LCCI’s visit to Luton Rising in October was timed to coincide with the government’s International Investment Summit at London’s Guildhall which put investment at the centre of the UK’s economic vision and highlighted the UK’s strong economic landscape in industries such as technology.

Assets
Led by chief strategy officer Lucie Risley, the LCCI team gained insights into the successful economic development company whose assets include London Luton Airport, the Luton DART and other commercial properties. DART is the direct air-rail transit which makes the journey from Luton Airport Parkway station to London Luton Airport in under four minutes.

Charismatic
The company is solely owned for community benefit and has been described as the most socially impactful airport in the country. LBM readers were introduced to the company and its charismatic managing director – Nick Platts, a former Australian air force pilot – in a feature earlier this year.

Lucie Risley, LCCI chief strategy officer Linsey Sweet, general manager – DART, Luton Rising Nick Platts, managing director, Luton Rising

 

Key takeaways from the visit included:
Growth aspirations: Luton Rising aims to become a key player not only in the local economy but also on the national stage. Its focus on sustainable infrastructure and innovation is setting the foundation for long-term success, and a positive decision for its proposed Development Consent Order for the long-term sustainable growth of the airport can be the catalyst.
Investment opportunities: attracting inward investment is both a challenge and an opportunity. The aim is to make Luton an even more attractive destination for investors.

Policy support: the need for infrastructure improvements and regulatory support from the new government to create a thriving business environment is key. Luton Rising’s vision aligns closely with the government’s agenda for regional development and economic growth.

Pivotal
With the international investment summit shining a spotlight on UK business, it was pivotal to highlight the importance of investment in areas like Luton, and ensuring London and the UK remains a competitive and attractive destination for global investors. It is also important to highlight London’s ongoing role as a vital investment gateway which spreads jobs and opportunity across the nations and regions of the UK.

www.lutonrising.org.uk