Croydon’s Town Centre Taskforce has removed benches from North End following repeated reports of antisocial behaviour, helping to restore safety and improve the retail environment.
Benches in part of Croydon’s busy North End shopping area have been removed in response to concerns over persistent antisocial behaviour, in a move welcomed by local businesses and supported by the Croydon Town Centre Taskforce.
The action follows multiple complaints from shop owners and visitors who reported large groups gathering at benches, engaging in disruptive behaviour – including alcohol misuse – which deterred shoppers and obstructed public walkways. Croydon Business Improvement District (BID) helped coordinate discussions between traders, the council, and police, which ultimately led to the decision.
Outreach teams were deployed to engage with those involved before the benches were removed, offering support and interventions to reduce disruptive behaviour. According to officials, plenty of seating remains in the area for shoppers and those in need of rest.
Shaun Webster, Director of Operations at Croydon BID, said:
“Unfortunately, seating in this part of North End had become a hotspot for persistent antisocial behaviour. This was having a negative impact on nearby businesses and deterring customers from the area.
Through ongoing discussions with Croydon Council and the local taskforce, businesses felt their concerns were finally being heard. The decision to remove sections of the seating has made a real difference. The area now feels noticeably calmer and more welcoming – a much better environment for staff, customers and trade.”
Croydon’s Town Centre Taskforce – a multi-agency partnership including Croydon Council, local police, community groups and Croydon BID – has spent the past year tackling a range of urban issues including unauthorised encampments, damaged infrastructure, and litter in key public areas. Its work supports Executive Mayor Jason Perry’s commitment to making the borough “cleaner, safer, and healthier for everyone”.
Mayor Perry said:
“We want to ensure that everyone can enjoy our town centre and feel safe while in North End. It is a shame that a few people were consistently being antisocial, which was affecting our businesses and those walking past these groups. The areas where the seating has been removed is now a lot more pleasant.”
Alongside enforcement, the taskforce is also investing in outreach – offering tailored support to rough sleepers and young people vulnerable to becoming involved in antisocial activity.
