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Croydon Council: High salary for finance chief
This week in Croydon:
Council Appoints New Corporate Director of Resources Amidst Recruitment Challenges
The Appointments & Disciplinary Committee met on Friday, 24 April 2026, to make a critical appointment to a senior leadership role within the council. The committee agreed to a salary package for the new Corporate Director of Resources, a position described as vital for managing the council's finances, especially during a period of significant financial support needs.
High Salary Package for Key Financial Role
The committee approved a salary package for the Corporate Director of Resources (S151) that includes a base salary of £169,403 per annum, plus an additional occupational scarcity allowance of £30,000 per year. This allowance was deemed necessary due to a shortage of qualified candidates in the market for such a role, as advised by the executive search consultant, Ransley Boardman. The role has been evaluated under the Hay job evaluation scheme as Director Grade 5.
Elaine Jackson, Chief Executive, emphasised the critical nature of this role, particularly in overseeing the council's overall budget. She noted that filling the interim position had been challenging, highlighting the difficulties in recruiting for the permanent role. Penny Ransley of Ransley Boardman confirmed that recruiting permanent staff in London is extremely difficult, with candidates often more focused on their current local authority's financial issues than seeking new roles. Dean Shoesmith, Chief People Officer, added that without the scarcity payment, attracting candidates would be difficult, and even if attracted, they might not remain in post due to higher salary levels elsewhere.
Election Timing Questioned
Councillor Stuart King raised a question regarding the timing of the recruitment for this role before the upcoming election, while recruitment for Chief Executive roles was scheduled to take place afterwards. Penny Ransley explained that potential Chief Executive candidates are more likely to apply after an election when the composition of the council is clearer.
The committee resolved to agree the salary package and to proceed with the selection and appointment to the post. This decision directly impacts the council's ability to manage its finances effectively, which in turn affects the delivery of services to all residents, particularly vulnerable groups who rely on council support.
Croydon Council: Meeting rules changed, recorder appointed
This week in Croydon:
Council Procedure Rules Overhauled to Streamline Meetings and Enhance Scrutiny
The General Purposes Committee met on Tuesday, 14 April 2026, to approve significant changes to the Council Procedure Rules (CPRs). These amendments, designed to make council meetings more efficient and inclusive, will be put before the full Council for final approval. The changes aim to ensure that council business is conducted more effectively, particularly in the lead-up to the upcoming local elections.
Sharper Debates and Fairer Questioning
A key focus of the revised CPRs is to improve the way questions are handled and debates are conducted. The total allocated time for oral questions to the Executive Mayor and Cabinet will increase, but speaking slots will be managed more tightly. A notable change is the introduction of a limit of one written question per member per meeting, with a maximum of 35 questions accepted. These written questions will be published in advance, and responses will be provided before the meeting, allowing members to ask supplementary questions or pose new ones. This aims to ensure more questions are addressed and that debates remain focused.
Councillor Sean Fitzsimons, Chair of the General Purposes Committee, highlighted the goal of these changes: to make the meeting sharper, more to the point, and give great opportunities for all councillors, and especially backbenchers, time to hold the Elected Mayor and Executive to account.
The committee also agreed to a review of the handling of question time, including written questions, within six months of implementation. This ensures that the new rules can be adapted based on practical experience.
Other Procedural Adjustments
Beyond question time, several other procedural aspects have been refined:
- Public Petitions: Speaking slots for the Administration and Main Opposition groups have been reduced to improve time management.
- Council Debate Motions: The allocation of motions will be based on political proportionality over a four-year term, with a total of 40 motions available.
- Reports Moved for Debate: Speaking slots for debating, amending, or referring back reports will also be allocated based on political proportionality.
- Council Tax and Budget Meetings: Provisions have been made for public questions at these meetings, with an extended time of 30 minutes for questions to the Executive Mayor and Cabinet Member for Finance.
- Shadow Cabinet: The rules have been updated to allow the Shadow Cabinet to comprise members from more than one opposition group and to ensure its size is proportionate to the Cabinet.
- Leader of the Opposition: Clarification has been added to address scenarios where two opposition groups may be of equal size.
The committee also agreed to empower the Chair with discretion to manage time effectively, including the ability to reduce a member's allocation if they are taking too long to pose a question. This aims to prevent lengthy speeches disguised as questions and ensure all members have a fair opportunity to contribute.
The proposed changes aim to create a more dynamic and accountable council meeting environment, benefiting both councillors and the public who observe or participate in council business.
Link to General Purposes Committee meeting
Council Appoints Honorary Recorder and Approves Procedural Rule Changes
The Council met on Wednesday, 15 April 2026, to formally appoint His Honour Judge Edward Connell as the Honorary Recorder of the London Borough of Croydon and to approve significant changes to the Council Procedure Rules. The meeting also marked the end of the municipal year, with several councillors delivering valedictory speeches.
His Honour Judge Edward Connell Appointed Honorary Recorder
In a unanimous decision, the Council appointed His Honour Judge Edward Connell as the Honorary Recorder of Croydon. This ceremonial role, traditionally held by the Resident Judge at Croydon Crown Court, signifies the strong ties between the judiciary and the borough. His Honour Judge Connell, who took up his post as Resident Judge earlier this year, brings extensive experience from his career at the criminal bar. The appointment is unpaid and ceremonial, aiming to foster understanding and strengthen the relationship between the legal system and the local authority. The Council also thanked His Honour Judge Michael Evans KC for his service as the previous Honorary Recorder.
Streamlined Council Procedure Rules Approved
Following the recommendations from the General Purposes Committee, the Council approved changes to the Council Procedure Rules (CPRs). These amendments, developed by a cross-party Constitutional Working Group, are designed to make council meetings more efficient and inclusive. Key changes include a revised approach to written questions, speaking rights, and the allocation of motions, all aimed at making debates sharper, more to the point, and give great opportunities for all councillors, and especially backbenchers, time to hold the Elected Mayor and Executive to account.
Councillor Sean Fitzsimons, Chair of the General Purposes Committee, expressed optimism that these changes would lead to more engaging and productive council meetings.
Valedictory Speeches Reflect on Decades of Service
The meeting concluded with a series of heartfelt valedictory speeches from councillors stepping down after many years of service. Councillors shared reflections on their time in public office, highlighting personal achievements, community impact, and the sacrifices of public life.
Councillor Maria Gatland, who served for 24 years, spoke of her work in Children's Services and her pride in initiatives like Precious House, a children's home. Councillor Alisa Fleming reflected on the personal toll of public service and celebrated achievements such as the London Living Wage Council and support for young people. Councillor Mario Creatura, after 12 years, shared anecdotes from his casework and thanked his family for their support. Councillor Sherwin Chowdhury, with two decades of service, including as Mayor, spoke of his commitment to social justice. Councillor Fatima Zaman expressed her honour in serving her ward, and Councillor Callton Young OBE highlighted his work on removing discriminatory policies and his cabinet role in financial governance. Councillor Stuart Collins, the longest-serving councillor with 33 years of service, reflected on his cabinet roles in Culture and Sport, and Clean and Green Croydon, and made a passionate plea for Captain Sensible to be granted the Freedom of the Borough.
The Leader of the Opposition, Councillor Stuart King, and Executive Mayor Jason Perry, along with Civic Mayor Councillor Richard Chatterjee, offered votes of thanks, acknowledging the collective 173 years of service from departing Labour councillors and the significant contributions of all retiring councillors.
Housing Assurance Board Addresses Voids, Aids, and Adaptations Backlog
The Housing Assurance Board met on Monday, 13 April 2026, to review performance reports, discuss the backlog of aids and adaptations, and address issues within allocations and complaints handling. The board also discussed the implementation of a new status on a page
reporting method to streamline information flow.
Tackling the Voids and Aids/Adaptations Backlog
A significant concern raised was the increasing average void turnaround time, which has risen to 55 days. A plan to address this includes consolidating void management, improving contractor efficiency, and refining allocation processes. The board also focused on aids and adaptations, noting that while 93 adaptations have been completed, a backlog of 123 registered cases remains. To improve this, a new procurement process for specialist contractors will be implemented in May, aiming to have new contractors in place by September. A dedicated housing officer will also focus on clearing the backlog. The board discussed the use of Disabled Facilities Grants (DFG) for council properties, with a commitment to adapting approximately eight to nine properties per year.
Allocations and Complaints Handling Updates
The Allocations and Lettings report highlighted that 101 out of 708 allocations were for care leavers, a figure attributed to a significant number of unaccompanied minors arriving in the borough in previous years. The council is implementing a protocol with children's services and housing to support care leavers into their first accommodation.
The HAB Complaints Update revealed a substantial increase in stage one complaints. While managers are meeting HR timescales for complaint resolution, two severe maladministrations occurred at the end of the financial year. The board discussed the upcoming transfer of stage two complaints handling from the corporate team to housing, emphasizing the need for a smooth transition.
The board agreed to adopt a status on a page
reporting method, suggested by Interim Chief Executive Elaine Jackson, to provide concise updates on ongoing issues. This aims to streamline information flow and provide assurance to the board without requiring lengthy reports.
Link to Housing Assurance Board meeting
Appointments & Disciplinary Committee Continues Director Recruitment
The Appointments & Disciplinary Committee met on Tuesday, 14 April 2026, to continue its work on recruiting for key director-level positions. The meeting focused on the interview process for the Director of Culture and Community Safety role, with the latter part of the proceedings held in private to allow for confidential discussions.
The minutes from the previous meeting on 31 March 2026 were approved. The committee's work is crucial for ensuring that the council has experienced leadership in place to manage vital public services.
Croydon: Homes, extensions and local impact
This week in Croydon:
Planning Decisions: New Homes and Extensions Under Scrutiny
The Planning Committee and Planning Sub-Committee met on Thursday, 9 April 2026, to consider several planning applications that will shape our neighbourhoods. These decisions have a direct impact on housing availability, local character, and the environment.
New Dwellings and HMO Conversions Proposed
The Planning Sub-Committee reviewed proposals for new residential developments, including a new dwelling at 19 Downsview Road, Upper Norwood, SE19 3XD. While the initial report recommended granting permission, concerns were raised by neighbours regarding scale, privacy, and drainage. Amendments to the scheme were made, leading to one ward councillor withdrawing their referral.
Another application considered was for a single-storey rear extension and a first-floor side extension at 26 Lonsdale Road, South Norwood, SE25 4JJ. This also included the conversion of a six-bedroom House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) to a seven-bedroom HMO. Ward councillors had referred this application due to concerns about over-intensification, neighbour amenity, and parking. Despite amendments, including a reduction in occupancy, objections remained, highlighting the delicate balance between increasing housing supply and protecting the quality of life for existing residents.
A third application involved householder extensions at 245 Violet Lane, Croydon CR0 4HN. This proposal included a wraparound extension, a first-floor rear extension, and a side extension. The application had generated significant objections from residents and ward councillors, who raised concerns about character, design, neighbour amenity, and traffic impact. Specific worries were voiced about the potential impact on the Presbytery of St. Dominic's Catholic Church, a locally listed heritage asset.
The decisions made by the Planning Committee and Sub-Committee directly influence the character of our streets, the availability of housing, and the potential for increased pressure on local infrastructure and services. These applications often involve complex considerations, balancing the need for development with the preservation of amenity and the environment.
Link to Planning Committee meeting Link to Planning Sub-Committee meeting
Other Matters
The General Purposes Committee and Appointments & Disciplinary Committee are scheduled to meet next week. The Audit & Governance Committee and Scrutiny & Overview Committee meetings have been cancelled. The Cabinet will also meet next week to discuss further council business.
Croydon: New licensing, EV charging, roads
This week in Croydon:
Council Extends Highways Contract Amidst Environmental Enforcement Drive
This week, Croydon Council's Scrutiny Streets & Environment Sub-Committee met to discuss crucial updates on the council's highways maintenance contract and its ongoing efforts to combat environmental crime. The committee also reviewed the council's financial performance.
Highways Maintenance Contract: A Year's Extension
The committee received an update on the highways maintenance contract with FM Conway. The current contract, initially awarded in 2018, is proposed for a further one-year extension, taking it to September 2027. This extension is conditional on negotiating further savings and performance improvements with FM Conway. The council is using this extended period to prepare for a new procurement process, aiming to award a new contract in summer 2027.
Concerns were raised about the quality of pothole repairs, with assurances given that new contract specifications will be more robust. Discussions also covered the maintenance of gullies, with plans to improve programming and potentially clear them during road resurfacing. The council is exploring new ways to address blocked gullies, including the possibility of lifting vehicles if necessary. The Highways Capital Programme for 2026-27 includes significant funding to address backlogs in gully cleansing.
The council believes this extension poses no significant risks and will allow for proper planning and de-risking of the procurement process for a new contractor. While improvements in Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) have been noted, the council is seeking further enhancements and the ability to assign financial penalties for quality failures.
Environmental Crime: A Zero-Tolerance Approach
The committee also heard about the council's strengthened approach to environmental crime, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy and a move towards an intelligence-led, proactive model. This includes increased enforcement capacity, the introduction of a Community Compliance Team, and enhanced data intelligence. The Love Clean Streets
app is now integrated with Veolia, allowing for direct dispatch of crews to clear fly-tips.
Significant efforts are being made to address fly-tipping, with the council being proactive in clearing incidents. The council is also increasing its CCTV coverage, with 19 cameras deployed on housing estates and five mobile cameras in hotspot locations, with plans to procure five more. A new environmental enforcement webpage, tentatively named Dump Busters,
is being developed to publicise ongoing investigations and seek public assistance.
The council is also working to improve trade waste compliance through a digital process and collaborating with housing colleagues to address waste issues on estates. The effectiveness of CCTV is being reviewed, with a focus on unmarked vehicles for covert surveillance and the use of images to identify offenders.
Financial Performance: Projected Underspend
The committee reviewed the Period 8 Financial Performance Report for the 2025-26 financial year. The report indicated a forecast underspend of £25.7 million for the General Fund revenue budget, an improvement of £1.3 million since Period 7. This underspend is contributing to the council's Stabilisation Plan targets. The council is forecast to achieve £26.3 million of its Stabilisation Plan target and £21.8 million of its Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) savings.
The report detailed variances across different directorates, with the Sustainable Communities, Regeneration & Economic Recovery directorate forecasting an underspend of £0.6 million. This underspend is partly attributed to savings in street lighting costs, which have been achieved through changes to LED lanterns and extended periods of reduced light brightness.
Cabinet Approves New Property Licensing Schemes and EV Charging Strategy
The Cabinet met on Wednesday, 25 March 2026, to approve significant new schemes aimed at improving housing standards and promoting sustainable transport. The decisions have direct implications for private landlords, tenants, and all residents looking to embrace electric vehicles.
Private Sector Property Licensing: Raising Standards for Tenants
The Cabinet unanimously approved the implementation of a new selective licensing scheme across 14 wards and a borough-wide additional Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licensing scheme. This move is designed to tackle poor housing conditions, ineffective management, and anti-social behaviour within the private rented sector.
The schemes, which will be self-funded through licence fees, will require landlords to meet clear conditions on safety and management, from gas and electrical compliance to tackling overcrowding. Councillor Lynne Hale, Cabinet Member for Homes, emphasized that the schemes are evidence-led and targeted, aiming to protect vulnerable residents and create a level playing field for responsible landlords. While the selective scheme covers 14 wards, the council has stated that all wards will be kept under review, and statutory powers will continue to be used where necessary.
Electric Vehicle Charging Strategy: A Fairer Network for All
The Cabinet also unanimously approved the commencement of a public consultation on Croydon's draft Electric Vehicle Charging Point Strategy. This strategy aims to expand the borough-wide EV charging network, ensuring it is fair, accessible, and meets growing demand. With over 400 public charging points already in place, the strategy outlines a plan to increase this to around 4,200 by 2035.
Executive Mayor Jason Perry highlighted that the strategy aligns with his business plan for a cleaner, safer, and healthier borough. Councillor Scott Roche, Cabinet Member for Streets and Environment, stressed the focus on fairness, ensuring all parts of Croydon benefit from improved charging access, and a blended delivery model to maximise private investment. The strategy will guide the placement of charging points, prioritising areas with high demand and limited off-street parking, and will be shaped by public consultation.
Highways Capital Programme: Increased Investment in Road Maintenance
The Cabinet unanimously approved the 2026/27 Highways Capital Programme, totalling £17.6 million – an increase of £5 million from the previous year. Councillor Scott Roche emphasized the programme's focus on planned maintenance to reduce future costs and improve road quality. The programme includes investment in resurfacing, patching, drainage, flood alleviation, and bridge maintenance, aiming to make roads safer, more reliable, and resilient.
Financial Performance: Continued Underspend
The Cabinet noted the Period 9 financial performance report, which indicated a forecast General Fund underspend of £26.2 million against the 2025-26 budget. Councillor Jocelyn Cummings, Cabinet Member for Finance, highlighted the council's continued financial control and close management of budgets, noting that many other London boroughs are forecasting overspends. The report also confirmed a forecast underspend in the General Fund capital programme and a break-even position in the Housing Revenue Account. The financial impact of the recent decision to remove Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) was discussed, with a refund scheme now live.
Croydon Council: Health, Pensions & Housing Updates
This week in Croydon:
Health and Social Care Under the Spotlight: From Business Plans to Preventative Deaths
This week, the Scrutiny Health & Social Care Sub-Committee met to review the Executive Mayor's Business Plan, focusing on how health and social care services are working to keep residents healthier and safer. They also examined the council's response to reports that aim to prevent future deaths, and heard from Healthwatch Croydon about how residents' views are shaping adult social care.
Progress on Health and Adult Social Care Priorities
The Sub-Committee reviewed progress against the Croydon Executive Mayor's Business Plan 2022-2026, specifically looking at how the council is supporting residents to lead healthier and independent lives for longer.
This includes efforts to promote independence and safety, and to reduce health inequalities by working with health services and the voluntary, community, and faith (VCFS) sector.
Key initiatives discussed include:
- Resident Voice: The Croydon Adult Support Service Users Panel has been reformed into a resident voice group, actively shaping procurement tenders.
- Reablement Services: A pilot programme is moving to business as usual, with plans for borough-wide expansion to help people regain independence after illness or injury.
- Integrated Care: Croydon is participating in the National Neighbourhood Health Implementation Programme, establishing Integrated Neighbourhood Teams to coordinate care.
- Mental Health Support: The borough is working with the South West London Integrated Care Board on a cross-borough Mental Health Strategy and has refreshed its Multi-Agency Self-Harm and Suicide Prevention Strategy and Action Plan 2025–2028.
The report highlighted the adoption of the new Adult Social Care and Health (ASCH) Strategy for 2026-2030, which was informed by extensive engagement with over 850 residents. This strategy aims to provide more joined-up services and improve resident health outcomes.
Pension Fund Navigates Audit Challenges and Medium-Term Planning
The Pension Committee met on Tuesday, 17 March 2026, to address the financial health of the Croydon Pension Fund. A key concern was the audit findings for the 2024/25 financial year, which resulted in a disclaimer of opinion due to national audit timetables and prior year challenges. This means the auditor could not provide a definitive opinion on the financial statements.
Funding Strategy and Audit Concerns
The committee adopted the Fund's Funding Strategy Statement (FSS), a crucial document outlining how pension liabilities will be met. This statement is reviewed every three years as part of the triennial valuation process. While the consultation with employers on the draft FSS was generally positive, the audit report for the 2024/25 financial year highlighted several disclosure misstatements and management recommendations. This situation underscores the ongoing need for robust financial controls and accurate record-keeping to ensure the long-term security of pensions for council employees.
Medium-Term Business Plan and Operational Updates
A draft Business Plan for 2026-2029 was presented, outlining the Fund's strategic direction and work programme. The plan acknowledges significant legislative changes impacting pension funds, including proposed regulations on pooling and investment.
Updates on administration performance showed that while most Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) were met, there were challenges with deferred benefit calculations. The team is also working on the McCloud remedy and preparing for upcoming legislative changes that could impact staffing resources. The report also detailed the Fund's investments, showing a market value of £2.17 billion and a quarterly return of 2.7% as of 31 December 2025.
Corporate Parenting Board Focuses on Housing for Care Leavers and Youth Voice
The Corporate Parenting Board met on Wednesday, 18 March 2026, to discuss vital support for children in care and care-experienced young people. A major focus was on improving housing options and ensuring their voices are heard in shaping services.
Enhancing Housing for Care Leavers
The Board reviewed the progress of the Corporate Parenting Housing Subgroup, highlighting efforts to create a range of housing options and improve standards. This includes:
-
Care Leavers App: Local Offer
: A digital tool to provide information and support. - Croydon House Project: A partnership with the National House Project to develop new housing opportunities.
- Joint Protocol: A commitment to collaboration between housing and children's social care services.
While progress is being made, challenges remain, including managing legacy rent arrears and securing sufficient joint resources to support young people transitioning from temporary accommodation. The aim is to ensure care leavers have access to safe, stable, and appropriate housing.
Amplifying Youth Voice
The Board also received updates from the Children's Participation Team and the Children in Care Council. These groups play a crucial role in ensuring that the views and experiences of children in care directly inform service development and delivery. Initiatives like the 'Amplified by Care Experience' project and training for Independent Visitors are vital for empowering young people and ensuring their rights and needs are met.
Planning Sub-Committee Considers New Housing and Children's Home Proposals
The Planning Sub-Committee met on Thursday, 19 March 2026, to consider two significant planning applications. One proposed new residential dwellings in the rear garden of a property, while the other sought to change the use of two houses into residential care homes for children.
New Dwellings at 1 Oak Gardens
The committee considered a proposal for three new two-storey dwellings on land to the rear of 1 Oak Gardens. The application recommended granting planning permission, subject to a Section 106 agreement that would secure contributions towards sustainable travel and provide car club memberships. While the proposal involved subdividing an existing garden, officers deemed the design and materials appropriate for the area. Concerns raised by residents about overdevelopment and loss of privacy were addressed through recommended conditions, including obscure glazing for windows and the removal of permitted development rights.
Children's Homes on Cobden Road
An application to change the use of 18 & 18A Cobden Road, Croydon SE25 5NX from dwelling houses to two residential care homes for children, each accommodating two children, was also considered. The recommendation was to grant permission, subject to a Section 106 agreement to prioritise local need. Despite the loss of one dwelling, significant weight was given to the identified need for such facilities within the borough. The report detailed how the proposed homes would meet space standards and be regulated by Ofsted. Conditions were recommended to ensure an operational management plan covering security, staffing, and complaints.
Licensing Committee Reviews Cumulative Impact Policy and Street Trading
The Licensing Committee met on Monday, 16 March 2026, to review the borough's Cumulative Impact Assessment (CIA) and consider several street trading applications. The CIA is crucial for managing the density of licensed premises and their potential impact on the community.
Cumulative Impact Assessment Review
The committee discussed the outcome of a consultation on the review of the CIA. Based on updated data and consultation responses, the Licensing Authority maintained its opinion that granting further authorisations for off-licence alcohol sales in cumulative impact areas 1-5 would be inconsistent with licensing objectives. This means that new premises seeking to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises in these areas will face significant hurdles. The committee agreed to this opinion and authorised officers to publish the CIA, which will be incorporated into the Council's Statement of Licensing Policy. This policy directly impacts the availability of late-night refreshment and alcohol sales, affecting the character of local high streets and residential areas.
Street Trading Applications
Four applications for street trading designation and licences were considered:
- 312 London Road, Croydon CR0 2TJ: Application for luggage bags and shopping trolleys.
- 40-42 London Road, Croydon, CR0 2TA: Application for fruit and vegetables display.
- 8 Brigstock Parade, London Road, Thornton Heath, CR7 7HW: Application for luggage bags and shopping trolleys.
- 77-79 Mitchley Avenue, South Croydon, CR2 9HN: Application for tables and chairs outside a restaurant.
For all applications, officers confirmed no objections from responsible authorities, and measures were in place to ensure pedestrian access. These decisions directly influence the vibrancy and accessibility of our streetscapes.
Health and Wellbeing Board Tackles Children's Development, Family Hubs, and Parental Mental Health
The Health and Wellbeing Board met on Wednesday, 18 March 2026, to discuss a range of initiatives aimed at improving the health and well-being of Croydon's residents, with a particular focus on children, young people, and families. Key decisions included noting the progress on the Good Level of Development strategy, the adoption of a new Family Hubs model, and the endorsement of strategies for infant feeding and parental mental health.
Supporting Children, Young People, and Families
The Board received an update on the Good Level of Development (GLD) strategy, which aims to ensure 78.3% of children in Croydon achieve a good level of development by the end of their reception year by 2028. While Croydon is currently at 70.4%, progress is being made, though deeper system change is needed to meet the target. The strategy will focus on areas with lower outcomes, such as Old Coulsdon and Selhurst, and will support parents as their child's first educator.
The Family Hubs Model and Children's Centres report outlined the transition from a 0-5 age range for children's centres to a 0-19 (or 25 with SEND) Family Hubs model. This expansion is supported by £6.2 million in grant funding. The model will feature three main Family Hubs, with outreach hubs based at former children's centres, and information hubs in existing community venues like libraries and GP surgeries. This approach aims to provide a one-stop shop
for families, offering a range of services in accessible locations.
The Infant Feeding Strategy 2024-2029 and Parental Mental Health Strategy 2024-2029 were presented, having already received Executive Mayoral approval. These strategies aim to improve breastfeeding rates, reduce health inequalities, and enhance parental mental health support. Key themes include supporting parents, ensuring they are prepared with information and skilled staff, fostering partnerships across sectors, and creating accessible local services.
An update on the Croydon Health and Wellbeing Survey for School-Age Children and Young People (2024/25) revealed a mixed picture. Positively, students reported an increased sense of wellbeing, with 85% reporting good general health. However, concerns were raised about bullying (28% of pupils) and discrimination (30% of secondary school pupils). Actions are being taken to address these findings, including targeted support for girls' self-esteem and initiatives to combat bullying and discrimination.
Better Care Fund and Public Health
The Better Care Fund 2025-2026 Quarter 3 Submission was ratified, confirming that Croydon is on track to meet all its targets for funding and key performance indicators.
The Director of Public Health Annual Report 2025/26, titled Health is everyone's business,
was noted. The report advocates for a Health in All Policies (HiAP) approach, emphasising that health is shaped by a wide range of factors beyond clinical care, such as housing, education, and the environment. Recommendations include establishing a formal HiAP Framework for Croydon Council and embedding these principles within the One Croydon Alliance.
Corporate Parenting Board - Wednesday, 29th April, 2026 5.15 pm
The Corporate Parenting Board of Croydon Council was scheduled to discuss updates on health and adult transitions for care-experienced young people, alongside a performance report. The meeting agenda also included a review of the Board's terms of reference and updates from the Children's Participation Team and Children in Care Council.
General Purposes Committee - Tuesday, 28th April, 2026 6.30 pm
We have not been able to find a video broadcast of this meeting.
Appointments & Disciplinary Committee - Friday, 24th April, 2026 4.00 pm, NEW
The Appointments & Disciplinary Committee of Croydon Council was scheduled to meet on Friday 24 April 2026. The primary item on the agenda was the appointment to the significant role of Corporate Director of Resources. Much of the meeting was scheduled to take place in private, with press and public excluded.
Audit & Governance Committee - Thursday, 23rd April, 2026 6.30 pm
This meeting has been cancelled.
(due to Pre-Election Period), Cabinet - Wednesday, 22nd April, 2026 6.30 pm
This meeting has been cancelled.
Scrutiny & Overview Committee - Tuesday, 21st April, 2026 6.30 pm
This meeting has been cancelled.
Council - Wednesday, 15th April, 2026 6.30 pm
The Council of Croydon Council met on Wednesday 15 April 2026, with the primary business being the appointment of an Honorary Recorder and the approval of significant changes to the Council Procedure Rules. The meeting also featured valedictory speeches from several councillors marking the end of their terms.
Appointments & Disciplinary Committee - Tuesday, 14th April, 2026 3.30 pm, NEW
The Appointments and Disciplinary Committee of Croydon Council met on Tuesday 14 April 2026. The primary business of the meeting involved continuing interviews for the role of Director of Culture and Community Safety. Following the open session, the committee moved into a private session to conduct these interviews.
, General Purposes Committee - Tuesday, 14th April, 2026 6.30 pm
The General Purposes Committee of Croydon Council met on Tuesday 14 April 2026 to discuss proposed changes to the Council Procedure Rules, aiming to improve the efficiency and fairness of council meetings, particularly in light of potential changes in political composition following the upcoming local elections. Key decisions included the adoption of a politically proportionate approach to allocating speaking time for questions and debates, and the introduction of written questions for the Executive Mayor and Cabinet.
Landlord, Housing Assurance Board - Monday, 13th April, 2026 6.00 pm
The Housing Assurance Board meeting on 13 April 2026 addressed a range of critical housing issues, with a significant focus on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of repairs, void management, and complaint handling. Key decisions included the adoption of a status on a page
reporting system to provide concise updates on various housing initiatives and a commitment to enhancing data collection on resident vulnerabilities.
Planning Sub-Committee - Thursday, 30th April, 2026 7.15 pm
The Planning Sub-Committee of Croydon Council is scheduled to meet on Thursday, 30 April 2026, to consider a planning application for extensions to a property in South Croydon. The meeting's agenda also includes standard procedural items.
Appointments & Disciplinary Committee - Thursday, 30th April, 2026 2.30 pm, NEW
The Appointments & Disciplinary Committee of Croydon Council is scheduled to convene on Thursday, 30 April 2026. The meeting's agenda includes the consideration of an appointment to a senior council role, with a portion of the meeting expected to be held in private.
Planning Committee - Thursday, 30th April, 2026 6.30 pm
The Planning Committee of Croydon Council is scheduled to convene on Thursday, 30 April 2026, to consider a range of planning applications. The agenda includes proposals for new educational facilities, residential developments, and other planning matters.
Annual Council, Council - Wednesday, 27th May, 2026 6.30 pm
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General Purposes Committee - Monday, 8th June, 2026 6.30 pm
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Pension Committee - Tuesday, 9th June, 2026 10.00 am
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Planning Committee - Thursday, 11th June, 2026 6.30 pm
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Planning Sub-Committee - Thursday, 11th June, 2026 7.15 pm
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Scrutiny & Overview Committee - Tuesday, 16th June, 2026 6.30 pm
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, Health & Wellbeing Board - Wednesday, 17th June, 2026 2.00 pm
This meeting has been postponed.
Key decisions
Regina Road Regeneration Project - Compulsory Purchase Order Key
Executive Mayor · 12 Mar 2026
Regina Road Redevelopment – Award of Design and Build Contract to Main Contra... Key
Corporate Director of Housing · 12 Mar 2026
Recent Developments relating to Croydon Healthy Neighbourhood: Low Traffic Ne... Key
Executive Mayor · 9 Mar 2026
CYPE Strategic Transformation Partner Award Report Key
Corporate Director of Children, Young People & Education · 2 Mar 2026
Liberty Create Low Code Platform Procurement Strategy Key
Cabinet Member for Finance · 19 Feb 2026
WEBB ESTATE AND UPPER WOODCOTE VILLAGE CONSERVATION AREAS APPRAISAL AND MANAG... Key
Cabinet · Expected 24 Jun 2026 (in 55 days)
Cabinet · Expected 24 Jun 2026 (in 55 days)
Highway Maintenance Term Service Contract – Procurement Strategy Key
Cabinet · Expected 24 Jun 2026 (in 55 days)
Temporary Accommodation Charging Policy Key
Cabinet · Expected 24 Jun 2026 (in 55 days)