The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, today approved a major development which will give a major boost to long-term plans to regenerate Croydon town centre.

The redevelopment of the Whitgift shopping centre by the Croydon Partnership – a joint venture between Westfield and Hammerson – will create 7,000 jobs, deliver nearly 1,000 new homes, and provide the local community with brand-new leisure facilities and rejuvenated public spaces.

More than half-a-million square metres of shops and restaurants will be built, alongside space for future student accommodation or a hotel.

Sadiq gave the project the green light after it was approved by Croydon Council’s planning committee.

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “Today marks a crucial step forward in the regeneration of Croydon town centre.

“This development will play a key role in unlocking the borough’s potential and is set to deliver huge economic benefits to residents and businesses in the borough.

“As well as the creation of 7,000 jobs and the delivery of almost 1,000 new homes, it will also attract many visitors to its brand-new leisure facilities and public spaces. I’m confident the benefits of this scheme will be felt for generations to come.”