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Edge City: National Trust launches campaign to alter public opinion of Croydon

Although the London Borough of Croydon has never been famed for its beauty, the National Trust is hoping to change the common public perception through a series of tours.

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Brutalist residential tower block with horizontal balconies and striped facade against a cloudy sky, exemplifying Croydon's post-war architecture

In July, the National Trust, in partnership with Croydon Council, will be conducting the tours to shine a spotlight on the Borough as one of the most important examples of the post-war optimism that sought to build a better society.

Aiming to combat Croydon’s ‘Crap Town’ reputation by exploring its contemporary heritage and telling its unique story from its 1960s building boom to its future ambitions, there will be exclusive, behind-the-scenes access to Fairfield Halls, which has played host to the likes of The Beatles, as it closes for a two-year £30m restoration-led refurbishment.

To coincide with the launch of the tours, a special series of photographs has been commissioned, particularly highlighting the Brutalist beauty of Fairfield Halls.

The tours start on Saturday 16 July and run until Sunday 24 July 2016. For more information visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/london.

Fairfield Halls building facade with signage advertising comedy hall, function suites, desks, conferences and online booking information
Empty theatre auditorium at Fairfield Halls with cream curtains, dark wooden panelling and red and gold chairs visible in the wings
Empty auditorium at Fairfield Halls with rows of red seats, ornate ceiling lights and wooden panelling throughout the venue
Four vintage electrical boxes mounted on a black rail, showcasing mid-century industrial design at Fairfield Halls
Interior of Fairfield Halls auditorium with rows of red seats facing a geometric wooden-panelled stage wall and balcony level above
Large gridded windows of Fairfield Halls reflecting the Croydon cityscape and surrounding buildings
Symmetrical view up a grand staircase with polished metal handrails, framed by large windows and a striking golden-patterned column at Fairfield Halls
Brutalist interior of Fairfield Halls showing a monumental staircase flanked by concrete columns, with striped ceiling panels and burgundy carpeting
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