Supporting Local and Building a Global Future

Last week I was incredibly proud to launch Sutton Council’s Economic Growth Plan. Sutton is home to over 200,000 residents, 8,000 businesses and 84,000 jobs, the plan sets out our vision for growth over the next decade. 

Sutton’s town centre and local shopping centres are doing well, across Sutton, 92.6% of retail, hospitality and leisure units are occupied - the second highest rate in London; and higher than the UK average of 89.6% and London average of 90.5%.

At the heart of Sutton’s ambition is the world renowned centre for cancer research and treatment, the London Cancer Hub. This is a huge economic driver. Already Europe's leading cancer research district, the over half a billion of investment from Aviva Capital Partners, will deliver state-of-the-art research and laboratory space, educational spaces and key worker homes alongside cafes, restaurants and leisure facilities.

Sutton’s Growth Plan will ensure that every step of our growth benefits our residents, supports the existing businesses we have and attracts new businesses, jobs and investment in our borough.

We have made significant progress already, particularly across the town centre. By taking decisive action to purchase the St Nicholas Shopping Centre, we have dramatically boosted occupancy from 65% to 95%. This work ensures our town centre is strong and attractive, giving more customers to our fantastic businesses.

The launch was perfectly timed, right before Small Business Saturday. This day is an important reminder of the importance of our small, independent businesses. They are the engines of our local economy and give our high streets their unique character. I have recently visited a number of these small, independent businesses and hope to visit many more in the coming months. 

I strongly encourage everyone to shop local, eat local, and support local businesses this weekend. When you do, you are directly investing in our community’s future.

Sutton is a fantastic place to live and work, known for our outstanding schools, beautiful parks, and low crime rates. We can’t achieve this next decade of success alone; our strength lies in our community and the partnerships we build.

I look forward to working with all of you to deliver on our bold plan for a prosperous and ambitious Sutton.