We have an award-winning trading standards team here at Croydon who work extremely hard to keep our residents safe from unscrupulous businesses. As part of their enforcement work, the team joined up with national trading standards to successfully prosecute a trio who were conning people – mostly older people – into buying gas boiler cover that was never provided. I’m pleased to report that have been sentenced and their business has been dissolved.

New measures on illegal cars

We are taking a zero-tolerance approach to environmental crimes such as fly-tipping and abandoned or nuisance vehicles across the borough. I have been listening to our residents and responding to concerns about cars being parked with their registration plates obscured, whilst repairs are being carried out or to avoid paying road tax and parking permits. This is illegal and we will not hesitate to remove cars where owners are not co-operating. Find out more.

Supporting our young people

This week I had a meeting at Croydon College with Stephanie Peacock, Minister for Sport, Media, Civil Society and Youth, together with Croydon Voluntary Action (CVA) and was chaired by Croydon MP Natasha Irons. We discussed Croydon’s innovative Croydon Youth Consortium (CYC) – a community-led model that places young people’s voices at the centre of services. It was great to show what we are doing here in Croydon and our commitment, together with our partners, to make sure all young people get the support they need to fulfil their potential.

Croydon Mencap awards

I attended a fantastic awards and prom organised by Croydon Mencap to celebrate their cooking, craft and walking project. It was great to hear that funding has been secured for the project to continue. The event also recognised the organisations who opened their doors to adults with learning disabilities, offering meaningful placements that support confidence, independence and wellbeing. My thanks go to every organisation involved for playing such a vital role in making Croydon a more inclusive and supportive borough.

Croydon Open House 2025

This weekend there are lots of events taking place across our communities, including a celebration of local history and architecture at Croydon Open House 2025 from 13-21 September. On Saturday (13 September), residents can enjoy the Wilderfest well-being festival in Shirley, as well as the much-anticipated grand opening of the Goldcrest Ghana Seventh Day Adventist Church in New Addington.

Also on Saturday, the new market stage at Central Parade, New Addington – funded through the Council’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund – will host a free community celebration from 12–4pm.

Then on Sunday (14 September), families can come together for the Grangewood Picnic in the Park.

I look forward to seeing many residents out enjoying these fantastic events.

Have a good weekend.

Jason Perry

Executive Mayor of Croydon