Three thousand new homes are being planned to replace the Whitgift Centre in Croydon, a large increase from the original proposal of 400-600 units, first proposed in 2013 as part of the plans to redevelop the town centre. 

Paul Eaton of Allies and Morrison, the architectural firm working with commercial real estate company, Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield said in a statement: “The Masterplan Framework focuses on revitalising the centre of Croydon, transforming it with green pedestrian-friendly routes and public spaces, high quality homes and thriving retail and community spaces.” 

This development will also span across the Allders building and surrounding areas of the town centre. 

 Croydon Council said: “Historic landmarks like the Whitgift Almshouses and Allders will be protected and integrated into the future vision for this part of Croydon. 

“The Framework will align and complement with the work underway by Croydon Council to create a Town Centre Regeneration Strategy for the wider town centre area.” 

Croydon Council added: “The framework also responds to urgent local housing needs through the creation of new homes across a range of different tenures encompassing market sale, build-to-rent, student, co-living, and supported housing, designed to cater to varied demographics and cultivate a multi-generational community.” 

Whether there is a specific number of affordable housing planned has not been confirmed yet but will be a developing issue through the process. 

ELL spoke to Croydon residents and businesses in the town centre for comment. 

Fitz Reed, 35, who works at B Fashions in the Whitgift Centre said: “It’s a great idea in terms of housing, because a lot of people have moved out from the area because there isn’t enough housing here, but in terms of how they will develop the centre, there is a hole… 90% of shops are closed here so how are we going to bring shoppers back? How are they going to attract people back to Croydon?” 

Shane Baptist, 29, a security guard in Whitgift Centre said: “Croydon has drastically changed since I grew up here. Once upon a time, when you used to walk into the Whitgift Centre, you used to have no room to move, that’s how busy it used to be. All the entrepreneurs building flats and apartments- that’s just business. What do the people want? I think the people want a different centre, a nice centre.” 

Local resident Joyce Adjei, 43, was concerned about overcrowding and “having too many high rises”, but her brother Emmanuel Adjei, 45, said: “I’m happy Croydon is changing. So many shops inside the centre are empty and only a few people are actually going into the shops. There’s a shortage of houses too, so it would be good.” 

Developers have estimated that it will take 10-15 years to finish, with earliest possible construction taking place in 2027.  

It is currently in its year -long engagement process. Residents have been invited to “bring together the views of those who live, work and visit the area, to develop clear priorities for a plan to steer the town centre’s recovery” at the Urban Room in Whitgift Centre throughout November. 

The Urban Room will be open Tuesday 19 November (10 am – 1pm) and Thursday 21 November (2pm – 7:30pm).