Croydon Council reviews Whitgift Centre regeneration plans
Developer Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield proposes up to 4,000 homes and new public spaces.
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Croydon Council is currently scrutinising pre-application plans for the regeneration of the Whitgift Centre. The developer, Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW), acquired the ageing shopping centre, along with Green Park House and parts of the Allders building, in July for £31.5m. The proposed redevelopment aims to transform the site into a mixed-use area featuring residential units, green spaces, and public amenities.
Residential and Public Space Proposals
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Early proposals from URW include the development of between 3,000 and 4,000 homes. These would be housed in a series of residential towers varying in height from 12 to 45 storeys, alongside lower-rise blocks. The plans also incorporate a new public square, provisionally named 'The Forum', which is intended to accommodate events for up to 2,000 people. Additionally, a new green space, tentatively called Whitgift Park, is part of the scheme. Adam Smith, URW's strategic development director, stated that a residential-led model is necessary for the project's financial viability, as reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
During discussions with a council committee, Smith indicated that while some housing would be expensive to balance the project's finances, affordable housing options would also be included. The meeting also addressed the heritage impact on the locally listed 1960s Centre Tower and considerations for pedestrian routes.
Next Steps for the Development
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Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield has indicated its intention to submit a formal outline planning application in 2027. The council's review of the pre-application plans will inform the developer's submission and any subsequent decision-making process.
Questions this report answers
+What is planned for the Whitgift Centre site?
Plans include the development of up to 4,000 homes in residential towers ranging from 12 to 45 storeys. The scheme also proposes a new public square named 'The Forum' for events and a green space called Whitgift Park.
+Who is behind the Whitgift Centre regeneration?
The regeneration is being led by developer Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW). URW purchased the Whitgift Centre, Green Park House, and parts of the Allders building for £31.5m in July.
+When will a formal planning application be submitted?
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield has stated its intention to submit a formal outline planning application for the Whitgift Centre regeneration in 2027. Croydon Council is currently reviewing pre-application plans.
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