UNEMPLOYMENT in Croydon has fallen by a third over the past 12 months.
However, the council's claims that the figures illustrate the "vibrancy" in Croydon's economy have been questioned by business leaders, who fear many simply find work outside the borough.
As of the end of July, there were 5,975 people here claiming Jobseeker's Allowance, compared to 8,875 in July 2013.
The jobless level is falling at the fourth fastest rate in London, while Croydon's employment rate is almost six per cent higher than the average across the capital.
But business chiefs want to know whether people are finding jobs in the borough – or having to leave Croydon to get work.
Jeremy Frost, chairman of Croydon branch of the Federation of Small Businesses, said: "It's great less people are looking for work, but where are they finding it? Here, or in central London?"
Mr Frost added that while things may be looking up for workers, businesses in Croydon are still struggling.
"I don't see businesses thriving. I see a lot of people who are unhappy and a lot of people struggling."
Annabel Fogden, of Croydon Chamber of Commerce, said: "If employment within the borough has increased that is positive. A drop in unemployment sends a very positive message about the local economy in Croydon."
Figures released this week show there were 175 fewer people on the dole in July than in June.
And there has been a drop of about one-third in the number of youngsters out of work, with 1,280 18 to 24-year-olds job-hunting, compared to 1,875 last year.
Councillor Toni Letts, cabinet member for economic development, said the figures show the new council's policies are working.
"These fantastic numbers offer huge encouragement for all those who have suffered, and those who continue to suffer, the hardship of unemployment," she said.
"We said that we'd create a vibrant economy, both in the town and district centres, and put the provision of local jobs, affordable housing and tackling inequality at the heart of all we do."
