Croydon
Planning & Building Contacts

Around 35 conservation areas include historic suburban areas such as Addiscombe, South Croydon and Coulsdon. Green Belt covers the southern part of the borough. The town centre is a Major Opportunity Area with tall building potential zones designated in the Local Plan. The tram network creates Transport for London consultation requirements for development near stops and the track corridor. Purley and Coulsdon have significant suburban residential character with active planning enforcement.

Building regulations approval is required for most structural work, extensions, loft conversions, new windows and heating system changes. You may use either the council's own building control service or a private Approved Inspector. For listed buildings, building control must be coordinated with Listed Building Consent requirements.

Croydon's heritage assets are spread across the borough rather than concentrated in a single area. Addington Palace (Grade II*) and its grounds are among the most significant. The old town around Croydon Minster has medieval origins. Around 35 conservation areas protect suburban streets, local centres and former estates. The borough has a moderate number of listed buildings, primarily concentrated in historic village centres and pre-war suburbs. Listed Building Consent is required in addition to planning permission for any works to a listed building that would affect its special architectural or historic interest, including internal works.

Flood risk in Croydon is associated with the River Wandle and its tributaries, and with the River Caterham Bourne which caused significant flooding in Coulsdon and Caterham. Properties near the Wandle in Mitcham Road and Waddon areas should check flood zone designation. Surface water flooding is a risk across much of the urban area after heavy rainfall events.