Public consultation has just begun on the strategy to develop Croydon over the next 20 years.

The ‘Core Strategy’ is the borough’s most important planning policy document. It will ensure Croydon has the homes, shops, jobs, schools, health and other facilities it needs over the next two decades.

Formal consultation continues until 21 March and includes four public events in different parts of the borough to give residents the opportunity to have their say and ask questions.

Meetings will be held between 10am and 3.30pm at the Maple Room, Fairfield Halls on February 27, Christchurch Hall, Brighton Road, Purley on March 6, Phoenix Community Centre, Westow Street, Upper Norwood on March 13, Selsdon Hall, Addington Road, Selsdon on March 20.

Councillor Jason Perry, cabinet member for planning and conservation said: “Only residents really understand what makes Croydon so special to them. We want a core strategy that expresses clearly what every resident recognises as Croydon and what they want for its future. That is why it is so important for local people to comment on the draft document during the consultation period.

“What came through, loud and clear from across the borough is that residents want Croydon to be a place of opportunity, a place to belong and a place with a sustainable future. I believe this has been captured in the draft strategy - but it’s for local people to confirm this.”

For more information visit the website: www.croydon.gov.uk/corestrategy , email LDF@croydon.gov.uk or call the Policy & Strategy team on 020 8407 1385.

The council has also set up a consultation portal: http://consult.croydon.gov.uk and has a Facebook group - ‘Croydon - Third City’.