Proposed block in Croydon could block view of iconic 50p building

By Tara O’Connor, Local Democracy Reporter

Croydon residents are worried that views of the town’s iconic 50p building could be blocked if new flats are built.

Councillors in Addiscombe West are are urging residents to object to plans for nearly 500 flats.

It would see the office block City Link House in Addiscombe Road knocked down to make way for a new 28-storey development.

Plans were submitted in July 2021 but were amended at the end of October.

This includes the removal of one affordable flat and changes to the entrance of the building.

In a statement, Addiscombe West councillors say that the new block would overshadow Number One Croydon, known as the 50p building.

Designed by Richard Seifert and Partners and completed in 1970, it used to be known as the NLA Tower.

The statement reads: “Number One Croydon is Croydon’s most iconic building, and over the last 50 years, has become one of Croydon’s most recognisable landmarks, visible from all quarters of Croydon.

“This proposed 28-storey building at 92 metres threatens all this, especially as it will loom over the 81 metre tower.

“For those who use East Croydon Station, the sight of Number One Croydon coming into view announces one arrival in the Town Centre.

“The proposed building will loom over Seifert’s NLA Tower, smothering its looks and ruining one of Croydon’s key Townscapes.

“This 1960s building needs protection from being surrounded by taller, blander buildings. Due to its small size, we know Citylink House is ripe for redevelopment, but we argue that any new building should be smaller and subservient to the NLA Tower.”

In a planning application, developer Fifth State says that the closed proximity to the 50p building was “sensitively considered”.

It adds: “Our proposal ensures that it sits comfortably opposite the distinctive staggered octagons and jagged silhouette of No. 1 Croydon but does not compete with No. 1 Croydon’s significance.”

The councillors are also concerned that the flats on offer would be too small.

Flats in the block will be between 21 to 34 square meters big and have a bed, small living room, kitchenette and en-suite bathroom.

The building would then include spaces for working, kitchens, private dining spaces, a gym, yoga studio and cinema.

The application from Fifth State reads: “Shared living is a flexible new way of renting, combining private units with amazing shared spaces.

“Shared living is for everyone and is an alternative to traditional house shares, taking components of multiple house-shares and combining them across one building – hugely improving the range, size and quality of shared spaces and living standards.”

The plans have so far received 150 public objections.