Merton Council announced plans to commit £30 million towards its ambition to remake Morden into a better town centre that works for local people.

Merton Council is able to invest this money because of choices it has made over recent years to protect the council’s finances, choosing to sell a council-owned business that it ­set up – generating a significant sum for the borough, and being careful with taxpayers’ money.

This major investment, set to be agreed by the council in early 2026, marks the next step in the council’s long-term plans for Remaking Morden: building thousands of new homes; developing a vibrant high street; creating a thriving evening economy; and destination for the benefit of the local community.

This follows the announcement made by the council in September 2025 to move ahead with the ambition to regenerate Morden town centre and it is now working towards securing a private-sector development partner to work alongside in Remaking Morden.

Leader of Merton Council, Councillor Ross Garrod, announced the initial £30million investment at the borough’s Christmas lights switch-on on Abbotsbury Road, Morden, on Friday 28 November.

He said: “This £30 million investment represents the next stage in realising our ambition to remake Morden into a better town centre that works for local people.

“We have ambitious plans to create a thriving new neighbourhood for residents, grow the local economy, help existing businesses to flourish, and attract new shops and sport, leisure, and cultural activities. We will create new homes for local people and their families, and we will work with the community to make sure the plans reflect the character and heritage of Morden.  

“This investment is about delivering real change. It’s time to start a new chapter in Morden.”

The council’s vision for Remaking Morden is of a bustling town centre, filled with a mix of quality independent and national outlets. A café culture in the day, and safe and inclusive venues, late-opening shops and restaurants in the evening. A place to dwell, to celebrate, and to hang out. Where children can play, and families can gather. Where leisure, arts and culture can flourish. Of clean air and green streets, and a safe town centre.

To find out more about Remaking Morden, visit: merton.gov.uk/remakingmorden