is a top priority for me, and I have been working with a huge range of external partners to drive forward a really exciting vision for our town centre.
Our partnership with Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield is fundamental to this transformation, and I welcome the next stage in the development of their masterplan.
Incorporating the Whitgift Centre, Allders, and the surrounding area, the masterplan envisions a vibrant mixed-use town centre – creating new homes, shops, educational and cultural spaces, where Croydon’s businesses can thrive and communities flourish.”
Penny Cameron, Head of Development at Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield, said:
“Our vision for the North End Quarter is one that will revitalise Croydon’s town centre through a truly mixed-use offer while celebrating the area’s unique heritage.
We are pleased to have this support from the council, allowing us to embark on next stage designs with input from our NextGen Panel who will be appointed shortly to help shape the proposal.”
What are the key features of the Whitgift Centre’s regeneration plan?
Residences, shops, cultural centers, and rehabilitated public areas are all part of the proposal. The goal of this mixed-use strategy is to develop a vibrant and interconnected town center.
Up to 967 new build-to-rent houses will be produced by the development; at least 20% of these will be available for less than market rent, mostly for London Living Rent.
The plan places a strong emphasis on improving public spaces, pedestrian-friendly roadways, and green spaces in order to increase connection.
The reconstruction will incorporate and protect historic landmarks such as the Allders building and the Whitgift Almshouses.
By drawing in companies and generating employment during construction and continuing operations, the revitalization is anticipated to boost economic growth.
In order to make sure the plan is in line with local goals, the planning process entails a great deal of community engagement, including discussions with local businesses, residents, and community organizations.