The Capital Club breakfast took place at Guildhall, City of London with special guest Jules Pipe, Deputy Mayor for Housing in London.
Jules spoke about a range of subjects, including the London Plan and skills agenda, which is vital to ensure London succeeds in the future. In his role as Deputy Mayor, Jules spoke about the ambitious London Plan with ‘Good Growth’ at it’s heart, ensuring London grows in a way which is socially and economically inclusive, together with being environmentally sustainable.
Some of the key challenges which London faces is in making the best use of land, and optimising density to maximise affordable housing. On affordable housing specifically, the Mayor secured nearly £5 billion from the government for affordable housing delivery, and the vast majority of the schemes being delivered at present are policy compliant.
On the skills agenda, the Mayor’s office is refocusing on how the budget is spent, with priority to individual skills and ensuring employers provide skills training for their employees. City Hall is also looking to implement an apprenticeship levy to effectively fund the workers of the future.
Questions were asked on a range of subjects including devolution, local taxes, London councils and the Secretary of States involvement in London planning matters. Jules highlighted the continued effort of the office in promoting communities and collaboration within the capital.
If you would like to join the Capital Club, please contact Tristan Robinson at Tristan.Robinson@jbp.co.uk or 0203 267 0074.