The Croydon Council meeting held on Monday 20 July 2026 addressed a wide range of issues, including the adoption of the Safer Croydon Partnership Community Safety Strategy 2026-2029, which was approved following amendments proposed by the Labour Group. The Council also reviewed the Health and Wellbeing Annual Report 2025 and agreed proposed updates to its Terms of Reference.

Key decisions made during the meeting included the approval of the Safer Croydon Partnership Community Safety Strategy 2026-2029, which builds on previous progress in tackling crime and antisocial behaviour through partnership working and a zero-tolerance approach. The Council also agreed to adopt the updated Webb Estate and Upper Woodcote Village Conservation Areas Appraisal and Management Plan (CAAMP) as a Supplementary Planning Document, superseding the 2007 version. Furthermore, the Health and Wellbeing Board's Annual Report 2025 was noted, and proposed updates to its Terms of Reference were approved, including the addition of a resident voice group and primary care representative.

Safer Croydon Partnership Community Safety Strategy 2026-2029 Adopted

The Council formally adopted the Safer Croydon Partnership Community Safety Strategy 2026-2029. This strategy aims to make Croydon safer by focusing on three key priorities: tackling violence against women and girls, improving youth safety, and addressing crime and antisocial behaviour in high-priority neighbourhoods. Executive Mayor Jason Perry highlighted that overall crime has fallen by 4%, with significant reductions in personal robbery, knife crime, and residential burglary. The strategy emphasizes partnership working with the Metropolitan Police, voluntary sector organisations, and community groups. Labour Group amendments, focusing on support for local businesses and stronger recognition of equality impact assessments, were incorporated into the final strategy.

Updated Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan Approved

The Council adopted the updated Webb Estate and Upper Woodcote Village Conservation Areas Appraisal and Management Plan (CAAMP) as a Supplementary Planning Document (SPD). This document supersedes the 2007 version and provides detailed guidelines for development within these areas, aiming to conserve and enhance their special architectural and historic character. The updated CAAMP was developed following extensive consultation with residents, community groups, and statutory consultees. While the initial feedback indicated some concerns, amendments were made to address misunderstandment, particularly regarding Article 4 Directions. The document aims to provide clarity for applicants and officers, ensuring development is sympathetic to the area's character.

Health and Wellbeing Board Annual Report Noted and Terms of Reference Updated

The Council noted the Health and Wellbeing Board's Annual Report for 2025, which detailed work undertaken across key priorities including mental health, cost of living support, healthy neighbourhoods, and support for children and families. The report highlighted progress in integrated neighbourhood teams, preventative services, and community partnerships. The Council also approved proposed updates to the Health and Wellbeing Board's Terms of Reference, which include the addition of a resident voice group and a primary care representative, aligning with national priorities and strengthening place-based working.

Annual Treasury Management Review and Audit and Governance Committee Terms of Reference Approved

The Council reviewed and approved the Annual Treasury Management Review for 2025/26, noting compliance with CIPFA codes of practice and agreed prudential and treasury indicators. Additionally, amendments to the Audit and Governance Committee's Terms of Reference were approved, strengthening its oversight of internal audit, treasury management, and risk management arrangements in line with updated national standards.

Special Urgency Decisions Reported

The Council received a report detailing decisions made under Special Urgency procedures between December 2025 and June 2026. These included extending the electricity and gas supply contracts for the Council and granting a new lease for the Crystal Palace Development Centre. The report also outlined decisions exempt from the call-in process, such as the Regina Road regeneration project and the lease for the Crystal Palace Development Centre, citing reasons of urgency and commercial sensitivity.

Questions to the Executive Mayor and Cabinet

During the Question Time session, councillors raised concerns on various topics including agency staff spend, support for local businesses, road safety measures, library services, and the impact of national policies on local services. Executive Mayor Jason Perry addressed these questions, outlining the Council's plans and ongoing work in these areas. The meeting was extended to accommodate the volume of questions.

Other Business

Due to time constraints, the maiden speeches item and council debate motions were deferred to a future meeting. The Council also noted that there were no urgent changes to be made by any groups regarding appointments.