Shining a light on The Upper Lea Valley and magnifying opportunity: Unlocking Urban Potential through our Tri-Brough Partnership
As we step into a new era of urban development, the potential for transformation has never been greater. Our vision for the Upper London Valley (ULV) is clear: we’re embracing an ambitious approach to create a new investment area in the Upper Lea Valley where growth, culture, and sustainability converge, and opportunity is everywhere. Our panel session at this year’s LREF launched our pioneering sub regional partnership between Haringey Enfield and Waltham Forest, focused on Inward Investment and one of its kind in London. We shine a light on the main learnings and core essence from the panel with similar themes reflected in the ‘Think Beyond Boundaries’ roundtable earlier in the day and our learnings as a partnership.
Delivering with Purpose: A Political and Strategic Commitment
The journey to realising this vision is grounded in a firm political mandate and a commitment to positioning ULV as a leader in urban regeneration. Our strategy is rooted in certainty and collaboration. By aligning with key political players, industry leaders, and local stakeholders, we aim to protect our three borough’s rich heritage, maximising our strategic sites, while driving forward initiatives that will keep ULV at the forefront of modern development.
Investing in Culture and Education
One of the most exciting aspects of this transformation is the focus on culture and education as catalysts for change. Jonathan Martin (Director of Inward Investment & Strategic Partnerships, London Borough of Waltham Forest) brought to life Waltham Forest’s existing strengths, creating a vibrant cultural district. “We’re building on our borough’s existing strengths by creating vibrant new places, including a new cultural quarter, complete with Soho Theatre, and a potential new University Quarter - complete with The University of Portsmouth’s London Campus. The regeneration of Blackhorse Lane, within our Housing Zone includes a Creative Enterprise Zone, and is one successful example of how we’re maximising our strategic locations and the opportunities for growth while enhancing the cultural fabric of our community.”
Collaboration for Success: Strategic Partnerships and Investment
Brett Leahy (Strategic Director of Planning, Growth and Infrastructure, Enfield Council) emphasised how at Enfield they are leveraging their status as London’s second-largest industrial area linking our work to broader tech hubs, including the Arc and Europe’s very own Silicon Valley: “By building these strategic connections, we’re fostering an environment where local industries can thrive, supported by infrastructure and innovation.”
Jackie Sadek (Chair of the Innovation Corridor) talked passionately about how the heart of our mission is a holistic approach to investment and development. The Tri-borough collaboration will drive meaningful conversations with stakeholders to attract the resources we need to drive innovation and sustainable growth: “London is at its best when it works in tandem with its local partners, and we’re embracing this collaborative spirit to bring our vision to life.”
Building a Community of Makers and Innovators
Anna Blandford (Interim Assistant Director of Regeneration and Economic Development, Haringey Council) bought home how we are supporting local makers and fostering a spirit of innovation which is key to building on the borough’s legacy and strengths. With large clusters of industry with strong potential for growth, we are creating an ecosystem that empowers small businesses and community initiatives: “Our approach is one of constant engagement: working hand-in-hand with the community to ensure that everyone is part of this journey and to deliver our vision of inclusive growth.”
Sustainability at the Core: Resilience and Decarbonisation
Our vision for ULV is not just about economic growth—it’s about ensuring that development is sustainable and inclusive. Decarbonisation is central to this mission. With a plethora of sites allocated for regeneration, we’re concentrating our efforts around decarbonisation of the heat network, transport links and the green belt, aiming to boost climate resilience across the borough.
We are actively seeking investment in projects that prioritise green and blue infrastructure, enhance energy efficiency, and promote a shared approach to environmental responsibility. Our ambition is to make ULV a leader in sustainable urban development, setting a benchmark for others to follow.
A Shared Vision: Progressive Planning and Governance
This project is about more than just infrastructure; it’s about reimagining what’s possible. We’re developing a shared vision with the community, backed by progressive planning and consistent governance. By aligning our efforts and ensuring open, continuous dialogue, we are laying the foundation for a future that reflects our collective ambitions.
From strategic partnerships to economic leverage, our work is focused on attracting the investment needed to bring our vision to life.
A Vision for the Future: Credibility, Consistency, and Innovation
Our commitment to high-quality design, creative regeneration, and sustainable growth will put ULV firmly on the map as a model for modern urban development. We’re playing to our strengths: building on what’s already here while looking ahead to future possibilities. By constantly engaging with the community, we’re creating a space where everyone can feel heard and involved.
This is about more than just development; it’s about building a brand of credibility and trust that will resonate with government and industry alike. Our message is clear: we are pioneers, and we are ready to lead the way into a future where urban regeneration and partnership go hand in hand.