Croydon’s Iconic 50p Building Set for Potential Transformation into Residential Apartments

In a move that could help repurpose (if not reshape) Croydon’s skyline, the renowned One Croydon—formerly known as the NLA Tower—might soon be transformed into residential apartments. The building, with its striking polygonal design, is a relic of Croydon’s corporate heyday in the 1960s and 70s and has earned the affectionate nickname ‘Thrupenny Bit’ or ‘The 50p Building’ for its distinctive shape.

This architectural landmark has not only been a symbol of the town but has also gained cultural significance, featuring in the interactive Black Mirror episode ‘Bandersnatch’ and inspiring the comic zine ‘AdAstra Per Croydon: The Lost History of London’s Forgotten Spaceport’.

As the demand for office space continues to wane and Croydon grapples with a pressing housing crisis, despite some modern new residential options such as the built-to-rent Enclave apartments, the building’s owners have submitted plans to Croydon Council for its conversion into 250 self-contained flats. The council’s decision on this application is expected by 24 September.

Colm Lacey, managing director of Soft Cities and former chief executive of Croydon Council’s now-defunct housing developer Brick By Brick, described the proposal as “an interesting conversion of a much-loved local landmark.” However, he cautioned that the plans appear to lack provisions for affordable housing, a critical concern amid the ongoing crisis.

Should the plans be approved, One Croydon’s stunning views of London and the North Downs, combined with its proximity to the well-connected East Croydon station, would likely make it a highly desirable residential address. “I wouldn’t mind living there,” remarked one local fan.

The Twentieth Century Society, an organisation dedicated to celebrating and preserving mid-20th century architecture, has voiced itssupport for the residential conversion, deeming it “an obvious and wholly reasonable proposition in principle.” They are also advocating for One Croydon to receive listed status, a bid that was unsuccessful in 2013. The Society argues that appreciation for the commercial architecture of the mid-20th century, particularly the works of Richard Seifert and Partners, has significantly evolved over the last decade.

Despite a history of criticism for its numerous high-rise office buildings, Croydon’s modernist skyline is experiencing a resurgence in appreciation, with organisations like the Twentieth Century Society and even the National Trust organising talks and tours centred on the town’s unique architectural landscape.

In a related development, another iconic high-rise, St George’s House, also known as the Nestlé Tower, faced a similar fate but plans to convert it into flats were apparently disrupted by the Chinese property market downturn, leaving the project in a state of uncertainty, and exemplifying the ‘butterfly effect’ of modern global markets.

However, as Croydon continues to navigate its architectural and housing challenges, what happens with One Croydon may stand as a significant indicator of the town’s evolving identity and priorities.