The West London Economic Prosperity Board (WLEPB) met on Thursday 18 January 2024 to discuss the region's economic vision and the progress of the West London Orbital rail scheme. The Board approved a forward plan for the West London Alliance (WLA) and reaffirmed its support for the West London Orbital project.

West London Vision, Economic Priorities and WLEPB Forward Plan

The Board noted and approved the WLEPB forward plan, which outlines the joint work of the West London Alliance (WLA) across economic, social, and environmental priorities. The overarching vision for West London is Connected communities in the world's most connected place, today and tomorrow. This vision acknowledges the region's economic recovery post-pandemic, while also recognising ongoing issues of exclusion, inequality, pollution, and climate change. The forward plan, which spans until 2025, is structured around four strategic aims: making West London more inclusive, productive, resilient, and influential.

Councillor Peter Mason, Leader of Ealing Council and Chair of the WLEPB, highlighted the strengths and potential of West London, including the film industry in Ealing and the transport corridor along the A4 and M4. He suggested that West London could become the UK's economic powerhouse by mid-century. David Francis, Director of the West London Alliance, explained that the WLA's influencing strategy would incorporate a clear economic narrative and priorities for external engagement. The Board also agreed that WLA officers would ensure the influencing strategy highlights West London's strengths and economic clusters, its potential for future growth, and its capacity to contribute to levelling up the rest of the UK. A suggestion was made to bring forward the discussion on West London energy constraints and energy planning due to stakeholder interest.

West London Orbital: Progress and Context, Anticipated Decisions and Next Steps

The Board reaffirmed its support for the West London Orbital (WLO) rail scheme. Councillor Peter Mason noted its increasing importance for north-west London, particularly for dispersing people from Old Oak Common station and unlocking regeneration in the area. David Francis reported that the GRIP 2 Stage of work is nearing completion, which is expected to confirm the technical feasibility of the scheme, much of which will utilise existing lines. An updated cost estimate is anticipated by the end of March 2024, following which a decision will be made on the next stage, involving detailed design and public consultation, culminating in an application under the Transport and Works Act.

The WLO is seen as having a strong strategic case, with increasing passenger numbers and its connection to Old Oak Common. Anticipated benefits include connecting disadvantaged areas to economic opportunities, linking Brent Cross with Old Oak Common and the Great West Corridor in Hounslow, relieving congestion on the North Circular, and attracting travellers from outside London. The scheme aims to satisfy a range of economic, social, and environmental objectives.

A board member suggested lobbying the government now to secure necessary funding, a point noted by WLA officers. Discussions also touched upon the importance of radial networks for travel within Zone 3, and the need for infrastructure investment to support new working patterns. Cath Shaw, Deputy Chief Executive of Barnet Council, emphasised the broad range of jobs the WLO could connect to and supported the idea of early lobbying to influence major political parties. The Chair stressed the importance of securing financial contributions from Transport for London (TfL) and the boroughs to progress beyond the GRIP 2 Stage, suggesting that boroughs could factor in Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding and seek obligations from developments along the route. The WLO is viewed as both an invest to grow and an invest to save project. The scheme is expected to be brought to boroughs for a decision in summer 2024.

The next meeting of the West London Economic Prosperity Board is scheduled for Wednesday 17 April 2024.