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ISSUE 74 – OCTOBER/NOVEMBER Your main source of community news

Mayor of London’s visit to town centre – pages 4 and 5

Pridefest brings rainbow of colour to North End and Surrey Street – pages 8 and 9

Veteran Olympian honoured with street name – page 18 2 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER Destination of choice A recent official report gave Croydon the accolade Highlights of having the highest economic growth figures in the country. While we are never going to rely on any one Mayor visits report, what it did confirm was that the feel-good factor so many local people have been talking about really is Croydon...... 4/5 returning to our town. The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, described the town as one of the capital’s hidden gems during his Everyone who lives in Croydon knows what an amazing first official visit. place it is, but now the word is spreading fast that Croydon really does have so much more to offer than many other Fairfield refurb places, and that we are building on that success with school exam results above the national average; and Body begins...... 7 Shop, Superdrug and others moving their company HQs Work to turn the award-winning into Croydon, along with hundreds of new jobs. plans for Fairfield into reality The good news doesn’t stop there – as a council, we are is under way behind the purple investing £30m into modernising Fairfield and building a hoardings surrounding the site. new swimming pool in ; Boxpark is on the verge of opening at East Croydon; Surrey Street Market is Pride of attracting new investment and is now trading on Sundays; Croydon...... 8/9 a cultural renaissance led by the likes of the Rise Gallery is under way; and Croydon is now recognised as the 'Silicon Surrey Street was turned Valley' of south London thanks to the fantastic work of into party central when the Croydon Tech City, Dot Mailer, TMRW tech hub and others. borough’s first Pridefest saw crowds flocking to celebrate However, economic success brings with it other challenges. the LGBT community. We are redoubling our efforts to work with developers and others to increase the supply of affordable housing Looking out for the kids...... 13 for local people; we have introduced a landlord-licensing scheme to drive up standards in the private rented sector; Meet Sarah Baker, the woman who has taken on and, as council leader, I will never lose sight of the fact the task of chairing the Croydon Safeguarding that ensuring our streets are as clean and safe as possible Children Board. is a key issue not only for residents, but also for potential investors looking at Croydon as a place in which to either Getting their relocate or launch their businesses. hands dirty...... 17 Croydon's economic success will be the focus of our Croydon schoolchildren have been forthcoming Croydon economic summit, on 23 November, putting their edible playgrounds at which we will be joined by London's excellent new to work, growing and then selling Mayor Sadiq Khan. Sadiq visited Croydon only a few weeks ago and was hugely impressed by the investment their own fresh produce. and growth Croydon is now seeing. He has pledged to work with the council to further improve our transport Olympian has road named links, local stations, provision of new housing, and much after him...... 18 more. He is committed to supporting our plan to ensure A veteran Olympian has seen the borough’s newest road Croydon is truly London's growth borough and increasingly the destination named after him in honour of his 1964 silver medal win. of choice for all.

To keep up to date with what’s going on, subscribe to Your Croydon and receive a free weekly email that’s full of news and information about your borough. Go Cllr Tony Newman to www.croydon.gov.uk/subscribe and visit Leader of the council /ilovecroydon @yourcroydon @cllrtony For up-to-the-minute council news visit www.croydon.gov.uk/news 3 Surrey Street Sundays Sundays on Surrey Street have become very social affairs as the town centre’s historic market street comes alive with aromas and flavours from around the world. The creation of the Sunday market, boasting a free Wi-Fi service, is part of the council’s £500,000 investment into the area. Over coming months there will be a host of further improvements designed to make Surrey Street an even more exciting and inviting place – both on Sundays and the other days of the week. Regular live music and DJs accompany the Sunday market, and alongside many street food stalls there are increasing numbers of craft stalls selling jewellery and gifts – perfect for browsing in the run-up to Christmas. Craft bread for canny shoppers Top-notch ingredients and a mass-produced loaves found on passion for baking are behind supermarket shelves. the success of an artisan He said: ‘My dad was from bakery that has set out its stall Belgium and really drummed in Surrey Street. into me the value of good- All that glitters: jeweller Vivienne Taylor displays her silverware Al Focquaert is the historic quality ingredients. to the Mayor of Croydon, Councillor Wayne Trakas-Lawlor and market’s latest regular “This is the sort of bread Councillor Mark Watson stallholder, returning to his that has sustained people for Croydon roots following the thousands of years. creation of a successful business “It takes time and effort to Tiny library gets free Wi-Fi in Brighton. make, but when I get customers Croydon’s newest (and street-art world to help turn With a firm belief in simple, coming back time and again smallest) library now has free Croydon into an imaginative traditional, natural ingredients, for their favourite loaves or Wi-Fi, a wide choice of street sea of colour and design. his range of breads and pastries Danish pastries, I know I’m doing food and, even better, is open This book-themed mural are a world removed from the something right.” on Sundays. leaps into three dimensions It’s in the middle of Surrey with the addition of real Street, and sits at the centre books – which people are of one of Croydon’s many encouraged to borrow, large street-art murals. replace and add to – with no The surrounding artwork need for a membership card. is by Giacomo Bufarini, better And, just like Croydon’s known by many under his other libraries, the whole of street name of Run. Surrey Street now also has The Italian artist has free Wi-Fi, enabling readers added his work to that of and shoppers alike to browse many other well-known the internet as well as the international names from the bookshelves. 4 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER London Mayor gets behind Croydon On his first visit to Croydon, London’s Mayor saw the borough’s potential, describing it as a hidden gem. The big issues facing Croydon in the council leader, Councillor Tony Newman, coming years were among the topics deputy leader Alison Butler and Jo discussed by the Mayor of London during Negrini, the council’s chief executive. his first official visit to the borough in The hot topics raised were: early September. • Developing outer London: Croydon Sadiq Khan said: “Having just been has the potential to deliver 37% of the named the fastest growing economy in London target for new homes. the UK, Croydon is fast emerging as a • Expanding rail capacity: Croydon hub for culture and development thanks needs better stations, better services and to the extensive regeneration it has been extensions to Tramlink. undergoing in recent years. • Croydon’s growth zone: Continuing “I think Croydon is a hub for tech, for investment as London’s Growth Borough culture, for development, and it’s one of has seen the borough become the fastest the hidden gems of our great city. growing economy in the UK. “I’m looking forward to Croydon • Protecting local air quality: The flourishing and thriving.” health of Londoners is affected daily by On his walking tour of the town the quality of the air, as much in Croydon centre he visited the main regeneration as in central London. sites, including Boxpark, Ruskin Square • A new university: South London and Fairfield. needs a top-flight international university, Time was taken to speak in depth with and Croydon is the right place.

Councillor Tony Newman, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, Councillor Alison Butler and Councillor Stuart King For up-to-the-minute council news visit www.croydon.gov.uk/news 5 GRIME COMES HOME TO BOXPARK

The Mayor of London used his first official visit to Croydon to help the Boxpark Croydon Opening Festival. It wasn’t all regeneration, technology and plans for the future when the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, made his first visit to the town centre. While being shown the evolving Boxpark site, the Mayor took the opportunity to press the ‘start’ button on the borough’s big music event of the year. The Boxpark Croydon Opening Festival – being held on 29 and 30 October – will see grime returning to its spiritual home. The Mayor, said: “Boxpark will be a great addition to the town centre and a festival of this scale and calibre is the perfect way for Croydon to OTHER EVENTSDIWALI MELA (22 OCTOBER): really get itself noticed on the capital’s North End will come alive between noon cultural map.” CROWD (21 OCTOBER): and 5pm as Croydon celebrates the The urban music event is jointly St George’s Walk will be taken over for a ancient Hindu festival of lights. promoted by cutting-edge team feast of music and entertainment in the Eskimo Dance and the NME. It is first of what promises to be a thrilling LONDON MOZART PLAYERS supported and part-funded by Croydon series of nights. Expect street food, (23 OCTOBER): Croydon’s own Council as part of its growth zone bars and some of the best bands on the orchestra has found a new home at St plans and ambitions to bring a new touring circuit. John’s church in . The wave of culture to the town centre. first public performance is suitable for the Councillor Timothy Godfrey, cabinet NEW ROSE: 40 YEARS OF CROYDON whole family and runs from 3pm to 5pm. member for culture, leisure and sport, PUNK (22 OCTOBER): St George’s Walk It’s free, but booking is advised. said “Croydon’s evolving faster than (next to the iconic former Greyhound people can keep up with. This is exactly venue) will be turned into an outdoor CROYDON YOUTH ARTS why we’re supporting performance exhibition featuring both new artwork COLLECTIVE (29 OCTOBER): The venues and the arts in general.” and memorabilia from the period around action returns to the Clocktower complex The following day will see NME host 22 October 1976 when Croydon’s The in Katharine Street as local youngsters a free showcase celebrating the future Damned released the first punk single, host a free day of music, theatre, film, art sounds of London with the best New Rose. Free launch event: 4 to 6pm; exhibitions, talks, workshops and much up-and-coming musical talent. gig at The Oval Tavern in the evening. more besides. 6 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER

Street champions hit 100 clear-ups

Notable milestone for Don’t Mess with Croydon – but the work goes on. The magic number of 100 has been • A vanload of rubbish and fly- passed by the network of street tipped bikes and mopeds cleared by champions that helps tackle fly-tips and conservation volunteers in Brickfield litter by staging community clear-ups Meadow in Woodside. across the borough. • Residents clearing a vanload of Refusing to sit on their laurels, waste from an access alleyway off however, the work goes on – and Cromwell Road in . recruiting more volunteers from the • A London Road litter pick by members south of the borough is the campaign's of Broad Green Residents’ Association next target. filling 20 black bags of rubbish. More than 300 volunteer street Now the council’s champion champions have cleared alleyways, coordinator is calling for more people in streets and green spaces in 103 events the south of the borough to get involved. since the council’s Don’t Mess With Tracey Bellamy said: “From Croydon – Take Pride campaign began air cadets to community in 2014. groups, we have a really dedicated Alongside council staff and Veolia network of street champions. waste contractors, street champions “We particularly want to recruit lead by example on keeping their people in areas such as and New To find out more about becoming neighbourhood tidy, as well as reporting Addington that often attract fly-tippers a street champion, email tracey. fly-tips and other environmental issues from outside the borough.” [email protected]. To to the council. Councillor Stuart Collins, cabinet report waste dumped in Croydon, Among the most recent community member for clean and green Croydon, email [email protected], clear-ups have been: said: “Tracey’s street champions are a or use the free My Croydon app • residents, council fantastic example of people taking pride available for smartphones. Issues staff and Veolia contractors clearing 1.5 in their local environment, but we want can also be reported by calling tonnes of litter and fly-tips from access to keep going so even more of our areas 020 8604 7000. alleyways off Falkland Park Avenue. benefit from this initiative.” For up-to-the-minute council news visit www.croydon.gov.uk/news 7

Fairfield’s fabulous future The exciting £30m refurbishment of Fairfield is set to herald a new era for one of south London’s most cherished venues.

The purple hoardings have gone provided a focal point for the up around the Fairfield site, and, National Trust, which took hundreds behind them, work is under way to of people on a series of tours of turn the council’s award-winning Croydon’s ’60s architectural heritage. plans into reality. The renovation project has also The value of those plans was recently been given the seal of evident when the capital’s first citizen approval from leading figures in the praised the vision that will see the theatre industry. building’s reputation enhanced when A voluntary panel of experts work is completed. from the Theatres Trust visited On his first official visit to Fairfield just before the closure. Croydon, London’s Mayor, Sadiq They applauded the council’s aim of Khan, took time out to discuss the ensuring the building retains all its project with senior council officers best features, especially the goal of and cabinet members. capturing the glory of its ’60s roots He said: “Growing London’s to emphasise its links to the Royal Lights fantastic: Councillors Timothy Godfrey and cultural sector is one of my core Festival Hall. Alison Butler survey progress in the concert hall priorities and I’m delighted to see top When Fairfield reopens in the innovators and entertainers setting summer of 2018, audiences will see their sights on Croydon. huge improvements and upgrades in “One of the things I love most all of the public areas, and production about London is that its cultural companies will find the all-important gems are not just limited to the city backstage has been brought fully up centre. Around every corner of the to modern standards. capital there is something new and And, alongside the halls, the exciting to discover and Croydon is gardens will be turned into a lively full of fantastic things to see and do.” and vibrant public space, with the Even before the clearance work underground car park transformed started in preparation for the into a large art gallery. restoration team, Fairfield received Councillor Timothy Godfrey, top-level recognition with a New cabinet member for culture, leisure London Architecture (NLA) Award. and sport, said: “We’re 100% Lead architectural practice Rick committed to ensuring this huge Mather Architects received the investment will bring about a big accolade, and judges remarked how return for the local community. they could “see the project spinning “In less than two years’ time off into a lot of secondary economic we’ll be in a position to bring benefits,” as the scheme transforms in some top-quality touring a building that “desperately needs to productions and shows, as well be brought back into decent use”. as working hand in hand with the And, in the weeks after being huge number of community arts closed to the public, the building groups active in Croydon.” 8 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER showing pride

With Surrey Street transformed into a sea of rainbow flags, the town’s first Pridefest set the standard for coming years. Pridefest, in late August, proved to be a terrific success, with thousands turning out for a celebration of south London’s LGBT+ community and turning central Croydon’s Surrey Street into party central for an afternoon. This year’s second-largest pride event in London, it drew an estimated 3,000 revellers after some 500 had taken part in a parade to the main event from North End. Dozens of local community organisations took part in the parade, which was headed by singers Rainbows Across Borders, a voluntary group for LGBT asylum seekers who are fleeing persecution of oppressive homophobic and transphobic regimes. They were joined by hundreds of individuals on the day, who turned North End into a sea of rainbow flags in the procession to Surrey Street where crowds were kept entertained by a programme of musicians, cabaret performers and DJs. The town’s historic market street was alive with food stalls and outside bars to complement the regular cafés and pubs. Host Christopher Haul guided everyone through the day and satirical cabaret act Topping and Butch had the crowd in stitches. Local band Bugeye – recently featured on BBC Radio 6 Music – had Surrey Street rocking with their home-grown brand of disco punk, and many other singers, drag acts and cabaret performers kept the audience entertained all afternoon. The evening finished with after-parties at the nearby Project B and Luna bars.

The Mayor of Croydon, Councillor Wayne Trakas-Lawlor, said: Leading hundreds of people along North End for the first council-supported Pride festival in my home town, and opening the festival on stage in front of such a huge crowd in Surrey Street was an unforgettable experience. “I didn’t expect such an amazing turnout, but the thousands of people who came showed that Croydon is a diverse, open and welcoming place to live and work. “It was a brilliant celebration of everything we have to offer, a big boost for local businesses, and I’m looking forward to making next year’s event bigger and better still. For up-to-the-minute council news visit www.croydon.gov.uk/news 9

New lease of life for venerablein oldcroydon lady

Reveller Liz Sheppard Jones said: “I was so happy to take part in the inaugural Croydon Pridefest march. It had a brilliant attendance and a great party atmosphere.” Croydon Pridefest was supported by the council, and chaired by Councillor Mark Watson, who said: “I’d like to thank everyone who worked on organising Pridefest – it was a real team effort. “From Ray Harvey-Amer, who put so much time into making the parade a success, and Chris Hall who organised the entertainment, to the team at Nudge Factory who got the word out on the street in advance – and of course the traders who ensured we had great food and drink available throughout the day. “I could name dozens of others, but they all know who they are and they have my real gratitude for a job well done.” 10 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER Borough schools show how it’s done Trend-bucking exam results and top-quality teaching prove Croydon’s schools are in good health. Great teaching standards are a major when they were assessed in year eight. factor in the vast majority of Croydon’s From this year on, schools will be GCSE students doing better than had been scored based on this measure of how well expected this year. they can improve their students’ levels of And this wasn’t the only good news for achievement during the last few years Croydon on results day. before they sit their GCSEs. year’s Croydon GCSE results is that the While students across the UK saw Returns from the borough’s quality of teaching has helped pupils GCSE grades fall by 2.1%, Croydon’s secondary schools showed that 63% of improve academically during their time at schools bucked the trend with a 1.1% pupils made the grade, against last secondary school. improvement in the combined result for year’s figure of 61.9%. Figures also show “Set against a national decline in A*-C grades in English and mathematics. that Croydon’s schools have helped standards, Croydon’s education system is The improvement in results was pupils achieve exceptionally well at the proving it can deliver great results. measured by Progress 8, the government’s top A and A* grades. “As a council, over the past few years, new measure of success for schools, which Councillor Alisa Flemming, cabinet we’ve committed a huge amount of money looks at how pupils’ final results match up member for children, young people, and to building new schools and classrooms so with what they had been expected to get learning, said: “What stands out in this that everyone has a place.” Getting ready for the class of 2017 Apply now for a secondary school place next year – and be sure to use the full range of choices available to you. With the autumn term well under way and many children beginning their new school careers, now is the time for families to start applying for secondary school places in 2017. The closing date for applications is 31 October, and the council has made it easier than ever to apply online. Details of the application process can be found on the council’s website, and in the Admissions to secondary schools 2017/18 prospectus – linked from www.croydon.gov.uk/ admissions – featuring step-by-step guidance. The council is ambitious for all children in the area, and finding good school places plays an important part in helping schools, and that, last year, we were able to offer them achieve their full potential. more places of parents’ choice schools than ever before. Alisa Flemming, cabinet member for children, young people “It should be stressed that parents use all of their six and learning, said: “This is an important time for families with available preferences when making their application. Individual children looking at the next stage of their education. schools are different, just as individual children are different, “We want Croydon’s children to achieve their full potential, and we encourage people to seriously consider the schools and we know that finding a school place plays an important that would best suit their child.” part in starting this process on the right foot. For further information, visit www.croydon.gov.uk/ “We’re proud that Croydon has a diverse range of good admissions New top cop for borough

For up-to-the-minute council news visit www.croydon.gov.uk/news 11 It’s ‘all systems go’ for new community and leisure centre

Community calls for a new leisure centre in New Addington have been given unanimous support by the council’s planning committee. The council has given the green light to and associated rooms that can be used for • widening and repaving of footways; plans for a new £17m community and meetings, offices and dressing rooms. • resurfacing of the road; leisure centre. Councillor Louisa Woodley, cabinet • installation of a southbound bus stop The development will transform Central member for families, health and social and footpath linking to the Parade; Parade’s west side with a building care, said: “Local people have got their • improvement of car park access and providing new community spaces, wish for a new leisure centre – it’s a great layout; state-of-the-art sports facilities and eight opportunity for everyone to improve their • upgrading of parking arrangements new family homes. Initial work is expected health and well-being.” for blue-badge holders; and to start later this year. The leisure centre will have a 25-metre, • installation of bins, benches and Councillor Alison Butler, cabinet six-lane swimming pool, learning pool and cycle parking. member for homes, regeneration and spectator seating, plus a café, fitness suite, “Set against a national decline in planning, said: “The work underlines our sport hall, crèche and studios. standards, Croydon’s education system is commitment to provide New Addington This work follows the council’s recently proving it can deliver great results. with new leisure and community facilities completed Connected Croydon street- “As a council, over the past few years, – and some much-needed homes as well.” improvement project, which has seen we’ve committed a huge amount of money The community centre will feature two about £1m of upgrades to Central to building new schools and classrooms so multi-purpose halls, a stage, kitchen area Parade, including: that everyone has a place.” New top cop for borough Council welcomes the appointment of the new police borough commander. Chief Superintendent Jeff Boothe has been “Jeff comes with a fantastic reputation named as Croydon’s next police chief, and and we look forward to working very will take up the role on 10 December, closely with him and helping to keep when current borough commander Andy Croydon a welcoming, safe and inclusive Tarrant retires. 24-hour borough.” The 51-year-old, who has been the Mr Boothe held a variety of BTP roles borough commander at Bexley since including deputy senior investigating March 2015, lives in Croydon, and joined officer on the Hatfield train crash. He also the Metropolitan Police after 24 years’ has extensive public order and events service with British Transport Police (BTP). experience from covering the Olympics, Councillor Tony Newman, leader of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and Notting Croydon Council, said: “This is fantastic Hill Carnival. news and having a borough commander He said: “I’m excited about taking on that lives in Croydon will ensure the town’s the challenge of providing a quality policing best interests are at heart. service for the people of Croydon.” 12 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER

Giving kids the best start

Croydon children will get the ‘best start’ in life thanks to a project set up with the input of families from across the borough. Each month, more than 500 Councillor Alisa Flemming, new babies are born in the cabinet member for children, borough. families and learning, said: To help all those new “I’m a mother myself, and I’ve arrivals achieve the best they recently had my latest child, so can be, Croydon’s Best Start I really appreciate how the first programme is designed to give couple of years of a child’s life parents and parents-to-be are critical. much-needed help and support. “Studies show that it’s this The programme coordinates time that’s vital with regard to and shares information how well they’re going to be between health visitors, achieving by their mid-20s. midwives, early learning “Croydon Best Start really practitioners, family nurses, helps to emphasise just how the Above: Mayor of Croydon Councillor Wayne Trakas-Lawlor with Binnie children’s centres and voluntary role played by mothers, fathers, Crooks-Martin. Top: Councillor Alisa Flemming and baby Jasmine. and community organisations. and other carers at the very bureaucracy.” them is unique – but all deserve This joined-up thinking earliest stages of a baby’s life Christina Hickson, associate the same thing, which is to get means parents need explain is really important in helping a director of nursing for the possible start in life.” their situation only once to get child develop and reach their children’s services at Croydon Latest news can be a tailored package of support full potential.” Health Services NHS Trust, followed on the Best Start from the network of 400 Binnie Crookes-Martin is said: “By bringing together Facebook page. professionals who are part of one of the ‘Best Start Buddies’ in one place all the help and the programme. – parents who engage, involve support that’s available in More than 50 families and support other parents. Croydon, children can grow to worked with the council and She said: “The ‘buddy’ be the best they can be. Croydon Health Services scheme was set up by parents “Every child is a complex to help shape the scheme to help each other out. individual, and the various and parents are also being “Right from the outset relationships they form with encouraged and supported to it breaks down barriers to different family members and help each other by sharing their people signing up to Best Start carers means that every one of experiences and knowledge. by taking away any sense of For up-to-the-minute council news visit www.croydon.gov.uk/news 13 Protecting our young

Safeguarding children is far from being kids’ stuff, but the woman responsible relishes the challenge. Bringing passion and a wealth the age of 18 in the borough. ‘a model for working in ways of keeping the focus on of experience to the role, Sarah “In addition to lay members, partnership by continually the welfare of the children and Baker recently took over as it includes representatives of seeking the common ground the young people of Croydon, the independent chair of the many agencies – from health between all concerned. This and I’m delighted to be part Croydon Safeguarding Children and children’s services, to the includes challenging actions or of an established, strong and Board (CSCB). police and probation services, to failure to act’. dedicated team.” Coming to Croydon from name just a few. Sarah concluded: “We’re Learn more at the NHS with a background in “Our main role is to committed to finding the best http://croydonlcsb.org.uk children’s nursing, health visiting coordinate and monitor the and nurse education, Sarah effectiveness of arrangements most recently held a director designed to ensure better post in community health safeguarding outcomes for services, quality and nursing. children and young people.” She also chairs two other Talking about how the local safeguarding children’s board operates, she said: boards and a safeguarding “We promote the principle adult board in London, as well that safeguarding children is as being a health peer with the everybody’s responsibility. Local Government Association, “Our purpose is to make supporting local authorities sure that all children and young to review the quality of their people in our area are protected children’s services. from abuse and neglect. She has a real enthusiasm “Children can be safeguarded for working with children with from harm only if agencies work disability and is a trustee at The well together, follow procedures Children’s Trust in Tadworth and guidance based on best – the UK's leading charity for practice, and are well informed children with a brain Injury. and trained. Of her appointment to the “In addition, we want to CSCB, she said: “I feel especially make sure parents, children and privileged to take on this role, as young people, and professionals I previously worked in Croydon have easy access to information in 1995 when I came to set up about a broad range of child- the Children’s Hospital at Home, safety issues.” which I know has gone from The board’s mission strength to strength.” statement includes the aim of ‘… She explained that the CSCB promoting safe practice by all is the statutory body that brings involved, and early intervention, together all the local agencies as far as is possible, with that have a role in safeguarding children, young people, and and promoting the welfare of their parents and carers.’ children and young people up to It also seeks to act as 14 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER

Hundreds of homes set for former council HQ site The land formerly occupied by Taberner House is set to be redeveloped with a mix of homes and commercial properties. An award-winning residential developer renowned for delivering sustainable, has been appointed to regenerate the low-energy homes and for its site of the council’s former commitment to engaging with local headquarters building. communities. Specialising in building homes for The company is set to work alongside “As well as bringing a fresh and families and young professionals in the Sterling Prize-winning architects AHMM exciting approach to residential building capital, Hub will aim to create a 500-unit to draw up new plans for the scheme, in the town centre, and providing development and give The Queen’s with construction set to start next year, much-needed quality homes that are Gardens, adjacent to the site, a new subject to planning approval. within reach of local people, they’ll be lease of life. Cllr Alison Butler, cabinet member revitalising The Queen’s Gardens. The scheme will include a mix of for homes, regeneration and planning, “The fact that development teams housing for rent and sale – with at least said: “We’re delighted to be of this stature continue to come to 30% affordable – sitting above 13,000 welcoming Hub to Croydon. They Croydon, post-Brexit, shows the sq.ft. of commercial space at the Park come with an impressive reputation continued confidence that exists in Lane site. for great design, sustainability, and London’s growth borough being a Hub, based in London’s West End, is working with local communities. great place to invest.” The taxman cometh

Well, thousands of them, actually, as HMRC announces move to new Croydon office development. Hot on the heels of the decision of two Councillor Mark Watson, cabinet the £500m development should further major retailers to set up shop in Croydon, member for economy and jobs, said: expansion plans require it. HM Revenue and Customs has announced “Croydon’s skyline is changing almost David Camp, chief executive of that its new regional office will occupy daily, and each new office block or Stanhope, said: “HMRC’s decision is a one of the buildings going up next to East apartment building will bring with it the further vote of confidence in the Croydon station. jobs and homes that will breathe new life regeneration and revival of Croydon, and The news has been welcomed by into the heart of the town. Stanhope and Schroder’s creation of an Croydon Council as yet more evidence of “This is coupled with the enormous attractive and vibrant destination and confidence in the town – and it follows transformation that the redevelopment of sense of arrival at .” news that The Body Shop and Superdrug the Whitgift Shopping Centre will bring James Lass, fund manager at Schroder will be taking over new and refurbished with it – and the new cultural opportunities UK Real Estate Fund said: “The letting of offices in the area. that will come from the council’s £30m One Ruskin Square in its entirety, prior to The deal means that some 2,500 regeneration of .” completion, is a strong validation of our HMRC employees will occupy the whole The agreement by HMRC to lease the strategy to commence development on a 184,000 sq ft building at One Ruskin new office space includes an option to speculative basis in Croydon – an emerging Square when construction is complete. take double that again in other parts of part of the London office landscape.” For up-to-the-minute council news visit www.croydon.gov.uk/news 15 Foot off the gas, driver – 20mph speed limit is here New limit means roads in the north of the borough have just become safer. Hundreds of north Croydon roads now the borough into five sectors and have a new 20mph limit, introduced as consulted local people. part of a council commitment to make the A majority of area 1 respondents said borough’s streets safer. they wanted 20mph, and area 1 received Except for main through roads such as approval earlier this year. Whitehorse Lane and Beulah Hill, all In area 2 – covering parts of residential streets in parts of South , Ashburton, Woodside, Norwood, Selhurst, Bensham Manor, Shirley, Heathfield, Fairfield, and parts of Thornton Heath and Upper Norwood are Selhurst and South Norwood – a majority now covered by the new permanent of respondents were similarly in favour of 20mph limit. a 20mph limit. The roads included in the new changes The area 2 proposals are now out to have 20mph signs, and drivers caught statutory consultation before being Councillor Stuart King, cabinet member speeding by police can expect fines, points considered for final approval by Christmas. for transport and the environment on their licence, or prosecution. Proposals in relation to areas 3, 4 and 5 (pictured), said: “I’m glad we’re delivering Several of the affected roads, listed on a will be considered during 2017 and 2018. on our 20mph manifesto pledge because it zoomable map, also include number plate Extensive 20mph limits reduce the will keep residents safer and make our recognition speed detectors and electronic risk and severity of accidents, cut streets more enjoyable places to live.” signs that flash up each vehicle’s speed. congestion and pollution levels, Click here to see which roads are Seeking to implement 20mph across the encourage less car use and discourage covered by area 1 and for more borough by 2018, the council has divided rat-running in quieter streets. information on the area 2 consultation. Helping hand for Thornton Heath firms Cash boost sees local firms benefiting as part of council’s area-improvement works. Free business training and support worth package of tailored business support for or apprenticeships. almost £150,000 is being given to small Thornton Heath. CVA’s enterprise manager, Bhupendra firms in Thornton Heath. “We’re using physical improvements to Solanki, said: “The initial response to our Croydon Voluntary Action (CVA) has shopfronts and the public realm as a engagement has been very positive and been appointed by the council to help give springboard to help revitalise the area – we have in place an excellent team of businesses the skills they need to succeed but what’s critical is that the changes business advisers who are excited to be in an increasingly competitive world. aren’t just on the surface. making a real difference to Thornton The money is part of the £2.7m being “Businesses need to step up to the Heath businesses.” invested in the district centre by Croydon challenge and offer a wider range of Local businesses wanting to find out Council on everything from smartened better quality goods and services to meet more about the BESTH project should email shopfronts and better signage to large growing local demand. [email protected]. pieces of public art. “By working together we can really The result will be a more welcoming make things happen.” and inviting place to visit and shop. Roberta Asafu-Adjaye, owner of Efie Business and Enterprise Support Nefie restaurant, said: “As a relatively new Thornton Heath (BESTH) complements business in the area, I’m very much looking the massive investment currently going forward to the free professional support into Croydon town centre, where some to improve my business and, indeed, the £5bn is expected to be invested over the training that’s going to be on offer.” next few years on new offices and homes. Firms who sign up to BESTH will On a recent visit to Thornton Heath, receive one-to-one support or training in Councillor Mark Watson, cabinet a range of areas including company member for the economy and jobs, spent registration, in-store merchandising, food time listening to the views of local safety, marketing, website development, business owners. tax returns, business planning, accessing He said: “I’m delighted to announce finance, and recruitment practice – Blooming business: Councillor Mark the introduction of this exciting new including how to take on work placements Watson chats with Doris the florist 16 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER PARK YOUR VIEWS Do you have a view on the way your local park is run, or how it might develop in the future? If so, complete a new survey and join in as Croydon talks parks. As one of London’s greener boroughs, into the council’s ‘ambitious for parks’ Croydon is blessed with 127 parks, programme, which is looking at a wide providing fantastic recreation range of options for the future of possibilities all year round to residents Croydon’s green public spaces. and visitors alike. Councillor Timothy Godfrey, cabinet Now the council is asking the parks member for culture, leisure and sport, users what they feel about the green said: “This is the next phase in the spaces, why they value them, and what council's manifesto commitment to they would like to see improved. securing our valuable parks for the To get the answers to those questions, generations to come. a new survey of parks users will help “We’re determined to maintain bring a step closer the council’s ambitious standards and bring about real plans for securing and improving the improvements despite the financial borough’s green spaces. challenges we’re faced with. Croydon Talks Parks gives residents “That’s why we’re looking for the chance to paint a detailed picture of sustainable ways to fund investment how they use parks and what changes alongside opportunities for getting local they would like to see made in how they people more involved.” are managed and run. Many residents Responses are invited from individuals, have already responded and a few of groups, volunteers, allotment users, their comments are included as pull community networks, businesses and quotes, here. anyone else who has an interest in Questions cover issues such as Croydon’s parks. community events and festivals, sports The survey closes on 31 October, with facilities, nature conservation, and results published by the end of the year. volunteering. To complete the survey visit Responses will be analysed and built www.croydon.gov.uk/talkparks SURVEY RESPONSES Ponds park is excellent, especially the baby area and the ability to feed ducks, geese, swans and their chicks. In my view the best park in Britain, outside of a few of the Royal Parks.”

“My son’s Cubs use the spaces for games and football practice, fly a kite, cycle, picnic, look at nature, collect blackberries, climb trees.”

“I like to meet friends for food in the park and my favourite is , although we go to Thornton Heath Rec and South Norwood because of the cycle paths.”

“I go to look at flowers and trees; drink tea; chat to elderly; bump into friends and neighbours. For up-to-the-minute council news visit www.croydon.gov.uk/news 17

Enjoying the fruits of their success

Borough schoolchildren have been getting soil under their fingernails and then demonstrating their business sense. Forget traditional playground activities In all, 16 Croydon schools set up stall such as hopscotch and British bulldog, – and the public responded by going green-fingered school children have along to the food market and been using the space to cultivate fresh purchasing the goodies on offer. fruit and veg. So successful was the market that Edible Playgrounds have been built in another is pencilled in for Croydon Rockmount Primary, Fairchildes Clocktower on Thursday, 20 October Primary and Meridian High – from 1 to 2pm. the borough’s food flagship schools – Councillor Louisa Woodley, cabinet as well as St Giles’ School. member for families, health and social The innovative scheme helps children care, said “Edible Playgrounds, the Food learn about healthy eating habits at an Flagship programme, and schools’ food early age. It also aims to tackle obesity market, are helping children to better and food poverty, and create understand the importance of eating opportunities for pupils to learn about nutritious, healthy food. nature in a fun and engaging environment. “This is an exciting venture for our The children’s learning is linked to the schools and we’re really looking forward ongoing work of Croydon’s Food to the new crops coming to fruition.” Flagship programme in schools to Councillor Alisa Flemming, cabinet develop a whole-school approach to member for children, young people and healthy eating. learning, added, “I’m pleased that so Earlier this year, the pupils got to many Croydon schools are being work preparing the soil, sowing seeds supported to further develop how and potting plants to grow children learn about growing and strawberries, tomatoes, green beans cooking fresh fruit and vegetables. and other produce to be ready in time “We hope that even more schools for the summer. will have the opportunity to build an They then had the chance to Edible Playground.” demonstrate their entrepreneurial skills Croydon’s Food Flagship programme by selling the produce they had grown, supports residents of all ages to make alongside other hand-made items, at good food the easy choice. Find out the borough’s first schools’ food market more, and get involved, at in July. www.croydon.gov.uk/foodflagship 18 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER Nihill, Paul – meet NIHILl PLACE

A veteran Olympian has seen the borough’s newest road named after him in honour of his 1964 silver medal win. A new Addiscombe road has The Mayor of Croydon, been officially named Nihill Councillor Wayne Trakas-Lawlor Place, after Paul Nihill MBE, the (pictured with Mr Nihill and Croydon Olympian who took Councillor Pat Ryan), who unveiled silver in the 50km walk at the the new street nameplate, said: 1964 Tokyo games. “Paul Nihill represents a breed of Paul’s podium finish in Tokyo UK athletes who have discovered was a personal best time, and their talent while at school and the Italian athlete who beat him have shown determination and by only a few yards set a new courage to rise to the very top of world record. their chosen fields. Paul held the world record “He’s a very deserving for the 20km distance for some recipient of this honour and it’s years, and competed at 50km fantastic that, over the years, he in the Olympics of 1968 and has given up so much of his time 1972, as well as 20km in 1976. to encourage others to follow in The Nihill family, including his – very fast – footsteps.” two-year-old Paul, moved to Paul said: “It’s a great honour Croydon in 1941, and although to be recognised with such a he now lives in Chatham permanent accolade. (almost exactly 50km from the “I’ve always been proud to road that will carry his name), have been raised in Croydon, he has always been a proud and actually lived just round Croydonian. the corner from the new homes A life member of Croydon development. Harriers athletics club, he retains “Watching the Olympics in close links with the Sir Phillip London four years ago and in Rio Game Centre in Morland Avenue, this summer is very exciting, and where he trained as a boy. brings back lots of memories.” For up-to-the-minute council news visit www.croydon.gov.uk/news 19

Don’t make it easy for the burglar

With the nights drawing of the Croydon Neighbourhood these are just a few examples of what in, put yourself in the Watch can reduce this even further they do on a daily basis, to serve you shoes of a burglar. – and joining could also lower and to make Croydon a safer place. your home insurance premium! Much has been written about Which house would you break We have seen significant officers and staff commuting in to the into? Yours, which is in darkness, improvements in how many of you areas where they work. However, I am or your neighbour’s, where the think we are doing a good job. We still pleased to say that a large majority lights are on and music can be have some way to go, but satisfaction of the people working here live on heard coming from the kitchen? with our services has gone up, meaning the borough, in areas such as Crystal The message from me is leave that we are now third of the 32 Palace, Purley and . a light and the radio on when London boroughs; a really significant This means that we can be more you go out; especially if you leave improvement. I’d like to thank all understanding and deliver a better early in the morning for work. my staff for making this happen. policing service because we live Also, where do you leave your I recently commended more than here. Perhaps that is why we are car keys when you get in? Do you 30 of my officers and civilian staff seeing such big improvements in our leave them by your front door for acts of bravery and good work. confidence and satisfaction ratings. where someone can pass something Examples included: the officers who This is my last column as I am through the letter box, hook them disarmed a woman armed with a retiring. I wish my successor, Jeff away and steal your car? Leave knife; the detective who supported a Boothe, all the best for the future, your car keys out of sight. traumatised victim of domestic abuse policing the BEST borough in London. Doing this, along with other simple to give evidence against her controlling steps, can mean a 75% reduction in partner, and the officers who saved a Andy Tarrant your chances of being a victim of man’s life by administering first aid. Chief Supt Andy Tarrant house-breaking. Being a member I am very proud of my staff and Croydon borough commander Helping to tackle domestic abuse Would you like to help someone who has experienced domestic abuse and sexual violence? Croydon’s Family Justice Centre member for communities, safety domestic abuse and sexual violence.” is offering local people the chance and justice, said: “Croydon’s vision is For more information, email to get involved in the work it that those living and working in the [email protected] undertakes across the borough. borough help to reduce and eliminate The centre has issued an appeal domestic abuse and sexual violence. Domestic abuse and sexual violence for leaders, staff, volunteers and “We’re committed to challenging is everybody’s business members of local organisations to join an attitude that tolerates its network of community champions. and condones violence. The champions have access to free “We also aim to provide training and support to help people in victims of domestic abuse with the their neighbourhoods and communities. support they need, and to protect Through its ongoing programme them by tackling perpetrators, of regular talks at community events to prevent further incidents. around the borough, the centre raises “We acknowledge that it will awareness of domestic abuse and the take all of us playing our part to Speak up speak out support available to those affected. build on the progress already made We are here to help Anybody keen to have the team in tackling domestic abuse and Call the Croydon Family Justice Centre: speak to their community, or who sexual violence in the borough. 020 8688 0100 would like to join the network of “This is why the team’s keen to come National Domestic Violence freephone helpline: 0808 2000 247 community champions, should out and engage with communities or visit: www.croydon.gov.uk/domesticabuse email [email protected] so that we can equip the whole of Councillor Hamida Ali, cabinet Croydon to take a stand against 20 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER Don’t fall victim to flu this winter Don’t wait until there is an outbreak, get your free flu jab now. Flu can be serious – It’s a highly infectious disease with symptoms that come on very quickly and which can lead to even more serious illnesses, such as pneumonia. Colds are much less serious and usually start gradually with a stuffy or runny nose and a sore throat. The most common symptoms from a bad bout of flu include a fever, chills, headache, aches and pains in the joints and muscles, and extreme tiredness. Healthy individuals usually recover within two to seven days; for some, though, the disease can lead to hospitalisation, health and social care, said “It’s really important that anybody permanent disability or even death. considered to be in a high-risk group gets their vaccine as soon The flu virus changes from year to year and an updated as possible – and that includes health care workers and anybody vaccine, that can beat the new strains, is needed every year. who looks after a vulnerable person at home. Remember that you need it every year, so don’t assume you are “If you’re not sure, ask your GP whether you’re eligible to protected because you had one last year. receive a flu jab or nasal spray.” The nasal spray flu vaccine will be offered routinely on the More information is available at www.nhs.uk/Conditions/ NHS to all children born on or after 2 September 2011, and on or Flu/Pages/Introduction.aspx. Search www.myhealth. before 1 September 2013. london.nhs.uk for a full list of pharmacies offering the service in Councillor Louisa Woodley, cabinet member for families, your area. It’s 28 days – can you quit?

Most people know that smoking is bad for That help takes in the app, email and social media your health but we also know how hard it support – including Facebook Messenger – to more information about the expert face-to-face support that your can be to permanently kick the habit. local stop-smoking service can offer, as well as the different Are you a slave to the ciggie? Find it hard to bash the ash? types of stop-smoking aids available, including medicines Yes? Then good news is here – Stoptober is back! and e-cigarettes. The annual 28-day event encourages residents to ditch the Councillor Louisa Woodley, cabinet member for families, cigarettes and supports smokers across the country toward health and social care, said: “Everyone has their own giving up their addiction throughout October and beyond. reasons for wanting to quit. There is evidence to show that a smoker who quits for “It could be to get healthier and fitter, to reduce the 28-days is five times more likely to stay smoke-free for the impact of cigarette smoke on friends and family, especially rest of their life. little ones, or to put a stop to money going up in smoke! More than 1,200 Croydon residents took up the challenge “It’s amazing how quickly you’ll notice some really last year. positive changes when you quit smoking.” The borough’s stop-smoking service has worked with Stoptober is here to help you quit smoking for good. Join nearly 3,000 to get them started on their quitting journey in with the biggest stop-smoking challenge of its kind, search since April. Each received up to 12 weeks’ free support and Stoptober online and sign up today. (facebook)/stoptober more than 50% successfully quit after four weeks. (twitter)@stoptober You don’t need to quit using willpower alone – there is Call 0800 019 8570 to find your nearest Croydon stop- lots of online and face-to-face support to help you succeed smoking adviser or visit www.croydon.gov.uk/smokefree this Stoptober. for more information. For up-to-the-minute council news visit www.croydon.gov.uk/news 21 Free digital advice? Go On, then! The first Go On Croydon Digital Day proved a hit when it set up shop in the borough’s main shopping street. A purple tent that popped up in the middle of North could get more help with digital skills were End on one Saturday in July proved a magnet for directed to the Go On Croydon digital people keen to brush up on their digital skills. zones dotted around the borough – More than 200 shoppers and visitors took see panel for locations. advantage of the free advice that was on offer as Digital zones are places where the first Go On Croydon Digital Day took to the people can discover the benefits streets to spread the digital word. that basic digital skills and Digital champions from a range of Go On being online can bring to their Croydon partners – including Croydon Council, everyday life. Age UK, Argos, CVA, U3A, Lloyds Bank and The zones are local, friendly, Doteveryone – were joined by community social spaces where digital volunteers, helping anybody seeking a little help champions will be on hand to give or advice. top tips and advice on how to get Some wanted to learn the basics of getting online, and use a tablet, smartphone online, accessing the web and improving their or laptop. digital knowledge, while others were looking The next wave of community based for tips on how to get the most out of their Go On Croydon digital zones are now smartphones and tablets. launching, seeing digital zones being established in Some visitors left after a chat, only to return, community organisations throughout Croydon. armed with their laptops, to get help on a If your community organisation wants to get particular issue. involved, email [email protected] And those who wanted to know where they To learn how you can benefit from digital skills, come along to the digital zone in Access Croydon in Bernard Croydon’s digital zones Weatherill House, Mint Walk, Age UK Croydon EE Croydon, every Friday Brigstock Road, Thornton 143 West Arcade, Whitgift between 9am and 4pm. Heath CR7 7JH Shopping Centre, Croydon Wednesday: 1.30pm – 3.30pm CR0 1UT Friday: 10.30am – 12.30pm Tuesday: 9.30am – 11.30am

Job Centre Plus Lloyds Bank Digital champions 17-21 Dingwall Road, 95 George Street, Croydon Digital champions help people in their community to get Croydon CR9 2TN CR9 1TN online and develop their basic digital skills. Whether it’s Third Tuesday of the month: Thursday: 9.30am – 4.30pm helping a friend, neighbour, customer or colleague, digital 10am – 2pm champions help raise awareness of the benefits that being Lloyds Bank online can bring to everyday life. They are not experts in IT, Job Centre Plus 137 North End Road, just people who are confident in using the internet and digital 72 High Street, Thornton Croydon CR0 1TN devices who want to support others in gaining the skills and Heath CR7 8AA Thursday: 9.30am – 4.30pm confidence to do the same. First Tuesday of the month, 10am – 2pm Croydon African Caribbean Family Job Centre Plus Organisation UK Further information 24 Whytecliffe Road South, 40 Northwood Road, If you're interested in learning more about being a digital Purley CR8 2YU Thornton Heath CR7 8HQ champion, or if you're interested in setting up a digital Fourth Wednesday of the Wednesday and Friday: zone in your own organisation, email: month, 10am – 2pm 1.30pm – 2.30pm [email protected] 22 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER Council tax-free for a year! Two households relish the prospect of no council tax for a year. A young four-legged friend could be finding much easier to pay via the computer – and its way to a new home in , you then get a chance to win, like we did.” thanks to the fact the residents have just Kathleen and Raymond Pearson have won a year’s free council tax. paid the council tax on their Kenley home Aidan Booker said that while clearing by direct debit “for years and years”. a debt was a priority, some of the money Kathleen said: “When we found out he and Jade Fletcher would save could that we’d won, we didn’t really believe it; possibly be used to buy a puppy for the we didn’t realise that we were entered into couple and their two young children. a draw to win a year’s council tax. Each year, the council draws the names “It was only when our daughter looked of two council taxpayers – one from the it up online and told us it was true that we council’s My Account holders, the other believed it.” from direct debit payers – to have their To find out how you can pay your council tax paid for the entire year. council tax by direct debit – and possibly Aidan, the My Account winner, said: find yourself in Mr and Mrs Pearson’s “I really don’t know why people don’t pay position this time next year, visit more things by electronic transfer. www.croydon.gov.uk/dd “I find it quite antiquated to have to pay To sign up to My Account, go to my son’s nursery fees by cheque. It’s so www.croydon.gov.uk/myaccount Focusing on the positive Young people turn the lens on the good aspects of their age group. Teenage stereotypes were examined and us something to do and it gave us challenged when a group of youngsters an opportunity to show teenagers staged a photo exhibition questioning in a positive light and from our own commonly held beliefs. perspective. Held in St George’s Walk during “It was a fun project and we got to meet August, the hosts, aged 12 to 17, were new people and make new friends, while we seeking to dispel what they feel are the did something positive in the process.” Good experience: D and K sometimes jaundiced opinions of them Leah, 16, said: “It was a wonderful a collection of work that really challenged and their peers. experience of professional photography, the fear surrounding the perceived The project came about when the something which I hadn’t done before. propensity of young people to violence group gave up Easter holiday time to “I was able to meet a diverse range and crime and, hopefully, made the work with professional photographer of people, both on the photography observer question their own beliefs about Katherine Leedale. She taught them basic team and by being photographed, which young people. photography skills, such as lighting and really helped me see the different side to “The group captured some editing, which they used to take portraits Croydon's young people.” really positive images of their peers of other young people. Croydon College students were posing, having fun, and showing their They also studied interview techniques involved in the project, along with other personalities. The photos went a long to question their subjects about their young people who were supported way to dispel the myth that teenagers experiences of being a young person to attend by Croydon Council’s early are always up to no good.” in Croydon, and if they felt they were intervention support service. The project was led by Croydon negatively stereotyped by adults. Councillor Alisa Flemming, cabinet Council’s primary prevention team, Makyra, 15, said: “I thought it was member for children, families and with funding from the Safer Croydon a good experience because it gave learning, said: “The aim was to showcase Partnership. For up-to-the-minute council news visit www.croydon.gov.uk/news 23

Council meeting dates Useful contacts Deadlines for public questions for the forthcoming full council For police, fire brigade, ambulance, meeting (starting at 6.30pm) – noon on the relevant deadline date. call: 999 or 112, Text phone 1800 Meetings: Monday 17 Oct Deadlines: Monday 3 Oct Croydon Council general enquiries Monday 5 Dec Monday 21 Nov 020 8726 6000 Questions (maximum number of words: 50) for consideration at Croydon NHS Walk-in Centre a full council meeting, can be emailed to council.questions@ croydon.gov.uk; alternatively, write to Questions for the 020 3040 0800 council, Legal and democratic services, 7th floor, Bernard Weatherill House, 8 Mint Walk, Croydon CR0 1EA; or call Non-emergency urgent care - 111 020 8726 6000 extn 63876. Croydon University Hospital Unless otherwise stated, cabinet meetings start at 6.30pm, 020 8401 3000 in the Council Chamber of the Town Hall. Meetings: 10 Oct 14 Nov For information on meetings, minutes and agendas, go to Get in touch www.croydon.gov.uk/meetings. For information on cabinet and To get in touch with the Your Croydon editorial shadow cabinet members, go to www.croydon.gov.uk/cabinet team, email: [email protected] Unless otherwise stated, scrutiny meetings start at 6.30pm, in the or call 020 8760 5644 Council Chamber of the Town Hall. Meetings:11 Oct Children and young people scrutiny sub-committee If anybody you know isn't receiving the online 18 Oct Health and social care scrutiny sub-committee Your Croydon weekly, tell them that they can ensure delivery by subscribing at www.croydon. 1 Nov Scrutiny and overview committee gov.uk/subscribe 8 Nov Health and social care scrutiny sub-committee 22 Nov Streets and environmental scrutiny sub-committee For information on scrutiny, go to www.croydon.gov.uk/scrutiny Central Library and or email [email protected] Katharine Street, Croydon CR9 1ET Meetings of the Safer Neighbourhood Board are held in the venues Open: Monday to Saturday (see website for daily hours) indicated. For further information, look www.croydononline.org/ safer-neighbourhood-board/ Library – www.croydon.gov.uk/central-library Forthcoming public meeting dates are: Telephone: 020 8726 6900 Meeting: Wednesday 18 January at 6.30pm Email: [email protected] Community Space, 8 Mint Walk, Croydon CR0 1EA Museum – www.museumofcroydon.com Details of all Croydon Council meetings can be found on the council website www.croydon.gov.uk/meetings. Telephone: 020 8253 1022 Email: [email protected]

For full details, visit: www.croydon.gov.uk/ Guided Walks leisure/parksandopenspaces/walks OCTOBER Sunday 16 October NOVEMBER Sunday 20 November Happy Valley off-piste Be a woodsman/woman for a day in Friday 7 October Discover the history and wildlife of the Saturday 12 November Happy Valley Bats over Shirley hidden areas of Happy Valley. Autumn leaves in Wood Learn about coppicing, the ancient form of Meet at the Bridle Road entrance to Meet at 1pm in the car park by the wooden woodland management. A short talk, tour Spring Park Wood at 6.30pm. Sunday 16 October bear. www.friendsofselsdonwood.co.uk Family survival afternoon in and practical demonstration, then have a Sunday 9 October Biggin Wood Saturday 19 November go for yourself. Fungus hunt in Learn how to filter water, light a fire or Family autumn stroll through Sunday 27 November Meet at 10am by the wooden bear. build a shelter, just like the people who once Littleheath Wood grazing paddock www.friendsofselsdonwood.co.uk lived and worked in the . Join The Friends of Littleheath Woods management collecting seeds and leaves Join a happy band of Sunday volunteers Sunday 16 October Friday 21 October (about 90 minutes). Ancient woods on the Sanderstead heathland wander to help remove tree seedlings in the to Whyteleafe countryside area Feast your eyes on purple and gold where Sunday 20 November grazing paddocks. Explore the natural history of the ancient volunteers have cleared encroaching scrub Ancient trees in King’s Wood wood in Ainsley Berry Shaw and the ‘new’ from heather and gorse. A two-hour hilly A gentle two-hour walk exploring a For all general enquiries, email wood at the Dobbin. walk starting at 10am. fine example of local ancient woodland. [email protected] 24 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER Your A to Z of council services The council provides a comprehensive range of services designed to offer help and advice to residents. Below is only a small selection of those services – for the full list, visit www.croydon.gov.uk and follow the “A-Z” link at the top of the home page.

Adult education Disabled parking search Information on the courses available Providing parking bays throughout Find the latest vacancies for to older students. Croydon for vehicles used by the positions within the council. holders of blue badges. Recycling Blocked drains Leisure centres Information on how to deal with Emergency planning Links and information on all the drain problems. Keeping Croydon running in the borough’s leisure centres. Recycling event of serious incidents. What to recycle, how to recycle and Bulky waste collection Lottery registration where to recycle. What it is, how to book it and how Extended schools Running a lottery to raise funds for much it will cost. Providing a range of services and a charity or an organisation such Safer Croydon Partnership activities to help meet the needs of as a sports club, church or school, Working to make the borough safer CCTV pupils, their families and the wider requires registration. for all who live, work and visit here. Helping to ensure the safety of community. Mice and rats people in Croydon. Information on the telltale signs and Fly-tipping how to get help eradicating them. How to report it, your responsibilities as a landowner, My Croydon Trading Standards and how the council prosecutes Download the council’s app for easy fly-tippers. reporting of a number of issues. Trading standards CCTV Dealing with doorstep crime and Gambling Neighbourhood wardens The different types of licences – and rogue traders, and offering advice Offering help and support to local to residents and businesses. Croydon Careline how to apply for them. communities. Providing a home safety and Voluntary organisations personal security system, helping Home safety advice Out-of-school activities Details on available funding. people to live independently within See if you are eligible for a free After-school clubs, breakfast clubs, their own homes. home safety check. holiday play schemes – they’re all Welfare benefit advice here. Direct payments Instrument tuition Know what you’re entitled to and Giving a person the choice to buy Service for children and young Planning applications claim it. and arrange their own social care people. Advice on all aspects of the planning services. process. Youth projects Job All you need to know about Croydon’s youth provision.

Zoo licence You need to apply for a licence to run a zoo – should you really want to! Planning www. croydo z n.gov.uk/ato 160603