Croydon market traders cite safety fears amid 750th anniversary

Traders at Croydon's historic Surrey Street market have expressed anxieties regarding public safety, warning that persistent anti-social behaviour risks deterring shoppers. The market, which recently marked its 750th anniversary with a royal visit, faces calls for enhanced security and council assistance to maintain its customer base.

Jose Joseph, a fruit and vegetable stallholder, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) that customer confidence is directly linked to market safety. "If it's not safe, the customers won't come," he stated. His concerns were amplified by an incident during the market's anniversary celebrations where a man reportedly lashed out and spat at traders and shoppers. The LDRS also witnessed this incident.

Three calls were made to the police regarding the incident. A single officer attended the scene, removed the man, and referred him to social services. Joseph described this response as indicative of inadequate security, stating, "When we need them, there are no police. We need more police in the market."

Shoppers echoed some of these safety worries, with one anonymous customer noting familiarity with such incidents at the market's Church Street entrance. "You never know what you are going to get at this end of the market," the shopper said, mentioning frequent issues with intoxicated individuals. These concerns are part of a broader pattern of crime and anti-social behaviour previously reported on Surrey Street.

Market improvements and trader feedback

While the market's 750th anniversary was celebrated with events and a visit from the King, some traders feel improvements are insufficient. Kathy Gillam, a trader of 36 years, noted that most reported anti-social behaviour occurs near the Church Street entrance. She highlighted communication issues with Croydon Council regarding planned changes to lamp posts used for stall electricity and expressed dissatisfaction with the rejection of proposals for sturdier, permanent stalls. Poor drainage on her side of the street also leaves traders standing in puddles after rain.

Croydon Council is funding market enhancements through its £4.4m Amplifying Surrey Street project. This initiative includes £3m from the Croydon Growth Zone and an £814,000 grant from the Mayor of London's Civic Partnership Programme. The project has already seen a new gateway installed at the southern entrance, with plans for a second gateway, increased greenery, vacant unit reactivation, and cultural events.

However, both Gillam and Joseph suggested the improvements do not fully address the market's needs. Gillam argued that inadequate lighting diminishes the visibility of the new gateway, while Joseph felt the council missed an opportunity to incorporate the market's founding year, 1276, onto the structure to highlight its historical significance.

Green councillor Paul Ainscough, representing Fairfield ward, acknowledged the anniversary's significance and called for further improvements for market traders, describing Surrey Street as a potential "jewel in Croydon town centre."

A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police stated their commitment to reducing anti-social behaviour and improving quality of life. They confirmed targeted patrols and activities in Croydon, including the use of live facial recognition, and acknowledged that further action is required in collaboration with local authorities.

What happens next

The Amplifying Surrey Street project is ongoing, with further proposals for greenery, vacant unit use, and cultural events. Croydon Council has been approached for further comment regarding trader concerns and future plans for the market.