London gas, water and electric networks are set for an upgrade, as Sadiq Khan announced a £1.5 billion scheme to boost supplies.
The massive cash injection will improve services, create jobs, and kickstart the capital’s recovery from coronavirus, the Mayor promised.
Britain’s biggest utilities companies – including gas supplier Cadent, cable company UK Power Networks and Thames Water – will be involved.
The industry heavy weights have been brought together on the scheme by the London Recovery Board.
Chaired by the Mayor and Southwark Council leader Peter John, the group is coordinating the capital’s response to Covid-19.
Individual utilities projects are yet to be finalised, and some may need regulatory approval before getting the green light.
But the investment will improve gas networks, boost water supply to north east boroughs, the City of London and Canary Wharf, and slash leakage by 20% in five years.
NOW READ: Sadiq Khan: don’t reduce furlough scheme next month
The Recovery Board will also push for new jobs to be created, particularly targeting young and black, Asian or minority ethnic (BAME) Londoners, who have been worst in recent months.
Utility companies have not furloughed any staff during the coronavirus outbreak, and havein fact continued to hire.
The Mayor said the scheme showed “great progress” and would ensure city infrastructure is built “to serve all Londoners” in the years ahead.
“By working together with the major utility companies to bring forward these projects, we have a valuable opportunity to improve the diversity of the sector,” he added.
Councillor John, who is also chairman of London Councils, said the infrastructure project showed what can be achieved working together.
“Collaboration is at the heart of London’s work to overcome the terrible impact of Covid-19 and rebuild a stronger, more equal and sustainable economy in the months and years ahead,” he said.
