Upon reflection, Croydon may not immediately be associated with Hollywood glamour. Regrettably, it has been the subject of ridicule in popular media. Nonetheless, what is frequently overlooked is the town’s significant influence and contributions.
Residents of South London will recall The Bill being filmed in Croydon and Mitcham, with Apollo House being a prominent location in the popular show Peep Show. Additionally, the Whitgift Centre garnered recognition for its appearances in the IT Crowd. Notably, Croydon has served as a backdrop for major films such as The Da Vinci Code, The Dark Knight Rises, and Black Mirror’s Bandersnatch. Furthermore, it was transformed into 20th-century Istanbul for The Long Walk. The town boasts a vibrant high street, reliable transport connections, and local talents like Stormzy and Raye, leading one to question why Croydon’s appeal as a filming location is not more widely recognized.
MyLondon, as part of its London365 initiative, recently explored central Croydon with a view to highlighting the town’s forgotten allure. The citywide project seeks to address the most pressing issues facing London’s residents while celebrating each of its unique neighbourhoods.
The decline of Croydon Town Centre’s retail sector has contributed significantly to its current state of obscurity. St George’s Walk remains partially obscured by scaffolding, and the ambitious plan to revitalize Centrale and the Whitgift Centre by introducing a Westfield development has encountered delays, resulting in the deterioration of these two shopping establishments.
The impact of this decline is evident among locals, such as Abdul and Jade, who have witnessed the once-bustling high street transform into a desolate area. Abdul has observed the diminishing vibrancy and multiculturalism of the town, with large chains supplanting local businesses. Meanwhile, lifelong resident Jade has noticed a decline in commercial activity, prompting her to seek out alternative shopping locations.
Despite these challenges, Croydon’s executive mayor, Jason Perry, has announced intentions to introduce a Westfield development to the town by 2025. However, until then, Croydon Town Centre may continue to falter, though its Hollywood connections serve as a poignant reminder of its forgotten allure.
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