The plan would see huge changes to the Whitgift and Centrale shopping centres, with new houses, retail and public spaces built.
The Masterplan Framework submitted by developers Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) has been formed following months of public consultation.
Croydon residents were invited to give their thoughts on the future of the town both online and in the temporary Urban Room at the Whitgift Centre.
The plan outlines the vision to transform part of the town centre, named the North End Quarter, into a vibrant, mixed-use area featuring homes, shops, cultural venues, and public spaces.
Under the plans, the current Whitgift Centre will see large-scale redevelopment, while Centrale will see fewer changes.
The masterplan also proposes better connectivity for the town centre through a network of green spaces, pedestrian-friendly streets, and the integration of historic landmarks like the Whitgift Almshouses and the Allders building.
Originally set for completion in 2017, the Westfield project faced years of delays with no progress, leaving residents sceptical about the viability of a town centre retail complex. However, since URW took over last year, the plans changed to reduce the focus on retail and include more homes.
Last year, Tim Hurstwyn, Development Director at URW, assured the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS): “We are different from the old Westfield. We are here, and we will deliver.”
Construction is expected to begin in 2028, with Mr Hurstwyn stressing that the timeline is realistic and the process will take time. URW’s Masterplan Framework was endorsed by Croydon’s Planning Committee on Thursday night (February 27), and the next step is for URW to develop more detailed designs before submitting a full planning application.
Following the council’s endorsement, Penny Cameron, Head of Development at URW, 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 areas unique heritage.”
She added: “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.”
The council is also working on ‘unlocking Croydon’s potential’ and is planning to unite partners to support the town’s regeneration. It is also undergoing improvements to the ancient market on Surrey Street.
Regenerating the town centre is a key priority for Croydon’s Mayor Jason Perry. In a statement, Mayor Perry 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.”
