South London neighbourhood to get 20 million in funding under government scheme

"A quiet corner of Croydon is set to receive 20 million over the next decade as part of a government initiative to support some of the country's most overlooked communities. Residents of New Addington North are now being asked to decide how the money should be spent. During a visit to New Addington, the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) spoke to residents about the areas most in need of support."

"Kirsty Pearce, a member of the voluntary group New Addington Pathfinders, said the ward has suffered from years of underinvestment, leaving parts of the community feeling run-down. I think some of the funding should go towards improving the Wayside shopping area with better lighting and upgraded CCTV, she told the LDRS. There have been gang issues there, so improved lighting and surveillance are really needed."

"Security is a key concern for many. Richard Salami, who has lived in the area for ten years, said: I think the money should be spent on more security on the high street, as shoplifting happens a lot around here. That's what we need most. The closure of the local police station was another common worry, with residents lamenting the lack of a visible police presence. One resident of 30 years said: You'd definitely like to see a police presence, especially with all this shoplifting."

New Addington North is set to receive £20 million over the next decade to support local improvement projects. Residents are being asked to decide how the funding should be spent. The ward has suffered years of underinvestment, leaving parts run-down and security concerns high. Locals prioritise better lighting and upgraded CCTV in the Wayside shopping area and improved lighting around Croydon's Play Place youth facility to protect children. Shoplifting and the closure of the local police station have reduced visible policing and confidence. Cuts to youth services and the closure of a boxing club site have reduced activities for young people, and many lack local amenities without car access.

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