Croydon is back on track and our town centre is moving forward again.
A planning application has now been submitted for a major refresh of Centrale Shopping Centre, a clear vote of confidence in Croydon’s future and another important step in the regeneration of the town centre.
The proposals have been brought forward by Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield, owners of Centrale and the Whitgift Centre. They set out a series of significant improvements to the North End entrances and façade, creating a brighter, safer and more modern environment at the heart of Croydon.
A Town Centre That Feels Welcoming Again
The plans include:
- New glass frontages to open up and modernise the entrances
- A large digital screen to add energy and animation
- Enhanced lighting to improve safety and atmosphere
- The removal of hidden colonnades along North End, replacing them with attractive, contemporary shopfronts
This is about more than cosmetic change. It is about restoring pride in our borough and creating a town centre that residents feel confident using, businesses feel confident investing in, and visitors feel confident returning to.
Building Momentum in North End
These upgrades form the first phase of URW’s wider Masterplan Framework for the North End Quarter, reimagining it as a vibrant destination for retail, culture, public space and new homes.
We are already seeing momentum build. The former Allders building has come back to life, with new shops and food outlets opening in Allders Parade. This latest application signals that further progress is on the way.
Council-Led Regeneration Underway
This private investment sits alongside major Council-led improvements that are now visible across the town centre.
The transformation of Wellesley Road, George Street and Dingwall Road is nearing completion, delivering safer crossings, greener public spaces and better connections. This spring, we will also carry out targeted street cleaning and decluttering from West Croydon station to North End, alongside new wayfinding signage to help people explore Croydon’s retail, heritage and cultural destinations.
Step by step, we are rebuilding confidence.
Respecting Our Heritage, Investing in Our Future
North End has always been central to Croydon’s story. From the historic Whitgift site to the grand façade of Grants, this area reflects our proud past. But regeneration is about ensuring that our future is just as strong.
Executive Mayor of Croydon, Jason Perry, said:
“Croydon is changing. We are becoming a brighter, more welcoming town centre that honours our heritage while looking confidently to the future.
I welcome this application for Centrale as part of the wider North End masterplan. It supports growth, attracts investment and shows that confidence in Croydon is returning. We have achieved a great deal in the past four years, but there is more to do. We will continue to stay focused on restoring pride in our borough and keeping Croydon moving forward.”
The planning application will now be considered by the Local Planning Authority and residents can submit comments via the Council website.
Centrale will remain open throughout the first phase of improvements.
Croydon is back on track. And this is just the beginning.
