1 minute read
Connectivity, job creation, and opportunities
Southall’s connectivity is one of its key features. Southall station offers a one-stop connection to Paddington and westward to the Thames Estuary via the new Elizabeth line. Southall is now just 25 minutes to Bond Street and 10 minutes to Heathrow by Elizabeth line.
Standing as a beacon for South Asian food, fashion, and retail, its strategic location to Heathrow and the A312 offers potential to diversify the local economy further. This potential aims to foster ‘good jobs’ and deliver ‘good growth’ to strengthen the region’s resiliency and vibrancy.
Councillor Louise Brett, the council’s cabinet member for decent living incomes, said “Southall continues flourishing with a thriving high street and a burgeoning industrious town. Ealing Council recognises its immense economic potential. With a 20% growth in its business community since 2015, Southall is a vibrant hub of approximately 400 enterprises, offering over 4,000 jobs that significantly contribute to the local and borough-wide economy. We’re committed to fostering ‘good growth,’ diversifying the local economy, and strengthening our region’s resiliency and vibrancy.”
But, like every growth story, Southall faces many challenges, particularly local deprivation, and the rapid pace of change experienced by residents. The vision is to attract investors who not only see the economic potential but are also committed to addressing these challenges innovatively.
Ongoing projects and planning developments
Southall is not just witnessing economic growth; it’s preparing for an economic renaissance as one of London’s most promising towns. Recent housing developments near Southall Station and beyond connect to Southall’s network of canals and green spaces. With the recent arrival of the Elizabeth Line, these changes are shining a spotlight on Southall’s vibrant commercial neighbourhoods. To streamline and encourage investment, Ealing Council’s emerging Local Plan has identified over 20 major development sites. These sites encompass a diverse range of offerings from intensified industrial spaces, flexible commercial zones, retail hubs, and, most importantly, genuinely affordable homes. For those looking to tap into Southall’s development potential, the council has launched the Good for Ealing inward investment programme. Launched in 2022, this public-private partnership promotes