finance

Croydon Council Strategies Tie Development Rules to Resident Hiring and Training

Workforce programmes and planning requirements shape how local businesses meet employment targets through Croydon Works, Connect to Work and the Local Plan.

By Croydon Business Desk · Published 25 July 2026

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Croydon Council runs Croydon Works as a free recruitment service open to all residents, supplying job opportunities, sector-specific training, apprenticeships, traineeships, work experience placements and careers advice. The service operates alongside the DWP-funded Connect to Work programme, which the council leads for the South London Partnership and targets up to 1,400 residents each year, half of them Croydon residents, by connecting health, skills and local resources.

Planning Rules Set Hiring Targets

Under the Croydon Local Plan, major developments must meet employment obligations that include filling 34% of construction and end-use jobs with local residents. The same rules require one accredited apprenticeship or work-based training opportunity for every 10 construction workers. These conditions directly affect how developers and contractors plan recruitment and training for projects across the borough.

Talent Programmes Focus on Leadership

Croydon supports specific talent development programmes including Black on Board for global majority staff and a Women’s Leadership programme. These initiatives aim to strengthen workforce capability and improve organisational culture within the council and partner organisations. They form part of efforts to create an equality-driven diverse workplace.

Four-Year Transformation Focus

The council’s Transformation Strategy places workforce development at the centre of its priorities for the next four years. The strategy seeks to strengthen leadership capabilities, build an equality-driven diverse workplace and enhance staff health, wellbeing and resilience in line with the Croydon Renewal and Improvement Plan. These internal measures complement the external support offered through Croydon Works and Connect to Work.

Businesses and developers operating in Croydon can access Croydon Works for recruitment and training support while complying with Local Plan obligations on local hiring and apprenticeships. The council directs residents to these services through its official channels to match people with available opportunities in construction, end-use roles and other sectors.

This article is general information only and is not personal financial or investment advice. Consider your own circumstances and seek licensed professional advice before making financial decisions.