Policy information sourced from the Croydon Local Plan

SP1: The Places of Croydon

Sustainable development

SP1.1:

When considering development proposals, the Council will take a positive approach that reflects the presumption in favour of sustainable development contained in the National Planning Policy Framework. It will always work proactively with applicants jointly to find solutions which mean that proposals can be approved wherever possible, and to secure development that improves the economic, social and environmental conditions in the area. Planning applications that accord with the policies in this Local Plan (and, where relevant, with polices in neighbourhood plans) will be approved without delay, unless material considerations indicate otherwise. Where there are no policies relevant to the application or relevant policies are out of date at the time of making the decision then the Council will grant permission unless material considerations indicate otherwise – taking into account whether:

  • Any adverse impacts of granting permission would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, when assessed against the policies in the National Planning Policy Framework taken as a whole; or
  • Specific policies in that Framework indicate that development should be restricted.

Place making

SP1.2:

The Council will require all new development in the borough to contribute to enhancing a sense of place and improving the character of the area, whilst acknowledging the need for growth:

  • Development proposals should respond to and enhance local character, the heritage assets and identity of the Places of Croydon; and
  • Development proposals should be informed by the 16 Places of Croydon (refer to Section 11 - The Places of Croydon), the Borough Character Appraisal and other place-based evidence.

Growth

SP1.3:

Growth in homes, jobs and services that constitutes sustainable development will be welcomed; provided growth is directed to places with good concentrations of existing infrastructure or areas where there is capacity to grow with further sustainable infrastructure investment within the plan period to 2036. Croydon Opportunity Area will be the primary location for growth, including approximately a third of the borough’s residential growth, with the Places of Waddon, Purley, Broad Green & Selhurst, Thornton Heath and Coulsdon accommodating medium and moderate residential growth (see the Key Diagram).

SP1.4:

The Council will seek to encourage growth and sustainable development and to manage change, so as to create a network of connected, sustainable, high quality, locally distinctive, healthy places.

For more information please see the Local Plan