Boris Johnson to mediate in Hammerson-Westfield row

Hammerson said on Monday that it had been appointed to redevelop the ageing south London shopping centre but Westfield claims it has a stake in the development.

Hammerson is understood to have signed a deal with the leaseholders while Westfield has struck an agreement with the free holders.  

Johnson said he would attempt to find a solution to the deadlock, the Croydon Guardian reports.

He said: “That potential is clear. We have two retail companies going head to head and that shows the interest and commitment to Croydon.

“In other parts of London where either of these two have been involved it has created jobs and stimulated the area. That is why it is important to help facilitate this process.”

Michael Gutman, managing director for Westfield Europe & New Markets, said: “Westfield remains determined to work with the owners and local authorities to help create a town centre that the people of Croydon and surrounds can be truly proud. We have the skills, the funding, the resources and the track record to make this project a success.

“We recognise Croydon as an ideal candidate for regeneration and, through our binding agreement with the Whitgift Foundation, we are committed to taking this important project forward.”