Growth, jobs and investment: South London sets out its bold vision

A bold, new vision to accelerate Sutton’s and South London’s economy, attract new investment and support more people into well-paid, secure jobs was launched this week by five south west London boroughs.

The BIG Ambition: South London Growth statement was unveiled with London’s Deputy Mayor for Business, Howard Dawber. It outlines a shared commitment by the boroughs of Sutton, Croydon, Kingston, Merton and Richmond to deliver long-term, locally-driven growth by driving forward sectors, such as health and life sciences tech, creative and digital industries, environmental innovation, and advanced manufacturing.

BIG Ambition: South London Growth builds on the Mayor of London’s Growth Plan and makes a strong case for further devolution of funding and powers to the boroughs to support locally-led delivery and knowledge. It sets out clear actions to:

• boost innovation and productivity through stronger links between businesses and universities;
• deliver more high-quality jobs, especially in growing sectors such as life sciences, digital and creative industries, and low-carbon technology;
• improve transport and digital infrastructure and connections, with a focus on orbital routes between the five boroughs and full fibre broadband networks;
• support people into work through better coordination of skills, health and employment services;
• promote South London as a destination for investment, enterprise and cultural activity.

Sutton features prominently in the new statement with The Royal Marsden NHS Trust, Institute of Cancer Research, Epsom & St Helier NHS Trust, Subsea 7, Oru Sutton, BedZed, Sutton College, SDEN, Sutton United FC, Throwley Yard, Cryer Arts, London School of Innovation, Sound Lounge and LexisNexis all getting a special mention. 

The Council’s major regeneration project at the London Cancer Hub in Belmont is also highlighted as one of Europe’s leading cancer research districts and a key driver in London’s future economic growth and innovation.
 
Councillor Barry Lewis, Leader of Sutton Council, said:
“Sutton is building a future for our residents, with ambitious plans for new homes, secure and well-paid jobs, and a thriving and welcoming town centre. On our main high street, we are delivering bold schemes that bring empty buildings back into a variety of retail, leisure and commercial uses.

“Sutton will be the place where you can live well, work hard and have fun. The London Cancer Hub will be one of the top four cancer research campuses in Europe, with important economic benefits including thousands of new and well-paid local jobs.

“This statement showcases Sutton’s and South West London’s vital roles in generating growth and the bold ambition that all of the five borough leaders share for our places. But we still need targeted investment and better transport connections to realise our ambitions for local people and businesses. 

“This is South West London’s moment. With world-class institutions, a diverse and skilled population, and a strong local economy, we are already at the forefront of innovation, enterprise and sustainable growth.”

London’s Deputy Mayor for Business, Howard Dawber, welcomed the statement:
“The Mayor of London and I remain dedicated to working in partnership to ensure the benefits of London’s growth benefits every part of the city - and that together, we can continue building a fairer London for everyone.

“Following the launch of the London Growth Plan earlier this year, I welcome the South London Partnership’s Growth Ambition which sets out a vision that reflects the real strengths of South West London – its talent, innovation and potential,” he said.

Laura Citron, CEO of London & Partners, London’s growth agency, added:
“South West London has a vital role to play in the city’s growth over the next ten years. From advancing its global centres for frontier innovation such as Sutton’s London Cancer Hub, to its six universities which produce skilled graduates, the area is helping to shape the city’s future. 
 
“As home to some of London’s largest green spaces, most recognisable historic sites and sporting venues, and thriving high streets, South London possesses a world-class experience economy. A key growth area in the London Growth Plan, we are proud to be part of the effort to develop this sector over the next decade, creating resilient, sustainable, and inclusive growth in South London, as we champion polycentric growth across our city.”

The South London Partnership is now calling on the Government and investors to match its ambition — by backing key infrastructure projects, investing in people and skills, and supporting innovation across the region.

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

1. Read the BIG Ambition: South London Growth statement
2. For more information about the South London Partnership