As 2022 draws to a close, I want to thank our council staff, residents, businesses and valued partners for their help and support in my first months as Mayor.
It has been a truly momentous year. In June, we came together for a historic event as we celebrated Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee. Families, friends and neighbours celebrated at more than 140 street parties across Croydon, as together we marked the 70th anniversary of her reign.
Just three months later we came together again to share our sadness at her passing, with thousands visiting Croydon Town Hall to sign our Book of Condolence. Crowds lined Katharine Street to witness the Proclamation of King Charles III, and it was great to see residents of all ages take huge pride in this historic event.
In the past 12 months we have seen the very best of Croydon – our people, their fantastic community spirit and resilience. It has been an honour and a privilege to serve you as Mayor and I look forward to continuing in the new year. Even as we tackle the council’s serious financial challenges, we have made some important strides in rebuilding our council and restoring pride. We have brought investment and opportunities to our town, from working with local arts partners to deliver London Borough of Culture 2023, to successfully bidding for government funds to kickstart our regeneration and improve parks and district centres.
Finally, I want to say a special thank you to everyone working over the festive season to keep essential services running and to help everyone stay safe and well – particularly our council staff, partners in the emergency services and volunteers. Although our hours of operation will change during the Christmas break, we are here to provide vital services and you can find information and advice on our website. I know this time of year can be challenging for some, and you can find mental health and wellbeing support and also help with the cost of living on our webpages. Don’t struggle alone – help is at hand.
Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year – have a great holiday and hopefully a rest – I look forward to working with you all in 2023.
Jason Perry
Executive Mayor of Croydon
Mayor’s Christmas card designed by Ibrahim, year 1, Purley Oaks Primary School.
Dear residents,
Wishing you a Merry Christmas
and a Happy New Year!
Mayor Jason Perry
Executive Mayor of Croydon
