Monday 22 May 2017

London Chamber calls on the next Government to provide infrastructure to underpin a 'megacity'

London's leading business organisation, London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, today renewed its calls for a commitment to improving the capital's transport and housing infrastructure as political parties continue to lay out their manifesto policies.

The calls are published in LCCI's London Business Manifesto "Capital Matters" setting out its key asks for the next Government to ensure that London continues to maintain its status as a globally competitive city.

LCCI believes it is vital that the next Government provides infrastructure to underpin a 'megacity' by:

• Securing Parliamentary time for a hybrid bill to designate Crossrail 2 as major infrastructure of national importance and commence development works.
• Auditing and mapping disused or poor quality land within the Metropolitan green belt to identify 'brownspace' plots of land where small developers can bring forward new housing.
• Boosting short-term airport capacity through airfield, terminal and rail-link enhancements and future-proof the UK economy by enabling a new runway at Gatwick, after Heathrow.
• Permitting Transport for London (TfL) to seek responsibility for commuter rail services into London as each mainline franchise comes up for renewal.

Chief Executive of LCCI, Colin Stanbridge said: "London's position as a leading global city cannot be taken for granted. By 2020, the capital's population is forecast to reach 9m. We will achieve megacity status by 2030, with over 10m citizens, placing London's infrastructure under additional pressure.

Chronic housing undersupply already impacts on employees and employers, our ageing transport network faces overcrowding and congestion. We need the next government to address these issues as a matter of priority."

LCCI has compiled Capital Matters as a result of recent polling and research on numerous issues affecting businesses of all sizes across the capital.

ENDS

Media Contact
Katharine McGee
T: +44 (0)20 7203 1897
M: +44 (0)7827 241528
E: kmcgee@londonchamber.co.uk

NOTES TO EDITOR:

1. LCCI is the capital's most representative business organisation, with members ranging in size from multi-national companies to SMEs and sole traders.

2. Colin Stanbridge, Chief Executive, is available for further comment and interview.