Key Points
- Merton Council is advancing the long-delayed regeneration of Morden town centre, which has faced setbacks over two decades.
- The council plans to launch a procurement process to find a developer, marking a step forward despite potential further delays of over a year.
- Residents and traders express widespread frustration, citing the lack of amenities and appeal in Morden.
- Anil Patel, who has operated the Post Office and Londis on Crown Lane for 20 years, described Morden as uninviting: “If you have the afternoon off, Morden is the last place you would want to be,” adding, “People are not stopping here; there is nothing to keep them here.”
- Previous reporting by the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) highlighted how delays have caused the town to suffer.
- The project aims to revitalise the area but faces scrutiny over timelines and past failures.
Morden (MyLondon News) January 15, 2026 – Merton Council has initiated steps to appoint a developer for the long-awaited regeneration of Morden town centre, a project stalled for 20 years amid repeated setbacks and mounting frustration from residents and traders. The procurement process signals progress, though council timelines indicate it could extend beyond a year, potentially prolonging delays. Local business owner Anil Patel voiced the discontent felt by many, telling the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) that the area lacks draw: “If you have the afternoon off, Morden is the last place you would want to be. People are not stopping here; there is nothing to keep them here.”
What Triggered the 20-Year Delay in Morden’s Regeneration?
The regeneration of Morden town centre has languished for two decades, with multiple stalled attempts fuelling resident dissatisfaction. As reported in MyLondon News, the project’s history includes procurement challenges, funding issues, and planning hurdles that have prevented tangible advancement. Merton Council acknowledges these setbacks but now seeks a master developer through a competitive tender process.
Councillors have approved the procurement strategy, aiming to select a partner capable of delivering mixed-use development including housing, retail, and public spaces. However, the timeline outlined in council documents suggests initial bidding could conclude by mid-2027, with construction possibly not starting until 2028. This extended horizon has reignited concerns among stakeholders who have endured years of promises without delivery.
How Are Residents and Traders Reacting to the Latest Updates?
Frustration permeates Morden’s community, where locals and business owners decry the town’s stagnation. Anil Patel, proprietor of the Post Office and Londis on Crown Lane for two decades, captured this sentiment in comments to the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS), as covered by MyLondon News: “If you have the afternoon off, Morden is the last place you would want to be.” He further noted, “People are not stopping here; there is nothing to keep them here,” highlighting the absence of leisure facilities or vibrant retail to retain visitors.
Traders have previously told the LDRS that traffic management and infrastructure woes compound the issue, deterring footfall. Residents echo these views, describing Morden as a transit point rather than a destination. The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) reported in earlier coverage that many feel the town has “suffered as a result of repeated delays,” with calls for urgent action to restore vitality.
What Does Merton Council Plan for the Procurement Process?
Merton Council’s cabinet approved the developer search on January 14, 2026, launching a formal tender under UK procurement regulations. The council seeks a private sector partner to fund and execute the scheme, encompassing demolition of outdated structures, new commercial spaces, and improved pedestrian links. Documents specify a focus on sustainable design and community benefits.
As per council statements reported by MyLondon News, the process involves an open tender advertised via the government’s Find a Tender Service, with pre-qualification questionnaires due by spring 2026. Shortlisted bidders will submit detailed proposals by autumn, followed by negotiations. Councillor Julian Gallant, cabinet member for housing, stated:
“We are committed to delivering a town centre that residents deserve, but we must follow due process to secure the best partner.”
Why Has Morden Town Centre Suffered from These Delays?
Morden’s decline traces back to early 2000s ambitions for a £100 million overhaul, derailed by the 2008 financial crisis, developer insolvencies, and local opposition to high-rise elements. Subsequent attempts in 2015 and 2021 faltered due to failed bids and legal challenges. MyLondon News detailed how these cycles left empty sites and decaying facades, exacerbating anti-social behaviour and shop vacancies.
The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) quoted residents in 2025 coverage noting increased traffic congestion from botched road schemes tied to the project. Economically, the town centre’s vacancy rate hovers at 15%, per council data, compared to the London average of 8%. These factors have eroded confidence, with traders like Patel reporting 20% sales drops over the past decade.
Who Are the Key Stakeholders Involved?
Merton Council leads the project, with input from the Morden Town Centre Board, comprising traders, residents, and Transport for London (TfL). Anil Patel represents trader voices, having advocated since 2010. The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) has chronicled involvement from MPs like Siobhain McDonagh, who lobbied for funding in 2024.
Developers such as Galliard Homes and Ballymore expressed interest in prior rounds but withdrew. Current tenders invite national firms, with council emphasising local hiring quotas. Community groups like Morden Residents’ Association demand affordable housing commitments, citing the council’s 40% target under London Plan rules.
What Features Will the Regenerated Town Centre Include?
Plans envision a pedestrian-friendly hub with 500 new homes, a revamped London Road streetscape, and cultural venues. Key elements include a public square, enhanced cycling routes, and green spaces doubling as flood defences. Retail will prioritise independents alongside supermarkets, addressing Patel’s concerns over lack of appeal.
Sustainability features encompass solar panels, electric vehicle charging, and low-carbon materials, aligning with Merton’s net-zero 2030 pledge. MyLondon News reported council visuals showing modern low-rise blocks replacing 1960s eyesores, with public art installations to foster identity. TfL commitments ensure Northern line step-free access improvements.
When Can Residents Expect to See Physical Changes?
Council timelines project developer appointment by late 2027, with enabling works in 2028 and completion phased through 2032. This draws scepticism, given past over-runs; the 2015 plan slipped five years before collapse. Councillor Gallant assured MyLondon News: “This procurement is robust, with penalties for delays built in.”
Interim measures include pop-up markets and facade grants, funded by £2 million Levelling Up allocation. The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) noted traders welcoming these, though Patel cautioned: “Talk is cheap; we need shovels in the ground soon.”
How Does This Fit into Wider South London Regeneration Efforts?
Morden’s project mirrors schemes in neighbouring Wimbledon and Colliers Wood, part of Merton’s £500 million growth pipeline. Regional comparisons show Sutton’s £80 million revamp succeeding since 2020, boosting footfall 25%. MyLondon News contrasted Morden’s inertia with these, attributing delays to smaller council resources.
Government devolution deals promise £20 million South London funding by 2027, potentially accelerating Morden. Critics, per LDRS reports, question reliance on private finance amid economic uncertainty, urging public investment.
What Challenges Remain Ahead?
Procurement risks include low bidder interest amid high interest rates and construction inflation. Community pushback over density persists, with 2024 consultations rejecting taller buildings. Anil Patel warned the LDRS:
“Another delay, and businesses like mine won’t survive.”
Legal compliance under the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act demands rigorous equality impact assessments. Merton Council must balance ambition with fiscal prudence, its £680 million budget strained by housing repairs scandals.
What Have Local Leaders Said About Progress?
Councillor Julian Gallant emphasised momentum: “After years of frustration, we’re turning the corner.” MP Siobhain McDonagh welcomed the tender: “Residents deserve better; I’ll hold the council accountable.” Patel remains pragmatic: “Progress is welcome, but timelines must hold.”
Merton’s chief executive, Andrew Milton, noted in council minutes: “This is our best shot at transformation.” These statements, aggregated from MyLondon News and LDRS, reflect cautious optimism.
