The council leader has welcomed the London Growth Plan’s recognition of the value of outer London in driving growth, but says transport investment vital to unlock Kingston’s economic potential.
Kingston Council has welcomed the London Growth Plan’s emphasis on outer London’s role in economic expansion but has stressed that improved transport links are critical to unlocking the borough’s full potential.
Council Leader Councillor Andreas Kirsch endorsed the ambitious vision set out in the plan, which was developed by the Mayor of London and London Councils. The plan aims to boost London’s economy by creating more jobs, enhancing skills, and improving infrastructure. Kirsch affirmed Kingston’s commitment to playing a leading role in achieving inclusive growth across the capital but warned that the economic prospects of South London boroughs would remain constrained without significant investment in transport.
The London Growth Plan identifies Kingston as a key commercial and office hub in outer London. Major international corporations, including Unilever and Lidl, have chosen Kingston as their headquarters, underlining the borough’s attractiveness to global businesses. Additionally, Kingston’s growing reputation as a visitor destination is highlighted in the plan, with New Malden emerging as a thriving centre of Korean culture and Chessington World of Adventures drawing thousands of visitors each year.
However, realising this economic potential hinges on enhanced transport infrastructure. Research indicates that every £1 invested in rail connectivity can generate up to £2.50 in economic benefits, while increased transport frequency can boost local economic activity by 10-15%.
“Improved orbital connectivity across South London will unlock new economic opportunities, reduce congestion, and better connect businesses with local talent.”
-Andreas Kirsch, Leader of Kingston Council
Kingston is already taking proactive steps to drive inclusive growth through its newly launched economic development strategy, Confident in Kingston. The strategy outlines the borough’s ambitions to establish itself as a business-friendly environment where investment is welcomed and benefits all communities. At its core, the strategy aims to foster a green economy, ensuring sustainability is integrated into future economic expansion.
Councillor Kirsch emphasised the importance of inclusive growth and urged the government to commit to essential transport improvements:
“The London Growth Plan is a fantastic opportunity for Kingston. It aligns with our Confident in Kingston strategy to drive economic growth and ensure prosperity is shared by all.
“I’m especially pleased that the plan prioritises inclusivity—an economy can only be truly successful if everyone benefits. To achieve these goals, better transport links are essential. We urgently need government investment to enhance orbital connectivity across South London, unlocking new economic opportunities, easing congestion, and helping businesses tap into local talent.” With the London Growth Plan setting a clear roadmap for economic expansion, Kingston Council is pressing for decisive action on transport investment to ensure the borough can reach its full potential.
