Kingston sets out ambitions to be recognised as a leading hub for business, investment and housing

A thriving borough where everyone can succeed in a changing world.

‘Confident in Kingston' is the Economic Development Strategy for Kingston upon Thames 20242028. The strategy sets out the council’s ambitions for the borough to be increasingly recognised as a leading hub for business, investment, housing and green economy, while preserving its rich heritage.

The strategy has ambitions to enhance Kingston’s reputation through a focused plan that attracts inward investment, enterprises and visitors. Being Confident in Kingston, recognises our intent to drive the borough forward with conviction, harnessing the borough’s talent, ambition and innovation to deliver on its potential. It is based on a strong evidence base, extensive consultation and partner input and will draw on these partnerships to enable its delivery.

With a strong focus on active collaboration, Kingston’s strategy taps into partnerships with businesses, residents, and other stakeholders to realise its ambitious outcomes and support shared interests. Making this a borough wide vision and not just a council ambition.

While this is an ‘economic’ strategy, it is important for us to recognise that the economy should work for people and their communities. Growth of the economy relates closely to the personal growth that people can experience, through their sense of place, incomes, skills or wellbeing - this is at the heart of our strategy.

Kingston is also committed to sustainability and aims to lead on green economy initiatives and decarbonisation. Our goal is to create not just a thriving economy, but one that leads the way by encouraging businesses to adopt greener practices while creating jobs in this sector.

Housing development is another core priority for the borough, with the council planning to deliver at least 964 homes per year, including affordable and social housing through projects such as the Cambridge Road Estate. The housing push will meet the diverse needs of Kingston’s families and individuals, contributing to a fairer economy. These developments also offer opportunities for growth in our local supply chain and jobs in the construction sector.

Kingston’s relative affluence can mask challenges faced by some residents, such as fuel poverty and access to opportunities. Transport connectivity improvements and a push for digital inclusion, especially in underserved communities, are also key objectives. Kingston’s commitment to addressing social inequalities will see targeted employment and skills training for vulnerable groups, further cementing the borough’s reputation as a place where everyone has access to fair employment.

This comprehensive plan signals an exciting chapter for Kingston -a borough that honours its history while boldly embracing the future.

The strategy outlines 5 key outcomes

1. Kingston recognised as a great location:

• Promote Kingston as an attractive location for investment, business, and visitors.

• Enhance the borough’s cultural, creative, and heritage sectors.

• Improve infrastructure such as transport connectivity and broadband access.

2. A leading green economy:

• Kingston will lead in decarbonisation efforts and green initiatives.

• Foster skills development in green jobs, focusing on retrofitting homes and businesses.

• Encourage businesses to reduce carbon emissions through eco-innovations.

3. Adaptable, thriving town centres and places of work:

• Support diverse, flexible workspaces and protect industrial areas.

• Enhance town centres with more diverse businesses and community spaces.

• Improve public spaces and the appearance of Kingston’s historic areas, including enhancing Kingston’s Market Place.

4. A fair economy:

• Ensure access to jobs, education, and housing for all residents, particularly those facing barriers.

• Promote social value through policies such as the London Living Wage and support affordable housing and workspaces.

• Addressing digital exclusion and supporting early careers.

5. A place of active, productive collaboration:

• Delivered through strong partnerships between the council, businesses, and communities.

• Strengthen ties with educational institutions to support innovation and skills development.

• Promote sub-regional collaboration, particularly within the South London Partnership.

This strategy is part of a broader ambition to create a confident, thriving Kingston, adapting to changes while ensuring fairness, inclusivity, and sustainability.

You can view the full strategy and its evidence base online on the council’s website or via the QR code here