Work on a makeover to cement South End's reputation as Croydon's restaurant quarter will begin next week.

Outdoor dining space, widened paths and cycle parking are among improvements included in a Croydon Council redesign.

Financed using Croydon's £23m of the Mayor's regeneration fund, the work is intended to boost trade and make South Croydon a go-to destination.

The makeover will create pockets of public space along South End and Selsdon Road, providing restaurants and cafes the opportunity to spill out onto the street, while the road will be narrowed to encourage slower driving.

New pavements will be laid, trees will be planted and new seating areas created.

Kit Malthouse, deputy mayor for business and enterprise said: "We're providing significant investment to improve South End to make it a go-to destination, attracting new visitors to the range of fantastic cafes, restaurants and shops in the area and boosting trade.

"This money will ensure that South End can compete with other recently regenerated areas in the capital."

Coun Jason Perry, cabinet member for planning, regeneration and transport, said: "Croydon is rightly very proud of South End as its hugely successful restaurant quarter.

"These improvements to the streets and public space aim to build on this success, creating a fitting platform for the many exciting and diverse eating and drinking establishments it is home to."

The work, beginning next Monday, is scheduled for completion by Christmas. Details of road closures are not yet available.


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