London: coping with austerity
After London School of Economics’ (LSE) revisions to the last London plan, London: Bigger and Better? (2006), things have changed. Four years after the publication, there is a new draft plan, a new Mayor with potentially greater powers and serious economic uncertainty, which raises considerable questions about continuing growth. Public spending cuts could jeopardize some of the programmes that address both existing and new needs.
Strategies and financial arrangements to meet the needs of Londoners
Private-sector activity and public funds are in short supply, but the requirements of London’s population are unlikely to lessen. Meeting their needs will demand new strategies and financial arrangements. The number of London households is expected to grow. This will put additional strain on, for example, transport services and housing provision, both of which are likely to be affected by funding cuts.
Entering a period of austerity
London is entering a period of austerity when public investment will be in short supply. At the same time, the Coalition Government is looking at new ways of delivering services – with the emphasis on localism and the concept of the big society. This approach is based on greater local involvement in the delivery of services and needs to be planned for and built into any new strategic initiatives. If London’s regional government grows stronger, questions about its role and relationship with the boroughs become more pressing. Also, if the Government’s drive for localism is to succeed, communities need to be convinced that they can influence the planning policies affecting their ideas and make a difference to their well-being.
A new approach to planning London
The current uncertainties and the possible impact of political and social changes in the pipeline require a new approach to planning London. Development plans have traditionally set out proposals based on a consideration of all the prevailing conditions, to be taken forward by a wide range of agencies. But with the number of unknowns at the moment, many plans are well beyond the control of the implementation agencies. In this period of austerity and political change, the role of London’s regional government is key to preparing the conditions for economic recovery and responding to the localism agenda. Well defined priorities are needed, to ensure that the limited funds are used smartly and targets are met.
Contact info
Published by LSE London
The London School of Economics and Political Science
Houghton Street
London WC2A 2AE
United Kingdom
Publication Date
October 2010
Document Type
Policy Document
ISBN 978-0-85328-459-8
By: London, London School of Economics, austerity, public spending, London: Bigger and Better?,