Kingston has joined forces with four other South London boroughs to unveil a new shared vision for economic growth across the region.

The 'BIG Ambition: South London Growth' plan was launched on 17 June in Wimbledon by the South London Partnership, a collaboration between Kingston, Croydon, Merton, Richmond and Sutton.

The strategy outlines a commitment to producing inclusive, sustainable growth by attracting investment, creating well-paid jobs, and strengthening key sectors.

Councillor Andreas Kirsch, Leader of Kingston Council, said: "South London is well placed to play an important role in London's success – but a successful economy is only successful if everyone reaps the rewards.

"Enhanced orbital transport links across the region are crucial for realising our ambitions, unlocking economic opportunities, reducing congestion, and better connecting businesses with local talent."

The 'BIG Ambition' plan complements Kingston's own Economic Development Strategy 2024-2028, which aims to make the borough a place where business, learning and innovation thrive.

The South London Partnership is now calling on central government and private investors to support the plan through funding and local skills development.

Councillor Gareth Roberts, Chair of the South London Partnership and Leader of Richmond Council, highlighted the scale of the opportunity.

"Our sub-region is already a £38 billion economy, home to more than 1.2 million residents, 55,000 businesses and 550,000 jobs," he said.

"But we need targeted investment and better connectivity to realise our ambitions for local people and businesses over the next decade."

With a long-term plan through to 2035, 'BIG Ambition' aims to strengthen South London's contribution to London's wider growth, while insuring local people benefit from new opportunities.