BIG Ambition: South London Unveils Vision for Inclusive Growth
At a high-profile launch event in Wimbledon, BIG Ambition: South London Growth was unveiled, setting out a bold, long-term vision for economic transformation across five South London boroughs: Croydon, Kingston, Merton, Richmond, and Sutton. Backed by London’s Deputy Mayor for Business, Howard Dawber, the initiative outlines a shared commitment to drive forward locally led, inclusive, and sustainable growth.
The plan focuses on expanding key sectors such as health and life sciences tech, creative and digital industries, environmental innovation, and advanced manufacturing. By capitalising on South London’s existing strengths, the boroughs aim to boost productivity, attract investment, and deliver opportunity across communities.
Cllr Andreas Kirsch, Leader of Kingston Council, highlighted the importance of improved infrastructure:
“South London is well placed to play an important role in London’s success — but a successful economy is only successful if everyone reaps the rewards. Enhanced orbital transport links across the region are crucial to realising our ambitions, unlocking economic opportunities, reducing congestion, and better connecting businesses with local talent.”
Cllr Gareth Roberts, Chair of the South London Partnership and Leader of Richmond Council, emphasised the sub-region’s existing economic significance:
“Our sub-region is already a £38 billion economy, home to 1.2 million residents, 55,000 businesses, and 550,000 jobs.
South London has the talent and institutions to be one of the most productive areas in the country. But we need targeted investment and better connectivity to achieve our ambitions. Growth must be inclusive, sustainable, and built from the ground up.”
The Royal Borough of Kingston stands out with its strong growth prospects, blending rich heritage with dynamic appeal as a hub for investment, education, and innovation. Home to major businesses like Unilever and Lidl, as well as Kingston University—the largest education provider in South London—the borough has been recognised as one of the best places to live and work in London.
BIG Ambition builds on the Mayor of London’s London Growth Plan, and Kingston’s Economic Development Strategy 2024–2028, making the case for greater devolution of funding and powers to support regionally driven progress.
Deputy Mayor Howard Dawber endorsed the plan by saying “the Mayor and I are committed to ensuring that all parts of London share in its growth. South London’s Growth Ambition reflects its strengths — talent, innovation, and potential — and we welcome this local leadership.”
The South London Partnership is now calling on government and investors to match this ambition by backing key infrastructure, investing in people and skills, and championing innovation across the region.
