Croydon BID expands town centre Radio Link scheme with support from Croydon Council

With support from Croydon Council, Croydon Business Improvement District (BID) has further expanded its Radio Link scheme to include seven new radios for frontline services, taking the total number of radios in operation to 93.
The extension will give frontline teams instant access to the town centre’s shared communications network – supporting vulnerable groups and boosting safety for businesses and the wider community.

Launched in April 2023, the Croydon BID Radio Link is a handheld radio system designed to create an instant communication network that connects local businesses, the Metropolitan Police, Croydon BID Street Rangers, and security teams across Croydon town centre.

By enabling real-time intelligence sharing, the scheme plays a crucial role in tackling everyday challenges such as shoplifting, anti-social behaviour, and public safety concerns, while also offering support for vulnerable individuals.

The addition of seven new radios brings the total number of active users in the town centre to 93, further strengthening the town’s coordinated approach to safety.

These radios have been allocated to Croydon Council-commissioned partners who work directly with vulnerable individuals. These include:

  • Change Grow Live (CGL) – supporting individuals dealing with drug and alcohol issues.
  • P4YE – a youth engagement service with strong relationships with local young people.
  • Anima Youth – providing outreach services with a focus on supporting young women.

Three of the radios are being deployed to businesses on London Road, increasing direct access to support. Another will be used by general Croydon Council operations personnel such as licensing officers, enabling them to better respond to live issues in the town centre.

This investment shows a shared commitment to partnership working, making the town centre safer and more responsive to the needs of the community.

The strength of the Croydon BID Radio Link scheme lies in its power to connect people, instantly and effectively. From our Street Rangers and Town Centre police team to council teams and local businesses, this network is about real-time collaboration. We’re pleased to welcome Croydon Council into the scheme, with seven new radios now in the hands of frontline teams and local businesses.
Matthew Sims, Chief Executive at Croydon BID

Croydon BID and its partners remain committed to delivering a safe, welcoming town centre environment. By working together and investing in tools that improve real-time communication, the Radio Link scheme continues to evolve to meet the needs of Croydon’s businesses and communities.

If you are a business within Croydon town centre and wish to sign up to the Croydon BID Radio Link scheme, please get in touch with our team at hello@croydonbid.com.