Boroughs have launched their third annual Guide to Development in the City of Opportunity, reaffirming their commitment to securing the investment that ensures “London continues to thrive”.

Boroughs are determined to attract international investment that brings clear benefits to their communities, such as high-quality affordable homes, new jobs, and transport links.

Cllr Darren Rodwell, London Councils’ Executive Member for Housing & Planning, said: "Boroughs have an appetite to do more for local communities – to build more housing, to create more opportunities, and to attract more investors. We use our own powers and resources to the best of our abilities, but we also need to build strong partnerships with the development industry to achieve our ambitions.”

A report published today by the British Red Cross and London School of Economics and Political Science found that simple changes to asylum policy could benefit the UK economy by £7 million each year.

In response Cllr Muhammed Butt, London Councils’ Executive member for Welfare, Empowerment and Inclusion, said: “We welcome the British Red Cross’ new report, which shows that once an asylum seeker is granted refugee status, they do not have enough time to complete key stages of the process – including opening a bank account, finding a new place to live, getting a job and receiving wages.

“I would like government to look again at the move-on time period, given the pressure on local public services and the real risk that vulnerable refugees slip into poverty or homelessness instead of making a positive start to settling in the UK.”  

Londoners who don’t have access to off-street parking are being encouraged to contact their borough if they’d like to request an on-street electric vehicle charging point near their home.

A one click London map on London Councils website offers an easy way for residents across the capital to submit a request. While requests may not always be responded to individually, resident suggestions will help London boroughs identify demand for charge points and inform future delivery.

London Councils welcomed two new members to its Executive recently. Greenwich Leader Cllr Danny Thorpe has been appointed Executive Member (Locum) for Crime and Public Protection, and Kensington & Chelsea Leader Cllr Elizabeth Campbell has been appointed Executive Member for Children and Young People.

You can find agendas and reports for all London Councils Executive, Leaders’ and other committees on our website here.