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Arup helps London Council set out blueprint for growth

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Charlotte S Charlotte Fernández UKIMEA Press Office,Leeds
1 April 2014

The ‘Waltham Forest Growth Commission’ has now published its full report which sets out a five year plan for economic growth for the London Borough of Waltham Forest.

Waltham Forest currently has one of the smallest economies in London. The Council appointed an independent commission of experts, including Alexander Jan of Arup, to plot an economic course for the Borough for the next five years.

Alex undertook the pro bono work to support Waltham Forest Council, which was keen to draw on local knowledge and national expertise to ensure that the Borough can create the conditions that will help the economy grow for the benefit of residents.

As one of four members of the commission, Arup was delighted to make Alex available to draw on the firm’s specialist knowledge in policy, economics and regeneration.

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Economic growth is fundamental to meeting the needs and aspirations of the residents and businesses of Waltham Forest. The good news is that many of the fundamentals - such as strong transport links into central London, a good housing base and a diverse and growing population are in place. If Waltham Forest can raise its profile, strengthen its high streets and boost skills and business support, the borough is in a strong position to secure inward investment and to boost its economic output in ways that improve the lives of its residents. ”

The report makes specific recommendations that will help Waltham Forest achieve growth over the next five, ten and fifteen years. 

The commission met a number of times to discuss evidence gathered and made numerous recommendations including the development of the high street economy, investing in skills and jobs, improving cross borough transport links and developing local business support services. 

Waltham Forest will be formally responding to the Growth Commission’s recommendations later this year. To download a full copy of the report visit: www.walthamforest.gov.uk/growthcommission