PLANS UNDERWAY FOR LASTING MEMORIAL FOR CROYDON TRAM VICTIMS
The seven people who lost their lives in the Croydon tram derailment are to be honoured with a lasting tribute which will be placed at two sites in the borough.
Permanent memorials will be created which families and friends of those involved and members of the public will be able to visit, to reflect and pay their respects.
One memorial will be near to the incident site in Sandilands and the second will be in New Addington, where many of the victims were from.
A Croydon council spokeswoman said: “The public has put forward several proposals to the council for consideration but while discussions have begun, a decision will not be made until the families that lost loved ones have had a chance to share their views.
“During this difficult time for Croydon, the flag outside the town hall will remain at half-mast until after the victims’ funerals.”
A book of condolence set up at the town hall is still available for signing daily between 9am and 10pm, and a second book is available at the CALAT Centre on Central Parade in New Addington between 10am and 10pm.
Deputy council leader Cllr Alison Butler said: “Croydon is in a period of mourning and most importantly, we want to allow families time to grieve before seeking their views on this very important matter.
“The council is committed to ensuring a permanent memorial is put in place at each location to remember those who sadly died, but a final decision on what this will be will not be made until the individuals and communities who were directly affected by this tragedy have had time to share their thoughts on what they would like to see.”
The public has raised more than £17,000 so far to help the victims, families and communities affected by the tram derailment. Donations can be made online by visiting https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/croydon-council-tram-incident-fund
Statement regarding interim investigation report on tram derailment
Commneting on the interim report of the tram derailment a Croydon council spokesperson said:
“We appreciate the efforts put into the early release of these interim findings by the RAIB and welcomes the urgent safety advice. “We are now keen for the full report to be published as soon as possible in order that Transport for London can swiftly adopt any recommendations made by the independent investigation.
“As the local authority, we will continue to support the families of all those affected by the tragic events and their communities, in the weeks and months to come. “We have set up a support centre offering counselling, help and advice and there is our dedicated welfare helpline – 020 8760 5441, for all those who were directly involved.” (Source: Croydon council press releases)
