A historic market in Croydon is set for a major transformation.
Croydon's Surrey Street Market, one of the UK’s oldest with roots dating back to the 13th century, will soon undergo a revitalisation through a £4.4 million investment.
The 'Amplifying Surrey Street' project was developed through a co-production approach led by Croydon Council, in partnership with the Surrey Street Action Group, which includes residents, traders, businesses, and community organisations.
The project forms part of the council’s wider growth and regeneration plans for the town centre and is supported by £3 million from the Croydon Growth Zone, a joint initiative between the council and the Greater London Authority.
It also includes an £814,000 capital grant from the Mayor of London’s Civic Partnership Programme.
Nicky Selwyn, a Croydon resident and member of the Surrey Street Action Group, said: "I love the vibrancy and diversity of Surrey Street and the great range of shops and produce available – but it is a bit tired.
"I hope this project will inject new life into the area, celebrating its history while also securing a bright future."
She said: "Every single member can feel their opinion matters, is heard, respected and valued.
"Amplifying Surrey Street is true co-production at its best."
The new vision aims to create a welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment through six key aims and projects that will shape improvements to the market and surrounding streets.
Plans for the market will be unveiled at a public launch event on Saturday, March 7, from 11am to 3pm at the Market.
Jason Perry, executive Mayor of Croydon, said: "We are proud to be helping Surrey Street thrive as a historic and welcoming part of Croydon’s transforming town centre.
"This new vision for the market celebrates its heritage and sets out clear plans to invest in its future – for shopping, culture, and community.
"We hope the vision will inspire and encourage local people to get involved and work together, to develop projects that make a lasting difference."
The project will include infrastructure upgrades for traders and visitors, planting of new greenery, and the activation of empty units with cultural uses.
Plans also include a new visual identity for the area, co-produced with local people, and improvements to the market’s south entrance, with improvements being made as soon as spring 2026.
Surrey Street Market is located within the Central Croydon Conservation Area and The Old Town Masterplan.
It holds a Royal Charter dating back 750 years, though Croydon Council revealed that many residents were unaware of the market’s long history.
The council intends to make this heritage more visible through the project.
Jules Pipe, deputy Mayor for planning and regeneration at the GLA, said: "The Amplifying Surrey Street project will revitalise the area, celebrating its history whilst making it suitable for future generations to live, work and play.
"I am delighted the Mayor of London’s Civic Partnership Programme is able to play a part in this transformation, while giving local people a key role in shaping how their city grows as we continue to build a better, fairer London for all."
Beyond its commercial significance, Surrey Street has served as a springboard for new businesses and is rooted in grassroots creativity, music, and performance.
Early actions will include upgraded facilities for traders and visitors, environmental improvements, and reactivating vacant premises for cultural uses.
The event will take place on-site at Surrey Street Market between 11am and 3pm.
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