Canning & Clyde Road Residents Association

Croydon Gateway Site

Our response printed in Croydon Guardian on 1 June to councillor's letter of 18 May

Thanks to Councillor Dennis for his reply to our letter about the
Arrowcroft proposed arena development at the East Croydon Gateway site (Letters 4 & 18 May). The fact that he does not answer any of the questions is unfortunately what we've grown to expect from the council.

We were pleased, however, to have his assurance that,

'the council remains committed to the early comprehensive development of the Gateway site in a fitting manner that will bring jobs, homes and leisure facilities for Croydon residents'.

Good. Will the council therefore please consider the Stanhope proposal, which will provide Croydon with four and half acres of green space, a wonderful new purpose-built home for the Warehouse Theatre and much more sustainable development besides? We understand Stanhope already has at least one major company wishing to take large amounts of office space in its development provided it can be done quickly - exactly what Councillor Dennis requires. The Arrowcroft scheme would require lengthy and expensive compulsory purchase. Yes, we are aware that an addition to the original Stanhope scheme mentions an arena. This does not affect their original, excellent scheme and Stanhope's arena is UNDER HALF THE SIZE of that proposed by Arrowcroft.