Croydon Council is asserting its commitment to preserving the beauty and history of the borough by looking into creating nine additional conservation areas. This work would reinfore Executive Mayor Jason Perry’s pledge to safeguard the borough’s distinctive neighbourhoods and historical landmarks.
The proposed areas range from the historic Sanderstead Village, noted for its medieval parish church and 18th century ambience, to the contemporary architectural appeal of Fairfield Halls in the Civic Quarter.
The full list of areas under consideration includes:
Whitgift Estate
Croham Park Estate
South End, Ye Old Market
St Peter’s Road
London Road
Fairfield Civic Quarter
Sanderstead Village
Brighton Road, Purley
Court Avenue, Coulsdon
Each site will undergo detailed research and assessment against criteria set by Historic England, national and local planning policies. Residents will have the opportunity to contribute their opinions on which areas merit conservation status.
A conservation area is defined as an area of special architectural or historic interest, where preserving or enhancing the character and appearance is a priority. This can limit certain kinds of development, construction, and other notable changes.
This initiative aligns with Mayor Perry’s commitment to engage residents on planning matters and protect the borough’s distinctive features, as highlighted in the Mayor’s Business Plan 2022-26.
In July 2022, the Mayor removed the suburban design guide, while the ongoing Local Plan Review stresses the importance of maintaining local character and safeguarding green spaces. The review is currently under examination by the government’s Planning Inspectorate.
Since the late 1960s, Croydon has established 21 conservation areas, each differing in size, layout, and character. The Council continues to update Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Plans to ensure their relevance and protection.
Mayor Perry commented, “Croydonians are rightly proud of the unique character of the many different neighbourhoods that make up our borough.
“Our architecture and our public spaces tell the story of our rich history and evorlution, from a medieval market town to the economic powerhouse of South London, linking the coast and the capital. Croydon’s is a story of growth, hustle and drive that spans centuries, and one that we should celebrate.
“As Mayor I have listened to residents and taken action to do just that to protect our unique character through planning. The designation of conservation areas builds on this, bringing with it not just protection, but opportunity – fostering regeneration, design quality, and a stronger sense of place.”
