Purley Pool saga takes step forward after plans given green light from council

The Purley Pool saga has taken another step forward after Croydon council approved developers’ planning application for the redevelopment of the site.

On Friday night the local authorities planning committee approved plans for a new leisure centre on the Purley Pool site, and the regeneration of the surrounding area.

The leisure centre, which has been closed to the public since March 2020, has been a key priority for Mayor Jason Perry since taking office almost three years ago.

But, in June 2023, Mr Perry admitted he could not reopen the pool in its existing state, citing cost concerns. Before closure, the leisure centre was running at a loss of £150,000 a year and would have cost more than £3million to refurbish.

It was then announced that developer and leaseholder, Polaska, would take over the redevelopment, leaving ownership and management of the facility to the council.

The British Virgin Islands-registered Polaska held a public consultation in June 2023, to gauge public opinion on the proposals.

The consultation saw residents raise issues around parking at the new facility. Plans for the pool initially offered zero parking spaces, in line with Mayor Sadiq Khan’s London Plan for car-free developments. 

Croydon council received a planning application from Polaska in March 2024. 

Their proposals included a new leisure centre, a later living housing scheme with 180 homes and a care home, and a new public square.

The regeneration of the surrounding area will include a new public square, enhanced public realm and a pedestrian route connecting Whytecliffe Road South and the High Street.

Since the initial application was submitted, the proposals have been revised to include 10 per cent affordable homes and an increase in public parking spaces from 50 to 74.

Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon, said: “I remain committed to bringing a pool back to the heart of Purley, to make it easier for local people of all ages to enjoy healthy, active lifestyles.

“I welcome this decision by the Planning Committee, which brings us closer to seeing a leisure centre being delivered, as well as much-needed regeneration for the High Street. I look forward to continuing to work with Polaska as it brings the scheme forward.”

The proposal will now go to the Greater London Authority for consideration, before a decision on the application is formally issued.

Pictured top: A CGI image of the regeneration plans for the area surrounding Purley Pool (Picture: Polaska)