Town Hall debate on Upper Norwood Lollipop Man as petition is handed in

A petition to save a popular lollipop man in Upper Norwood has been submitted to Croydon Council. The petition, signed by almost 500 residents, triggered a debate at a Full Council meeting on Wednesday 16th July, led by Liberal Democrat Councillor Claire Bonham, who represents Crystal Palace and Upper Norwood. Local resident Lisa Castagner also spoke on behalf of concerned parents.

Cllr Bonham launched the petition in May 2025 after Croydon Council revealed that six lollipop men and women could be cut, saving just £58,000 per year. Since then, the campaign has galvanized local residents with a "sit in" of parents and children taking place last week, in order to show support for local lollipop man Robert, who has been helping children cross the road at Cypress Infants and Juniors for 13 years, and has worked as a lollipop man in Croydon for 23 years in total.

Cllr Bonham said:

"I was delighted to hand in the petition at the council meeting yesterday, and lead a short debate on why Robert is such a valued member of the local community. 

"This is a tiny saving to the Council, and so I say to the Mayor - think again! It isn't too late to change your plans, and remove the threat to these vital road safety posts, which help to keep local children safe.