On Sunday, I joined residents of Woodside Road which held a play street event between 2pm and 4pm.
A play street means neighbours agreeing together to open their street for play and community and close it to through traffic temporarily but on a regular basis.
Most London Councils, including Croydon offer residents the opportunity to apply for free and when local resident Emily contacted me following a successful Jubilee party on Woodside Road, I was more than happy to support her and her neighbours on this.
Despite a few hurdles to get through, including a neighbourhood consultation and risk assessment, Woodside Road was given permission and has the right to close their road for two hours on the third Sunday of every month.
The Jubilee weekend demonstrated the importance of getting together with your neighbours and I am pleased that Emily and her neighbours are continuing this community spirit on Woodside Road. I believe they are the first street in Purley & Woodcote to organise this and it was lovely that residents from nearby local roads also joined in.
A great afternoon was had with mulled wine and a bouncy castle which the kids enjoyed. I know Emily is also keen for older residents to get involved too and bring games, deck chairs etc.
If you are interested in holding a play street in your area, please check out Croydon Council’s information which can be found here as well as guidance from the Play Streets website here – and please do not hesitate to get in touch with me at [email protected] if I can be of any assistance.
Cllr Samir Dwesar
