Your THANK YOU FOR HELPING CROYDON RECYCLE MORE AND WASTE LESS
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ISSUE 83 – WINTER 2018 Your main source of community news
THANK
YOU FOR
HELPING
CROYDON
RECYCLE MORE
AND WASTE LESS
38% 47% 50%
before current target
RECYCLING RATES ROCKET
SINCE NEW BIN COLLECTION
See page 3
2 WINTER 2018
Wishing you a Highlights
green Christmas Green Christmas for
Croydon……….4, 5
I am incredibly proud to report that last month we saw the
Hundreds of new trees and
largest ever increase in Croydon’s recycling figures, which went
up a massive nine percent. This is a direct result of the new bin sustainable travel plans for
collection system we have introduced to encourage recycling, a cleaner, greener borough.
and it is thanks to all of you for making this positive change.
I want to thank all of you for bearing with us during the ongoing
changeover – this is a real achievement, and together we are
making Croydon greener.
Festive fun ……. 6, 7, 9
Arts and culture at Christmas
However, welcome though the increase in recycling rates is, in
and beyond, and Croydon's new
terms of the challenges we face to make Croydon truly green and
sustainable, it is only the beginning. Along with much of London, cultural internship programme.
one of our key challenges is poor air quality in parts of our town
and it is becoming a real threat to our health.
During the summer, Croydon University Hospital saw a Helping the
significant increase in the number of residents attending A&E homeless ………. 9, 11
as a result of breathing difficulties linked to poor air quality.
More children suffer from asthma caused by poor air now than The projects helping rough sleepers
for many years. As a council we have taken some steps, like off the streets and into homes, and
stopping cars parking near school gates, but our powers are an award-winning homlessness
limited, and we have lobbied both government and the Mayor of prevention scheme.
London about extending the much-used tram service.
So, looking forward, the question for us all is, as individuals
and families, what are we prepared to do about the challenge Seasonal
of protecting both our local and global environment?
schedules ..........… 10
Should we have more pedestrianised areas, or perhaps reduce
parking charges for electric cars? Could we do more to radically Information on bin collections,
reduce the use of plastic? Are there parts of Croydon you believe opening hours and parking over
would benefit from new or improved bus services, and is enough the festive period.
being done to make cycling an option for more people? Should
companies allow more working from home to reduce the number
of journeys (or if we are being really radical, consider car-free
days, as are already being implemented in some places?). Celebrating unsung
As the popularity of David Attenborough’s TV program Blue heroes …….........18, 19
Planet has illustrated these are all big questions everyone is Meet the Civic Award winners
interested in. They are key to all our futures and I look forward making a difference to people's
to hearing from you on this at tony.newman@croydon.gov.uk lives in their local communities.
However, in the meantime, I wish everyone a happy Christmas
and a peaceful New Year, and if you’re having a Christmas
tree look out for when the council will be calling to collect it for
recycling.
Stay warm
and well ………....….. 20
Season's greetings.
Take care of yourself through
the winter season.
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.
Councillor Tony Newman Go to www.croydon.gov.uk/subscribe and visit
Leader of the council
@cllrtony /ilovecroydon @yourcroydon
For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk 3
RECYCLING RATES ROCKET
AFTER NEW BINS INTRODUCED
Croydon’s new recycling and bin
collection regime has already boosted
the borough’s recycling rates, which have
increased to 47% in just a few months.
Most households across the borough were given two new bins,
offering them more room to recycle with a large wheelie bin for
paper and card and another for mixed recycling.
The scheme, which also introduced changes so flats above
shops had domestic recycling collections for the first time ever,
was intended to boost Croydon's recycling rate to more than
50% over two years.
However, since it was introduced in September, Croydon’s
recycling rate has rocketed up to 47% from 38% - in just 12
weeks.
A small number of properties will continue to use the old
recycling boxes but more than 250,000 bins were delivered
across the borough.
At the same time nearly three quarters of properties
changed collection days.
Some disruption was caused as the new system was
introduced and we thank residents for their patience and
support during the changeover.
If committed residents can help Croydon achieve its
ambitious target of recycling more than half of all refuse the
borough produces, then we will become one of the greenest
boroughs in London.
Turn to page 8 to find out more about recycling and refuse
collections over the Christmas period.
COUNCIL SECURES THREE-YEAR COURT
ORDER BANNING ILLEGAL ENCAMPMENTS
A three-year injunction protecting highways and green spaces across Croydon was
granted on Wednesday 17 October.
The High Court Order bans anyone from occupying land encampment of around 50 caravans from Purley Way
or disposing of waste on 213 of the borough’s parks, open Playing Fields.
spaces, council land and 12 highways. The granting of this new order means Croydon Council
The council initially used evidence of large-scale fly- no longer has to attend court to obtain removal orders for
tipping and the cost of clearing it, damage to gates and each new encampment.
barriers and a high number of incidents to secure an interim High Court Enforcement Officers can be called upon in
injunction. future to assist with moving people on from the protected sites.
The interim injunction was enforced twice over Failure to comply with the order can result in
three months, once being used to help move an illegal imprisonment, fines or seizure of assets.
4 WINTER 2018
HUNDREDS OF TREES TO BE
PLANTED IN AIR QUALITY DRIVE
Around 650 young trees will be planted in
Tree team officers
Croydon over the coming months in a major Helen Lomasney and
drive to help improve air quality. Matthew Burnell
A further 180 saplings were planted last spring, bringing the
total number of trees planted this financial year to more
than 800.
Croydon Council has pledged more than £700k for tree
planting over the next five years, promising an array of spring
and autumn colour for the borough.
This five-year plan will see thousands of trees planted in
Croydon’s streets, prioritising the north of the borough to
address high levels of pollution by increasing the tree canopy.
As part of this project, ageing trees will be replaced to ensure
Croydon remains one of the greenest London boroughs.
Planting began earlier this month with work continuing
through to March 2019.
Next year, the council aims to plant more trees than the To find out more or ask if your area could be suitable for a new
830 that will be planted in the first year of this five-year project. tree then email treesandwoodlands@croydon.gov.uk
Young Street Champions ask if you can help your community
A pair of young and dedicated community heroes are appealing for
help to tackle litter in their community.
Caitlin Lelsa, 16, and her friend Lucy- 4pm and post about it on social media
Ann Butterworth, 15, decided to set up beforehand. Anyone is welcome to join
a community clean scheme to help keep us, even if it’s for 15 minutes. It’s a great
New Addington looking its best. thing to do.”
The Meridian School students You can stay up-to-date with the
contacted the council and were helped to duo and find out how to get involved by
become Street Champions. following them on their Facebook page
Every week they head out after school called New Addington Cleanup.
at 4pm on a Monday, meeting by the Lucy-Ann said: “Like Caitlin, I’ve lived
New Addington Centre. in New Addington my whole life and we
The council help them and supply didn’t want to see little kids go around
litter-picking equipment but the pair are seeing litter everywhere and thinking
calling on more people to get involved. that it’s acceptable to drop litter.
Caitlin said: “I’ve lived here in New “Dropping litter is not okay and it’s
Addington my whole life and I’ve noticed not the right thing to do. Hopefully they a Street Champion or finding out
the litter has got out of hand recently. can follow our example.” about events in your area contact
“We litter-pick every Monday at If you’re interested in becoming street.champions@croydon.gov.uk
For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk 5 REVOLUTIONISING CROYDON’S TRANSPORT NETWORK WITH GREENER TRAVEL Plans to revolutionise Croydon’s transport network with major investment into greener methods of travel have been submitted to the Mayor of London for approval. The council is bidding for £9m over targets such as reducing the number of three years to invest in a huge range deaths and serious injuries on London’s of transport improvements, which will roads to zero by 2041, and increasing encourage more sustainable travel the proportion of journeys by foot, cycle around the borough, such as walking or public transport in Croydon to 50% and cycling. by 2021. Proposals include additional Croydon’s LIP promotes greener, resources for cycle-training; support healthier methods of travel right across for the rollout of a cycle hire scheme; the borough, building on the success of new electric vehicle charging points; the borough’s cycling strategy, which number of children walking or cycling to and schemes to make streets safer and creates cycle-friendly routes on less school. increase walking and cycling to and busy streets. Croydon’s LIP, which sets out a from schools. The plan also sets out proposals for programme of investment running They are part of Croydon’s Local ‘healthy schools neighbourhoods’ which into 2022, was approved by Croydon’s Implementation Plan (LIP), which sets will encourage children to walk or cycle cabinet at a meeting on Monday 15 out how the council plans to meet to school. October. the aims of the Mayor of London’s A project to create three pedestrian It has now been sent to the Mayor Transport Strategy. zones around schools across the and Transport for London (TfL) for The Mayor’s strategy includes borough has already increased the review and approval. Dedicated volunteers help transform Reeves Corner A hard-working group of volunteers helped transform a much-loved area of Croydon town centre when Croydon’s Street Champions teamed up with McDonald’s 'Love Where You Live' campaign. More than 30 staff, from six separate restaurants, teamed Owner of the site Graham Reeves, said: “It’s amazing that up with staff and Street Champions from Croydon Council’s McDonald's with the support of the local community around Don’t Mess with Croydon campaign and Croydon Business them have made the area so much cleaner and tidier. Improvement District (BID) to clear around a quarter of a “As a family run business, we greatly appreciate the time, tonne of waste and litter from Reeves Corner. the effort and dedication of the team of volunteers who have Each participant selflessly offered four hours of their time, brought a previously neglected area back to life.” equating to more than 120 hours of work in total, to clear Don’t Mess With Croydon helps to run a host of community away rubbish and weeds from the site. In total, 110 bags of litter picks throughout the year. If you want help to run a litter rubbish were collected during the clean-up. pick please contact us at champions@croydon.gov.uk
6 WINTER 2018
FESTIVE FUN
With Christmas fast approaching
Croydon has been enjoying
a jam-packed programme of
entertainment in the town centre.
Young Mayor William Awomoyi kick-started
the action on 15 November, switching
on the festive lights while special guests
from children’s cartoon PJ Masks provided
entertainment.
And shoppers have delighted in Croydon’s
Christmas Market, which brought more than
30 chalets of food, drink and Christmas gift
stalls to North End throughout November.
The festive cheer continues this month, as
local schools and choirs treat shoppers to their
favourite carols in Whitgift Square, raising
money for their chosen causes.
POP-UPS TRANSFORM TOWN CENTRE WITH LOCAL TALENT
Exciting pop-ups are transforming the town centre this Christmas and beyond, showcasing
local talent and bringing entertainment to all.
BRIT Presents, a dazzling series of pedestrianised area on Thursday 12 Croydon BID, this series continues with
showcase performances, is bringing the December at 5.30pm and 6.30pm to more dates in the New Year.
creativity, energy and diversity of The enjoy free performances from musical Meanwhile Zoo Co’s new pop-up
BRIT School students to public spaces. theatre students. theatre at 50-51 Trinity Court, Whitgift
Head to the High Street Sponsored by Croydon Council and Centre, offers a packed programme for
all ages and abilities.
Throughout December and January,
the Croydon-based theatre company will
offer a host of exciting performances,
drama workshops and events.
Their Shop and Sing Christmas
will take place from on Saturday 22
December at 2-5pm -gather at 4.30pm
for a finale parade around the shopping
centre.
All are free or pay what you can -
visit www.wearezooco.uk
Meanwhile FMM Pop Up, a social
enterprise born from the historical pop-
up nature of Fashion Meets Music, can
be found in Croydon’s Centrale Shopping
Centre.
FMM Pop Up gives emerging
designers their first step on the retail
ladder, giving them space to test their
product with the public and supporting
Brit Presents, Khronos Dance them to produce their first fashion
shows, workshops and more.
For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk 7
New cultural internships offer young people paid
placements with UK’s leading arts organisations
A pioneering new cultural internship programme is offering Croydon’s young people an unprecedented
opportunity to gain paid work experience with both internationally-acclaimed and local arts
organisations, helping them to kick-start creative careers.
The UK’s leading black theatre company,
Talawa; Croydon’s world-class chamber
orchestra, the London Mozart Players
(LMP); world-famous The BRIT school;
fashion company FMM Pop Up, who
have just moved to Croydon from
Camden; and Croydon Music and Arts
are among those offering placements.
Open to young people aged 16-24,
the internships will help young people
to gain valuable work experience in a
historically hard-to-access sector.
All placements will offer the London
Credit: Sanaa Abstrakt
Living Wage.
The initiative has been developed by
Croydon Council, which has brought
together creative organisations and
the borough’s new Cultural Partnership
corporate sponsorship scheme to offer Run it Back by TYPT:18, Talawa's annual
young people new career opportunities. collaboration with emerging black theatre makers
It is supported by Croydon
Partnership, the joint venture between in early 2019 as a pilot, with plans to delighted to be part of the cultural
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield and increase this to 20 placements by 2020. internships scheme. High quality,
Hammerson which is set to redevelop Find out more and how to apply at well-structured, paid internships like
Croydon’s retail centre, who are www.croydon.gov.uk/jobsatcroydon/ this reflect our commitment to opening
platinum members of Croydon’s Cultural cultural-internships up the world of theatre and providing
Partnership scheme. Michael Buffong, artistic director, the best opportunities for future
The project will offer five placements Talawa Theatre Company, said: "We're generations."
DECK THE HALLS
The UK’s oldest chamber orchestra, London Mozart
Players (LMP) have lined up a programme of festive
family treats for their Christmas event.
Deck the Halls will be taking place at
St John the Evangelist on Friday 14
December, at 7pm and 9pm.
Guest performers will include
the Croydon Citadel Band of the
Salvation Army and the joint choirs
and orchestras from Rockmount and
Cypress Primary Schools.
Sponsored by the council’s
community fund, the event supports
Crisis with a special performance from
their Skylight choir.
Tickets start at £5 for children and
£15 for adults, with concessions and
family tickets available. Visit www.
londonmozartplayers.com/concert/
deck-the-halls
8 WINTER 2018
FESTIVE SEASON
OPENING HOURS
Access Croydon, Bernard Weatherill House
BIN COLLECTION TIMETABLE
Monday 24 December Closed
Tuesday 25 December Closed
Refuse and recycling collection date changes
Wednesday 26 December Closed NORMAL COLLECTION DATE REVISED COLLECTION DATE
Thursday 27 December 9am-4pm
Monday 24 December Unchanged
Friday 28 December 9am-4pm
Tuesday 25 December Thursday 27 December
Monday 31 January 9am-4pm
Tuesday 1 January Closed Wednesday 26 December Friday 28 December
Wednesday 2 January 9am-4pm Thursday 27 December Saturday 29 December
Croydon Council call centre Friday 28 December Monday 31 December
Monday 24 December Closed Monday 31 December Wednesday 2 January
Tuesday 25 December Closed Tuesday 1 January Thursday 3 January
Wednesday 26 December Closed Wednesday 2 January Friday 4 January
Thursday 27 December 9am-4pm
Thursday 3 January Saturday 5 January
Friday 28 December 9am-4pm
Monday 31 January 9am-4pm Friday 4 January Monday 7 January
Tuesday 1 January Closed Monday 7 January Tuesday 8 January
Wednesday 2 January 9am-4pm Tuesday 8 January Wednesday 9 January
Croydon libraries Wednesday 9 January Thursday 10 January
Saturday 22 December Open as usual Thursday 10 January Friday 11 January
Sunday 23 December Closed Friday 11 January Saturday 12 January
Monday 24 December Closed
Tuesday 25 December Closed USUAL COLLECTIONS WILL RESUME FROM MONDAY 14 JANUARY
Wednesday 26 December Closed Missed collections can be reported via MyAccount at
www.croydon.gov.uk/myaccount or by calling 020 8726 6200.
Thursday 27 December Open as usual
Friday 28 December Open as usual
Saturday 29 December Open as usual CHRISTMAS PARKING IN CROYDON
Sunday 30 December Closed A little present from the council as parking
Monday 1 January Closed rules relaxed for festive period
Tuesday 2 January Open as usual To help spread a little festive cheer parking restrictions in
Customers can renew their library books online and use a free council-owned car parks and on-street bays across Croydon
24/7 offer of eBooks, eAudiobooks, magazines, newspapers and will be relaxed over the festive period.
all sorts of online resources at www.croydon.gov.uk/leisure/ The change will help people visiting shops for some late
libraries/online-library Christmas present shopping, enjoying the displays of festive
illuminations or simply dropping in on relatives to share in the
season of good will.
CHRISTMAS TREE RECYCLING COLLECTIONS The whole borough will be free of parking enforcement in
council-run car parks and on-street bays on Christmas Eve,
If you choose to have a real Christmas tree this year then don’t
Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s
forget it can be collected and recycled for free after the festive
Day.
season. All you need to do is remove decorations and pots or
Yellow-line, footway and bus lane restrictions, however,
plant holders.
will remain in place on these days, and motorists should park
Kerbside collections will begin on Monday 14 January
in a reasonable manner, showing consideration for other road
and last for two weeks.
users and pedestrians. Normal parking enforcement will be in
Please put your tree out for collection on the same day
place from 27 to 30 December, and resume on Wednesday 2
as your refuse.
January 2019.
For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk 9
Fairfield Fans Get Set – Programme
Announcements Are About To Commence
Fans of Fairfield Halls get set - the borough’s iconic entertainment venue is gearing up to
announce more acts for its opening season in the next few weeks.
Croydon’s much-loved arts centre will re-open its doors in mailing list now at www.fairfieldhalls.co.uk
September 2019, following a £30m council refurbishment which The refurbished and air conditioned 1,759-seat concert hall;
has seen it transformed into an entertainment venue fit for the a new glass extension; the Community Cube, a Sky Lounge, an
21st century. enlarged Ashcroft Playhouse and a seasonal skating rink will be
Neil Chandler, BH Live’s venue & artistic director of Fairfield among the features detailed in the opening seasons program.
Halls, said: “It has been fantastic watching our wonderful new Fairfield Halls will continue to celebrate the special
venue take shape, particularly the incredibly positive reaction relationship with Arnhem with the foyer space renamed as
from those who have enjoyed a preview of what is to come on the Arnhem Foyer, an aspirational community hub with a
our behind-the-scenes tours. programme of events and exhibitions completely free and open
“I’m delighted that in just a few short weeks, we will be at the to all.
exciting stage where we can start to reveal the performances These free events will be part-funded by the Sky Lounge, an
that are planned for our opening season, as we raise the curtain exclusive priority lounge for theatre goers and a private business
on the next chapter of Fairfield Halls’ history.” hub during the day.
Comedians Jimmy Carr, Rob Beckett and Russell Kane have Meanwhile the Croydon Recreation (Rec) is Fairfield Halls new
already confirmed they will be performing at the venue in the 750-standing live music venue. This space will be transformed
inaugural season. every December into an indoor ice rink and during the summer
To be the first in the know, fans can join the Fairfield Halls will host roller-disco events.
Anusha Subramanyam performing at a
behind-the-scenes tour of Fairfield Halls
Credit: Vipul Sangoi
10 WINTER 2018
Specialists at the council and partner organisations who help rough sleepers are urging
residents to highlight those in need this winter.
The support offered by Croydon and partners including • R eferrals into this shelter managed by Croydon Council’s
Crisis and faith groups, both in winter and throughout the single homelessness service, Croydon Reach, Turning Point
year, includes: and Crisis
• E mergency council accommodation for anyone presenting • Extra beds when temperatures drop below freezing,
as homeless who is eligible for support provided by the council, with support from partners such
as Evolve Housing + Support.
• Council-funded Croydon Reach workers verifying rough
sleepers and finding solutions Council employee Mark Lord, who helps single homeless
• A winter refuge run by Croydon Churches Floating Shelter people find accomodation and previously worked at floating
offering meals and an overnight bed between November support services, said public referrals help outreach workers
and March build a picture of each rough sleeper’s circumstances and gain
their trust.
He said: “If you see someone sleeping rough – even if it’s only
once – then go to StreetLink’s website, log what you saw, and
outreach teams will engage with them to get them off the streets.
“At this time of year that will be the floating shelter, but it's
also longer-term supported housing. It could be the start of
something positive for them.”
To refer rough sleepers, contact StreetLink by calling 0300
500 0914, visiting their website or downloading their app on
iOS or Android.
Rough sleepers can self-refer by calling Croydon Reach
on 020 7870 8855 or visiting the CAYSH offices at 2 Whitgift
Street, Croydon, CR0 1FL.
To help rough sleepers aged under 18, contact the council’s
emergency duty team at Bernard Weatherill House, 8 Mint
Walk, Croydon, CR0 1EA or call the Metropolitan Police.
If you’re concerned a rough sleeper needs urgent medical
help, dial 999.
New initiative to help rough sleepers into homes
A council initiative providing specialist housing for some of the
borough’s most vulnerable rough sleepers will begin by March.
Croydon Council will work with local housing associations, charities and the voluntary
sector to provide one-bedroom flats across the borough and specialist key workers for
up to 18 rough sleepers.
The project, funded thanks to a successful council bid for a £510,000 Government
grant, will initially house 10 people with a history of street homelessness caused by
heavy debt, substance misuse, family breakdown, or significant mental and physical
health problems.
The council has funding to help another eight people in 2019-20.
The scheme is based on the principles of Housing First, where vulnerable homeless
people must only maintain their tenancy rather than meet more detailed criteria.
In return they get to stay in suitable accommodation, receive the help they need and
reduce their chances of returning to the streets.For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk 11
Council homelessness
prevention scheme
wins national award
A groundbreaking council-led homelessness prevention initiative has won second place at the
Guardian Public Service Awards.
Croydon Council was named runner-up Centre in Fieldway has: Food Stops in Coulsdon, Monks Hill and
in the housing category for its Food Stop • prevented 47 rented households from Thornton Heath this winter as part of a
project, which became the capital’s first becoming homeless through early wider council focus on providing more
joint welfare and food club when it began intervention services across the borough through early
in October 2017. • saved members over £22,000 off their help.
Launched with around 30 partner combined bills – each gets £20 of food Gateway works by giving struggling
organisations under the umbrella for £3.50 a week households one-to-one dedicated
name Community Connect, the Food support, including debt management,
Stop provides around 160 struggling • reduced the number of people behind in benefits advice and help to boost their
households with a weekly shop for £3.50; their rent from 22 to zero skills and job prospects.
a jobs club; cookery courses; and help with • helped 38 people into work or training In 2017/2018 alone, the Gateway
household finances, debt management • supplied 5.3 tonnes of fresh discounted approach helped more than 2,400 families
and skills training from Croydon Council’s food, including fruit and vegetables, avoid homelessness, gave budgeting
Gateway service. meat and dairy support to more than 14,900 people and
Since launching for 100 members, The council’s Gateway service has improved the digital skills of more than
so far the scheme based at The Family also begun plans to launch three more 4,700 people on Universal Credit.
Council in double pledge for tenants’ rights
Croydon Council has reintroduced lifetime social tenancies in its own housing stock - and
become the first local authority to back a national campaign to ban private landlords from
evicting tenants without a reason.
As of 9 October, Croydon Council has removed fixed-term elsewhere and free the property up for others.
social tenancies that are reviewed every five years. Also in October Croydon become the first council to
Now anyone who signs a new tenancy contract with the publicly support the #EndUnfairEvictions campaign, joining
council will have an open-ended assured contract, meaning Generation Rent, the London Renters’ Union, ACORN and
they have a council house for life, as long as they meet the the New Economics Foundation.
usual tenancy conditions. The campaign calls for an end to Section 21 of the 1988
Croydon will continue to offer incentive schemes so Housing Act, which allows private landlords to carry out
residents who no longer need larger homes can downsize no-fault evictions.12 WINTER 2018
£166m approved for Croydon’s Growth Zone
The council has approved £166m for the next phase of the Growth Zone programme,
which will support the £5.25bn regeneration of Croydon’s town centre through essential
improvements to transport and public spaces.
The Growth Zone programme is made up of 46 projects London (TfL)’s Fiveways project; a new and improved West
totalling an estimated £520m, and funding for the next four Croydon Station; greater tram network capacity; significant
years has been agreed as major projects, including the £1.4bn funding for additional bus services and a comprehensive
redevelopment of the Whitgift Centre, continue to progress. programme of bus priority measures to support access to and
Transport plans include committing £20m to Transport for from Croydon town centre.
There will also be improvements to streets including North
End, Poplar Walk, George Street and the Park Lane gyratory.
High-quality streetscaping will be delivered as part of
the Katharine Street, Park Street and Mint Walk projects to
rejuvenate Croydon’s civic centre, creating a new setting for
the Town Hall.
Growth Zone cultural projects will include Croydon Lit,
a lighting plan incorporating a series of temporary and
permanent lighting installations and pieces, which will benefit
the borough’s night-time economy. It will also include work to
develop Croydon’s Music City plan.
The council will contribute total of a £309.9m to Growth
Zone projects, funded by borrowing from the Public Works
Loan Board and will be paid back by business rates.
The remaining £210m will be sourced from local partners
including TfL, the Greater London Authority (GLA) and
funding from section 106 obligations.
New forecasting system helps gritters prepare to hit the road
A fleet of 10 gritters is available to treat the 2,329 roads across Croydon, reacting to
weather reports to treat routes before temperatures start to drop.
Now Croydon Council is using Meteogroup to provide weather flooding with extra checking and cleaning of gullies in high risk
updates and forecasts, react to changing situations and areas and a store of 4,000 sandbags to be deployed if necessary.
proactively monitor the situation in Croydon. Priority routes are often well used, on a bus route, or connect
Last year Croydon Council used 3,261 tonnes of salt on to important locations like schools, hospitals or fire stations.
highways, footpaths and other areas, the equivalent weight of 16 More information on the winter gritting regime, including the
adult blue whales. locations of the 577 salt bins across the borough, can be found
Preparations are also under way to prevent and mitigate online at www.croydon.gov.uk/grittingFor up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk 13
CROYDON REMEMBERS
✦
Croydon came together for a special
church service followed by a parade and
wreath-laying ceremony on Remembrance
Day, 100 years after the end of the First
World War.
Civic leaders, members of the armed forces and faith
leaders attended the special church service at Croydon
Minster on Sunday 11 November.
Around 600 members of the armed forces and
community groups, scouts and guides and members of the
Royal British Legion then paraded along North End to the
war memorial outside the Town Hall.
Mayor of Croydon, Councillor Bernadette Khan, led a
wreath-laying ceremony at the war memorial.
tram derailment remembered two years on
More than 100 people gathered in New Addington on 9 November to mark the second anniversary
of the 2016 Sandilands tram incident.
More than 60 people were injured and seven people lost their
lives in the tragedy - Dane Chinnery, Donald Collett, Robert
Huxley, Philip Logan, Dorota Rynkiewicz, Philip Seary and Mark
Smith.
Introduced by the Mayor of Croydon, Councillor Bernadette
Khan, the short ceremony included a performance by the
Fairchildes and Meridian school choir of Keane’s Somewhere
Only We Know.
The choir has now recorded the song as a charity single,
with proceeds going towards the Blue Light Programme to help
members of the emergency services via the charity Mind.
To download a copy, visit: store.cdbaby.com/
thefairchildesmeridianschoolch14 WINTER 2018
Crime, Mental Health And Jobs
Top Youth Congress Agenda
Crime and safety, mental health, and jobs and opportunities topped the agenda when around 200
young people attended Croydon’s second youth congress.
Delegates aged 10-18 represented 25 Young people quizzed senior leaders the coming year.
primary, secondary and special schools; from the council and police, and youth Last year Croydon’s first youth
pupil referral units (PRUs) and young leaders, on topics from stop and congress saw the launch of the Choose
people who are home-schooled. search to mental health, disabilities, bin Your Future campaign, encouraging
Cacfo, Croydon Police Cadets, collections, school buses, hate crime and young people to make positive choices
CDI (Croydon Drop In), Jus ‘T’ Learning, many more. and raising awareness around their top
Music Relief, Girl Guides Information gathered from the young priorities - crime and safety, and jobs
and the Girls’ Brigade also attended the people will now inform the work of the and opportunities.
October event. council, the police and their partners in Since then there has been a 13%
decrease in knife crime, the council has
had conversations with more than 3,000
young people, and more than 40 young
ambassadors and 100 organisations
have given it their backing.
Choose your
future
Choose Your Future will continue to
support young people and the priorities
they have identified this year.
Youth Congress 2018 was jointly
hosted by Anthony King and local
poet and spoken word artist Shaniqua
Benjamin, with performances from
The BRIT School and Norbury Manor
Business and Enterprise College.
NEW YOUTH ZONE RECRUITS VOLUNTEERS
Legacy, Croydon's new state-of-the-art
OnSide Youth Zone, is preparing to recruit 100
volunteers ahead of its opening next summer.
All the latest vacancies, from club leads to session coordinators,
can be found at www.legacyyouthzone.org
Meanwhile the development continues to take shape down
on Whitehorse Road in Selhurst. The steel frame of the building
has been completed and external cladding and roof coverings are
being added to form a water-tight envelope.
Croydon rap sensation Michael Dapaah recently visited the
site and was delighted with what he saw.
Legacy will open next summer with activities and facilities
including sports (four-court sports hall, gym, martial arts
room, 3G kick pitch), music room with recording suite, arts
room, drama, dance, cookery, enterprise and employability If you have any questions about the Youth Zone, including its offer
opportunities and much more. Visits will cost just 50p. and job opportunities, email enquiries@legacyyouthzone.orgFor up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk 15
Young people in care shine bright at STAR Awards
Croydon Council celebrated the ©Katherine Leedale – STAR award-winners
achievements of children and
young people in care and care-
leavers at the borough’s first
STAR Awards.
More than 90 inspirational nominees
aged 8-24 won awards across 13
categories, ranging from academic
achievement to star sibling, sports star,
inspiring others, personal journey and
many more.
The event at the Hilton, Waddon Way
on 24 October was co-hosted by local
care-leavers Ashleigh Searle and Queenie
Chizea with special guest writer and
broadcaster Lemn Sissay MBE, also a
care-leaver.
Every nominee was invited, and
the foster carers, teachers, social
workers and members of the public who
nominated them. All were winners, and
presented with a certificate and a trophy.
Lemn said: “There is an amazing incredible and they need to be told that.” Last year Croydon Council re-launched
nature that lives inside every person Host Ashleigh said: “The STAR awards its children in care council, giving children
who has been fostered, or adopted or are important because they recognise our and young people in care the opportunity
lived in children’s home, because we have achievements but also bring us together to shape the services they receive, and
experienced something that most people as young people who have a shared published its ‘local offer’ setting out how
cannot relate to. Young people in care are experience.” it will support care-leavers.
Mentoring helps teens turn their lives around
A Croydon-based charity has mentored over 165 of the borough’s most vulnerable young people over
the last eight years, helping to significantly reduce re-offending rates.
Ment4 works alongside the council and Troubled teen Gary’s parents were youth offending service, children’s social
champions the goals of its Choose Your drug addicts and he was placed in care care, schools, pupil referral units and
Future campaign, supporting young at age 6, where he couldn’t use a knife, directly from families.
people to make positive choices. fork or plate, as he had only ever eaten Mentors build close relationships
The charity has helped to reduce from packets. with the young people, monitoring
re-offending from the national and local Unable to read or write, he became positive behaviour change, family
average of over 40% to 13% (locally) for an angry 13-year-old. The care home relationships and educational
the last three years*. supported him, but his fury increased. attendance.
Mentors work with teenagers with The Ment4 mentor talked to Gary Each young person receives an
emotional and behavioural difficulties, while kicking a ball around a park. average of 100 hours of direct contact
at risk of being excluded from school, Their relationship progressed. time, tailored to their needs, over five
going missing and vulnerable to Months later Gary started to talk - months.
exploitation and crime. about nuclear physics. This can include sports, song writing,
Director Peter Stanley said: “One The mentor helped Gary enrol in cookery and conversations, with the aim
of our mottos is that ‘mentoring is like a special needs school and supported of building trust through listening and
panning for gold.’ We help young people his grandmother to house him during achieving goals.
change their focus from the mess they holidays. To find out more contact Peter
are in to the gold that lies beneath. The path was still rocky, but Gary on 07752817882 - www.ment4.org.
Other young people have also made did well in his studies and they are still *Figures from the Youth Justice Board
positive choices, from joining clubs, to in touch. report 2018.
getting jobs and going to university.” Ment4’s referrals come from Croydon16 WINTER 2018
“Fostering is a marathon, not a sprint… but
to be there at the finish is very rewarding.”
Rowan and Laura Hall live in
Shirley with their 10 year-old
daughter, and their foster
daughter, Latia, 17, who came
to them four years ago as
their first foster placement.
Latia had experienced a lot of upheaval
in her young life and the early days were
not without their challenges.
Rowan said: “Latia had been through
lots of foster homes. She wasn’t really
interested in education and used to play
truant from school.”
However, by offering consistent
care combined with firm boundaries in
a warm and supportive home, Rowan
and Laura have been able to bring
unprecedented stability to their foster-
daughter's life.
Laura, Latia and Rowan
Latia has now been with them for four
years and is planning to stay with them
longer, under the ‘staying put’ initiative, “She hasn’t missed a day or been late once. Already it
which helps young people to stay with foster carers into early feels like this is the right career path for her and it is really
adulthood rather than go into independent accommodation. satisfying to see her settled in a job.
And for Rowan it has been incredibly satisfying to watch “She’s also coming to terms with the real world in other
her emerge as a confident, capable and mature young adult, ways - teaching life skills is an important part of fostering,
of whom he and Laura are both rightly proud. and she is doing all sorts of things for herself now.
Focusing on her interests and skills, they have supported “She cooks, she takes care of herself – she has grown up.
Latia into a career path of her choice, and while it is early He added: “She’s still a ‘normal’ teenager of course - she
days, her commitment and enthusiasm mean she is already on tries to push the boundaries, and doesn’t want to clean up her
the road to success. own room – but she’s doing really well.
He said: “We realised that she did not want to stay in “I would most definitely recommend fostering to anyone. It
school long-term and it would be best to help her get into a is challenging and you won’t always feel that you are winning
field that she was interested in, so we helped her to find an the battle – it’s definitely a marathon not a sprint! But if you
apprenticeship with a nursery. are there for the finish, the result is very rewarding.”
Leading children’s charity to promote fostering in Croydon
Leading children’s charity Coram is working with Councillor Alisa Flemming, cabinet member for children,
the council to recruit foster carers who can provide young people and learning, said: “We’re fortunate to have
children and young people with safe, secure and loving hundreds of excellent foster carers offering homes to children
homes. and young people, making an incredible difference to their
Croydon Council looks after nearly 800 children and young lives every day.
people – more than any other London borough and the 17th “We want to meet demand for foster carers now and in
highest number in the UK – with more than 600 children in years to come, and to ensure that all our children and young
foster placements. people are offered the very best quality care.”
Over the next two years Coram will recruit carers Foster carers are offered extensive training and support
for Croydon and also, help the council to set up its own through the council’s foster care team, and an allowance.
recruitment service for the future. For more information visit www.croydon.gov.uk/fosteringFor up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk 17
Croydon residents get first dibs
on new homes
New homes are launching for sale that are only
available to Croydon residents – for a limited
time only.
The first new homes from Brick by Brick, the development
company established by Croydon Council, will be available across
several sites in Upper Norwood, close to the shops, parks and
transport links of Crystal Palace.
The first units are a selection of one, two and three-bedroom
apartments and family houses, designed by award-winning
architects HTA.
Modern in style, the homes benefit from Brick by Brick’s high-
quality construction and interior specification.
The homes include shared ownership units, also known as
'part buy, part rent', which allows the purchaser to buy a share
of a property and pay rent on the rest.
It's designed to help people with small deposits and lower
incomes get on the property ladder.
The remainder are private units for sale, available with Help
to Buy, where purchasers put down as little as 5% deposit on a
newly-built home, and get access to a fee-free government loan
for up to 40% of the purchase price.
More information on this scheme is available at
www.helptobuy.gov.uk
If you are a Croydon resident, you can register your interest
at www.bxbdevelopment.com - or you can call the Brick by
Brick sales team on 020 7539 3745. Site viewings can be booked
from mid December 2018.
Brick by Brick’s new sales suite, at 62 George Street in central
Croydon, will be open in early 2019 and will include a mock-up of
an apartment with their interior fit-out.
Sales assistants will be on hand to talk through the range of
Brick by Brick homes which will become available over time.
£61m grant to build council homes
Croydon Council has welcomed a major grant from the Mayor of London’s new council
homebuilding programme.
The council has received £61m from City Hall’s £1bn ‘Building Croydon is already building council homes in the borough.
Council Homes for Londoners’ programme, which is dedicated to Council-established developers Brick by Brick (BxB) currently
building more than 11,000 new council homes. have planning consent on around 40 sites, which will provide
The grant funding awarded to Croydon will provide 888 1,036 new homes, of which 498 (48%), will be affordable.
affordable housing units. Croydon Affordable Homes will be letting homes on the sites.18 WINTER 2018
CIVIC AWARDS RECOGNISE CRO
Unsung heroes from across the WINNERS an outlet for their energy and
positive influences.
community were recognised at Business in the
a glittering awards ceremony Community: Don’t Mess With
organised by the council in October. Clive Campbell Croydon – Take Pride:
The annual Mayor of Croydon Civic Awards, at Clive selflessly Graham Mitchell
the Hilton Hotel, Croydon, celebrated those who set up Croydon Graham’s
go the extra mile to help others and make their FM, attracting determination to
borough a better place. local DJs, keep Thornton
presenters Heath clean and
There were smiles, cheers, and tears of
and aspiring green inspires
happiness as 11 winners were announced from the
producers from all walks of others. He acted
29 nominees who were all invited to the event.
life. Committed to creating as liaison between the council
Mayor of Croydon councillor Bernadette Khan,
opportunities for the and residents during their Don't
said: “We have many special people who selflessly community, the project helps Mess campaign and raised
devote their time to making this borough a better local people take first steps in the profile of clean and green
place. They are all heroes and we celebrate them an industry which is not easily locally, personally delivering
as individuals and organisations who only want to accessible, and also gives 5,000 leaflets. Graham also
improve things for others. They manifest the very potentially at-risk youths a organises regular clear-ups of
best of Croydon.” creative outlet. Norbury Brook and Thornton
The evening was hosted by local resident and Heath Rec.
compere Anthony King, with councillor Hamida Ali, Contribution to Sport
cabinet member for safer Croydon & communities. and Healthy Living: Fairer Croydon:
There was entertainment from the Croydon- Cre8 Croydon Independent
based London Mozart Players (LMP); dance group Football Visitors – Volunteer
Company of Dreams who work with women Group
Cre8 Football
recovering from trauma; and the Jam Bus Djembe
is dedicated to This
Kings, from Ecclestone Primary School, who
giving children group is
rehearse on a bus paid for by singing sensation
in Croydon the comprised
Ed Sheeran. opportunity to develop new skills of 65
Council employee and DJ Julie Brickley from - regardless of social standing, volunteers
Club Soda, an organisation led by people with gender or race. Affordable aged
learning disabilities, closed the night. to all, sessions are extremely between 18 and 80 - each
Organised by Croydon Council, the event was popular, with one attended by supporting a child or teenager
made possible thanks to sponsors Mulalley, Axis, over 90 children each week. in foster care. The volunteers
Brick by Brick, Croydon Partnership and Hilton. They provide young people with become a friend, and a stableFor up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk 19
OYDON’S COMMUNITY HEROES
and positive influence during a difficult Stronger Together: South in any way she can. Her commitment
time in their lives. These relationships Norwood Community Kitchen to the hospital, staff and patients is
change lives – reducing some of the unwavering as she supports patients
The kitchen supports
disadvantages for children in the care who need help, comfort and company
those in need, with food,
system. - often those who are seriously ill with
company, support and
no visiting family.
laughter for all. After just
Good Neighbour: a year it attracts 30-40
Marley King people a week who come Voluntary Group of the
Marley is a street together to share food. For some, this is Year: The Lions Society
champion and was their only chance to chat to others, have This small group of
involved in the a nutritious meal and enjoy a positive volunteers raises
installation of play community experience. awareness of, and
equipment near brings solutions to, knife
her block of flats and arranging a Young Achiever of the Year: crime in and around
community picnic, which encouraged Sophia Abby Yosef Moreau Croydon. They have
the elderly to socialise with neighbours. made a difference to many young
Sophia, 23, is an activist,
She is organising a coffee morning and people’s lives - particularly young
campaigner, mother and
is involved in a regeneration project males who have been misguided –
carer. She has worked as
- great community work to combat through mentoring, outreach work
an equality and diversity
isolation. and organising a community peace cup
advocate at Croydon
event attended by over 200 people.
College, a researcher for
Outstanding Contribution Croydon Community Against Trafficking
to Foster Care: (CCAT), has lobbied parliament for The Mayor’s Lifetime
Christine Austin student maternity rights and is launching Contribution Award:
Christine has been a Croydon branch of Sisters Uncut. Kim Bennett
fostering for over 31 The winner of the
years. Her kind heart Volunteer of the Year: Mayor’s Lifetime
and wisdom has helped Patricia Goonetilleke Contribution Award,
children develop better Patricia has dedicated Kim Bennett, received
attitudes, supported the last 21 years to the accolade for
them through grieving and other tough volunteer at Croydon dedicating nearly two decades to CDI
times, and prepared them for future University Hospital, (Croydon Drop In), a charity that helps
lives. She is passionate about making tirelessly helping young people who need safe, flexible
sure every child gets the best care and thousands of people support and counselling.
achieves all they can.20 WINTER 2018
Keep warm
and keep well
this winter
Winter weather and snow can be fun but the cold weather, combined with fewer hours
of sunlight, can make some of us feel poorly.
Here are a few top tips to help you stay in the best health
when it’s cold outside:
Keep warm - Heat your home to at least 18°C (65°F).
Keep your bedroom window closed at night as breathing in
cold air can increase the risk of chest infections.
Get financial support – Grants, benefits and advice
are available to make your home more energy efficient,
improve your heating or help with bills.
Look after yourself – Get your free flu vaccination -
check if you are eligible at www.nhs.uk/flu Treat colds and
sore throats quickly. Wrap up warm and wear shoes with
a good grip. When indoors, get up regularly, stretch your
legs and make yourself a warm drink.
Check on others – Look out for older neighbours or
relatives. Make sure they’re warm enough, especially at
night, and have stocks of food and medicines.
Get more winter wellness advice at www.nhs.uk/staywell
Do you qualify for free food and vitamin vouchers?
Families in Croydon are being encouraged to apply for Healthy Start
vouchers for free food and vitamins.
Pregnant women and families who when they are 10 weeks pregnant and Parents
receive certain benefits, and have a free vitamin tablets. need to
child or children under the age of four, • Pregnant women under the age of 18 apply to
can use the food vouchers for fresh or are entitled to Healthy Start vouchers receive the
frozen fruit and vegetables, and fresh or - whether they are on benefits or not. vouchers
formula milk. • Families with a baby under one and vitamins.
The free vitamins are specifically receive two food vouchers per week Application forms
designed for pregnant and breastfeeding worth £6.20. and information are
women, and growing children, to boost available online, from health visitors,
• Those with a child or children
their immune system and aid healthy children’s centres, the Job Centre and
between one and four, can get one
development. Access Croydon on Mint Walk.
£3.10 voucher per child per week.
The vitamins are available in exchange Check if you qualify on the Healthy
Pregnant women with a child under
for vouchers from children’s centres and Start website www.healthystart.nhs.
one and another under four could
some health centres. uk/do-i-qualify
receive an extra £12.30 per week.
For more information, visit
Benefits for those who qualify include: • Children between six months and www.croydon.gov.uk/beststart or
• A pregnant woman is entitled to food four years are also entitled to free email - healthystart@croydon.gov.uk
vouchers worth £3.10 per week from vitamin drops.For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk 21
Follow top British athletes and represent
Croydon in the London Youth Games
There is still time to sign up
to follow some of Britain’s
most famous athletes by
representing Croydon at the
London Youth Games.
The games, which are Europe’s largest
youth sports festival, involve young
people from across all 33 London
boroughs competing against each
other in more than 30 different events,
including eight Paralympic sports.
Croydon, who last won the games
in 2012, have so far competed in cross
country, the first event of the 2018
games, and are in 14th place overall. Luol Deng © Keith Allison
And there is still time to be involved,
with events taking place across London London Youth Games and Croydon The games are open to all young
over the next eight months, culminating athletes taking part in the games have people aged between seven and 18
with a festival of sport at Crystal also gone on to big things. who either live or study in Croydon.
Palace National Sports Centre next Two-time NBA All-Star Luol Deng, To be a part of Team Croydon,
July. represented Croydon in basketball young sportsmen and women are asked
Olympic legend Sir Mo Farah as a youngster, as did Olympic gold to register their interest online at
represented his own borough in the medallist Tasha Danvers. www.croydon.gov.uk/lyg
New year, new you - kick-start
2019 with positive intentions
The joys of Christmas will soon be with us and after indulging in those festive
treats, many residents will begin thinking about healthier habits for the New Year.
The JustBe Croydon health website for The advisors motived Croydon They also gave Josephine
residents can motivate you to tackle resident Josephine Andrews to quit information to read that would aid
those common challenges at the start smoking. her quitting journey and helped her to
of the year like losing weight, eating Josephine (left) tackle obstacles she may encounter
better, stopping smoking and drinking wanted to give up that could stop her achieving her goal.
less alcohol. for her own health Josephine is now smoke-free. Her
You can get started by taking a short and to benefit her breathing is better as well as her taste
health MOT at www.JustBeCroydon. family. and smell. Josephine said: “It’s best to
org/health-checker and get a The Live Well remain positive.
personalised report to help improve your advisors set SMART “You will save a lot of money, your
lifestyle throughout the months ahead. goals with her, which house will smell nice - and your house
Croydon Live Well advisors based included setting a quit date for her paint will stay the same colour.”
at health hubs around the borough are to work towards, and helped her to Find out how Croydon’s Live
also available to support you to meet select appropriate smoking cessation Well advisors can help you at www.
your goals. medication. justbecroydon.org/just-live-well22 WINTER 2018
STAY SAFE OVER THE FESTIVE SEASON
While many shift their focus to celebrations at this time of year, emergency services are often
busier than ever. Do what you can to stay safe and enjoy the holiday season.
Our BeSafe campaign highlights simple violence advisors (IDVA’s) and specialist christmastree.
things you can do to keep your home support agencies. If you are in an Finally, we have had a really busy
secure and safe from burglaries. Visit abusive relationship or concerned about year across London and though I’m
www.met.police.uk, search #BeSafe someone else, contact us on 101 at pleased that in Croydon we have
on Twitter or contact your local Safer any time. Visit www.met.police.uk for seen progress, I know that 2019 will
Neighbourhood Team at www.met. information, and links to other agencies bring just as many challenges. Our
police.uk/a/your-area should you wish to seek help from commitment to making London the
Christmas can be particularly another source. safest city has not wavered and we
difficult for some, and we take I’d like to encourage you to help us hope with your support next year we
allegations of domestic abuse very spread some festive cheer to children will be even closer to that reality.
seriously, whatever the time of in need through the Met’s Christmas I wish you a safe festive period and a
year, working with our partners and Tree Appeal. Gifts will be given to Happy New Year.
communities to safeguard victims, children, currently being cared for
and bring perpetrators to justice. All
Croydon’s frontline officers now get
by foster parents, in residential care
homes, in refuges, in hospitals, or from Jeff Boothe
additional specialist training in domestic low-income families, and delivered Chief Supt Jeff Boothe
abuse, and our investigators work before Christmas Day. Find out more or South BCU Commander for
closely with independent domestic donate online at www.met.police.uk/ Croydon, Sutton and Bromley
Croydon shortlisted Beverly Walker with Trevor Ashby,
chair of the Shrublands Trust
for tackling hate crime
The Safer Croydon Partnership (SCP) was
shortlisted for an award for its work to tackle
hate crime and antisocial behaviour on a
housing estate.
Croydon was a finalist for this year’s Problem Orientated
Partnership Award, which credits good work between the police
and communities.
The awards are run by the Metropolitan Police, Transport for
London (TfL) and the Mayor of London. The task force monitored noise levels; carried out regular
The nomination followed the attack on Kurdish Iranian Reker weapons sweeps; deployed CCTV cameras; and clamped down
Ahmed on the Shrublands Estate in Shirley last year, which left on vehicle crime and drink-driving.
him fighting for his life. The police met weekly with residents at the coffee shop,
Residents condemned this crime and worked with police, deterring youths from congregating and increasing trust with
council teams, businesses and local groups to tackle crime and the community.
antisocial behaviour. Council teams and Croydon Works staff supported
Beverley Walker manages the Shrublands Trust, which runs vulnerable young people.
the Shrublands Advice and Coffee Shop, providing computer The number of concerns reported has dropped by more than
lessons, a craft club and food bank. 70%, and residents say young people no longer congregate and
She said: “I knew a lot of the young men that were getting intimidate people.
into trouble, and wanted to help turn things around.” Beverley said: “The work that’s been done has had a positive
A zero-tolerance approach led to arrests for crimes including effect on where we live, but we still need to build better
robbery, handling stolen goods, shoplifting and disorder. community relations and to have more activities for the old and
Trespass notices barred offenders from the estate. young to get involved with.”You can also read
