A consultation event to establish a strategy for the regeneration and future economic development of Croydon was hailed a success last week after more than 90 local representatives attended.

Business leaders, council representatives, and residents gathered at Addington Palace on Tuesday, November 20, to take part in the Regeneration Chapter Consultation event, which aimed to create a framework for the borough's economic development over the next five years.

The consultation event was organised by the Croydon Partnership, to develop a blueprint for establishing Croydon as the economic powerhouse of the South East. The delegates were provided with research which stated that residents see Croydon as a good place to live, but that problems like crime, litter, health care, traffic congestion and lack of job opportunities need to be tackled.

Break out groups were then held where discussions on possible solutions to Croydon's problems were sought. The outsider's image of Croydon was highlighted as something that needed to be tackled. And the problem of key workers being unable to afford property in the borough was also highlighted.

Inward economic investment emerged as a key priority to help provide job opportunities and support new business ventures. Further improving the town's transport links would help the economy and arrival of the Underground to West Croydon in 2006 is seen as a major step.

o Focus on district centres, and maintenance of village life'

o Affordable housing for key workers like nurses and police.

o Youth: Sports and leisure facilities need to be improved to offer alternatives to drinking; skills training needs improving

Chris Hughes said: "The event was a real success because we had people from all walks of life in Croydon, who got very involved and made a valuable contribution."

November 28, 2001 14:00