We are today announcing that four Conservative Councillors will not be seeking re-election at the May 2026 local elections. They are:
- Cllr Maria Gatland, Croham/South Croydon – 24 years
- Cllr Mario Creatura, Coulsdon West/Coulsdon Town – 12 years
- Cllr Holly Ramsey, Purley & Woodcote – 4 years
- Cllr Fatima Zaman, Selsdon Vale & Forestdale – 4 years
Executive Mayor of Croydon, and Conservative Group Leader, Jason Perry, said:
“These four Councillors have collectively given nearly 45 years of service to the people of Croydon. Across their wards and across the Council Chamber, they have each brought dedication, integrity and care to the role of public service.
“Maria, Mario, Holly and Fatima have all made Croydon a better place in their own ways – through championing local causes, supporting residents, and bringing professionalism and commitment to our Conservative team. On behalf of the whole borough, I want to thank them for everything they have done. We wish them the very best for the future.”
Cllr Maria Gatland – Croham/South Croydon (2002–2026)
First elected in 2002, Maria Gatland has topped the poll in every election for nearly a quarter of a century, earning deep trust across South Croydon. Throughout her career she has always believed in a simple principle: support residents, regardless of politics. Residents repaid that ethos at every election and through consistent kindness and encouragement.
In 2003 Maria founded the Friends of Croham Hurst Woods, which has since delivered an extraordinary programme of environmental improvements to the Site of Special Scientific Interest. Projects have included:
Restoring the historic meadow, now an oasis of wildflowers, bees and butterflies
Installing new cycling signage to protect delicate woodland surfaces
Restoring panoramic views from the top of the Hurst
Designing and funding new information boards
In 2014 the group received the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, a rare honour for a local Friends Group and a lasting testament to Maria’s leadership.
Maria has also served Croydon in major roles including:
Chair of Health Scrutiny
Chair of Licensing
Cabinet Member for Children’s Services
She played a crucial role in achieving the Good Ofsted judgement in 2024 and drove improvements for Care Leavers, as a strong champion for Corporate Parenting. Her record is one of sustained hard work, deep community pride and unwavering commitment.
Cllr Mario Creatura – Coulsdon West/Coulsdon Town (2014–2026)
First elected in 2014, Cllr Mario Creatura has been a leading figure in Croydon Conservatives for over a decade. As Conservative Group Chief Whip from 2016 to 2023, he strengthened training, discipline and communications across the Councillor Group, and played a central role in delivering the Conservatives’ victory in 2022 - one of only two Local Authorities nationally that the Conservatives gained in that year.
In Coulsdon, Mario has been a long-standing champion of the Coulsdon Community Centre, helping to secure the 25-year lease extension that saved it from Labour’s plan to demolish the building for private housing. He has also campaigned for years for a new GP health centre, working with ward colleagues and local MP, Chris Philp, to get the £6.3 million project to construction - a major boost for an area with some of Croydon’s most stretched health provision.
Mario has been a vocal opponent of the ULEZ expansion, arguing consistently that it placed an unfair burden on outer London residents and high streets. He also showed strong local leadership during the 2021 Coulsdon sewage leak, convening emergency meetings with Thames Water, securing an apology, and ensuring residents received support and compensation.
Mario leaves after 12 years as a Councillor, known for his hard work, strategic leadership and unwavering commitment to the Coulsdon community.
Cllr Holly Ramsey – Purley & Woodcote (2022–2026)
Holly Ramsey has served as a dedicated voice for Purley & Woodcote, focusing on ensuring the ward sees the right kind of development – development that respects local character and protects what makes the area special.
Living in the ward, Holly has maintained close connections with residents, responding quickly to concerns and supporting local campaigns. She has also put safety and tackling local crime at the top of her agenda, working closely with community groups and local partners.
Before moving to Croydon, Holly served as a Councillor in Sutton for eight years, where she helped block numerous inappropriate developments. Her professional background in public affairs and communications has shaped her work as a passionate, effective campaigner.
Holly leaves with a strong reputation for responsiveness, diligence and care for her community.
Cllr Fatima Zaman – Selsdon Vale & Forestdale (2022–2026)
Fatima Zaman was elected in the November 2022 by-election, holding the seat following the sad passing of respected Councillor Badsha Quadir. She quickly established herself as a committed and approachable representative for Selsdon Vale & Forestdale.
Fatima has lived in Croydon for 30 years and has spent over two decades working in the social care sector, supporting people with mental health challenges through recovery and rehabilitation. She has consistently prioritised crime reduction and women’s safety, issues she believes are central to improving quality of life locally.
Fatima leaves with a reputation for warmth, diligence and a passion for her local community.
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We will be announcing our slate of candidates for the 2026 local elections in the near future. For now, we extend our warmest thanks to Maria, Mario, Holly and Fatima for the contribution they have made to our Croydon community.
