Merton’s cabinet is expected to reset the council’s bold vision for the future of Morden town centre, with major regeneration plans to revitalise the area for the benefit of residents and local businesses.
Merton Council has outlined its ambitious recommendations to create a thriving new neighbourhood, attract more businesses and investment, and build quality and affordable homes in the heart of Morden.
If agreed, the council will progress its plans for Morden with a private sector development partner who will bring financial investment and expertise to work with the council on a comprehensive, long-term development plan.
The vision is to create a modern, inclusive and vibrant area, and make Morden a destination filled with opportunity. Morden will see a growing local economy with a quality mix of businesses and sport, leisure and cultural activities, including places to spend time with friends and family in the evening. The change will bring growth, investment and jobs to the area. Most importantly, it will create new, affordable homes for local people.
Merton Council’s commitment to deliver Morden town centre’s regeneration is incorporated into the adopted Local Plan and the council’s corporate plan.
Councillor Ross Garrod, Leader of Merton Council, said:
“Morden’s strength is in its proud communities, its bustling businesses, its beautiful greenspaces and its first-class transport connections, and there is huge potential to make it better.
“The reset of Morden town centre is an exciting leap forward for the area. The local community will see investment, growth and opportunity as part of this ambitious plan, with more homes, businesses and leisure activities for local residents.
“There has been extensive work happening behind the scenes to reach this point, and there are now tangible steps towards Morden’s regeneration. With cabinet’s agreement, the council is committed to delivering this transformational programme for the people of Morden and the local areas.
“I know this change has been talked about for some time, and despite challenges along the way, I am delighted that our commitment to remaking Morden can now begin to be realised.”
Councillor Andrew Judge, Cabinet Member for Housing and Sustainable Development, said:
“Our vision for Morden is big and bold and reflects the ambition of local people to see the town centre meet its immense potential.
“The council will seek to procure an expert development partner who will work with us to realise the strong vision for Morden that our community deserves. The partnership will be guided by clear principles and objectives to regenerate Morden while retaining the character, features, services and heritage that local people rely upon, and make the area so special. It will also include targets on sustainability in line with the council’s net zero objectives.
“The planned building of modern and affordable homes in Morden will create a bustling new neighbourhood and help us tackle the housing crisis locally.”