The Upper Norwood council-owned building, which was evacuated following a fire in June 2024, has remained empty for over seven months, displacing eight families into costly temporary housing. Despite the building's prolonged vacancy, Croydon Council has not provided a timeline for repairs or when residents can return. Liberal Democrat councillor Claire Bonham criticized the council's inaction amid a housing crisis, emphasizing that families are suffering while the building sits unused. The borough faces a significant shortage in social housing, exacerbating the crisis for residents.
Cllr Bonham expressed, 'We're in the middle of a housing crisis, and these families are paying the price. Not only have these families been uprooted, but they're now in expensive temporary housing, while this block of flats sits empty with no answers from the council. The situation is unacceptable.'
Croydon Council's response indicated that they are addressing the issue, claiming that most households have been rehoused and are working with the remaining families still in temporary accommodation.
Cllr Bonham highlighted the pressing need for action, emphasizing that the vacant flats are a missed opportunity to alleviate the pressure of the housing crisis in the borough.
With nearly 8,000 households waiting for social housing and only 800 lettings available each year, the situation reflects a larger issue in the housing system of Croydon.
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