Council outlines decade of growth alongside changes to its town centre plans

Sutton Council has launched its Economic Growth Plan that sets out its vision for growth over the next decade. The plan sets out how the South London borough will build on its existing £5bn annual economy, 8,000 businesses, and 84,000 jobs.

Making Sutton home to the global centre of oncology through the The London Cancer Hub development is central to Sutton’s growth ambitions. This will be delivered through over half a billion of investment from Aviva Capital Partners, working with Socius to deliver state-of-the-art research and laboratory space, educational spaces and key worker homes alongside cafes, restaurants and leisure facilities. The scheme is set for planning early next year. 

Beyond the London Cancer Hub, a focus on growing Sutton’s leisure and cultural offer, as well as the borough’s many charming and unique district centres are outlined as priorities. 

Ensuring Sutton town centre is a vibrant place to live, work and socialise remains at the forefront of the Council’s vision. 

Last year, the Council announced that it would relocate onto the high street into the St Nicholas Centre, whilst increases in construction costs and other factors have now made this proposal unaffordable, the Council will continue to pursue a visible presence in the town centre. 

This recommendation not to go ahead with the original plan of working with a developer will be discussed by Councillors of the Strategy and Resources Committee on Monday 8 December. You can read further information on the Council’s website. 

Commenting on the growth plan and changes to the town centre, Leader of the Council, Councillor Barry Lewis said: “The Council has been ambitious in our vision for Sutton, because we know the opportunities that exist within our corner of South London. 

“We are home to some of the best schools in London, the best parks and open spaces. We are nationally and internationally connected - it’s an hour to Heathrow and half that to Gatwick. We have direct access to multiple central London stations in just over 30 minutes - and easy access to both London and Surrey’s skilled workforce. 

“With the London Cancer Hub we acquired the land, we secured grant funding and we found great partners in Aviva and Socius with the expertise and experience to develop the site and  deliver real change. I think this clearly shows that in Sutton we are serious about our growth. 

“This ambition is matched by a Council with good financial management. It's the right decision not to proceed with our initial plan for the Council’s civic hub in Sutton town centre because the costs and risks of further construction cost increases are too high. 

“The continued regeneration, along with the Council having a presence in Sutton town centre remains a key priority.

"Sutton high street is home to UK’s largest retailers including H&M, Primark, M&S, Pandora and Next. We will continue our focus on improving Sutton’s retail and leisure offer, as well as the social spaces that make up our town centre. We will deliver more affordable housing in the town centre to meet the Council’s housing ambitions and support the local economy.”

“Through our growth plan, we have set an ambitious decade of growth that will see Sutton become a vibrant place for businesses of all kinds to innovate and thrive.”