Croydon Council is set to face a High Court judicial review over its decision to close the Mint Walk walk-in homelessness service, after a resident successfully challenged the move. The case, brought by the Public Interest Law Centre (PILC), argues that the council failed to provide adequate alternatives for people unable to access online services, potentially setting a precedent across London and the UK.
Court Ruling Criticises Council's Alternative Measures
At the Royal Courts of Justice on Tuesday, District Judge Alan Bates granted permission for the judicial review, finding minimal evidence that the council had put sufficient measures in place for those unable to book appointments online. The claimant, who has learning disabilities and is illiterate, received a Section 21 eviction notice last year but could not use the council's online booking system.
Judge Bates criticised the lack of detail about alternative support, stating: "They say this individual would be assisted by council officers, but it is not said who these officers will be or how they will be accessed." He also questioned whether library staff had received specific training to help people seeking homelessness assistance.
Background to the Closure
The council decided to close the Mint Walk service in March 2025, a move announced by then chief executive Katherine Kerswell in a meeting with Mayor Jason Perry. The PILC argues the decision was made behind closed doors without a written record, breaching local authority regulations and Croydon's own constitution. Croydon described the closure as a response to high demand and financial pressures, with Mayor Perry stating: "The current walk-in service means that, at this time of extreme demand, too often residents are waiting too long to get the help that they need."
Wider Trend Across London
Croydon's decision reflects a broader trend: a King's College London investigation found only three of London's 33 local authorities still offer face-to-face drop-in services for homeless people. Alexandra Goldenberg of the PILC commented: "In the middle of a housing crisis, Croydon Council has closed their walk-in services. These barriers risk creating discriminatory access to homelessness services, leaving many vulnerable people unable to obtain the support to which they so desperately need and are legally entitled."
Next Steps in the Legal Process
The judge granted permission for judicial review on four of five grounds. Croydon Council must submit detailed grounds of defence by September 7, with the claimant responding by September 21. A hearing date has not yet been set.
