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

West London Vision, Economic Priorities and WLEPB Forward Plan

The Board discussed and approved a new vision for the West London Alliance (WLA), which aims to bring together joint work across economic, social, and environmental priorities. The headline vision is Connected communities in the world's most connected place, today and tomorrow, underpinned by four strategic aims: making West London more inclusive, productive, resilient, and influential. A forward plan for the WLEPB was also approved, outlining potential topics for discussion in the coming quarters, including London as a polycentric city, universal support services, inward investment, and mayoral priorities. The Board also agreed that the WLA officers would ensure the influencing strategy and external engagement work highlights the strengths of West London's economic clusters and its potential to contribute to levelling up the UK.

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

The Board received an update on the West London Orbital (WLO) rail scheme, a project aiming to improve orbital travel across West London. The scheme is nearing the end of Stage 2 of the Governance for Railway Investment Projects (GRIP) process, which will confirm its technical feasibility and provide updated cost estimates. The WLO is seen as crucial for unlocking regeneration, particularly around Old Oak Common station, and for connecting disadvantaged areas to economic opportunities. The Board reaffirmed its support for the WLO, acknowledging the need to make a strong case for its funding ahead of upcoming London and national elections. Discussions highlighted the importance of collaboration with Transport for London (TfL) and the Greater London Authority (GLA), as well as potential lobbying efforts towards the government. The WLO is anticipated to offer significant economic, social, and environmental benefits, including relieving congestion on the North Circular and connecting areas from Brent Cross down to Hounslow. A decision on whether to proceed to the next stages of the GRIP process, including detailed design and public consultation, is expected after the Mayoral elections in May 2024.

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