French newspaper brands Croydon 'dull and monotonous' as French rugby team arrives for Rugby World Cup

Graham Hussey
Rachel Blundy15 September 2015

A French newspaper has branded Croydon "dull and monotonous" as the French rugby team arrived in the town centre for what they hope will be a lengthy stay during the Rugby World Cup.

The report in Metro News described the south London borough as a "sad suburb" as it suggested Croydon was not worthy of hosting its national team.

The sports stars will stay at the Selsdon Park Hotel & Golf and will train in the nearby suburb of Shirley as they compete in the international tournament.

Croydon has previously been voted one of the worst place to live in the UK based on factors including investment, neighbourliness, space, safety and value of property.

Commenting on the town's regeneration since the 2011 riots, journalist Sébastien Coca said: "Since those nights of fire, calm has returned obviously in this corner of south London, which enjoys a large investment program starting to bear fruit.

"But no miracle, Croydon remains dull and monotonous, especially in its northern part, much more urbanized than the south.

"This is also the paradox of this suburb where we pass the sometimes unkind streets, in suburban neighborhoods with more opulent houses that are replicated almost identically before joining ... the countryside. Or at least a semblance."

Matthew Sims, Chief Executive of the Croydon Business Improvement District, defended the town today, saying it had "much to offer both in the here and now and in the future".

He said: “The here and now is what matters and Croydon is leading the way as London’s regeneration borough with £5.25bn secured investment.

"This is a time to rejoice as Croydon transforms itself with the arrival of Westfield and Hammerson, the likes of Boxpark Croydon, a shift towards innovative festivals and events such as Ambition held in July and the focus on culture and the arts with galleries such as RISE opening in the past year.

"Taking into account the blossoming Croydon Tech City, our borough has much to offer both in the here and now and in the future.”

Uini Atonio, the team's tighthead prop, said: "I did not really sleep well. We might have to change hotel!"

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