Published Wednesday 1 July 2026. Croydon Council says planning permission has been granted for changes to College Green, the public space between Fairfield Halls and Croydon College.

The site is not in Norbury, but the decision may matter to Norbury residents who travel into central Croydon for college, culture, shopping, work, council services or onward transport.

According to Croydon Council’s newsroom, the approved plans are intended to create a greener public space with areas for play, relaxation and informal gatherings. The council says the scheme is part of its wider town-centre regeneration programme.

What is proposed

The council says the redesigned space will provide a more welcoming route between Fairfield Halls and Croydon College. The official announcement describes the plans as including green space, trees, play areas and pathways.

Croydon Council also says the design was shaped after engagement including a public exhibition, an online survey, workshops with Croydon College students and discussions with community groups.

Why the site has local history

The council links College Green to the historic Fair Field, which was associated with the Walnut Fair, later known as Croydon Fair. The Gazette has not independently verified the full history of the fair, so readers interested in the heritage angle should check Croydon’s local history resources and any council planning documents.

How it is being funded

Croydon Council says the project is funded through Croydon’s Growth Zone, described by the council as a business-rate uplift retention funding mechanism used for infrastructure and regeneration in the town centre. The council says Growth Zone projects are delivered with support from partners including the Greater London Authority and Transport for London.

What Norbury residents should watch for

  • Future construction dates and any temporary changes around Fairfield Halls, Croydon College or nearby walking routes.
  • Updates on access for students, families, visitors and people travelling through the town centre.
  • Whether linked public-realm schemes affect journeys from Norbury into central Croydon by bus, rail or tram.
  • Planning documents, if residents want to check the precise approved layout and conditions.

This article is based on Croydon Council’s official newsroom announcement and is a local explainer for Norbury readers. Residents should check the council’s live pages for the latest details before making travel or access plans.

Source: Croydon Council Newsroom.