☀️Daily Weather
Good morning, Croydon! Today is shaping up to be a bright one - sunny and light conditions with temperatures around 19°C. A good day to get outside at lunch. Wrap up in the morning though, it's a chilly start.
📰Morning Pulse
What's happening in your borough today
1. Labour tells local candidate to drop 'genocide' from her manifesto
Croydon Labour has reportedly pressured council candidate Sarah Davis to remove the word "genocide" from her local election manifesto ahead of the May 7 vote. The move has sparked debate about free speech within the party at a local level. (Inside Croydon)
2. Local elections are coming - what's at stake for Croydon?
With borough elections on May 7, the BBC has published a full breakdown of Croydon's political landscape - including which wards are most competitive and what the key issues are for residents. Worth a read if you want to know who's running in your area. (BBC)
3. CEO accused of spending public money for Perry's benefit
Croydon Council's CEO is facing accusations of misusing public funds for the personal benefit of former council leader Jason Perry. The story is developing and adds to a growing list of governance concerns at the Town Hall. (Inside Croydon)
❤️Today’s Heartbeat
A story from the heart of the community
Crystal Palace defender Daniel Muñoz - who grew up in Croydon - opened up this week about what the borough means to him, his journey from Colombia, and why he feels a deep kinship with Palace fans. A reminder that Croydon produces world-class talent. (CPFC.co.uk)
🗲 Pulse Points
Quick hits you need to know
🗳️ Local elections: May 7. Register to vote by April 22 if you haven't already.
🚧Roadworks ongoing in Purley, Coulsdon and New Addington this spring - allow extra time if you're heading south.
📚 Croydon's library situation remains unresolved - unsigned leases and incomplete works are the legacy of the previous administration
💡Your Community Know-How
Wednesday focus: Local Politics & Council
What you need to know before May 7
Croydon goes to the polls on May 7 for local council elections. Here's a quick primer:
Croydon has 70 councillors across 24 wards
The council has been under government commissioners since 2020 following its financial crisis
Key issues this election: housing, council finances, library closures, and crime
You can find your ward and candidates at whocanivotefor.co.uk
Tip: Check if your polling card has arrived. If not, you can still vote - just bring ID.
💎Hidden Local Gems
Discover Croydon's best-kept secrets
The Ludoquist, South End
If you haven't been to The Ludoquist yet, you're missing out. This board game café-bar on South End has hundreds of games to play, artisan pizza, and a great selection of craft drinks. Perfect for a midweek evening or a rainy weekend. No booking needed for small groups - just turn up and pick a game.
.📍South End, Croydon CR0
🏪Local Business Spotlight
Supporting the businesses that make Croydon tick
Tao Cafe, East Croydon
Tao Cafe in East Croydon is more than just a coffee spot - it's become a hub for community networking events, bringing local professionals and residents together. If you're looking for a place to work remotely or meet like-minded locals, this is worth checking out.
📍East Croydon
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The Croydon Pulse is written and curated for Croydon residents, by someone who cares about this borough. Forward it to a neighbour.