Tuesday 13 February 2024

Karim Fatehi MBE, Interim Chief Executive of the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), said:

“The Prime Minister and Housing Secretary are right to acknowledge the need to improve the availability of housing in London. We must recognise that the housing crisis in London has significant economic and social effects, driving workers, families and in turn businesses out of the city. Thriving businesses require thriving communities.

“However, it is imperative that any reforms to housebuilding in The London Plan do not squeeze out land for economic activity and jobs in favour of meeting the need for the greater provision of affordable housing in London.

“Our members have consistently raised concerns about the distribution of land being diverted away from economic uses, particularly around logistics, as more commerce has moved online and demand has grown. The lack of available logistics space has put pressure on businesses to move further out of London, which affects their ability meet consumer needs and removes all important job opportunities from the capital.

“The London Chamber will study the details of the proposed plan and we will engage with the Government, businesses and The Mayor of London to ensure they are workable for businesses.”

ENDS