London Borough of Bexley has approved a new Economic Growth Strategy, setting out plans to attract investment, support skills and deliver what councillors describe as “inclusive growth” across the borough.
The strategy – titled Ready for tomorrow, growing for a better future – was signed off at a Public Cabinet meeting on 23 February. It follows a decade of development and infrastructure projects in the borough and is intended to shape the next phase of growth.
Residents and businesses were consulted on the draft proposals over December and January, with feedback incorporated into the final document.
From growth to “good growth”
The strategy outlines a series of priorities, including clearer economic outcomes, a focus on fairness and resilience, and a pipeline of projects designed to attract new businesses while supporting local skills and innovation.
Council leaders argue that growth must extend beyond headline employment figures.
Cllr David Leaf, Leader of Bexley Council, said:
“Bexley is a great place to live, work and raise a family and our new Economic Growth Strategy will ensure we can do more to attract businesses, investment and jobs into our Borough. While the country faces difficult economic challenges, we are clear that there are significant opportunities here in Bexley and we are eager to work with partners to deliver good sustainable growth for Bexley.
“We recognise that good growth is about more than jobs and investment. That’s why we are proud of our excellent green spaces, heritage sites, family friendly neighbourhoods, our bustling town centres, excellent schools and rich arts and culture and these leave us well positioned for good growth in Bexley.
“These are exciting times for our great Borough. The Economic Growth Strategy is the foundation for future growth, supports our ambitions and aspirations and demonstrates that Bexley is open for business. We look forward to working more closely with partners. Together we’ll be ready for tomorrow and growing for a better future.”
Culture as catalyst
Alongside the economic plan, the Cabinet approved a new cultural strategy, recognising the role of arts and heritage in shaping the borough’s identity and supporting regeneration.
Cllr Cafer Munur, Cabinet Member for Place Shaping, said:
“We know that Bexley is one of London and the South-East’s best-kept secrets, blessed with an array of cultural treasures and miles of precious green and blue spaces.
“#CelebratingBexley our year long programme of cultural and creative events demonstrates the strength of local partnerships that we have in our Borough and the power of community making on place and people.
“The Economic Growth Strategy builds on this partner first approach and outlines our shared vision for Bexley. Together we’ll be ready for tomorrow and growing for a better future.”
A long-term framework
The council says the strategy provides a long-term framework for investment and partnership working at a time of national economic uncertainty. Its emphasis on skills, innovation and sustainability reflects a broader shift among local authorities towards linking economic development with quality of life.
Whether the plan translates into measurable gains for residents will depend on delivery. For now, Bexley’s message is clear: it intends to compete for growth – and to define on its own terms what that growth should look like.
