News

This year’s theme, “Croydon: Game On”, signals a decisive moment for Croydon—a moment to push play on investment, innovation and infrastructure, backed by the Executive Mayor’s Town Centre Vision and the borough’s newly launched Growth Strategy.

 

This vision aligns with the London Plan’s ambition to deliver thousands of new homes, unlock inclusive economic growth, and create sustainable, well-connected communities.

Following Crystal Palace Football Club’s historic FA Cup victory, Croydon is enjoying a moment of civic pride. Home to a young, diverse population and a fast-developing creative and digital economy, the borough is gaining recognition as a natural home for future-facing industries such as gaming, e-sports and digital media.

 

Richard Plant, partner at SHW Property and Chairman of Develop Croydon, said: “Croydon is no longer a place of untapped potential, it’s a place of active momentum. Our key sectors align with the UK industrial strategy and London Growth Plan, and we have a clear plan and vision guiding the way. This year’s conference is about making bold moves. Croydon ‘Game On’ is a statement that says Croydon is ready to lead, attract investment and deliver for London. We look forward to bringing together the people who are helping to shape that future.”

 

"The Croydon Growth Zone, listed under the strategically important housing led developments, in the London Growth Plan reflects its key role in delivering housing and jobs for the whole capital. Supported by its strategic position, excellent connectivity and a pipeline of major developments, key projects such as the Whitgift Centre redevelopment (URW), One Lansdowne Road (Greystar) and the transformation of Selhurst Park will reshape the borough’s landscape. Croydon is uniquely positioned to help realise London’s city-wide goals and is the perfect place to open the door to international investment."

 

“Croydon: Game On” will bring together the borough’s most influential voices, from investors, developers and politicians to community leaders, landowners and cultural visionaries for a day of insight, debate and collaboration. As Croydon strengthens its ties to global gateways like London Gatwick Airport, cultural icons like Crystal Palace, and champion sectors that speak to its identity, the conference will examine how the borough can position itself as a centre for business, skills, tourism, and creativity."

 

Bonnie Ross, Associate Director, Develop Croydon, said: “At last year’s Develop Croydon Conference, we witnessed a surge of energy and optimism among Croydon stakeholders, and a strong sense of community. This year, we’re building on that momentum. Given its excellent connections and its size, Croydon has the potential to provide a vital contribution to London’s success – as a business location, as a place with capacity for new homes, and as a launchpad for talent—particularly in creative, cultural, and digital sectors. Given the “Game on” theme, we’re going to be having some fun at the event this year too – injecting joy and creativity into the serious business of regeneration and growth.”

 

With a growing population, dynamic partnerships and a clear plan, Croydon is a place where everyone has a stake—and everyone can win.

 

Save the date: Thursday 6 November 2025, Fairfield Halls.