The UK economy attracted £200 billion of new investment in 2025, but its share of international capital declined, with sovereign investment and foreign direct investment falling.

Investment in the UK totalled £4.1 trillion last year, demonstrating its continued scale and resilience as the UK economy grapples with macroeconomic headwinds. The figure marked a 5 per cent improvement from the £3.9 trillion of UK investment assets owned in 2024, when the City of London Corporation first began to measure UK investment levels.

 UK public equities recorded the largest increase in new capital, rising by £222 billion (23%) to nearly £1.2 trillion. Business and infrastructure investment^1,2 also recorded large increases, while holdings in UK government bonds remain the largest investment destination, at nearly £1.3 trillion³

 The UK lost ground among international investors. Sovereign wealth funds and global public pension funds increased the amount they invested globally in 2025 to £215bn, from £169bn in 2024. But the UK's share of global sovereign investment fell from 13% to 9% as sovereign investors cut back their UK investment by £3 billion to £19 billion.

Foreign direct investment fell by £14 billion (21%) to reach £54 billion. The drop was driven by 51 fewer projects across the UK, particularly £1 billion-plus mega projects. The largest drops were in in Scotland and the North East. Renewable energy projects were the largest draw of foreign direct investment, rising £2 billion (11%) to £21 billion.

The need for action to keep driving investment is clear, and that is why the City of London Corporation is leading several initiatives to boost investment levels in the UK. InvestConnect⁴, a new AI-enabled platform being developed in partnership with the City Corporation and InvestConnect Global Limited will launch in the Autumn. It will enable investors managing trillions of pounds of assets to back UK infrastructure projects. Cornwall Council, the Scottish Government, and Liverpool City Region Combined Authority are the platform’s first Founding Opportunity Partners and will play a leading role in shaping the development of the platform.

Last year, the City Corporation, together with HMT, the Office for Investment, the Prudential Regulation Authority and the Financial Conduct Authority launched the Office for Investment: Financial Services⁵, providing a “single front door” for international financial services firms looking to set up or expand British operations. The City Corporation also secured commitment from 17 of the UK’s largest workplace pension providers to invest in UK growth assets via the Mansion House Accord⁶. Together, these initiatives have the potential to mobilise £35 billion of investment into the UK.

The City Corporation is also preparing a Budget submission to deliver a more dynamic economy, with eased planning rules, a competitive tax system, and proportionate regulation, to encourage investment.

Policy Chairman for the City of London Corporation, Chris Hayward said:

"Growth in every UK postcode requires investment across our nations and regions. With deep capital markets, a large domestic savings base, and an established and growing ecosystem for international investors, the UK remains one of the world's leading investment destinations. But the overall growth in investment masks a more complex truth which we must tackle head on: the UK is losing ground to international competitors.

“Some of this is cyclical, but we must confront adverse trends early: strengthening the UK’s offer to global investors and ensuring that domestic capital is channelled more effectively into productive UK assets.

“The investment capital is available. So are the growth opportunities. It is the shared task of HM Government, the financial and professional services industry and regulators to connect the two.”  

Notes to editors

1. Business investment rose by £46 billion (16%) to £331 billion.
2. Infrastructure investment also rose by £13 billion (24%) to £68 billion.
3. Holdings fell by £56.5bn, or 4.2%, to £1,285bn in 2025
4. InvestConnect: https://www.investconnect.com/
5. OFI:FS: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/office-for-investment-financial-services
6. The Mansion House Accord: https://www.theglobalcity.uk/insights/mansion-house-accord
7. OFI:FS: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/office-for-investment-financial-services

About the City of London Corporation:

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

· Recruitment underway for highly sought after role

· Chair of Governors praises outgoing Head’s ‘warmth, energy, optimism and a genuine sense of fun’

Alan Bird, Head of City of London School (CLS), is to step down from his role after nearly a decade in charge at the end of this academic year (31 August 2027). He has been appointed as Master of Magdalen College School, Oxford.

The search for his successor is already underway. Working with colleagues in the City of London Corporation, the school’s Board of Governors has appointed Odgers, a leading executive search firm with extensive experience in education, to support the recruitment process.

Pupils, parents and staff were all informed this morning (4 September).

Under Alan’s leadership, the School has seen significant change and development. Facilities have been improved and enhanced. Relationships with City of London School for Girls have deepened, with the Joint Sixth Form Centre on track for 2028. City Junior School opened in 2022; shared professional services have improved operational effectiveness across CLS, City of London School for Girls and City Junior School, and important curriculum innovations include the introduction of Design, Computing and Robotics.

Academic outcomes remain outstanding, while the School’s partnerships have expanded significantly. The creation of the Futures Department has helped establish CLS as a leader in preparing young people for an increasingly complex world.

Keith Bottomley, Chair of Governors, said:

“By next summer, Alan will have served almost ten years as Head of CLS. During that time, he has led the School with distinction. He will hand over a community that is thriving, confident and clear about its values and purpose.

“As Head, Alan has brought warmth, energy, optimism and a genuine sense of fun to the role. These qualities have had a lasting impact on everyone who has worked with him.

“Perhaps Alan’s most important contribution has been the development of the School’s culture and values. The principles of being Kind, Aware and Ready are now deeply embedded in School life and help guide pupils, staff and governors alike. As a Board, we will ensure that remains at the heart of CLS.

“Additionally, he has been careful to nurture excellence among his staff, especially among his senior team, who will build on the strong foundations he has laid long into the future.”

Alan Bird, Head of City of London School, said:

“It has been such a privilege to hold the post of Head at CLS over nearly a decade.

“Working with a brilliant team of staff, and wonderful pupils, has been, and remains, a source of enrichment and joy, and I will be very sad to say farewell next summer.”

The City of London Corporation’s Heathrow Animal Reception Centre (HARC) has achieved International Air Transport Association (IATA) CEIV Live Animals re-certification for a third consecutive cycle.

The globally recognised accreditation independently verifies that HARC continues to meet the highest international standards for animal welfare, specialist handling facilities, training and operational excellence in the transportation of live animals by air.

The re-certification follows an independent assessment of HARC's facilities, procedures, staff expertise and regulatory compliance.

Operating from Heathrow Airport, HARC protects the UK's biosecurity by carrying out health and welfare checks on animals entering the country, from family pets and livestock to zoo animals and exotic species.

The centre plays a vital role in preventing the spread of diseases such as rabies while ensuring animals meet strict welfare requirements.

HARC remains Europe's only CEIV Live Animals-certified Border Control Post and is the UK's only Live Animal Border Control Post designated for all species.

Located on the perimeter of Heathrow Airport, it enforces UK and international import regulations and works with airlines to ensure high standards of animal welfare.

The facility cares for millions of animals each year, including thousands of pets, hundreds of horses, and millions of fish, reptiles and invertebrates.

Chair of the City of London Corporation's Port Health and Environmental Services Committee, Peter Dunphy MBE, said:

"When it comes to animal welfare, there is no room for compromise, and HARC is setting the international benchmark for the safe and humane transport of animals by air.

“Achieving our third CEIV Live Animals re-certification is an important endorsement of the expertise and dedication of our staff, who continue to deliver the gold standard of care for animals travelling through one of the world's busiest airports.”

Global Head of Cargo at IATA, Brendan Sullivan, added:

“We congratulate the Heathrow Animal Reception Centre on achieving CEIV Live Animals certification for a third time. As Europe’s only CEIV Live Animals-certified Border Control Post, HARC is leading by example and helping to raise standard for the safe, healthy and humane transport of animals.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally-successful UK – www.cityoflondon.gov.uk.

Visitors, foragers, and social media influencers are being urged to leave wild mushrooms untouched in Epping Forest as conservators prepare for the start of the autumn fungi season.

The City of London Corporation, which manages Epping Forest as a registered charity, is reminding visitors that picking fungi is prohibited under Forest byelaws.

While many content creators may be unaware of the restrictions, videos and posts showing mushrooms being collected can inadvertently encourage others to do the same.

Recent warm weather has already prompted the early appearance of some fungi, including ‘Chicken of the Woods’, Laetiporus sulphureus, with Forest experts closely monitoring how this year's season develops following a summer of heat and drought.

Epping Forest is nationally recognised for its fungal diversity and supports hundreds of recorded species. Many play a vital role in the health of the Forest, helping recycle nutrients, supporting wildlife, and helping preserve some 55,000 ancient trees.

The warning comes as fungi-related content continues to grow in popularity on social media, with posts showcasing unusual mushrooms and foraging finds attracting large audiences online. Even after leaving the Forest, users could be subject to fines or prosecution.

Visitors are encouraged to enjoy fungi responsibly by taking photographs and leaving mushrooms and other wildlife exactly as they are found.

Chair of the City Corporation's Epping Forest and Commons Committee, Caroline Haines, said:

"Epping Forest is one of the country's most important habitats for fungi, and many species depend on being left undisturbed.

"We know people are fascinated by mushrooms and want to share their discoveries online. Many influencers and visitors may not realise that picking fungi is not permitted in the Forest, but posts showing mushrooms being collected can encourage others to follow suit.

“We want everyone to enjoy the Forest and experience its remarkable wildlife. Our message is simple: click, don't pick.”

The City Corporation's open spaces have been home to several significant fungi discoveries in recent years. In 2024, a species of mushroom new to science, Hydropus inopinatus, was discovered in Burnham Beeches, while in 2025, the UK’s first confirmed record of a rare fungus species, Russula blumiana, was made in Epping Forest.

ENDS

Notes to editors

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally-successful UK – www.cityoflondon.gov.uk.

Epping Forest stretches from Manor Park in the south to Epping in the north, covering around 8,000 acres and attracting over 10 million visitors annually.

The Forest is of national and international conservation importance, containing two registered historic parks, eight listed buildings and four scheduled ancient monuments.

It is one of the last remaining examples of ancient wood-pasture in southern England and holds national and international conservation status as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation.

The City Corporation protects 11,000 acres of green space across London and southeast England. Most of these sites are charitable trusts and run at little or no cost to the communities they serve.

Applications are now open for the latest round of funding from the City Corporation’s Enjoying Green Spaces and the Natural Environment Fund.

It supports projects run by community and voluntary organisations which connect people with nature while improving and protecting open spaces, including Hampstead Heath, Epping Forest, West Ham Park and Burnham Beeches.

The scheme offers grants of between £2,000 and £15,000, for projects lasting up to three years which benefit both local communities and the natural environment.

City of London Corporation Policy Chairman Chris Hayward said:

“Our green spaces are the lungs of London, playing a vital role in supporting nature, improving wellbeing and bringing communities together.

“Through this fund, we want to support organisations delivering innovative ideas that help more people enjoy and benefit from these remarkable places while protecting them for future generations.”

Projects eligible for funding should improve biodiversity, connect communities with green spaces, help children and young people engage with nature or support wellbeing.

In previous funding rounds the scheme has supported 52 projects, including Moth x Human, an Epping Forest project which uses music, science and community events to help people discover the hidden world of moths.

Led by composer Ellie Wilson, who grew up near the forest, the project turns moth monitoring data into music while raising awareness of the important role moths play in supporting biodiversity and woodland habitats.

Ellie Wilson, composer and creator of Moth x Human, said:

“The Epping Forest element is about shining a light on the amazing work taking place to protect biodiversity and the incredible variety of moths found there. Because of the Forest’s ancient woodland it is home to many rare species.”

“One of the most rewarding things has been seeing people’s perceptions change. Many people think moths are scary or a pest, but when they learn more about them, or see them up close at one of our Moth Mornings, they’re amazed by their colours, diversity, and ecological importance.

“This funding has been vital in helping us reach new audiences. It has also enabled us to launch an immersive sound installation in 2027 encouraging more visitors to enjoy and appreciate this remarkable forest.”

The fund has also supported London HogWatch – run by the Zoological Society of London in conjunction with volunteers from Heath Hands – which is studying hedgehog populations on Hampstead Heath and at Highgate Wood.

The project highlighted a boom in the wood’s hedgehog population. When the site was surveyed in 2017, researchers found evidence of just one hedgehog. Following habitat improvements including increased scrub cover, new nesting areas and better access routes, hedgehogs were recorded on 21 cameras across the wood.

Kate Scott-Gatty, London HogWatch Project Manager at ZSL, said:

“The results at Highgate Wood have been incredibly encouraging and show that conservation action does work. It’s been fantastic to see the impact that habitat improvements have made.

“This funding was really important because it enabled us to carry out monitoring we'd wanted to do for a long time, while working with volunteers and local communities. Bringing together research, conservation and engagement was incredibly valuable.”

Potential applicants are encouraged to discuss their proposals with the City Corporation’s Central Funding and Charity Management Team before applying, by emailing grants@cityoflondon.gov.uk. Applications close at noon on Monday, September 21.

Anyone interested can find more information and apply at www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/about-us/working-with-community/central-grants-programme/enjoying-green-spaces-and-the-natural-environment

The City Corporation protects 11,000 acres of green space across London and southeast England. Most of these sites are charitable trusts and run at little or no cost to the communities they serve.

Managed by the City of London Corporation, New Spitalfields Market (in Walthamstow) is a nationally significant hub within the UK’s food supply chain, supplying fresh produce to businesses across London and beyond.

The installation by Vital Energi comprises 2,730 solar panels, creating a 1.4 megawatt-peak (MWp) solar array, the largest rooftop solar installation in London. The system is expected to generate around 1.27 gigawatt-hours of electricity each year, enough to power approximately 470 homes.

Operating overnight and around the clock, the market has significant energy requirements to support refrigeration, lighting, and essential infrastructure. By generating more of its electricity on site, the market will reduce its reliance on grid power while improving its long-term operational resilience.

The project is expected to cut carbon emissions by approximately 225 tonnes each year, equivalent to the electricity used by around 50 homes annually. 

The circa £1million investment forms part of the City Corporation’s Climate Action Strategy, which commits the organisation to achieving net zero across its own operations by 2027, while demonstrating how large-scale renewable energy can be integrated into critical commercial infrastructure.

Every unit of electricity generated and used on site is one that does not need to be drawn from the National Grid, helping free up capacity elsewhere while supporting the decarbonisation of one of London’s most energy-intensive market sites.

The solar array is the largest rooftop installation of its kind in London (by MWp) and represents one of the City Corporation’s most significant renewable energy investments to date, whilst also supporting the market’s continued operation as a key wholesale food hub.

Policy Chairman at the City of London Corporation, Chris Hayward, said:

“Projects like this show how practical climate action can deliver benefits far beyond carbon reduction and are yet another example of the City Corporation delivering on its Climate Action Strategy.

“As the UK experiences periods of extreme heat and rising electricity demand for cooling, this project demonstrates the value of investing in local renewable energy generation.”

Chairman of the City of London Corporation Markets Board, Mark Wheatley, said:

"New Spitalfields Market is a vital part of London's fresh produce supply chain, serving businesses and communities across the capital every day. This investment helps ensure the market remains a modern, efficient and well-equipped facility, supporting traders and customers while strengthening its long-term future."

· Featuring two major new commissions with the University of Oxford’s Lincoln College and Turner Prize-nominated artist, Hurvin Anderson, V&A Dundee, and Farshid Moussavi

· A unique collaboration between Guildhall Art Gallery and Dovecot Studios, the exhibition highlights the continuing relevance and potential of tapestry as a 21st century art form

Beyond Bayeux: Tapestry Now, which opens at the City of London Corporation’s gallery on 23 October, presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reflect on tapestry’s past and shape its future.

The exhibition complements the arrival of the Bayeux Tapestry in the UK for the widely anticipated exhibition at the British Museum.

Guildhall Art Gallery's exhibition will highlight how, since the 20th century, Dovecot’s highly skilled weavers in Edinburgh have collaborated with artists to demonstrate the continuing relevance and potential of tapestry as a contemporary art form.

In the past, tapestry has been commissioned to mark key moments in history. One of the stand-out artworks is a new commission with Turner Prize-nominated artist, Hurvin Anderson. Measuring an impressive six metres in width, the tapestry will be unveiled in the exhibition before it is installed in the University of Oxford next year to mark the 600th anniversary of Lincoln College.

Other key artworks include a tapestry version of David Hockney’s 1963 painting, Play within a Play, commissioned by the artist.[KP1] [2] Hockney, who died in June this year, was drawn to tapestry for its narrative qualities and chose to live for many years in Normandy close to the Apocalypse tapestries and the Bayeux Tapestry.

More recent collaborations demonstrate how artists are playing with the medium, pushing the power of warp and weft to embody storytelling and symbolism. Dovecot and Farshid Moussavi created The Garden Carpet for the V&A Dundee in 2025, using the heritage of Persian textile to explore a paradise populated by plants and wildlife at risk in Scotland today.

Similarly, Dovecot has worked with Yinka Shonibare to interpret traditional African masks with a modern mix of coloured hanging warps, knots, single and double weave in Modern Spiritual (Fang Ngil, Kumbaduba).

Dovecot’s tapestries with Alberta Whittle on Ring Around the Rosy and with Rachel Maclean on Goo Gaa present particularly creative expressions interpreting shaped outlines and digital imagery respectively.

During the exhibition’s five-month run, the events programme will include historical tours and insights from artists and weavers on new ways of thinking about the art of tapestry and collaboration.

Celia Joicey, Dovecot Studios Director, said:

“This exhibition is an opportunity to showcase tapestry as not only one of the world's oldest fine art mediums, but also one that has a powerful connection to contemporary artists.

“To ensure that tapestry continues to flourish, it is crucial to highlight the importance of commissioning new work, while celebrating the incredible skills of Dovecot and British tapestry weavers.”

Brendan Barns, Chair of the City of London Corporation’s Culture, Heritage, and Libraries Committee, said:

“Tapestry has brought luxury and storytelling to some of the world’s most beautiful interiors, including the Sistine Chapel, Royal Palace of Madrid, Versailles, Hampton Court Palace, and Guildhall in the City of London, which has a long history of commissioning some of the finest tapestries in the UK.

“This exhibition reflects our mission to be an art gallery about London for London by highlighting the capital as a powerhouse for commissioning contemporary tapestry and creating outstanding opportunities for artists and weavers alike.

“While the British Museum highlights the Bayeux Tapestry and key moments in history, Dovecot Studios and Guildhall Art Gallery are proud to be playing their part in celebrating the future of UK tapestry.”

Guildhall Art Gallery is an integral part of the City’s rich and vibrant arts and cultural offering. The gallery supports Destination City, the City of London Corporation’s growth strategy, and forms part of the City of London’s wider arts and cultural offer.

The City of London Corporation is one of the largest funders of heritage and cultural activities in the UK and invests over £145m every year.

The City Corporation manages a range of world-class cultural and heritage institutions, including the Barbican Centre, Tower Bridge, Guildhall School of Music & Drama, Guildhall Library, Guildhall Art Gallery, The London Archives, and Keats House. It also supports the London Symphony Orchestra, and London Museum, which will open on 28 November.

Beyond Bayeux: Tapestry Now runs from 23 October 2026 to 21 March 2027 at Guildhall Art Gallery. Admission: Pay What You Can

www.onecitylondon.com/beyond-bayeux-tapestry-now

• Never lighting barbecues or fires, disposing cigarettes safely, and taking litter home or using bins provided
• Keeping out of un-lifeguarded lakes, ponds, reservoirs, and other open water where swimming is prohibited. Cold water shock and hidden hazards can prove fatal, even in hot weather
• Carrying plenty of water, stay hydrated, use suncream, and seek shade during the hottest part of the day
• Respecting park staff, wildlife, and fellow visitors by following local safety advice

London's parks provide vital places for people to cool down and spend time in nature during periods of extreme heat; however, weeks of hot and dry weather have left many green spaces increasingly vulnerable to fire and environmental damage.

The organisations behind the appeal manage some of London's most popular green spaces, including Epping Forest, Hampstead Heath, Hyde Park, Richmond Park, Morden Hall Park, Osterley Park, Walthamstow Marshes, and Gunpowder Park, which welcome tens of millions of visitors every year.

Chairman of the City of London Corporation's Natural Environment Board, James St John Davis:

“As London heats up, its parks are drying out – providing vital refuge from soaring temperatures but leaving grass, vegetation, and wildlife increasingly vulnerable to fire.

“We’re urging Londoners to enjoy these spaces responsibly: stay hydrated, seek shade, and keep out of prohibited waters, while leaving barbecues at home and disposing of cigarettes and litter safely. A single careless act can have serious consequences for people, wildlife, and our precious green spaces.”

Director of Parks at The Royal Parks charity, Darren Share, said:

“London’s parks are a lifeline for millions during extreme heat, offering shade, space and refuge, but in hot, dry weather, the risk of wildfire escalates. A single spark from a barbecue, cigarette or piece of glass can ignite a fire in seconds, putting visitors in extreme danger, burning through protected habitats and killing wildlife. Please enjoy a picnic, but leave barbecues at home, fully extinguish cigarettes, and take litter home if bins are full.

“We know many people will be looking for ways to stay cool in this heat, and we’re reminding Londoners to only swim in designated areas during lifeguarded opening times. Please follow the rules and help ensure a day in the park does not end in tragedy.”

Head of Parklands at Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, David Hutley, said:

“Many of Lee Valley Regional Park’s London sites are vulnerable during prolonged hot, dry weather. They have already suffered six fires, destroying almost 2.5 acres of grassland, so we urge visitors to take extra care. Please take your rubbish home, as discarded glass bottles and cigarettes can all spark fires.

“London’s parks welcome millions of visitors and are home to precious wildlife and habitats. From water voles and kingfishers to hundreds of plant species, these spaces need protecting. By using our parks responsibly and following safety advice, everyone can help keep London’s green spaces safe this summer."

General Manager at National Trust Morden Hall Park, Abi Mcneil, said:

"We know first-hand how devastating these fires can be. In 2022, a fire believed to have been caused by a disposable barbecue burned through part of Morden Hall Park, damaging habitats and putting wildlife at risk. With the park currently so dry, it only takes a single spark to start a serious fire. What might seem like a small mistake can have lasting consequences, destroying decades of conservation work in a matter of hours and putting people, wildlife and emergency responders in danger.

"We're asking everyone planning to enjoy London's parks this summer to help protect these special places. Please leave barbecues and campfires at home, dispose of cigarettes safely and take all litter home with you. By making a few simple choices, we can all play a part in keeping Morden Hall Park and other green spaces safe for people and nature."

Executive Director of Estate and Neighbourhoods at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Mark Camley, said:

"London is one of the world's greenest cities, with parks, commons and open spaces that give millions of people the chance to enjoy nature, stay active and find respite during high temperatures.

“We're proud to be working alongside park organisations across the capital to encourage everyone to enjoy these places safely. We are asking everyone to help protect them by taking sensible precautions, following local safety advice and showing consideration for the people and wildlife that share these spaces. By working together, we can ensure London's green spaces remain safe, welcoming and resilient for everyone to enjoy throughout the summer.”

Executive Director of Parks for London, Ed Stannard, said:

“London’s parks and green spaces are invaluable places for people to escape to and enjoy during hot weather and we all have a role to play in keeping them - and the people who work in them - safe.

“By taking simple precautions such as staying hydrated, avoiding unsafe swimming, and helping to prevent wildfires, visitors can protect themselves, others, and the precious green spaces that millions of Londoners rely on.”

With hot weather expected to continue this week, visitors are encouraged to check the latest weather warnings and heat health advice from the Met Office and UK Health Security Agency before travelling and follow any local guidance issued by park managers.

Ofsted inspectors found support for children and families has been “sustained and improved” since its last “outstanding” rating was awarded in November 2024.

In what it calls a ‘focused visit’, the watchdog explored support for children affected by domestic abuse, exploitation and youth violence.

Inspectors praised the City Corporation’s “strong and well-established culture of child-focused practice” and highlighted its “committed leadership”.

Meanwhile, Ofsted also noted “strengthened practice and increased practitioner confidence” in areas previously identified for improvement, including domestic abuse, exploitation and youth violence.

Deputy Chair of the City of London Corporation’s Community and Children’s Services Committee, Steve Goodman, said:

“We are delighted Ofsted has recognised the high-quality support our children’s services teams continue to provide.

“Most importantly, inspectors found children and families get the help they need when they need it, with support tailored to their individual circumstances.

“It’s particularly encouraging to see Ofsted recognise the progress we’ve made in areas previously identified for improvement, showing our commitment to continually learning and improving to deliver the best for children and young people.”

Following the issue of an Amber heat alert, the City of London Corporation, The Royal Parks, The National Trust, Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Crystal Palace Park, and Parks for London have joined forces to encourage people to enjoy the capital’s open spaces safely. 

With millions of visitors expected in London’s parks, the organisations are urging everyone to take a few simple steps to protect themselves, others, and the environment: 

• Keep out of un-lifeguarded lakes, ponds, reservoirs, and other open water where swimming is prohibited. Cold water shock and hidden hazards can prove fatal, even in hot weather
• Help prevent wildfires by never lighting barbecues or open fires, disposing of cigarettes safely, and taking litter home or using bins provided
• Carry plenty of water, stay hydrated, use suncream, and seek shade during the hottest part of the day
• Respect park staff, wildlife, and fellow visitors by following local safety advice 

The organisations behind the appeal manage some of London's most popular green spaces, including Epping Forest, Hampstead Heath, Hyde Park, Richmond Park, Morden Hall Park, Osterley Park, Walthamstow Marshes, and Gunpowder Park, which welcome tens of millions of visitors every year. 

Chairman of the City of London Corporation's Natural Environment Board, James St John Davis: 

"London's green spaces are at their best in the sunshine, but after weeks of hot, dry weather they're also at their most vulnerable. It only takes one barbecue, one discarded cigarette, or one decision to enter unsafe water for a day out to end in tragedy or put others at risk. 

"We're asking everyone to make the safe choice - stay hydrated, keep out of un-lifeguarded water, dispose of litter responsibly, and never light barbecues or open fires. By making a few simple choices, we can protect these treasured green spaces and help ensure everyone can enjoy them safely throughout the summer." 

Director of Parks at The Royal Parks charity, Darren Share, said: 

“London’s parks are a lifeline for millions during extreme heat, offering shade, space and refuge, but in hot, dry weather, the risk of wildfire escalates. A single spark from a barbecue, cigarette or piece of glass can ignite a fire in seconds, putting visitors in extreme danger, burning through protected habitats and killing wildlife. Please enjoy a picnic, but leave barbecues at home, fully extinguish cigarettes, and take litter home if bins are full. 

“We know many people will be looking for ways to stay cool in this heat, and we’re reminding Londoners to only swim in designated areas during lifeguarded opening times. Please follow the rules and help ensure a day in the park does not end in tragedy.” 

Head of Parklands at Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, David Hutley, said: 

“Many of Lee Valley Regional Park’s London sites are vulnerable during prolonged hot, dry weather. They have already suffered six fires, destroying almost 2.5 acres of grassland, so we urge visitors to take extra care. Please take your rubbish home, as discarded glass bottles and cigarettes can all spark fires. 

“London’s parks welcome millions of visitors and are home to precious wildlife and habitats. From water voles and kingfishers to hundreds of plant species, these spaces need protecting. By using our parks responsibly and following safety advice, everyone can help keep London’s green spaces safe this summer.” 

General Manager at National Trust Morden Hall Park, Abi Mcneil, said: 

"We know first-hand how devastating these fires can be. In 2022, a fire believed to have been caused by a disposable barbecue burned through part of Morden Hall Park, damaging habitats and putting wildlife at risk. With the park currently so dry, it only takes a single spark to start a serious fire. What might seem like a small mistake can have lasting consequences, destroying decades of conservation work in a matter of hours and putting people, wildlife and emergency responders in danger. 

"We're asking everyone planning to enjoy London's parks this summer to help protect these special places. Please leave barbecues and campfires at home, dispose of cigarettes safely and take all litter home with you. By making a few simple choices, we can all play a part in keeping Morden Hall Park and other green spaces safe for people and nature." 

Executive Director of Estate and Neighbourhoods at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Mark Camley, said:

"London is one of the world's greenest cities, with parks, commons and open spaces that give millions of people the chance to enjoy nature, stay active and find respite during high temperatures.

"We're proud to be working alongside park organisations across the capital to encourage everyone to enjoy these places safely. We are asking everyone to help protect them by taking sensible precautions, following local safety advice and showing consideration for the people and wildlife that share these spaces. By working together, we can ensure London's green spaces remain safe, welcoming and resilient for everyone to enjoy throughout the summer."

Executive Director of Parks for London, Ed Stannard, said: 

“London’s parks and green spaces are invaluable places for people to escape to and enjoy during hot weather and we all have a role to play in keeping them - and the people who work in them - safe. 

“By taking simple precautions such as staying hydrated, avoiding unsafe swimming, and helping to prevent wildfires, visitors can protect themselves, others, and the precious green spaces that millions of Londoners rely on.” 

For the latest weather warnings and heat health advice, visitors should follow guidance issued by the Met Office and the UK Health Security Agency before travelling. 

ENDS 

Notes for Editors
 
For further information, please contact City of London Corporation Media Officer, Joe Smith / 07743 167 194 / joseph.smith@cityoflondon.gov.uk 

About the City of London Corporation

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK – www.cityoflondon.gov.uk. 

The organisation protects 11,000 acres of green space across London and southeast England, including Epping Forest and Hampstead Heath - an area equivalent to 20 Hyde Parks. 

Most of these sites are charitable trusts and run at little or no cost to local taxpayers. These sites attract nearly 50 million visitors a year and remove an estimated 16,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually. 

About The Royal Parks charity

The Royal Parks is the charity which manages, protects, and improves the parks in an exemplary and sustainable manner so that everyone, now and in the future, has the opportunity to enjoy their natural and historic environments. 

The charity looks after eight of London’s finest open spaces: Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, St James’s Park, The Green Park, The Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill, Greenwich Park, Richmond Park, and Bushy Park. It also manages other important open spaces in the capital, including Brompton Cemetery and Victoria Tower Gardens. It costs around £75m a year to manage the parks. The charity raises around 85 percent of its income independently with the remaining 15 percent funded by Government. 

For further information please visit: www.royalparks.org.uk and follow The Royal Parks on, Facebook.com/TheRoyalParksLondon and Instagram.com/TheRoyalParks. 

About Lee Valley Regional Park

Lee Valley Regional Park stretches 26 miles along the River Lee from the banks of the River Thames at East India Dock Basin to Ware in Hertfordshire. It’s patchwork of award-winning nature reserves, green spaces, heritage sites and riverside trails, attracting around five million visits a year. In London these include Bow Creek Ecology Park, Walthamstow Marshes, Tottenham Marshes, Gunpowder Park and around a third of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Our open spaces include eight Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), a designation reserved for the most important areas for nature across the UK. 

About The National Trust 

The National Trust is an independent conservation charity founded in 1895 to preserve historic and natural places in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and open them up for everyone to enjoy. 131 years later and that mission is still at the heart of what we do. 

Over the next decade, our cause will be delivered through our People & Nature Thriving strategy. We have three ambitious goals: to restore nature - not just on National Trust land, but everywhere; to end unequal access to nature, beauty and history; and to inspire millions more people to care and take action. 

With our 5.3m members, 40,000 volunteers, and our supporters, partners and communities, we collectively represent a cause that's bigger than just ourselves: it's about caring for nature and heritage everywhere, for everyone, for ever. 

About Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC) is responsible for the development of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park - a vibrant east London destination where culture, creativity and community converge. Built on the legacy of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, it is now an innovation district where people can live, work, study and visit – bringing new homes, jobs and opportunities while driving long-term growth and investment across east London, the capital and the UK.

Spread across 560 acres, it brings together dynamic neighbourhoods, diverse communities, world-class cultural, entertainment and sporting venues, leading education and research institutions and a food and drink scene, all set within expansive parklands, historic waterways and rich biodiversity.

At its heart lies a collaborative ecosystem anchored by innovation leaders, universities and East Bank – the UK’s most ambitious cultural and education quarter, home to BBC Music Studios, UAL’s London College of Fashion, UCL’s East campus, Sadler’s Wells East and V&A East Museum and Storehouse. Working alongside local entrepreneurs and communities, these globally recognised institutions develop, test and scale bold ideas in real-world conditions that deliver tangible benefits for east London and beyond - QueenElizabethOlympicPark.co.uk.

About Crystal Palace Park

Crystal Palace Park is not your typical park. At over 200 acres, it is far larger than most urban parks. Beloved as a ‘back garden’ to many people in the surrounding neighbourhoods, it is also of national and international significance due to its design as the grounds to the Victorian architectural masterpiece, The Crystal Palace, following its move from Hyde Park in 1854. 

As a result – as well as being home to a wide variety of plants, trees and animals, the park is rich in unique heritage including the 170-year-old world-famous Dinosaurs, sphinxes and Italian Terraces, as well as a younger, but not less unique, architect-designed outdoor concert venue. Today, about one million people visit the park every year; to relax and meet friends and family, take part in sports and physical exercise, enjoy world class acts during summer festivals or simply have a moment of peace and enjoyment of nature – www.crystalpalacepark.org.uk

About Parks for London

Parks for London is a pan-London infrastructure organisation that represents those who own, manage, and maintain London’s parks and green spaces. We work closely with the London boroughs, major landowners, and those from independent park trusts, grounds maintenance contractors, conservation organisations, charities, NHS Foundation Trusts, housing associations, and others. We work collaboratively to create a connected and valued green space sector which delivers quality, resilient, accessible, and inclusive green spaces for people and the environment. 

ENDS 

*  Intimate talk and Q&A at Barbican Music Library to be held next to ‘1996’ exhibition curated by Dominic Mohan

*  ‘OASIS AT KNEBWORTH – 30 YEARS ON’ will offer “three differing perspectives on the biggest concerts held on British soil” and discuss rumours about the band’s return to Knebworth, says event host Dominic Mohan

A showbiz journalist who followed the meteoric rise of Oasis, the photographer behind some of the band's most iconic images, and the publicist who helped shape its public profile will share their memories at Barbican Music Library next month.

The Sun’s former editor and ‘Bizarre’ columnist, Dominic Mohan; the band’s former head of press, Johnny Hopkins, and acclaimed photographer, Jill Furmanovsky, will take part in ‘OASIS AT KNEBWORTH – 30 YEARS ON’, to look back at the story of one of Britain's most influential rock groups, and how they played their part in it.

Held in the run-up to this landmark anniversary of the band’s legendary concerts, the exclusive talk and Q&A will take place on 5 August (7-9pm), next to the music library’s exhibition, ‘1996: A celebration of the wildest year of Britain’s wildest decade - 30 years on’, which has been curated by Dominic Mohan. 

Tickets for ‘OASIS AT KNEBWORTH – 30 YEARS ON’ cost £15 and include refreshments sponsored by Wonderwall Session Lager – available from Eventbrite here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/oasis-at-knebworth-30-years-on-tickets-1993823436571?aff=oddtdtcreator

Exhibition curator and event host, Dominic Mohan, said:

“Jill was on the stage, Johnny was backstage, and I was in the Knebworth audience, so we have three differing perspectives on the biggest concerts held on British soil. Thirty years later, we will discuss the enduring legacy of the shows and of the band itself, with rumours that they will return to the hallowed turf next summer.”

Chair of the City of London Corporation’s Culture, Heritage, and Libraries Committee, Brendan Barns, said:

“Dominic wrote the headlines, Johnny ensured that Oasis made headlines, and Jill’s evocative photography captured the magic and mayhem of the band on-stage, in the wings, and at recording studios. Between the three of them, they will have some incredible stories to tell in this intimate event on how Oasis shot to fame, rocked over 250,000 fans at Knebworth and 30 years on, continue to electrify fans at sold-out concerts around the world.”

Barbican Music Library supports Destination City, the City of London Corporation’s growth strategy for the Square Mile, and forms part of the City of London’s wider arts and cultural offer.

The City of London Corporation is one of the largest funders of heritage and cultural activities in the UK, and invests over £145m every year.

It manages a range of world-class cultural and heritage institutions, including the Barbican Centre, Tower Bridge, Guildhall School of Music & Drama, Guildhall Art Gallery, Guildhall Library, The London Archives, and Keats House. It also supports the London Symphony Orchestra, and London Museum, which will open on 28 November.  

ENDS

“We look forward to working with the new Prime Minister and his Government to create good growth in every postcode.

“As a partner to successive governments, the City of London Corporation will continue to champion the UK’s world-leading financial and professional services sector, which supports 2.5m jobs across the UK; two thirds of them outside London.

“Backed by a stable business environment geared for innovation and investment, we will do our utmost to ensure growth generated in the City of London reaches all corners of the UK.”

ENDS

Note to Editors

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally-successful UK. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk 

 https://www.investconnect.com/

Wholesale Digital Markets Champion 

 Reacting to the news, City of London Police Authority Board Chair Tijs Broeke said:

 “This ranking recognises the exceptional service provided by City Police, whose work helps protect the UK's economic and financial interests while ensuring the Square Mile remains one of the world’s safest business districts, with its security providing the foundation for investment and confidence.

“City Police is a model that works, combining local accountability with national specialist capabilities, ensuring the Square Mile remains a place where people want to live, work, visit, and invest.

“As the Government considers the future shape of policing, this assessment reinforces the value of our dedicated police service for the City which delivers outstanding performance, specialist expertise and economic value, supporting the competitiveness and investability of the Square Mile and wider UK economic growth.”

New figures show Islington Collegiate Sixth Form, sponsored by the City of London Corporation, ranks eighth out of 4,354 schools in England, making it the third highest performing state school in the country, well above prestigious fee-paying schools such as Eton and Harrow.

 Despite serving a community where almost 60% of pupils are eligible for free school meals – more than double the national average – those from disadvantaged backgrounds achieved exceptional results, outperforming their peers nationally.

 The results are backed up by impressive university offers, with 42 out of 43 students receiving at least one offer from prestigious Russell Group institutions. Almost 60% of students who interviewed for Oxbridge have received an offer so far, with three students being offered full bursaries for their university education due to academic excellence.

 The City of London Corporation sponsors 12 high-performing academies across Hackney, Islington, Newham, Lambeth and Southwark through the City of London Academies Trust.

 They form part of the City Corporation’s family of schools, which also include one state primary school in the Square Mile and three independent schools.

 City of London Academy Highgate Hill principal Prince Gennuh said:

 “These results are a testament to the dedication, resilience and ambition of our students, and the unwavering support of our staff and families. We are incredibly proud of what they have achieved.

 “These successes reflect more than academic outcomes. Our students support one another, contribute to school life, and take up the opportunities available to them, helping to create a culture where everyone can thrive.

 “Our sixth form is a welcoming and ambitious community, and these results show what is possible when young people are challenged, encouraged and supported. We congratulate them and wish them continued success in their next stage.”

 The new Department for Education A level progress figures show students at the sixth form make substantially more academic progress than their peers nationally, compared with students across England who achieved similar GCSE results.

 Meanwhile, the Department for Education performance tables showed City of London Academies Trust is ranked first nationally for A level points score for disadvantaged pupils.

City of London Academy Trust Chair Steve Goodman said:

 “Everyone at Highgate Hill can be justifiably proud of these results, which are testament to the high ambitions and the high quality teaching the school delivers for all its students.

 “The results for disadvantaged students are even more remarkable, demonstrating that background is no barrier to students achieving success in their career and in life generally.

“The high A-level performance across our academies is proof of our commitment to operating in areas of need, uplifting and empowering young people across London.”

Highgate Hill sixth form has an A-level progress score of +0.77, or +0.88 among disadvantaged students, with 0 representing the average progress made. A score of +1.0 means students progress on average by a full grade more than their peers nationally.

The full set of figures can be viewed at https://tinyurl.com/yeyvfzty

The City of London Corporation's adult social care services have been rated Good by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

The assessment found that residents in the Square Mile generally had positive experiences of adult social care services. People reported feeling listened to, involved in decisions about their care, and supported when they needed help – describing how staff act quickly to arrange care that reflected their cultural preferences.

Inspectors highlighted the City Corporation's strong focus on helping people stay independent, effective partnership working, and the organisation's commitment to learning and continuous improvement.

The report also recognised services that help residents regain confidence and independence after illness or a stay in hospital.

Chair of the City of London Corporation’s Community and Children's Services Committee Helen Fentimen said:

“Everyone should be able to live an independent, healthy and fulfilling life for as long as possible, and this report recognises the work we’re doing to help City residents do just that.

"It is also a tribute to the dedication of our staff, providers, and partners, who work tirelessly to deliver high-quality care and support for people across the Square Mile.

“While the report identifies opportunities for us to build on and strengthen our services further, what shines through most clearly is the difference our support makes to people's everyday lives. 

“That is something we are incredibly proud of, and we remain committed to building on these strengths and delivering even better outcomes for residents in the years ahead.”

The assessment is available to view on the CQC’s website. 

ENDS

Notes to editors

About the City of London Corporation: 

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile, dedicated to supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK – www.cityoflondon.gov.uk.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is the independent regulator of health and adult social care services in England. Its purpose is to work together with the public, systems and providers of care to protect people, and to promote and improve the quality of care – www.cqc.org.uk.

Adrian Dunbar, best known for playing Superintendent Ted Hastings in the hugely popular BBC-1 drama series, Line of Duty, has received the Freedom of the City of London today, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to drama and his support for emerging acting talent.

The Enniskillen-born actor, director, and singer was nominated by Emily Benn, Chair of the City Corporation’s Guildhall School of Music & Drama, and former Lord Mayor of the City of London, Alderman Sir William Russell.

A graduate of Guildhall School’s Class of 1983, Adrian received the Fellowship of Guildhall School – the institution’s highest accolade – in 2024.

His television and film credits include Line of Duty, Ridley, Ashes to Ashes, Broken, The Hollow Crown, The Crying Game, Richard III, My Left Foot, Cracker, Shooters, A Touch of Frost, and Silent Witness.

Adrian co-wrote and starred in the 1991 film, Hear My Song, which was nominated for a Best Original Screenplay BAFTA Award, and in 2018, he was nominated for a Best Supporting Actor BAFTA Award for Line of Duty.

In 2024, he made his musical theatre debut, playing Fred Graham / Petruchio in the widely acclaimed production of Kiss Me, Kate at the Barbican Theatre.

Speaking after his Freedom ceremony, Adrian Dunbar, said:

"Having arrived in the City of London to take up my course in Drama at Guildhall School in 1980, to then work with the RSC at the Barbican and recently, in Kiss Me, Kate, and with Guildhall Alumni, to round off this journey nearly 50 years later with the Freedom of the City of London is truly special.

“I cannot thank everyone enough for making this singular honour happen."

Guildhall School of Music & Drama is supported by the City of London Corporation as part of its contribution to the cultural life of London and the nation. The City Corporation, which is one of the largest funders of heritage and cultural activities in the UK and invests over £145m every year, manages a range of world-class cultural and heritage institutions, including the Barbican Centre, Tower Bridge, Guildhall Library, Guildhall Art Gallery, The London Archives, and Keats House. It also supports the London Symphony Orchestra and London Museum.

City of London Corporation Policy Chairman, Chris Hayward, said:

“One of our most popular and respected actors, Adrian Dunbar is a worthy recipient of the Freedom of the City of London and I offer him my congratulations and warmest wishes.

“I hope that he and his guests will have happy memories of the Freedom ceremony, which is both unique and historic, for many years to come.”

Professor Jonathan Vaughan, Principal, Guildhall School of Music & Drama, said:

"We are delighted that Adrian Dunbar is receiving the Freedom of the City of London - a much-deserved honour for an artist who honed his craft right here in the Square Mile.

“As an alumnus of Guildhall School, we are very proud of Adrian's many successes across stage and screen, and grateful that he has chosen to give back to the School in myriad ways.

“Be it performing with our alumni in the Guildhall Session Orchestra, sharing his experience with our current Acting students, or supporting the next generation of emerging talent through the Adrian Dunbar and Neil Morrissey Scholarships, Adrian is creating opportunities for future Guildhall creatives to follow in his footsteps."

Chair of Guildhall School of Music & Drama, Emily Benn, said:

“Adrian Dunbar is a Guildhall School great: one of the defining actors of his generation, thrilling us with unforgettable performances.

“All of us at Guildhall School are hugely proud of everything that Adrian has achieved since he graduated, and we are also very grateful for his ongoing support of the School and our students, helping the next generation of Guildhall talent to go on to thrive on stages and screens around the world." 

One of the City of London’s ancient traditions, the Freedom is believed to have begun in 1237 and enabled recipients to carry out their trade.

As well as being nominated for, or applying for, the Freedom, it is also offered by the City of London Corporation to individuals as a way of paying tribute to their outstanding contribution to London or public life, or to celebrate a very significant achievement. 

Recent notable recipients include choreographer and theatre director, Dame Arlene Phillips; City of London Police Commander Umer Khan; two-time Academy Award-winning actor and humanitarian, Cate Blanchett; TV and radio presenter and cancer charity ambassador, Gloria Hunniford; and novelist, Ken Follett.

ENDS

Notes for Editors:

For further information, please contact Andrew Buckingham, Media Officer (Arts, Culture, Heritage, Sport), City of London Corporation / 07795 333060 / andrew.buckingham@cityoflondon.gov.uk

About the City of London Corporation:

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK – www.cityoflondon.gov.uk.

News Release  

City of London Corporation  

 14 July 2026    

New investor-led and AI-enabled platform to connect UK infrastructure projects with $3 trillion of global capital   

• New investor-led and AI-enabled platform will connect major professional investors with curated UK infrastructure and property investment opportunities
• Three nations and regions have already signed up as founding Opportunity Partners
• Investors representing over $3 trillion of assets under management from across North America, Gulf, Asia and Australia will participate in InvestConnect, with work ongoing to secure more by its planned launch in Autumn 2026 

The UK’s nations and regions will be connected to trillions of pounds of global capital through a new AI-enabled platform designed to accelerate investment into UK infrastructure projects. 

Speaking at the Chancellor’s annual Mansion House dinner on Tuesday 14 July, the Lady Mayor will announce plans for InvestConnect, a new digital investor-led platform being developed by InvestConnect Global Limited in partnership with the City of London Corporation.  

InvestConnect will address a long-recognised challenge in the UK's investment ecosystem: while global appetite to invest in the UK remains strong, investment opportunities are often fragmented, inconsistently presented and difficult for investors to access and compare. 

Developed in close consultation with professional investors, government partners and the UK's nations and regions, InvestConnect will provide a trusted, AI-enabled platform to help package opportunities, standardise information and connect global capital with credible UK investment opportunities more efficiently. 

Complementing existing public and private sector investment initiatives, InvestConnect aims to help convert investor interest into deployed capital and completed transactions. Expected to launch in Autumn 2026, the platform will initially focus on large-scale infrastructure and real asset opportunities, typically representing transactions of £100 million or more. 

In her speech, the Lady Mayor will confirm that professional investors representing more than $3 trillion of assets under management across North America, Europe, the Gulf and Asia-Pacific are already engaged in the platform's development. 

The Lady Mayor of the City of London, Dame Susan Langley, said: 

"The UK's challenge is not a shortage of capital or a lack of investable projects. It is connecting that capital with opportunities in every corner of the country. InvestConnect will help bridge that gap, unlocking the investment needed to drive growth and support regional development. 

"Capital comes where it feels welcome and stays where it can grow with confidence. The UK has the innovation, talent, and ambition to help solve the defining challenges facing the global economy, from the clean energy transition to harnessing the potential of emerging technologies. InvestConnect is about bringing global investors to the table, giving that capital a place to thrive and helping deliver growth in communities across the UK. 

Policy Chairman of the City of London Corporation, Chris Hayward said:  

"Global investors are looking for high-quality, long-term investment opportunities, and every part of the UK has ambitious projects with the potential to drive growth, create jobs and strengthen local communities. 

“This is where InvestConnect will be game changing, the City provides the finance, the regions provide innovation, expertise and industrial capability, and together they create the conditions for good growth across the whole country.” 

Founder of InvestConnect, Daniel Cannizzaro said: 

"Global growth is constrained when the right capital cannot find the right opportunity. The UK offers some of the most compelling long-term investment opportunities in the world, yet they remain fragmented, inconsistently presented, and slow and costly to assess. InvestConnect is built to change that – an investor-led and AI-enabled information and discovery platform giving institutional investors a single, trusted place to discover curated, investment opportunities from across the UK's nations and regions, presented to a consistent standard. Our ambition is straightforward: make it easier for global capital and opportunity to find each other, in the UK and beyond." 

Cornwall Council, the Scottish Government and Liverpool City Region Combined Authority have become the platform's first Founding Opportunity Partners, demonstrating a shared commitment to pioneering a new approach to attracting investment into opportunities across the UK. 

As Founding Opportunity Partners they will play a leading role in shaping the development of the platform and initial investment pipeline, helping ensure that investment opportunities are presented in a way that aligns with investor requirements and supports more efficient capital deployment. Their early commitment reflects the strong appetite from the UK's nations and regions to work together to create a more connected and internationally competitive investment ecosystem. 

The City of London Corporation is continuing to work closely with partners across the UK's nations and regions to expand participation ahead of launch. 

InvestConnect is planned to formally launch in Autumn 2026.  

Councillor Tim Dwelly, Cornwall Council’s portfolio holder for Economic Regeneration and Investment, said:  

"InvestConnect represents a fantastic opportunity to put Cornwall's unique investment opportunities in front of a global network of investors.  As a founding partner, we look forward to working to develop this innovative new approach in the months and years to come." 

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Transport, Stephen Flynn, said: 

“As a founding partner, the Scottish Government looks forward to InvestConnect being an opportunity to build on our partnership agreement with the City of London Corporation and also work with other partners to unlock the potential of the platform. 

“With globally-renowned talent, expertise and innovation running throughout our businesses and key sectors, Scotland offers a phenomenal investment proposition and InvestConnect offers an excellent opportunity to showcase this proposition to a significant global audience.” 

Tim Games, Executive Director Investment and Delivery at Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, said:  

“The Liverpool City Region is a place built on entrepreneurship, innovation and trade - that's never been content to stand still.  

“We have a shared vision, a masterplan to supercharge our economy, and £11billion of investment opportunities that, through our partnership with InvestConnect, we look forward to showcasing to investors across the world.   

“We’re building a great place to grow a business, grow a family and create a long-term legacy - and we’re looking for partners to help shape that future.” 

Disclaimer 

InvestConnect is a planned information platform to be operated by InvestConnect Global Limited. The platform is proposed to launch in Autumn 2026. InvestConnect is not authorised or regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. InvestConnect is directed at persons having professional experience in matters relating to investments and access is restricted to such verified investment professionals representing institutional investors only. Persons who do not have professional experience in matters relating to investments should not rely on anything provided via InvestConnect. 

Notes to editors  

1. InvestConnect is being developed by InvestConnect Global Limited in partnership with the City of London Corporation. 

2. InvestConnect is a digital, investor-led execution platform designed to connect professional investors with investment opportunities across the UK. 

3. The platform uses AI-enabled tools to support opportunity packaging, standardisation and investor matching. 

4. The initial focus of the platform will be on infrastructure and real asset investment opportunities with transaction sizes typically exceeding £100 million. 

5. InvestConnect is being developed through engagement with professional investors, government partners and the UK's nations and regions. 

• Chris Woolard CBE, HM Treasury’s Wholesale Digital Markets Champion, supported by City of London Corporation, delivers inaugural sector report to the Chancellor and convenes 54 UK businesses to deliver programme of work
• Report sets out key actions for industry, supported by government and the UK regulators, to tokenise UK financial markets at scale – including building secondary markets, tokenising collateral and building on the issuance of DIGIT, the UK Digital Gilt instrument
• Tokenisation could add hundreds of billions of pounds of economic value to the UK economy by 2035

The UK’s Wholesale Digital Markets Champion, Chris Woolard, has today (13 July) published his inaugural report (09:00 13 July) to the Chancellor, setting out how the UK could accelerate the adoption of tokenisation and related technologies across wholesale financial markets – and generate significant economic growth for UK Plc.

Wholesale financial markets are a fundamental driver of economic growth, directly supporting jobs and financing activity in the wider economy. Tokenising wholesale markets will boost the UK’s competitiveness, generating additional liquidity and revenues, securing cost and capital efficiencies, enabling innovation, and strengthening the resilience of the financial system.

The UK has already made strong progress through a series of pilots and small-scale commercial trials, but given international competition, accelerated pace is needed to secure its leading role in shaping the next generation of global market infrastructure.

Estimates put the tokenised real-world assets market at $88 trillion by 2035. The scale of the market – combined with other benefits of tokenisation – could result in a sizeable economic benefit for the UK. Up to £33 billion could be added to the UK’s annual economic output and £14 billion in annual tax revenues by 2035.

Wholesale Digital Markets Champion, Chris Woolard said:

“As one of the world’s largest and most international financial services markets, the UK is uniquely placed to become the global leader in wholesale market tokenisation. There is so much potential, technologically and economically, if the right actions are taken and decisions are made now to embrace and support tokenisation.”

Policy Chairman of the City of London Corporation, Chris Hayward said:

“The UK has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to lead a digital Big Bang in financial services.

“By accelerating the adoption of tokenisation across our wholesale markets, we can build the market infrastructure of the future, set global standards, and reinforce UK’s position as the world's leading international financial centre.”

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:
“The UK is already a world leader in global finance and keeping that top spot means harnessing technologies like tokenisation. It will make our markets even more competitive, attract investment to the economy, and drive growth across the UK.”

The UK is well placed to remain at the forefront of global financial markets, championing trusted legal and regulatory frameworks, globally significant financial markets intermediaries and a strong innovation ecosystem. To enable the adoption of tokenisation at scale, pace, clear regulatory, legal and tax frameworks, conditions for interoperability (domestically and internationally) – all in a joined-up national vision – are a must.

The report sets out a framework for practical action led by industry, in coordination with government and regulators, to move from experimentation to scalable live markets. It sets out clear priorities and actions, identified through extensive industry engagement. These include primary issuance (including DIGIT), tokenised collateral, tokenised funds, payment rails for digital markets, legal and regulatory certainty, interoperability standards, financial crime compliance, tax neutrality and resilience.

Over the next 12 months, the members of the cross-industry taskforce – currently consisting of 54 firms – will be working with the Wholesale Digital Markets Champion. They will be supported by the City of London Corporation, working closely with industry partners: TheCityUK, the Investment Association, UK Finance, Innovate Finance. The taskforce will drive delivery of live end-to-end use cases, focusing initially on tokenised repo. Nine Action Groups will be set up to deliver on priority areas across the market value chain and develop cross-cutting best practice standards.

The firms supporting the work of the Digital Markets Champion and the City Corporation are:

• Ava Labs
• Aviva Investors
• Baillie Gifford
• Barclays
• BlackRock
• Bloomberg
• BNP Paribas
• BPX
• Calastone
• Cboe Global Markets
• Chainalysis
• Circle
• Citadel Securities
• Citi
• ClearBank
• Clearstream
• ClearToken
• Coinbase
• Ctrl Alt
• Deutsche Bank
• Digital Asset / Canton
• DTCC
• Euroclear UK & International (CREST)
• Fidelity International
• Fireblocks
• Fnality
• GFO-X
• Goldman Sachs
• HSBC
• Intercontinental Exchange (ICE)
• Invesco
• Jane Street
• J.P. Morgan
• Kinexys by J.P. Morgan
• Kraken (Payward)
• Legal & General Asset Management
• Lloyds Banking Group
• LME Clear
• LSEG and LCH
• Mobius
• Montis Digital
• Morgan Stanley
• Northern Trust
• Optiver
• Ripple
• Schroders
• SLIX
• Standard Chartered
• State Street
• Tokenovate
• Tradeweb
• UBS
• Ubyx
• Wintermute

A project to install 94 solar panels and other low-carbon heating systems is now complete at Heathrow Animal Reception Centre (HARC) – the UK’s only facility capable of receiving any animal entering the country.

Managed by the City of London Corporation, HARC protects the UK’s biosecurity by carrying out health and welfare checks on all animals entering the UK via Heathrow Airport, from pets and farm livestock to zoo species and exotic consignments.

The centre plays a vital role in preventing the spread of diseases such as rabies while ensuring animals meet strict welfare standards upon entering the country.

The clean energy upgrade also includes a number of low-carbon heat pumps, helping to replace outdated systems and provide more consistent, energy-efficient temperature control across the specialist facility.

The upgrade also reduces the facility’s reliance on the National Grid, strengthening its energy resilience and long-term operational reliability.

The investment forms part of the City Corporation’s own Climate Action Strategy, which commits the organisation to becoming net zero in its own operations by 2027.

The new solar panels will generate clean electricity on site, helping to power low‑carbon heating and hot water systems, energy‑efficient lighting and upgraded ventilation. 

Together, these improvements will cut the site's carbon emissions by nearly 56 tonnes a year – equivalent to powering roughly 21 average-sized homes – and save more than £44,500 annually in energy costs.

Policy Chairman at the City of London Corporation, Chris Hayward, said:

“Our Climate Action Strategy is delivering real results right across London. Even in some of our most complex environments, we’ve shown that no site is too challenging – cutting carbon while protecting critical national infrastructure.

“By continuing to invest in HARC, we’re ensuring it is ready for the challenges and opportunities ahead at Heathrow, strengthening the long-term resilience and security of this vital national asset.”

Chair of the City of London Corporation’s Port Health and Environmental Services Committee, Peter Dunphy MBE, added:

“HARC is one of the UK’s most critical border facilities, operating at the front line of biosecurity.

“Delivering this upgrade without interrupting our 24/7 operation is a major achievement and underlines our commitment to sustainability alongside resilience.

“It also supports the high standards of care we provide, helping us maintain the controlled environments animals rely on when they arrive in the UK.”

Operating around the clock, HARC relies on stable, carefully controlled conditions to protect animal welfare and support the UK’s biosecurity. The entire upgrade has been delivered without disrupting this essential service.

HARC is the UK’s only Live Animal Border Control Post designated for all species. It enforces UK and international regulations on animal imports and works with airlines to ensure compliance with welfare standards.

Located on the perimeter of Heathrow Airport, the facility is IATA CEIV Live Animals certified and cares for millions of animals annually, including zoo species and high-value consignments. This includes thousands of pets, hundreds of horses, and millions of fish, reptiles and invertebrates every year.

ENDS

Notes to editors

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile, dedicated to supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK – www.cityoflondon.gov.uk.

·       Document dating from 1067 has never previously been loaned to an exhibition

·       William Charter’s addition to Museum’s landmark exhibition aims to help put the tapestry into a broader context of medieval England

One is nearly 230 feet long, the other, just six inches – both of them, unique, hugely valuable, and of immense historical significance in their own right.

And for the first time ever, they will be viewed together at the British Museum later this year.

The William Charter - the oldest document held in the City of London Corporation’s extensive archives and never previously loaned to an exhibition - will be on display at The Bayeux Tapestry exhibition at the British Museum, which opens in September.

Stored at the City of London Corporation-owned The London Archives, the Charter was given to the City of London by King William I in 1067, shortly after the Battle of Hastings, but before he entered the City. Measuring just six inches by one-and-a-half inches, it was written on vellum (parchment) in Old English.

The Charter bears one of the earliest surviving seals from William the Conqueror’s reign and is the earliest known royal or imperial document to guarantee the collective rights of the inhabitants of any town, granting nothing new to Londoners, but confirming the citizens' rights and privileges, which were already in existence.

Translated into modern English, the Charter reads:

“William King greets William the Bishop and Geoffrey the Portreeve and all the citizens in London, French and English, in friendly fashion; and I inform you that it is my will that your laws and customs be preserved as they were in King Edward’s day; that every son shall be his father’s heir after his father’s death; and that I will not that any man do wrong to you. God yield you.”

Alongside the Charter will be a small display of items from the Museum’s collections and loans, including an illustrated manuscript from The Bodleian Libraries at the University of Oxford and the Chew Valley hoard of silver pennies of Harold II and William I.

Chair of the City of London Corporation’s Culture, Heritage, and Libraries Committee, Brendan Barns, said:

“What this remarkable, 969-year-old document lacks in size, it more than makes up for in its historical significance and importance to the history of the City of London Corporation and more widely, to our understanding of life and being ruled in 11^th-century England.

“Taking its place within a small and exclusive list of items, the William Charter’s inclusion in this landmark exhibition will help provide a compelling parallel with the Bayeux Tapestry.”

The Bayeux Tapestry opens at the British Museum on 10 September and is being hailed as its return to England for the first time since it was created nearly 1,000 years ago.

The City of London Corporation, which owns The London Archives, is one of the largest funders of heritage and cultural activities in the UK and invests over £145m every year. The organisation manages a range of world-class cultural and heritage institutions, including the Barbican Centre, Tower Bridge, Guildhall School of Music & Drama, Guildhall Library, Guildhall Art Gallery, The London Archives, and Keats House. It also supports the London Symphony Orchestra and London Museum, which will open on 28 November.

ENDS

Notes for Editors:

About the City of London Corporation:

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile, dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

About The London Archives (TLA):

The London Archives (TLA), which is funded and managed by the City of London Corporation, focuses on the history of London. The documents and books that TLA cares for, and provides access to, date from 1067 to the present day and collections are constantly expanding. The archives are free to use and many of our exhibitions and events are free to attend.

The London Archives, 40 Northampton Road, London, EC1R 0HB The London Archives | London Archives

The London Archives is open to visitors at the following times:

• Monday - 10am to 4.30pm
• Tuesday - 10am to 6pm
• Wednesday - 10am to 7pm
• Thursday - 10am to 4.30pm

The London Archives is open one Saturday every month from 10.00am to 4.30pm – they are 11 July, 8 August, 12 September, 10 October, 7 November, and 12 December.

Closed on Bank Holidays – please check Opening Times | London Archives for full details.

The Lady Mayor, Dame Susan Langley, will reaffirm the City of London Corporation’s commitment to the rule of law and highlight the importance of judicial institutions at the annual His Majesty’s Judges Dinner.  

Speaking to senior members of the judiciary, government ministers and City leaders, the Lady Mayor will tonight highlight the fundamental role of the rule of law in supporting economic growth, international trade and the UK’s global reputation. 

She will emphasise that trust in institutions remains one of the country’s greatest assets, noting English law continues to be relied upon around the world. Today, two in every five cross-border business and financial transactions use English law, reflecting the confidence that businesses place in the UK’s legal framework — one of the key strengths championed in the Team UK campaign.

The Lady Mayor will tell guests: 

“The United Kingdom possesses something that cannot be built overnight and cannot easily be replicated: an independent judiciary, a world-renowned legal profession, trusted institutions and an enduring commitment that justice is administered according to law, not according to power.   

“That reputation is recognised across the world - on my international visits as Lady Mayor, I am reminded time and again that our legal system is one of Britain’s most admired strengths.” 

The Lady Mayor will highlight the City Corporation’s continued investment in legal infrastructure, including the £600 million Salisbury Square development. The new complex will bring together the Square Mile’s civil and magistrates’ courts in a purpose-built facility featuring 18 courtrooms dedicated to economic and cyber-crime. The development will also include a new headquarters for the City of London Police, alongside public realm improvements and commercial office space. 

In her speech, the Lady Mayor will say: 

"Situated between the Old Bailey, the Royal Courts of Justice and the Inns of Court, it will strengthen what is already one of the world’s great centres of legal excellence - a true Law Mile.  

“At a time when the future structure of policing is being considered nationally, businesses in the Square Mile consistently tell us how much they value the specialist expertise of the City of London Police. Their work helps protect not only the City, but the wider UK economy on which jobs, investment and public services depend.

“The City’s investment is not simply in buildings, but in Britain’s future.” 

The Lady Mayor will also reaffirm the City Corporation’s commitment to championing the UK’s legal sector internationally through its wider work promoting London as a global legal and business centre.

The Lady Mayor will speak alongside the Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice, David Lammy MP, and the Lady Chief Justice, The Right Honourable the Baroness Carr of Walton-on-the-Hill. 

ENDS 

Notes to editors 

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK. 
www.cityoflondon.gov.uk 

Following the publication of Securing growth: the digital verification opportunity in March 2025 in partnership with EY, the City of London Corporation has published a new blueprint to transform how identity is verified and shared across the UK economy. Launching at Guildhall on 30 June, the blueprint, developed with oversight from government, regulators (including FCA), global law firm Hogan Lovells, and consultancies EY and Collectively Better, proposes a Digital Verification Orchestrator (DVO) - a secure, consent-based model which could reduce fraud, cut duplication and improve customer experience across financial services. The service connects identity providers (banks, financial institutions and government) with organisations that need to verify identity. Priority uses include opening bank accounts, accessing credit, fraud checks and securely reusing verified identity data across financial services.

Trusted digital verification is essential infrastructure for economic growth, financial security and trust. But the current system is fragmented - making it easier to prevent fraud, reuse data and deliver seamless services. The DVO would limit fraudsters entry points into the financial system.

Under the new model, individuals could verify their identity once and reuse it across services, reducing duplication for both businesses and consumers. Built on DSIT Trust Framework standards, strong governance and clear liability, the system is designed to improve consistency, strengthen security and support wider adoption. It could help cut compliance costs for firms and, ultimately, consumers, speed up processes and improve customer experience.

The blueprint reinforces a major opportunity: minimum £5bn in economic benefits, driven by reduced fraud and improved digital services, including £1.8bn from a secure Digital Verification Service (DVS) and at least £3bn in fraud loss reductions through stronger verification measures. It also points to strong growth potential in the UK’s still-developing digital verification market.

Policy Chairman of the City of London Corporation, Chris Hayward, said:

“Trusted digital verification is now critical infrastructure for the UK economy. At a time of rising fraud, rapid technological change and increasing geopolitical uncertainty, the need for secure, reliable identity verification has never been greater.

“This blueprint sets out a practical path from concept to implementation - showing how organisations can work together to share verified information safely, build trust and strengthen resilience across financial services.

“The opportunity is significant, but delivering it will require coordinated action from government, regulators and industry. We now need to move from blueprint to delivery to create a safer, faster and more trusted digital future for the UK.

“The next step is delivery. Over the next 9-12 months, the blueprint calls for pilot programmes, industry participation and regulatory alignment to test the model in practice and scale adoption. The blueprint sets out a clear path to a secure, interoperable and privacy-first verification system, with the potential to strengthen trust, reduce fraud and support long-term UK growth.”

Key takeaways

Digital verification as national infrastructure

·       Digital verification is foundational infrastructure, not just a back-office tool.

·       A Digital Verification Orchestrator (DVO) could strengthen economic resilience, security and trust, while enabling data-driven innovation.

·       Opportunity estimated at minimum of £5bn over five years (£1.8bn from a secure Digital Verification Service (DVS) and at least £3bn in fraud loss reductions through stronger verification measures).

·       Supports UK sovereignty by ensuring core verification infrastructure remains a secure, domestic capability.

From policy to practical delivery

·       Blueprint provides a clear, implementation-ready model aligned to the UK Government’s Trust Framework.

·       Defines roles, standards and priority use cases, such as onboarding, fraud prevention and data reuse.

·       Builds on existing market capability and infrastructure.

From design to implementation

·       Calls for coordinated action across government, regulators and industry.

·       Focus now on live pilots, firm commitment and resolving liability frameworks.

·       A successful rollout would strengthen economic security, resilience and data sovereignty.

Chair of the Digital Verification Orchestrator Initiative, Ezechi Britton MBE, said: 

“The Digital Verification Orchestrator is about moving from ambition to delivery. The UK has the policy foundations, market capability and institutional expertise to build a verification system that is secure, interoperable and trusted by consumers and firms alike.

“This blueprint shows how we can reduce duplication, tackle fraud and make verified data easier to reuse safely across financial services. The next step is to test this model in practice through pilots, industry commitment and close collaboration with government and regulators.”

Vice-Chair of the Digital Verification Orchestrator Initiative, Alderman Sushil Saluja, said: 

“Trusted digital verification is now a strategic capability for the UK economy. A well-governed, consent-based model can strengthen resilience, improve customer journeys and help ensure that critical verification infrastructure supports UK security and sovereignty.

“The City is uniquely placed to bring together financial services, technology firms, regulators and government around this agenda. This blueprint provides a practical route to making digital verification work at scale for the benefit of all citizens in the UK”

Sir Ron Kalifa, Vice-Chair, Brookfield and Author of Kalifa Review of UK FinTech said: 

“Trust is becoming the UK's next critical infrastructure. As AI accelerates and fraud becomes more sophisticated, secure digital verification will be as important to the digital economy as transport networks and energy systems are to the physical economy. If we get this right, the UK can reduce fraud, unlock innovation, attract investment and reinforce its position as one of the world's leading financial centres. This blueprint provides a practical roadmap for turning that ambition into reality.”

Jana Mackintosh, MD, UK Finance, said: 

“Digital verification services have an important role to play in driving growth and innovation, and we welcome the City of London Corporation’s work to provide a clear, practical blueprint that supports consistency as pilots are rolled out. We are pleased to be supporting our members in developing a live, financial services-led pilot in partnership with Select ID.”

Ivan Heard, Partner, EY said:

“Digital verification is fast becoming an essential capability as consumers increasingly engage in digital-first ways. The blueprint creates a strong foundation for industry, government, and regulators to collaboratively build a digital infrastructure that is market-leading in its operability and governance, and has the potential to drive digital growth for UK Plc.”

John Salmon, Partner, Hogan Lovells, said:

“Digital verification will only succeed at scale if it is underpinned by clear governance, robust legal frameworks and confidence in how liability is managed. This blueprint is an important step in setting out how those foundations can support a trusted, consent-based model for financial services.

“By next confirming the liability boundary, the Digital Verification Orchestrator can help firms share verified information safely, reduce fraud and improve customer outcomes while maintaining trust in the system.”

Janine Hirt, CEO, Innovate Finance, said:

“Digital verification is a vital enabler of FinTech innovation. By reducing friction, improving trust and making verified data easier to use safely, the UK can unlock new services that are faster, more inclusive and more secure.

“The blueprint reflects the kind of public-private collaboration that has made the UK a world leading FinTech centre. Moving into pilots will be critical to proving the model, building confidence and ensuring the benefits are felt across the ecosystem.”

Anna Wallace, CEO, CFIT, said:

"Trusted digital verification is a critical enabler of the UK's digital economy. Through CFIT's work on Corporate Digital Verification, we've seen how reusable digital identity has the potential to simplify how directors and businesses are verified, reducing friction while strengthening trust across financial services and supporting wider efforts to streamline how SMEs interact with government.

“The Digital Verification Orchestrator has the potential to become an important piece of national digital infrastructure. Beyond supporting business verification, it could enable new models of financial inclusion, including helping verify trusted third parties supporting vulnerable customers, as well as underpinning future innovation across financial services. Realising that potential will depend on practical delivery, clear governance and liability frameworks, and broad collaboration across industry and government."

Read the full report here

Notes to editors 

About the City of London Corporation: 

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK. 

www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

Chris Hayward, Policy Chairman at the City of London Corporation, said:

"Andy Burnham is right to recognise London as the world’s greatest city and a vital driver of national prosperity. The capital’s success underpins growth, investment and opportunity across the whole UK, driven by our thriving financial and professional services sector. This sector supports two-thirds of financial and professional services jobs outside London and around 12% of UK tax receipts which pay for vital public services.

“We support giving local leaders the tools to drive growth, improve productivity, and deliver better outcomes for their businesses and communities across the country. We look forward to seeing the details in due course."

The direction concerns the assessment of tall buildings and their impact on the Tower of London World Heritage Site. The Minister has asked for additional hearing sessions, to consider an alternative approach raised during the process, before the Planning Inspectors issue their final report.

The Corporation strongly disagrees with the decision and considers further hearings unnecessary.

This issue was examined in detail during the formal examination hearings, held over a year ago, and the Corporation sees no need to reopen a question that was scrutinised in full at that time.

City Plan is complete and ready for adoption, subject to the Main Modifications consulted on earlier this year, and is vital to supporting economic growth, investment and jobs, in the most highly productive part of the UK. This latest intervention will create a delay in the adoption of the Plan, although the extent of that delay is unclear. 

The Minister's letter stressed that this is a targeted and technical request relating to a single aspect of the Plan. It does not call into question the overall soundness of the Plan and is considered a robust and deliverable strategy for the future of the Square Mile. The Corporation shares that view of the Plan's soundness, which makes the delay harder to understand.

The intervention will delay adoption of the Plan, with the prolonged uncertainty to impact the decision making of developers and investors, putting at risk growth, investment and the jobs that depend on them. City Plan 2040 will also move the Square Mile to a ‘retrofit-first’ approach for development, which is critical for climate action.

Planning activity in the City reached a record high in 2025, with the highest number of planning applications received in a decade and more than 500,000 square metres of office floorspace granted permission, equivalent to more than seven ‘Gherkin’-sized buildings.

Around half of that floorspace is already under construction. Major schemes including 1 Undershaft, 60 and 85 Gracechurch Street are progressing, reflecting continued confidence in the Square Mile.

The Corporation will continue to approve and deliver major development against the City Plan 2040 target of at least 1.2 million square metres of net additional office floorspace over the plan period, anticipating that it will need to accommodate around 192,000 additional jobs by 2050, with historically low vacancy rates in its existing Grade A office space.

The Corporation also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting and enhancing the City’s historic environment, as set out in City Plan, by adopting it as soon as possible.

Chairman of the City of London Corporation Planning and Transportation Committee, Tom Sleigh, said:

“This is unnecessary and anti-growth. The issue was examined in full more than a year ago. The Inspectors heard it, and the Government's own letter does not call into question the soundness of the Plan. To send a complete, ready-to-adopt plan back for more hearings on a settled point is the wrong call, and the cost will be missed economic growth. It beggars belief.

“City Plan 2040 is the framework investors and businesses commit to. Every month of delay is a month that certainty is missing, and schemes that were ready to proceed, with the investment behind them, are put at risk. London and the UK need this Plan adopted. This was avoidable, it is wrong, and it should be put right quickly."

The City of London Corporation is urging Londoners to enjoy the capital's green spaces responsibly during hot weather, following a series of incidents involving unlawful swimming and anti-social behaviour. 

The organisation manages more than 11,000 acres of open space across London and southeast England and is calling on its nearly 50 million annual visitors to help safeguard these nationally important sites by disposing of litter responsibly, never lighting fires or barbecues, respecting wildlife, and following local rules.

The City Corporation's green spaces include internationally important habitats such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest and National Nature Reserves. Together, they are home to around 58,000 ancient trees and support some of the country's most important wildlife habitats.

The sites also provide a wide range of recreational and sporting facilities, from the ancient woodlands and walking trails of Epping Forest to Hampstead Heath's world-famous Bathing Ponds and Lido. 

The City Corporation’s portfolio also includes Burnham Beeches in Buckinghamshire, Ashtead Common in Surrey, West Ham Park in Newham, several Commons across south London, and more than 180 parks, gardens, and green spaces within the Square Mile itself. 

The appeal comes after a series of incidents at Hampstead Heath where people were seen unlawfully swimming in the Model Boating Pond – disturbing nesting birds and putting themselves in danger – as well as a separate incident of verbal and physical abuse towards staff and visitors at the nearby Lido. 

The City Corporation is urging people to only swim in clearly designated, lifeguarded areas, and to stay out of all other water bodies on its sites. 

Entering non-designated bodies of water is extremely dangerous due to risks including cold water shock, hidden hazards, and exposure to blue green algae, which becomes more common in hot weather and can be harmful to people and pets. Visitors are also reminded to behave responsibly and treat staff and each other with respect, while dog owners should keep pets under effective control, particularly around wildlife and water. 

The City Corporation is also warning of the heightened risk of wildfires during hot, dry weather. Fires can start easily from discarded litter such as glass bottles or carelessly dropped cigarettes. Visitors are urged to never light fires or barbecues and to dispose of waste responsibly or take it home if bins are full, helping to protect these sensitive landscapes and the wildlife that depends on them. 

People are also being encouraged to take sensible precautions during hot weather, including staying hydrated, wearing sunscreen, seeking shade during the hottest parts of the day, and looking out for vulnerable friends and family members. 

Chairman of the City of London Corporation's Natural Environment Board, James St John Davis, said: 

"Our green spaces welcome more than 47 million visits every year and are among the country's most important natural assets. 

“We want everyone to enjoy them safely and responsibly this summer and make use of our amazing facilities. Let’s work together to protect these treasured landscapes, the wildlife they support, and the people who care for them." 

Chair of the City of London Corporation's Epping Forest and Commons Committee, Caroline Haines, said: 

"Epping Forest and our Commons are internationally important habitats, and simple actions such as keeping dogs under effective control and taking litter home can make a huge difference. By showing consideration for wildlife and other visitors, everyone can play a part in protecting these special places." 

Chair of the Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood, and Queen's Park Committee, Alderman Gregory Jones KC, said: 

"Our Lifeguarded Bathing Ponds, Lido, and the wider Heath are enjoyed by millions of people every year. We are asking visitors to follow the rules, respect our staff and fellow visitors, and only swim where it is permitted and properly supervised, so everyone can enjoy the Heath safely." 

ENDS 

Notes to editors 

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile, dedicated to supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK – www.cityoflondon.gov.uk. 

The City Corporation’s open spaces are patrolled by dedicated constabularies, including the Hampstead Heath Constabulary and Epping Forest Keepers (Constables), who are responsible for enforcing byelaws, protecting wildlife, and ensuring the safety of visitors. 

For more information about the City Corporation’s open spaces and the charities that run them, visit www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/things-to-do/green-spaces/natural-environment 

 

·       Business, innovation, and public service expertise at the heart of new Sheriff team

·       New Sheriffs to champion rule of law and UK's global competitiveness

Alderman Prem Goyal CBE and Alderman The Hon. Tim Levene have been elected by Common Hall at Guildhall as the Sheriffs of the City of London for 2026–27.

They will take office on 28 September, holding the position for one year and succeeding Alderman Robert Hughes-Penney and Deputy Keith Bottomley.

The office of Sheriff of the City of London, a pre-requisite to becoming Lord Mayor, is one of the oldest in existence and dates to the Middle Ages.

The Sheriffs’ modern-day duties include supporting the Lord Mayor in his or her civic roles and serving as ambassadors for the UK’s financial and professional services industry by promoting Great Britain as a place in which to do business.

In addition to assisting the Lord Mayor, the Sheriffs support His Majesty’s Judges at the Central Criminal Court (Old Bailey) by promoting the importance of the English rule of law to businesses, schools, diplomats, charities, the City Livery, and leading arts figures.

The City of London powers the UK economy, supporting 676,000 workers and 24,000 businesses, generating £109 billion in output, and £1.3 billion in business rates, and a major share of the FPS sectors’ £110 billion annual tax revenue.

Growing up in India, Sheriff-Elect Alderman Prem Goyal CBE graduated with degrees in Engineering from IIT (India) and Clarkson University (New York), before obtaining an MBA from UCLA and completing executive education at Chicago Booth.

Prem holds several board and advisory roles across the financial and business sectors, and currently serves as Chair of Greengage and as a non-executive director at Dolma Impact Fund II and the Federation of Small Businesses. His finance experience includes over 20 years at global investment banks, including Goldman Sachs and Deutsche Bank in New York, Tokyo, Zurich, and London.

An Alderman of the City of London representing Portsoken Ward since 2017, Prem was awarded a CBE in 2025 for public service.

Sheriff-Elect Alderman Prem Goyal CBE, said:

“It is a tremendous honour to have been elected Sheriff of the City of London.

“The City succeeds because it combines enterprise, opportunity, and global talent. I look forward to serving, and working alongside, the Lord Mayor, and His Majesty’s Judges to champion these strengths, both, at home and internationally.”

Sheriff-Elect Alderman The Hon. Tim Levene has represented the Ward of Bridge and Bridge Without in the City of London since 2022. Educated at the City of London School and the University of Manchester, Tim is an established entrepreneur who helped found and build Crussh and Betfair.

In 2010, he founded Augmentum, taking it public in 2018 as the UK's first listed fintech investment company. In May 2026, Augmentum was acquired by the European private equity firm Verdane. Tim continues to lead Augmentum under Verdane's ownership. Companies backed by Augmentum have created over 10,000 new jobs since 2018.

Tim was named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum in 2012. He chaired the Royal Foundation's Digital Board for six years and now sits on the National Gallery's Digital Board.

Sheriff-Elect Alderman The Hon. Tim Levene said:

"The City does two things at once: it embraces what is new and protects what we have. That balance, between innovation and the rule of law, is what I hope to bring to the role.

“I have spent my career founding and backing businesses and as Sheriff, I want to put that experience to work for the City: championing the Square Mile as a global home for financial services in general and for fintech and AI in particular, and opening doors for the next generation of founders. 

“It will be an honour to support His Majesty's Judges at the Old Bailey, and to serve the Lord Mayor and the Livery."

During their year in office, the Sheriffs live and work at the Central Criminal Court (Old Bailey), which is owned and managed by the City of London Corporation and recognised as the most famous criminal court in the world.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

About the City of London Corporation:

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK – www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

Double Olympic champion Dame Kelly Holmes received the accolade ahead of appearing at a star-studded Pride panel event at The Mansion House, official residence of the Lady Mayor of the City of London, where she was guest of honour.

The athlete scaled the heights in her field by winning 800-metre and 1500-metre gold medals at the 2004 Olympics in Athens, having overcome injuries and struggles with mental health earlier in her career.

In 2022 she said she ‘finally felt free’ after coming out as a gay woman, having hidden her sexuality for decades due to fear, especially while serving in the Army at a time when gay people were banned from serving.

Speaking after receiving the Freedom, Dame Kelly Holmes said:

“I am incredibly honoured to receive this very special recognition. It’s something I feel genuinely proud of, particularly knowing the history and significance behind the Freedom.

“Much of my life has been about finding the confidence to be myself on and off the track. Being able to speak openly about my experiences and connect with others who feel the same has been hugely important.

“It’s a privilege to be part of Pride activity across the City and to see so many people coming together. Days like this are a powerful reminder of why visibility and inclusion, and creating spaces where everyone can belong, really matter.”

Dame Kelly answered questions about her life, career and LGBTQ+ issues at a panel event organised by City of London Corporation City Pride staff network.

The event, supported by bridge owner and charity funder City Bridge Foundation and Amazon, featured guests from the LGBTQ+ community and the world of showbiz, culminating in a performance by Heather Small of her 2000 hit and gay anthem Proud.

Guests included Birds of a Feather actor Linda Robson, Amanda Collier from The Traitors, trans advocate and TV personality Ella Morgan, Dr Ranj Singh, swimmer and presenter Michael Gunning and actors Gabriel Constantin and Lee Knight.

City of London Corporation Policy Chairman Chris Hayward said:

“Dame Kelly Holmes’ achievements as an athlete and her courage in sharing her story make her an inspiring and thoroughly deserving recipient of the Freedom of the City of London. Pride activity like this brings together communities, businesses and civic leadership, and reflects our commitment to making the City a place where everyone feels welcome and able to be themselves.”

Also speaking at the event was Alderman Tim Hailes – one of two elected Members of the City of London Corporation to nominate Dame Kelly for the Freedom – who, subject to election, is in line to become the City’s first openly gay Lord Mayor, taking up office in November.

Alderman Tim Hailes said:

“I’ve long admired Dame Kelly not just for what she achieved on the track, but for the honesty and strength she has shown in telling her story. That combination of resilience, talent and authenticity is incredibly powerful to me, and it felt absolutely right to recognise her in this way at a moment that celebrates the diversity of our City.”

The City Corporation’s Lead Member for Sport and former Pride Trust and LGBT Foundation board member, Edward Lord OBE, who jointly nominated Dame Kelly for her Freedom, said:

“Dame Kelly Holmes stands as an extraordinary role model, both through her sporting achievements and the impact she has had since. Her journey will resonate with so many people and, having known Kelly through both sport and her LGBTQ+ advocacy, I was proud to support her nomination for the Freedom as someone who truly embodies the values of openness, inclusion and belonging.”

The Mansion House event was followed by the now customary Pride flag raising at Guildhall, headquarters of the City Corporation, and was one of a series of activities across the Square Mile during Pride month.

Event listings and details of how to sign up for Pride in the Square Mile, part of the City Belonging Project connecting communities in the City, can be found at https://belongingproject.city/pride

LONDON, 18 JUNE 2026 – The UK Carbon Markets Forum (CMF) today announces the appointment of Mike Zehetmayr, UK Financial Services Partner at EY, as its new Chair. The CMF is a private sector initiative designed to scale global carbon credit markets, supported by the City of London Corporation.  

This appointment marks a new chapter, as the Forum turns its focus to putting climate on the balance sheet, and broadening membership to a wider range of voices from across finance, technology and sustainability. Zehetmayr succeeds Dame Clara Furse, who led the CMF since its founding in 2021. 

Zehetmayr brings over three decades of experience building and scaling financial markets infrastructure, including senior roles at EY and IBM. Within his current role at EY, he led EY’s advisory work on the Great British Tokenised Deposits project, a pilot bringing together six of the UK’s largest banks to develop next-generation tokenised payment infrastructure. He also serves as a Board Trustee of Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust. 

Mike Zehetmayr, Chair of the UK Carbon Markets Forum, said: “Carbon markets exist because the global climate problem is real and urgent, and altruism alone will not scale solutions. The City of London has the infrastructure, and the CMF has the legal frameworks, the trading mechanisms, and the data and assurance capabilities. It’s now time to accelerate decisions and act on them. It’s a privilege to build on the platform Dame Clara Furse established, and lead the Forum through this next chapter.” 

A recent report by the CMF found that the UK carbon credit economy already generates £1.2bn annually, and the global market for carbon credits is projected to grow up to 190 times its current value by 2050. 

Over the next 12 months, the CMF will focus on turning its ambitions into practical action to support the growth of global carbon markets. It will work closely with Government and international partners to help shape emerging policy frameworks, while advancing solutions to strengthen market infrastructure and enable greater cross-border activity.  

Alongside this, the CMF will seek to build a stronger commercial case for carbon credit use, supported by targeted engagement to broaden participation across corporates and financial institutions. Together, these efforts will support the development of carbon markets that are trusted, efficient and globally competitive. 

Chris Hayward, Policy Chairman at the City of London Corporation, said: “The UK is the dominant force in global carbon markets – but this is a nascent sector, and we must provide the solutions if we are to continue to lead.  

Mike’s appointment will be crucial in achieving this. I look forward to working with him driving forward the work of the Forum, as well as thanking Dame Clara for her work over the past five years.”  

Rachel Blake, Economic Secretary to the HM Treasury, said: “Carbon markets have a critical role to play in mobilising finance for the transition to net zero and the UK is uniquely placed to build trust and growth in these markets. 

I welcome Mike Zehetmayr’s appointment as Chair of the UK Carbon Markets Forum at this important moment and the group’s continued focus will be key to accelerating progress, supporting the Government’s growth and clean energy missions.” 

Millions of UK workers have no emergency savings, are overwhelmed by debt, and aren’t saving enough for retirement, according to a new report¹ published today by the City of London Corporation and nudge.

An estimated 8.2 million (24%) UK employees have no emergency savings at all, leaving them vulnerable to unexpected financial shocks. A further 4.4 million (13%) report being overwhelmed by debt.

Higher earners are feeling financial pressure too. Among workers earning more than £95,000 a year,  (27%) reported stress linked to finances while (20%) report struggling with their sleep.

Short-term financial pressures are also impacting long-term financial planning. Just 9.2 million (27%) of employees are happy with their retirement contributions while 15.1 million (44%) either do not know whether they are contributing enough or do not understand how their retirement savings work.

These results come despite 94% of UK employers believing their employees are confident in managing their savings.

Policy Chairman of the City of London, Chris Hayward said:

“Millions of people across the UK are understandably struggling with their finances. Despite the challenging economic environment, many were never taught how to build resilience to manage shocks, nor how to plan for the future.

“Without urgent action to improve financial literacy and support in the workplace, too many people will continue to face unnecessary financial stress and uncertainty.”

Issues including geopolitical conflict, rising housing costs, higher energy prices and food inflation have all made managing personal finances more difficult. But a lack of financial education often leads to worse financial outcomes too.

Employees with lower financial capability were:

• significantly less likely to have emergency savings, with 75% reporting no emergency fund vs. 16% of employees with strong financial literacy
• Less likely to have a retirement fund, with 33% reporting having no retirement fund at all vs. 7% of employees with strong financial literacy and;
• overspend their income each month 49% vs. 12% of employees with strong financial literacy

Conversely, employees receiving financial wellbeing support are less likely to report stress: 32% vs. 41% and anxiety 27% vs. 38%

To improve financial literacy, the report’s authors are calling on employers to prioritise more personalised, life-stage financial well-being support that centres on education and is built around real-world scenarios. Roundtables conducted as part of the research showed that employees felt that current support was often too generic.

The report also calls on government and regulators to clarify guidance vs regulated advice boundaries; expand trusted financial education support into the workplace; and support consistent employer standards.

Employers told the report authors that:

• 390 (39%) want government-backed financial education resources;
• 370 (37%) want public awareness campaigns; and
• 340 (34%) want clearer boundaries between financial guidance and regulated advice

CEO and Co-Founder of nudge, Tim Perkins said:

“This report shows that workplace financial education plays a critical role in improving financial resilience and health. When people understand how to manage their money, they are better prepared for financial shocks and more likely to improve their overall financial situation and wellbeing.

“The impact extends beyond the individual, helping to create healthier families, stronger communities and a more resilient UK economy. We would encourage Government to consider tax incentives for employers investing in financial wellbeing support, reflecting a trend we are already seeing emerge in the United States.”

Notes to editors

1. The report combines employer insights from qualitative research, including two roundtables and 8 semi-structured interviews with industry experts and employers responsible for a collective headcount of over 104,300 UK employees, with a survey of 1,000 senior HR, Reward or Benefit decision-makers (Director level and above) at UK employers with 500+ employees, conducted by Censuswide. The report also draws on findings from nudge’s 2026 global financial wellbeing research covering 11,500 employees across 17 countries, with 2,102 from the UK.
2. The estimated number of employees is calculated using the percentages identified in our reporting against the latest ONS employment data Number of People in Employment (aged 16 and over, seasonally adjusted):000s - Office for National Statistics. These figures are rounded down to the nearest hundred thousand.
3. Defining low financial literacy: https://www.gov.uk/research-for-development-outputs/financial-literacy-and-financial-resilience-evidence-from-around-the-world

About nudge

nudge is the leading financial education platform helping employees make great financial decisions, when it matters. Combining personalized education, behavioural science and technology, nudge delivers proactive guidance tailored to each employee's goals, life stage, location and workplace benefits.

Trusted by global employers, (such as Microsoft, Accenture, PepsiCo and P&G) nudge helps employees build financial confidence and resilience while enabling organizations to improve financial wellbeing, increase benefit engagement and maximise the value of their reward investment. Through impartial education, enterprise connectivity and human expertise, nudge supports better financial outcomes for employees and healthier, more productive workforces.

For more information, visit nudge-global.com.

·       Annie, The Meaning of Life, Starlight Express, Grease, We Will Rock You, and Guys and Dolls among major films and theatre productions choreographed by Dame Arlene Phillips

·       “very honoured to be recognised and join such an eminent list of recipients” says Dame Arlene Phillips

Olivier Award-winning choreographer and theatre director, Dame Arlene Phillips, has received the Freedom of the City of London, in recognition of her outstanding contribution to dance and support for charitable causes.

Widely recognised as a pioneer of jazz dance in the UK, she developed her signature style inspired by American Modern Jazz and taught at Dance Centre, Pineapple Dance Studios, and numerous stage schools, including Italia Conti and Arts Educational.

From creating the dance group, Hot Gossip, in the 1970s to working with stars from film, television, and theatre, Arlene has become a household name. Celebrated for choreographing hit West End and Broadway musicals, Hollywood films, and music videos, her expertise extends through to her television work as a dance show judge and presenter. In 2021, Dame Arlene was honoured as a DBE for services to dance and charity.

Her recent projects include Guys & Dolls at Bridge Theatre; the new musical, I Wish You Well, at the Edinburgh Fringe; the recent UK tour of Grease, which followed on from two successful runs at Dominion Theatre, as well as celebrating 38 years of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Starlight Express in Germany as choreographer and director, while also being creative dramaturg on the London revival of the show.

Dame Arlene, who was nominated for the Freedom by the City of London Corporation’s Policy Chairman, Chris Hayward, and Sheriff of the City of London, Keith Bottomley, attended her ceremony in the Chamberlain’s Court at Guildhall this afternoon.

Speaking after her Freedom ceremony, Dame Arlene Phillips, said:

“I’m very honoured to be recognised by being given the Freedom of the City of London and it is truly a privilege to join such an eminent list of recipients.

“Although I was born in Manchester, London is where I started my career as a choreographer and it has been my home for over 60 years. 

“Thank you to everyone involved, especially, my nominators, Chris Hayward and Keith Bottomley, who I had the pleasure to work with when we launched ‘Let’s Dance!’ at the Old Bailey earlier this year.”

City of London Corporation Policy Chairman, Chris Hayward, said:

“By receiving the Freedom of the City of London, Dame Arlene Phillips is stepping gracefully into a well-choreographed line-up, which includes Strictly’s Oti Mabuse and Len Goodman, the celebrated choreographer and director, Sir Matthew Bourne, and her friend and colleague, Angela Rippon.

“It has been an absolute pleasure to join my colleague, Keith Bottomley, in nominating Dame Arlene for the Freedom for what she brought to dance in a career spanning five decades, and for her charity work.”

Sheriff of the City of London, Keith Bottomley, said:

“Arlene is an icon of the UK’s creative industries and is passionate about community dance, and bringing the joys, and emotional and physical benefits of dance and movement to a wide audience.

“Her expertise, vision, and ingenuity as a leading choreographer of major films, and West End and Broadway shows, and her wisdom and warmth as a TV dance judge have won her legions of fans all over the world.”

One of the City of London’s ancient traditions, the Freedom is believed to have begun in 1237 and enabled recipients to carry out their trade. As well as being nominated for, or applying for, the Freedom, it is also offered by the City of London Corporation to individuals as a way of paying tribute to their outstanding contribution to London or public life, or to celebrate a very significant achievement.  

Recent notable recipients include TV and radio presenter and cancer charity ambassador, Gloria Hunniford; two-time Academy Award-winning actor and humanitarian, Cate Blanchett; City of London Police Special Constable and TV presenter, Penny Lancaster; novelist, Ken Follett; and actor, Ray Winstone.

ENDS

Notes for Editors:

About the City of London Corporation: The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK – www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

 During his mayoralty, Sir Alastair played a leading role in advancing the Mansion House Accord and delivering a comprehensive programme of international engagement to promote the UK’s financial, professional services, legal and maritime sector.

Jointly led by the Association of British Insurers (ABI), the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association (PLSA) and the City of London Corporation, the Accord harnesses the higher potential net returns for defined contribution default funds available in private markets. The Accord also offers investment support for UK businesses as well as driving funds into major infrastructure projects and clean energy developments. Total pension assets currently in scope amount to £252 billion.

Sir Alastair's work also spanned a wide range of initiatives, including support for the Armed Forces and defence industries, championing the contribution of minority communities, and sustained charitable and public service.

 Simon Duckworth, a member of the City of London Corporation, has also been awarded a military CBE for his conspicuous and sustained contribution to the Armed Services.

Alderman Sir Alastair King, said:

“I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition. It has been a privilege to serve the City of London. Throughout my time as Lord Mayor, I have been proud to champion the UK’s financial, professional services, legal and maritime sector at home and abroad, helping to strengthen our global competitiveness and promote long-term investment through initiatives such as the Mansion House Accord.”

 “This honour reflects the collective efforts of many individuals and organisations committed to driving positive change, from improving pension outcomes for savers to supporting our Armed Forces and widening opportunity to all no matter their background. I remain committed to supporting the continued success of the City and the UK as a leading international financial centre.”

Notes to Editor

About the City of London Corporation:

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK – www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

Mansion House Accord:

Seventeen of the largest workplace pension providers in the UK have agreed to invest at least 10% of their defined contribution (DC) default funds in private markets by 2030, with 5% of the total allocated to the UK. Signatories to the new commitment include: Aegon, Aon, Aviva, Legal & General, Lifesight, M&G, Mercer, Natwest Cushon, Nest, NOW: Pensions, Phoenix Group, Royal London, Smart Pension, the People’s Pension, SEI, TPT Retirement Solutions, and the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS).

·       Khan became first British Asian police officer appointed Commander at the City of London Police

·       Umer Khan: “I accept the Freedom of the City of London with great humility and gratitude.”

The capital’s most senior British Asian police officer, City of London Police Commander Umer Khan OBE, has received the Freedom of the City of London, in recognition of his exemplary service to policing and work in communities.

On being appointed as Commander for Security and Operations at the City of London Police in 2022, Khan also became the first police officer of his background to hold the role.  

Having moved to Manchester from Pakistan at the age of 11, Khan went on to serve almost 27 years with Greater Manchester Police after joining the force as a Constable at 21. During his career, he has held a range of senior leadership positions across neighbourhood policing, criminal investigation, and operational command.

Among his many achievements, Commander Khan helped introduce the National Reassurance Programme in Oldham following the 2001 riots, supporting efforts to strengthen trust between police and local communities. He later served as Territorial Commander for the City of Manchester and played a senior leadership role in the response to the Manchester Arena terrorist attack in 2017.

In recognition of his commitment to policing and community cohesion, Commander Khan was awarded an OBE in 2019.

Since joining the City of London Police, he has played a leading role in policing operations across the Square Mile, supporting those who live and work in, and visit the area.

During his time with the force, the City of London Police has achieved outstanding HMICFRS inspection results and continues to rank among the country’s top-performing forces, combining high-performing local policing with national leadership on fraud and protecting the UK’s economic and financial infrastructure.

Commander Khan has been nominated for the Freedom by Deputy City of London Corporation Policy Chair, James Thomson, and Chair of the City of London Police Authority Board, Tijs Broeke.

Speaking after his Freedom ceremony, Commander Umer Khan OBE said:

“As an 11-year-old arriving in this country having to learn a new way of life, I could never have imagined receiving the Freedom of the City of London, and it means a great deal to me personally.

“Firstly, I want to thank my late mother and father for all that they did for me. Their love, sacrifice, and unwavering support shaped the person I am today. Although they are no longer here, they are with me constantly and I know they would be immensely proud of me today. Secondly, I want to thank the City of London Police and everyone that I have had the privilege of working alongside during my time here. Their tireless dedication is a credit to policing. Every day, they work to make people safe and feel safe in the City, often, in challenging circumstances and I am proud to have served with them.

“I am also extremely grateful to the City of London Corporation for bestowing me with the Freedom of the City of London, which I accept with great humility and gratitude.”

City of London Corporation Policy Chairman, Chris Hayward, said:

"Commander Umer Khan is a true frontline leader, who commands the respect of so many, and his commitment to policing over the last three decades is underpinned by his personal warmth, humility, and compassion. I send him my sincere thanks and congratulations on his admission to the Freedom today."

Deputy City of London Corporation Policy Chair, James Thomson, said:

"Since joining the City of London Police, Umer has demonstrated exceptional dedication, professionalism and integrity. He is a visible and approachable leader who consistently puts frontline officers and the communities he serves first. His Freedom of the City of London is richly deserved and it has been a privilege to support his nomination."

Chair of the City of London Police Authority Board, Tijs Broeke, said:

“Throughout his career, Umer Khan has shown a deep commitment to responsible policing, reflecting his strong belief that it works best when it creates and builds trust in communities, and fosters a genuine sense of inclusion and belonging. His Freedom recognises his outstanding service and dedication to ensuring that the Square Mile is, and remains, a place where every community feels safe, seen, listened to, and valued.”

City of London Police Commissioner, Peter O’Doherty, said:

“Umer's Freedom of the City of London is a fitting recognition of an exceptional career dedicated to public service. His journey is particularly inspiring and his time in the City has left a lasting contribution to the safety and security of all those who live in, work in, and visit the Square Mile. Throughout his career, Umer has demonstrated outstanding leadership, integrity, and commitment to the public. He has always championed the values of policing and has been a passionate advocate for the communities we serve.

“On behalf of everyone at the City of London Police, I offer my warmest congratulations. This recognition reflects not only Umer’s personal achievements, but also the dedication and service he has given to the City, the force, and the wider policing profession over many years.”

One of the City of London’s ancient traditions, the Freedom is believed to have begun in 1237 and enabled recipients to carry out their trade. As well as being nominated for, or applying for, the Freedom, it is also offered by the City of London Corporation to individuals as a way of paying tribute to their outstanding contribution to London or public life, or to celebrate a very significant achievement.  

Recent notable recipients include two-time Academy Award-winning actor and humanitarian, Cate Blanchett; City of London Police Special Constable and TV presenter, Penny Lancaster; novelist, Ken Follett; veteran broadcaster and breast cancer charity ambassador, Gloria Hunniford; and actor, Ray Winstone.

ENDS

Notes for Editors:

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK – www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

About the City of London Police:

The City of London Police is responsible for policing the City's business district, the 'Square Mile' in the historical centre of London. In addition, it holds national responsibility for economic crime, including cybercrime and fraud and, under this remit, is host to Report Fraud (the national cybercrime and fraud reporting service). The City of London continues to be one of the safest urban areas in the country.

Schools from Lambeth, Southwark and Westminster can sign up their year fives for the event at Kennington Park on Wednesday, June 17 2026 – the same day as England’s opening group game against Croatia in Dallas.

Hosted by London Nautical, City of London Academy, in Lambeth, the event will see schools come together for a day of matches focused on teamwork, confidence and enjoyment of the game.

The tournament will also showcase the new 11-16 football academy at London Nautical which will open in September 2027.

The school is part of the City of London Academies Trust, which runs the City of London Corporation’s sponsored academies. The City Corporation sponsors 12 high-performing academies across Hackney, Islington, Newham, and Southwark.

Michael Schofield, Principal of London Nautical, City of London Academy, said:

“Football has a unique way of bringing people together, especially during big tournaments like the World Cup. This event captures that spirit, enabling pupils to represent their schools, enjoy the competition and build their confidence.

“We’re very proud to be launching our new football academy will give young people the chance to develop their talent while also achieving in the classroom.”

The academy will offer a combined pathway of strong academic study and elite football training, delivered in partnership with youth coaching provider Volenti Academy.

It builds on the school’s established sixth form football programme, which has produced professional players including Arsenal’s Brentford loanee Reiss Nelson.

Steve Goodman, Chair of the City of London Academies Trust Board, said:

“This is a great example of how our schools use sport to inspire and engage young people, helping pupils develop important skills that stay with them beyond school.

“We are delighted to support the launch of the new football academy at London Nautical as part of our commitment to broad, high‑quality opportunities for all students.”

The tournament will take place on Wednesday, June 17 from 9.30am to 2pm. Schools can find out more and register to take part at: http://londonnautical.cola.org.uk/football

Hampstead Heath’s Bathing Ponds will continue to operate as trans inclusive spaces under a future access policy agreed by elected Members of the City of London Corporation today.

It means that biological and trans women will continue to use the Kenwood Ladies’ Pond, and biological and trans men will continue to use the Highgate Men’s Pond. The Hampstead Mixed Pond is open to everyone.

This marks a continuation of access arrangements that have successfully been in place for a number of years. 

The decision follows an extensive public consultation, in which more than 38,000 respondents took part. A clear majority (86%) favoured retaining the Ponds’ existing trans inclusive arrangements. Feedback from independently run focus groups involving regular pond users supported the same approach.

The decision-making process followed the City Corporation’s formal governance arrangements, including input from the Hampstead Heath Consultative Committee, which represents local stakeholder groups and organisations with an interest in the Heath.

Members of the City Corporation’s Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood & Queen’s Park Committee and Policy & Resources Committee carefully considered the consultation findings alongside their legal duties, equality impact assessments, safeguarding responsibilities, and operational requirements.

They also agreed to a series of improvements across all three Bathing Ponds, including upgrades to toilet and shower facilities. The proposed changes would enhance the visitor experience and provide greater privacy for swimmers through the addition of more private cubicles.

City of London Corporation Policy Chairman Chris Hayward said: 

“It’s clear how much these Bathing Ponds mean to the communities who swim here. Many people told us how they value them as calm, safe and welcoming spaces with a strong sense of inclusion and belonging.

“Although our consultation was never a referendum, the message from regular swimmers and the wider community was clear – people want these Ponds to remain safe, respectful and inclusive.

“Whilst the Supreme Court judgment confirmed the legal definition of ‘sex’, it did not decide that all trans inclusive services must become single-sex services. 

“We have continued to listen and take detailed legal advice throughout this process. The approach agreed today protects the character and unique spirit of the Ponds while ensuring they remain welcoming to all.” 

The City of London Corporation manages Hampstead Heath as a registered charity, at no cost to council taxpayers, investing nearly £12 million of its own funds in the last financial year. 

It is a Site of Metropolitan Importance for Nature Conservation and forms part of the 11,000 acres of open space owned and protected by the City Corporation across London and southeast England. It attracts around 8.1 million visits every year and has won a Green Flag Award every year since 1997. 

ENDS 

Notes to editors 

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK – www.cityoflondon.gov.uk. 

Images for download

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The Team UK campaign, in partnership with City trade associations, brings together a coalition of over 200 influential advocates from FTSE companies, industry associations and global partners, to promote a clear, confident and evidence-based narrative about the UK’s financial services strengths and challenge misleading narratives.

It follows concern that disinformation about London is increasing rapidly and risks undermining international confidence. Recent analysis by the GLA shows negative perceptions about London have risen by as much as 150–200% over the past two years. The reality is London remains the world's most desirable city to live, work and visit for eleven years running, according to a global Ipsos Mori poll. London’s homicides are also at their lowest level in a decade and London’s rates of violent crime lower than many of its global peers.

The launch will be announced at the annual Business and Trade Dinner at Mansion House attended by the Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle.

The campaign will ask businesses and institutions to act as ambassadors, amplifying positive, fact-led messages across global networks.

At its core, the campaign aims to:

* Counter disinformation and support evidence-based strengths with confidence

* Promote London’s global reputation as a stable, innovative and high-return economy

* Encourage greater investment, business expansion and entrepreneurship in the UK

* Build a coalition of advocates to champion the UK internationally

The campaign will highlight how the UK remains one of the world’s most competitive business environments, with strengths including:

* 2,760 fintech companies — the most in Europe

* A global insurance market larger than all other competitors combined

* The largest and most active capital market in Europe

* Europe’s leading destination for foreign direct investment in financial and professional services

Lady Mayor of the City of London, Dame Susan Langley said:

“Around the world cities and nations are competing harder than ever for capital, talent and influence. They are promoting their strengths and telling their stories with confidence, clarity and conviction. We must stand up and do the same and not allow inaccurate stories to colour how the world perceives us.

“This matters because what starts online doesn’t stay online. It seeps into boardrooms and companies. Team UK is about bringing together the full strength of British businesses to tell a clear confident story about what makes our country exceptional and to ensure the world hears it. Because the truth is London is a fantastic City in which to live, work and invest - one of the greatest economic success stories in the world. It's down to all of us to tell the truth about our City, not because we are defensive, but because we are proud.

“Every positive investment decision in the U.K. creates a ripple effect far beyond just one company and creates real jobs. That’s why speaking up together for Britain is important, and I thank the trade associations and industry for their support for the Team UK campaign.”

Janine Hirt, CEO of Innovate Finance, said:

"The UK FinTech story is one of genuine, world-leading strength, and it is time we told it with confidence. The UK is the second largest market globally in terms of FinTech investment, behind only the United States, and has more FinTechs and unicorns than anywhere else in Europe. Our incredible ecosystem of diverse founders and innovators is second to none. Innovate Finance is proud to support the Team UK campaign led by the Lady Mayor of the City of London, which amplifies the evidence-based case for why London remains a fantastic city to live in, a leading business hub and the world's greatest place to build, start and scale a FinTech."

David Postings, Chief Executive of UK Finance, said:

“The UK is a global leader in financial services, which drives innovation and supports households and businesses across the country. Regulatory reforms are enhancing our competitiveness, and we are setting the pace in areas such as green finance, payments technology and more. We have a vibrant, strong financial sector, and it’s important that this strength is recognised.”

Miles Celic OBE, Chief Executive Officer, TheCityUK, said:

"The UK is a world-class international financial centre, with London at its heart. At a time when capital and talent can move faster than ever before and markets are rapidly innovating, it’s vital that industry, government and regulators are talking up UK strengths and acting with pace and ambition to ensure its continued success.”

Notes to editors

For more information or to support Team UK, contact: teamuk@cityoflondon.gov.uk

ABOUT THE CITY OF LONDON CORPORATION:

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

The ‘From the Thames to Eternity’ project, repurposes 21 granite stones originally used in the construction of the Victorian river wall at Victoria Embankment. Having supported London’s infrastructure for more than 150 years, the stones have been adapted to create sustainable seating in one of the capital’s most iconic locations. 

The project has been delivered in partnership with the Cheapside Business Alliance and will be launched as part of this year’s London Festival of Architecture, through a series of public events showcasing the granite stones’ unique legacy.  

Installed in 1870 as part of Sir Joseph Bazalgette’s embankment works following the ‘Great Stink’ of 1858, they formed part of the infrastructure that transformed public health in London. 

More recently, sections of the river wall were dismantled during construction of the Thames Tideway Tunnel, with hundreds of stones salvaged and a number transferred to the City of London Corporation, to support reuse in new public realm projects. 

Designed by Matthew Barnett Howland, CSK Architects & Oliver Wilton, the installation at St Paul’s represents the latest chapter in this story, showing how historic materials can continue to serve the City across generations. The design celebrates the stones’ history, retaining traces of their geological origin, their former use in the river wall, and the marks of contemporary craftsmanship. 

Designed by Matthew Barnett Howland, CSK Architects and Oliver Wilton, the installation at St Paul’s marks the latest chapter in the stones’ long history – showing how heritage materials can be reimagined for modern city life. The design celebrates their journey, preserving traces of their geological origins, their time in the river wall, and the marks of contemporary craftsmanship. 

Every element of the project has been carefully reused. Offcuts from the granite were transformed into bench supports and an information plinth, while armrests were crafted from timber reclaimed from fallen London trees. Bronze details were cast using recycled plaques, ensuring nothing went to waste. 

An accompanying information plinth, designed by OZRUH with Matthew Barnett Howland, takes this approach even further. Made from crushed stone fragments too small for traditional use, it has been reconstructed using cutting-edge 3D printing technology — believed to be the world’s first permanent outdoor structure of its kind. The result demonstrates how even the smallest pieces of material can be given new purpose, pointing to a more sustainable future for construction and design. 

John Edwards, Chairman of the City of London Corporation Streets & Walkways Committee, said: 

“These stones have seen an extraordinary journey, from the Thames to one of the City’s most recognisable spaces, and now they’re part of how people can sit and contemplate our wonderful Cathedral. 

“Whether someone is taking a break, eating lunch, meeting friends, or simply passing through, this adds to the everyday experience of being in the City. It’s a great example of how small, carefully designed interventions can make a real difference to the life of our streets.” 

City of London Corporation  

02 June 2026  
 

KPMG, BDO, and Eversheds Sutherland to support City of London to boost UK investment

• KPMG, BDO, and Eversheds Sutherland collaborate with the Office for Investment: Financial Services
• Firms will assist companies looking to invest in the UK
• Support will cover areas including listings, regulation and visas

The City of London Corporation will be working with three of the world’s largest financial and professional services institutions to boost investment in the UK.

KPMG, BDO, and Eversheds Sutherland will collaborate with the City Corporation’s Office for Investment: Financial Services (OFI:FS). Announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves in her Mansion House speech in July 2025, the OFI:FS offers tailored support to companies looking to invest in the UK.

The three firms will provide early-stage support for overseas companies coming through the OFI:FS. Support includes a range of services, such as explaining the tax and regulatory system,  providing introductory advice on visas, and navigating the pathway to buying, listing or selling a company.

As well as offering technical expertise, KPMG, BDO and Eversheds Sutherland will help OFI:FS to promote UK investment opportunities to stakeholders in the nearly 170 combined jurisdictions they operate in.

Minister for Investment Lord Stockwood said:

"The UK is a global hub for financial services, and by drawing on the expertise of these leading professional services firms - the OFI:FS will be well-placed to attract the investment Britain needs to become the number one destination for financial services by 2035.

 "With financial services identified as a key sector in the Modern Industrial Strategy, we're creating the right conditions to boost economic growth and create jobs, supporting local communities across the country."

Policy Chairman of the City of London Corporation, Chris Hayward said:

“This agreement marks a major step forward in strengthening the UK’s position as a leading global investment destination. By bringing together the expertise of City of London Corporation, KPMG, BDO and Eversheds Sutherland, we are creating a powerful platform to unlock new opportunities and drive long-term growth. We are grateful to our partners for their commitment and collaboration in supporting this shared ambition.”

The OFI:FS combines government authority, regulatory expertise and industry insight to deliver responsive, tailored support aligned to company needs.

Since its launch, the OFI:FS has been instrumental in assisting more than 30 international financial services firms to enter into or expand in the UK market.

The collaboration with KPMG, BDO and Eversheds Sutherland will further strengthen the OFI:FS’s ability to provide specialist expertise across regulation, tax, legal structuring and business set-up, supporting growth in a sector that employs 1.2 million people across the UK.

Anna Purchas, London Office Senior Partner & Vice Chair at KPMG UK, adds:

“This initiative will bring investment, jobs and growth to London and across the country. The UK’s strong legal and regulatory system is a jewel in our crown, providing stability and a platform for growth for those entering the market. KPMG UK has a historic depth of expertise in the financial services sector, which is invaluable in helping overseas investors navigate the UK’s rules and regulations. Working alongside the City of London Corporation and OFI:FS, we will be proud to play an important role in maintaining both London’s and the nation’s global standing.”

Leigh Treacy, Head of BDO's Consulting, Risk and Outsourcing practice and Executive Board member said:

“We are proud to be partnering with the City of London Corporation to help showcase that the UK very much remains a leading destination for international investment. At BDO, we work closely with businesses at every stage of their lifecycle and we understand just how important clear, practical support can be when entering a new market. Through this partnership, we look forward to helping firms navigate the UK’s regulatory, tax and business environment, all the while supporting vital investment into the economy.”

Matthew Allen, Global Head of Financial Services at Eversheds Sutherland, said:

“As a global law firm with one of the most extensive UK footprints, we combine international reach with deep, on-the-ground expertise. We are therefore delighted to support OFI:FS to help international investors in unlocking new opportunities for investment, growth and innovation across the UK.”

City of London Corporation  

29 May 2026  

Global finance leaders to meet in London to accelerate net zero 

• Net Zero Delivery Summit set to take place in the City of London on June 24 as conference enters its fifth year
• Global climate leaders to discuss how to address financing gap for net zero projects
• Bloomberg L.P. and Bloomberg Philanthropies announced as Summit sponsor while the Government’s Chief Scientific Advisor confirmed as a speaker 

Hundreds of global climate and finance leaders will gather in the City of London next month to work out how to address the multi-trillion-dollar investment gap for net zero. 

Hosted by the City of London Corporation on 24 June, the Net Zero Delivery Summit forms part of a series of events taking place during London Climate Action Week 2026 – Europe’s largest city-wide climate event, taking place from 20–28 June. 

Now in its fifth year, the Summit comes at a pivotal moment for global markets. While global funding for net zero is at record levels, it is not at the amount required to align with net zero pathways. 

To address this gap, the Summit will bring together senior leaders from global finance, government and industry to explore how to accelerate investment into net zero projects. Discussions will focus on improving interoperability across jurisdictions, developing financial instruments capable of crowding in private capital at scale, and identifying policy interventions. 

Speakers confirmed for the Summit include the Lady Mayor of the City of London, Dame Susan Langley; the Government’s Chief Scientific Adviser, Dame Angela McLean; Chair of the Transition Finance Council, Lord Alok Sharma; and Singapore’s Ambassador for Climate Action, Ravi Menon. Further speaker announcements will be made in the coming weeks. Bloomberg L.P. and Bloomberg Philanthropies have been announced as the Summit’s sponsor. 

Lady Mayor of the City of London, Dame Susan Langley said: 

“Markets are operating in a fundamentally different environment than when net zero entered the political mainstream. Geopolitical fragmentation, rapid advances in technology and accelerating physical climate impacts are reshaping how capital is deployed and how risk is priced. 

“The success of the transition depends on how markets adapt. In a world where urgent priorities are increasingly competing for attention and capital, we must maintain momentum in our investment in decarbonisation and energy security, and ensure that this momentum delivers the meaningful, system-wide transformation required.” 

BloombergNEF’s New Energy Outlook 2026 Net Zero Scenario estimates that reaching global net zero across power, transport, industry, and buildings will require $235 trillion in capital investment by 2050 — including $134 trillion in emerging and developing economies alone. Bloomberg Intelligence estimates that climate-related economic losses have exceeded $20 trillion since the turn of the century, doubling each decade over the past three and underscoring the growing cost of delayed action.  

The UK Transition Finance Council, who will present at the Summit, have previously warned about the financing gap in carbon-intensive sectors too. 

The City of London Corporation will offer a free livestream of the Summit, available to register here. In-person attendance is by invitation only.

The approved proposals will replace the existing 1980s office building with a high-quality, best-in-class and sustainable development, providing approximately 86,000 sqm of Grade A office space, alongside new cultural, retail and community spaces. The public realm improvements will include a new public plaza opposite the Barbican Centre entrance and improved pedestrian connections through the site.

The decision follows extensive consultation and revisions, with changes made to the design, scale and impacts of the scheme, in response to feedback from local residents, statutory consultees, and the wider community.

The development is a key example of how the City Corporation is delivering its Destination City growth strategy, ensuring the Square Mile remains a global magnet for business, talent and investment, while also becoming a more vibrant, inclusive and welcoming place to work, live, learn and explore.

By delivering high-quality, sustainable workspace in a highly connected location, the scheme will help meet strong demand for next-generation office space and support the continued growth of London’s economy, reinforcing the City’s competitiveness on the global stage.

At the same time, the introduction of, retail and community spaces, alongside improved routes linking Moorgate and Liverpool Street to the Barbican, will play an important role in increasing footfall across the week, supporting hospitality, cultural activity and strengthening the City’s appeal as a seven-day destination.

The scheme also reflects the emerging priorities of the City Plan 2040, supporting the delivery of sustainable growth, inclusive public spaces and world-class urban design, while opening up access to one of London’s leading cultural institutions. By creating new, free-to-access routes and places, it will contribute to a more accessible, people-focused Square Mile and improve the everyday experience of residents, workers and visitors.

Sustainability is central to the approved plans, with a substantial proportion of the existing structure retained to reduce embodied carbon alongside ambitious environmental performance targets, urban greening and improved biodiversity, contributing to the City Corporation’s wider net zero and climate resilience ambitions, with its fully funded Climate Action Strategy.

Tom Sleigh, Chairman of the City of London Corporation Planning and Transportation Committee, said:

“The scheme that was approved by the committee was a stronger one than the early proposals, shaped by a long period of pre-application work and consultation with residents and statutory consultees.

“The daylight impact on Barbican homes and the way the building meets the street were both reworked along the way. What it now delivers is a much needed, high-quality workspace, with the retention of much of the existing structure rather than demolition.

“Crucially, it will also transform the public realm around the Barbican, with a new public route and plaza, open to all, creating a more welcoming, inclusive environment, with new cultural and community spaces that increase the City’s vibrancy across the week.”

·       Football governance, player welfare, women’s football, and widening opportunity through sport – other key areas championed by Dame Robina Shah

·       City’s “unexpected recognition is meaningful to me” says Shah

One of the UK’s leading experts in patient care has received the Freedom of the City of London at Guildhall today, in recognition of her outstanding contribution to, and achievements in, healthcare and medical education. 

A highly experienced consultant and chartered psychologist, Dame Robina Shah DBE has spent over 30 years working across healthcare, medical education, patient safety, public service, social justice, and inclusion.

She is currently Professor of Psychosocial Medicine and Medical Education at the University of Manchester Medical School and Director of the Doubleday Centre for Patient Experience.

Dame Robina’s contribution to patient care was recognised through her appointment as Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire, following her earlier MBE for services to academic research in learning disabilities.

Through her roles in a wide range of sports organisations, including the FA Council, FA Women’s Football Board, Manchester County FA, and Oldham Athletic Football Club, Dame Robina has also made a significant contribution to football governance, player welfare, disability football, women’s football, and widening opportunity through sport.

Dame Robina has been nominated for the Freedom by the City of London Corporation’s Deputy Policy Chair, James Thomson, and City Corporation Lead Member for Sport, Edward Lord.

Speaking after her Freedom ceremony, Dame Robina Shah said:

“I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive the Freedom of the City of London. This unexpected recognition has touched me greatly.

“I thank my nominators, James Thomson and Edward Lord, and accept the Freedom with humility and appreciation, mindful of the many people who have guided, supported, and encouraged me throughout my life.

“The City of London has long held a special significance for me. Although Manchester is my home and the place where I was born, I have had the privilege, through my civic and public roles, of attending many events in the City and seeing first-hand its unique history, traditions and contribution to public life.

“This recognition of my contribution to the NHS, sport, particularly football, and governance is especially meaningful, because these areas have shaped much of my life’s work and public service. I wish to thank the many colleagues, patients, volunteers, community partners and organisations that I have had the privilege of working alongside over the years. Much of what I have been able to contribute has only been possible through collective effort, shared purpose and the generosity, trust and support of others.

“At this time, I also think warmly of my parents, whose values, kindness and humanity shaped the lens through which I have tried to serve others. They taught me to notice people, especially those who may otherwise go unseen, and nurtured in me a curiosity about people’s stories, lives and experiences, grounded in compassion, dignity and respect.

“I also want to acknowledge my family, Tariq, Zainab, Raabiyah and Sulaymaan, whose love, support and patience have been central to all my achievements.”

City of London Corporation Policy Chairman, Chris Hayward, said:

“Dame Robina Shah’s Freedom of the City of London recognises her distinguished career and expertise in a wide range of fields, including healthcare, medical education, patient care, inclusion, and football governance.

“A very deserving recipient of the Freedom, I hope that Dame Robina and her guests will have very fond memories of her ceremony at Guildhall for many years to come.”

Deputy City of London Corporation Policy Chairman, James Thomson, said:

"I am honoured to have nominated Dame Robina for the Freedom of the City of London.

“Robina's public service has been extraordinary, especially, in giving young people opportunity through education and skills, tackling inequality and hate crime, and supporting the most vulnerable in society and giving them a voice.

“Robina is an inspirational role model to so many and has a personal warmth that is infectious."

City of London Corporation Lead Member for Sport, Edward Lord OBE, said:

"Dame Robina has made a demonstrable contribution to public life in Greater Manchester, and to the nation.

“In particular, her involvement in providing independent governance expertise to the Football Association and now, on the board of Oldham Athletic Football Club, marks her out as someone worthy of recognition.

“As a fellow Lancastrian, it was a genuine pleasure to support her nomination for the City Freedom."

The City Corporation’s Sport Strategy aims to make the Square Mile a global sports destination, by offering attractive and valued sport facilities, venues, activations, and events for residents, workers, and visitors.

One of the City of London’s ancient traditions, the Freedom is believed to have begun in 1237 and enabled recipients to carry out their trade.

As well as being nominated for, or applying for, the Freedom, it is also offered by the City of London Corporation to individuals as a way of paying tribute to their outstanding contribution to London or public life, or to celebrate a very significant achievement.  

Recent notable recipients include broadcaster and breast cancer charity ambassador, Gloria Hunniford; two-time Academy Award-winning actor and humanitarian, Cate Blanchett; novelist, Ken Follett; actor, Ray Winstone; and City of London Police Special Constable and TV presenter, Penny Lancaster.

ENDS

Notes for Editors:

About the City of London Corporation:

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK – www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

It is anticipated that, with numerous local development projects both in the pipeline and nearing completion, including the City Corporation’s flagship Police HQ and Courts building at Salisbury Square, daily footfall through the area will increase by around 40,000 people.

The £9.5m transformation is being led, funded and delivered by the City Corporation as part of its wider transport strategy, focused on improving connectivity, safety and the quality of the environment. The Fleet Street Quarter Business Improvement District (BID) has also provided valued support, helping to inform the project and reflect the priorities of local businesses, which stand to gain from the revitalised scheme.

Proposals include wider pavements, improved cycling provision, and the introduction of planting and seating to create a high-quality, attractive street environment.

Local business and community representatives’ feedback has been incorporated into two final designs, now open to public consultation.

Option 1 focuses on significantly improving conditions for walking, wheeling and cycling, with wider pavements, more extensive planting, seating and opportunities to relax. The proposed changes place greater emphasis on Fleet Street as a destination, with changes to how motor vehicle traffic travels through Fleet Street to enable the transformative change.

Option 2 also offers an increase in space for people walking, wheeling, and cycling, alongside some planting and seating opportunities, while maintaining all through traffic. It offers a more incremental shift towards a greener, more accessible Fleet Street, retaining much of its current function.

Running until 27 July 2026, the consultation will give residents, workers and visitors the opportunity to review the proposals and share their views via an online platform and at a series of local drop-in sessions.

Alderwoman Martha Grekos, Chair of the Fleet Street Area Working Group, said:

“Fleet Street is one of London’s most iconic and historic streets, and this project gives us a unique opportunity to reimagine it for the future. The design options we are bringing forward reflect valuable input from local businesses, residents and stakeholders, and demonstrate our ambition to create a greener, safer and more welcoming environment for everyone who uses this important route.

“I would encourage all those with an interest to take part in the consultation and help shape the next chapter for Fleet Street.”

·       Female sports broadcaster recognised as “trailblazer” in her field

·       Alison Mitchell: “humbling to be recognised in this way”

Alison Mitchell, widely regarded as a female trailblazer in the field of sports commentary, has received the Freedom of the City of London at Guildhall today.

An award‑winning journalist and broadcaster, Alison became the first British woman to commentate on the BBC’s Test Match Special in 2007, building a listener relationship that now spans nearly 20 years.

Alison expanded into top-level tennis and golf, and was BBC Radio 5 Live’s artistic gymnastics commentator across three Olympic Games, including London 2012. In 2014, she became the first woman to deliver ball‑by‑ball cricket commentary for Australia’s ABC and three years later, the first woman to commentate a televised men’s Ashes series for BT Sport.

Alison now works regularly with Channel Seven in Australia; covers men’s and women’s ICC World Cups and tennis Grand Slams; presents the BBC’s Stumped podcast; and remains a key voice on Test Match Special. She also lends her voice to Channel 4’s Crufts coverage.

Alison is a former Trustee of The Johnners Trust and a Patron of the MCC Foundation, and currently serves as an independent non‑executive director at Sport Resolutions in the City of London.

Alison has been nominated for the Freedom by City of London Corporation elected Members, Deputy Andrien Meyers and Alderman Prem Goyal.

Speaking after her Freedom ceremony, Alison Mitchell said:

“I moved to London for broadcasting purposes in my 20s when there were no women doing lead commentary on mainstream sport that I was aware of.

“This great city has been my home ever since, with many happy hours spent in commentary boxes at Lord’s and the Oval, as well as Wimbledon. Of course, the city was at its absolute finest during London 2012, which remains a career highlight for me.

“The Freedom of the City of London is something that I never ever expected to be given. It is truly humbling to be recognised in this way, and I thank Andrien Meyers and Prem Goyal for my nomination. This is an extremely special day, both, for me, and my family and friends who have supported me so much over the years.”

City of London Corporation Policy Chairman, Chris Hayward, said:

“Alison Mitchell punched through the glass ceiling and has established herself as a hugely knowledgeable and versatile sports commentator, respected by her colleagues in the broadcasting industry and millions of sports fans at home and abroad.

“By helping establish female voices in lead sports commentary as the ‘new normal’, Alison deserves our praise and admiration, and it is entirely fitting that we admit her into the Freedom.”

City of London Corporation elected Member, Andrien Meyers, said:

“This is a wonderful and well-deserved recognition of Alison’s outstanding contributions as a pioneering sports broadcaster.

“As well as being the first woman to commentate regularly on BBC’s Test Match Special, her award-winning journalism, exceptional coverage of major events, passionate advocacy for girl's and women's cricket, and amplifying the stories of women's teams worldwide have truly set the highest standards in the industry. 

“Alison has today become part of a historic tradition and I wish her all the very best as she celebrates this fantastic achievement.”

The City Corporation’s Sport Strategy aims to make the Square Mile a global sports destination, by offering attractive and valued sport facilities, venues, activations, and events for residents, workers, and visitors.

One of the City of London’s ancient traditions, the Freedom is believed to have begun in 1237 and enabled recipients to carry out their trade.

As well as being nominated for, or applying for, the Freedom, it is also offered by the City of London Corporation to individuals as a way of paying tribute to their outstanding contribution to London or public life, or to celebrate a very significant achievement.  

Recent notable recipients include broadcaster and breast cancer charity ambassador, Gloria Hunniford; two-time Academy Award-winning actor and humanitarian, Cate Blanchett; novelist, Ken Follett; actor, Ray Winstone; and City of London Police Special Constable and TV presenter, Penny Lancaster.

ENDS

Notes for Editors:

About the City of London Corporation:

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK – www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

·                City Corporation Members instruct officers to pursue steps to lawfully remove Mountbatten-Windsor’s Freedom of the City

·                Court of Common Council expresses disappointment after Mountbatten-Windsor fails to relinquish Freedom of the City voluntarily

The City of London Corporation’s Court of Common Council, its highest decision-making body, has today passed a motion of censure - a formal expression of disapproval - against Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor after he failed to respond to its letter inviting him to relinquish his Freedom of the City of London.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor inherited the Freedom in 2012 by virtue of patrimony, as the child of a Freeman. Notwithstanding the difficulties in removing this, elected members today instructed officers to pursue such steps that would be lawful to remove the Freedom of the City of London from Mr Mountbatten-Windsor. 
 
The City Corporation’s thoughts remain firmly with the victims and survivors of Jeffrey Epstein and all victims of sexual abuse and exploitation. 

The Court recorded the following key points: 

1.    That it considers Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s association with the convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein to be wholly unacceptable and inconsistent with the status and obligations of a Freeman of the City of London. 

2.    To instruct Officers to commence such proceedings as are necessary to enable this Court to lawfully remove the Freedom of the City from Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.

3.    Its profound disappointment that Mr Mountbatten-Windsor has not surrendered his Freedom despite being asked to do so.

4.    Its solidarity and support for Epstein’s victims and survivors and all victims of sexual abuse and exploitation.

ENDS 

Notes for Editors: 

About the City of London Corporation: 

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK – www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

The full wording of the motion is below:

“The Court of Common Council notes with the utmost dismay Andrew Mountbatten- Windsor’s association with the convicted paedophile, the late Jeffrey Epstein and his accomplice Ghislane Maxwell. 

“Whilst it recognises that Mr Mountbatten-Windsor maintains that he has done nothing wrong, it nevertheless considers that his well-publicised association with Epstein is wholly unacceptable and inconsistent with his status and obligations as a Freeman of the City of London. 

“In the circumstances, and in solidarity with Epstein’s victims and survivors, the Court wishes to remove Mr Mountbatten-Windsor’s Freedom consistent with decisions already taken by His Majesty the King and other military and civil bodies to strip him of his offices and honours. 

“The Court has received, with considerable disappointment, the legal advice of the Comptroller and City Solicitor and the City Remembrancer that it lacks the legal power to remove the Freedom of the City from Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor due to the fact that his Freedom is not an honour or office but a property right protected under both domestic law and the European Convention on Human Rights. Notwithstanding this disappointment the Court respects it is bound by the rule of law. 

“The Court further notes that following a resolution of the Policy and Resources Committee which considered this matter on 16th April 2026, the Chamberlain and the Remembrancer wrote to Mr Mountbatten-Windsor requesting that he relinquish his Freedom. No response has been received to this letter. 

“In the circumstances the Court wishes to record:

1.    That it considers Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s association with the convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein to be wholly unacceptable and inconsistent with the status and obligations of a Freeman of the City of London. 

2.    To instruct Officers to commence such proceedings as are necessary to enable this Court to lawfully remove the Freedom of the City from Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.

3.    Its profound disappointment that Mr Mountbatten-Windsor has not surrendered his Freedom despite being asked to do so.

4.    Its solidarity and support for Epstein’s victims and survivors and all victims of sexual abuse and exploitation.”

About the Freedom of the City of London 

One of the City of London’s ancient traditions, the Freedom is believed to have begun in 1237 and enabled recipients to carry out their trade.

As well as being nominated for, or applying for, the Freedom, it is also inherited via patrimony or offered by the City of London Corporation to individuals as a way of paying tribute to their outstanding contribution to London or public life, or to celebrate a very significant achievement.  

Recent notable recipients include two-time Academy Award-winning actor and humanitarian, Cate Blanchett; best-selling novelist, Ken Follett; former British Ambassador to the US, Dame Karen Pierce; City of London Police Special Constable and TV presenter, Penny Lancaster; and actor, Ray Winstone.

ENDS 

New figures published today (20 May 2026) by the City of London Corporation, show that the UK has once again topped Europe as the leading destination for foreign direct investment (FDI) in financial and professional services (FPS). It attracted £1.7bn in 2025 ahead of Spain (£1.3bn) and France (£1.1bn). 

The research highlights the UK’s continued global pull for investors, with 226 financial and professional services projects launched by 164 overseas firms from 34 countries, creating more than 12,200 jobs nationwide.

FDI in financial and professional services brings capital and employment to the whole country, both directly and with the investment flows they bring. After establishing in the UK, many firms substantially grow their investment flows in the UK.

While London remains the UK’s largest magnet for FDI, more than half (53%) of all jobs created by foreign investment were outside the capital, underlining the sector’s role in driving growth across the country. Belfast (£290m), Birmingham (£127m) Cardiff (£75m) and Glasgow (£67m), all ranked among the UK’s top destinations for financial and professional services investment.

The United States was the single largest source of investment, accounting for 53% of total value, followed by India (9%) and Switzerland (4%). The European Union collectively contributed 18% of total FDI.

Globally, the UK ranked as the third most popular destination by number of projects, behind only the UAE and the US, and sixth worldwide by investment value. Over the past five years, London has attracted more financial and professional services investment projects than any other global financial centre.

The findings also underline the UK’s strength as Europe’s leading tech and fintech hub, home to more than 3,500 fintech firms and 1.4 million tech jobs, supported by deep capital markets, a highly skilled workforce and a globally respected regulatory environment.

The UK is also Europe’s largest asset management centre, with £12.1tn in assets under management, reinforcing its position as a launchpad for firms looking to scale internationally.

Policy Chairman at the City of London Corporation, Chris Hayward, said: 

“Despite ever increasing global volatility the UK continues to lead Europe as the top destination for investment in financial and professional services. The UK is a magnet to financial institutions as well as global institutional investors. As a global financial centre, London provides: access to global markets; deep, liquid pools of capital for growth; a thriving tech and innovation ecosystem and a highly skilled and international talent pool.

“FDI is essential to driving growth and skilled jobs across the UK. Competition for investment is intensifying.  and it’s critical that the UK continues to be attractive to financial and professional services investors.  That is why we launched the Office for Investment: Financial Services - in partnership with Government.

“It will serve as a strategic one-stop shop for international financial services investors, offering joined-up, tailored support from market entry to expansion. By making it easier than ever for financial services firms to choose the UK, we’re powering economic growth and driving the prosperity across every corner of the UK.”

 The research is available here: http://www.theglobalcity.uk/insights/foreign-direct-investment-2025

 Notes to editors 

About the City of London Corporation 

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally-successful UK. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk 

About the research 

This publication was produced by The City of London Corporation using data provided by fDi Markets, a service from The Financial Times Limited, accessed in May 2026.

Foreign direct investment activities refer to cross-border investments from one country to another either through setting up a new entity or expanding the operations in the investment destination. In this publication franchises and M&A activities are excluded.

Further notes to various data points in this publication:

• Definitions for financial services and professional services are drawn from fDi Markets own categorisation, unless specified.
• Jobs data and capital investment data include estimates based on company announcements. The data provider and City of London Corporation takes no responsibility for the accuracy of the jobs and investment data.
• All values in British Pounds converted from US Dollars.
• Sub-sectoral categorisation of firms investing in the UK is based on the City of London Corporation’s own analysis. 

·       City Corporation supporting the government’s Wholesale Digital Markets Champion, Chris Woolard, CBE by leading the secretariat.

·       Corporation will work with Chris to establish a cross-sectoral taskforce to drive the digitalisation of  UK wholesale markets. 

·       News announced by City Policy Chairman in a speech at City Week

The City of London Corporation will support the government’s Wholesale Digital Markets Champion to help create a tokenised wholesale financial markets system, boosting the UK’s global competitiveness and accelerating innovation across financial and professional services.

The news was announced by the City of London Corporation’s Policy Chairman, Chris Hayward, who was speaking to an audience of industry figures at City Week.

The UK is a leading liquidity provider in wholesale market with more than £4 trillion worth of securities traded, cleared and settled daily in the UK.

Global momentum behind tokenisation of securities and other assets is accelerating rapidly. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) estimates that asset tokenisation could reach around $12-16 trillion, or 10% of global GDP by 2030 globally.

As delivery partner and secretariat to Chris Woolard CBE, the City Corporation is seconding five staff to establish a joint industry, government and regulatory taskforce. The City of London Corporation is working closely with industry partners including TheCityUK, UK Finance, the Investment Association and Innovate Finance in supporting the initiative and helping convene expertise from across the financial and professional services sector.

The joint taskforce will develop a clear and prioritised action plan to build wholesale digital markets in the UK, address regulatory barriers, and deliver a small number of high‑impact actionable digital markets initiatives.

To support delivery, the City Corporation will also produce a report on cross‑border digital asset issuance to be published in summer 2026, helping inform UK competitiveness and market access considerations.

A wholesale tokenised financial system could deliver significant benefits to the UK economy. Once delivered, trades across a range of asset classes, could be settled almost instantly, freeing up collateral tied up in settlement delays. Firms could cut operational costs, as transactions become more efficient and automated. And cross-border payments trade would be encourage, as transactions can take place more easily.

Policy Chairman of the City of London Corporation, Chris Hayward said:

“We are at a pivotal moment – a digital ‘big bang’ that will define the future of finance. The choice is clear: lead this transformation or lose it.”

“It is a privilege to support Chris Woolard and the government in advancing a wholesale, tokenised financial system. Getting this right is critical. If we succeed, the UK will not only retain its position as the world’s leading financial centre, but set a new global benchmark for innovation and competitiveness.”

The annual ‘Oiling of the Gates’ will return on Friday, May 22 2026 at 11am, transforming Temple Bar, near St Paul’s Cathedral, into the setting for a colourful display of pageantry and pomp.

Staged by Temple Bar Trust, the free public event is inspired by the historic role of the landmark, which once marked the western boundary of the Square Mile.

The City of London Corporation funds the educational and outreach work of Temple Bar Trust through the Community Infrastructure Levy Neighbourhood Fund and this event through the Destination City Partnership Fund.

Grant Smith, Education and Outreach Manager at Temple Bar Trust, said:

“As custodians of Temple Bar, it’s important that we don’t just preserve it, but bring it to life. The oiling of the gates is a new tradition inspired by the pivotal role this gateway has played in the life of the City.

“We’ve taken that history and turned it into something people can experience today. It’s a bit of theatre, a bit of ceremony, and something you don’t see every day in London.”

During the ceremony, the Master of the Gates will symbolically oil the hinges using an oversized oil can, before declaring them in good working order. Members of the Honourable Artillery Company’s Pikemen and Musketeers will line up for the occasion, alongside representatives of City livery companies in full ceremonial dress.

Chairman of the City of London Corporation’s Policy and Resources Committee, Chris Hayward, said:

“This is a great example of how we are supporting imaginative and engaging ways to celebrate the City’s unique heritage.

“By funding initiatives like this through our Destination City Partnership Fund, we are helping bring the story of the Square Mile to life, connecting its rich history with the energy and creativity of the City today.”

Temple Bar, designed by Sir Christopher Wren and built in the 1670s, originally stood at the western end of Fleet Street, where the Lord Mayor would traditionally greet the monarch on their entrance into the City.

The structure was dismantled in the late 19th century and stood for decades at a country estate in Hertfordshire before being carefully rebuilt stone by stone in its current location in Paternoster Square in 2004.

More information about Temple Bar Trust is at www.templebar.london

·       Gloria Hunniford “delighted and humbled” to receive Freedom of the City of London

·       80-year-long career includes singing, TV and radio presenting, panellist, and reporting on consumers’ rights

One of the UK’s most popular TV and radio personalities has received the Freedom of the City of London at Guildhall, in recognition of her outstanding contribution to entertainment and campaigning work as a breast cancer charity ambassador. From singer and chat show and current affairs host to presenter of lifestyle and consumer programmes, Gloria Hunniford’s stellar career in entertainment spans 80 years.

A champion of the role of solo female presenter, in 1982, Gloria became the first woman to have her own daily radio show on BBC Radio 2, which she presented continuously for 13 years, going on to become one of the first female broadcasters to host her own TV chat show.

Her many TV credits include Pebble Mill at One, Good Evening Ulster, The Travelling Picture Show, Rip-Off Britain, Loose Women, Strictly Come Dancing, This Morning, The One Show, Piers Morgan’s Life Stories, This is Your Life, and The Masked Singer. She was nominated for a Broadcast Award in the Best Daytime Programme category for her Loose Women Special: Sir Cliff Richard, Out of the Shadows.

In the Queen's Birthday Honours in 2017, Gloria was awarded an OBE for services to cancer charities through breast screening services and cancer support. Published in 2018, Gloria’s autobiography, My Life, has become a bestseller.

Nominated for the Freedom of the City of London by former Lord Mayor Alderman Vincent Keaveny and Vince Dignam, Business Performance & Transport Group Manager at the City of London Corporation, Gloria attended her ceremony at Guildhall today with family members, friends, and colleagues.

Speaking after her Freedom ceremony, Gloria Hunniford, said:

“This has been an extremely special and memorable day for me and my family, and I am grateful to Vincent Keaveny and Vince Dignam for nominating me.

“Having started my career as a six-year-old in Portadown in Northern Ireland, where I was born, singing from that tender age led me to a career in broadcasting, which I was given back in 1969 at the beginning of the Troubles. Ultimately, that experience led to being given yet another wonderful broadcasting opportunity with BBC Radio 2, which I did daily for 13 years. Television followed, from my own chat show, ITV’s Sunday Sunday, to Heaven and Earth, Rip Off Britain, and Loose Women.

"Some of my most treasured moments in broadcasting have taken place in this city, so I am delighted and humbled to have received the Freedom of the City of London.”

City of London Corporation Policy Chairman, Chris Hayward, said:

“A consummate professional on our screens and airwaves, millions of us have been entertained, informed, and moved by Gloria Hunniford over the years. It has been a pleasure for my colleagues to welcome Gloria to Guildhall for her admission into the Freedom today.”

Alderman Vincent Keaveny said:

“As Governor of The Honourable The Irish Society, the City of London’s historic link with Ulster, and now a cross-community charity in Northern Ireland, it is a real pleasure to nominate Gloria for the Freedom of the City of London.  She has been a wonderful representative of Northern Ireland on TV and radio for many years, bringing much joy and happiness into the lives of her audience. 

"Her work for cancer charities was honoured with her OBE, but that work continues and it is right that we also celebrate it today. Thank you, Gloria, for all that you have given us!”

Vince Dignam said:

“Gloria has been a part of our lives as a household name and TV personality for years and she is undoubtedly a national treasure. I got to know Gloria through her charity work and she has been a true inspiration in raising vital funds for cancer charities and supporting one of my charities personally by attending events.

“I was proud to nominate this amazing lady for the Freedom of the City of London – it is very much deserved.”

One of the City of London’s ancient traditions, the Freedom is believed to have begun in 1237 and enabled recipients to carry out their trade.

As well as being nominated for, or applying for, the Freedom, it is also offered by the City of London Corporation to individuals as a way of paying tribute to their outstanding contribution to London or public life, or to celebrate a very significant achievement.  

Recent notable recipients include two-time Academy Award-winning actor and humanitarian, Cate Blanchett; best-selling novelist, Ken Follett; former British Ambassador to the US, Dame Karen Pierce; City of London Police Special Constable and TV presenter, Penny Lancaster; and actor, Ray Winstone.

ENDS 

Notes for Editors:

About the City of London Corporation: The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK – www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

A project to install 163 new solar panels on the roof of Parliament Hill Lido is now complete.

It comes as the City of London Corporation, which manages Hampstead Heath as a registered charity, continues to cut carbon emissions on its sites to reach net zero as part of its Climate Action Strategy. 

The new panels, on the roof of the main Grade II-listed Lido building, complement an earlier set installed in 2018.

The new system will help power the Lido’s water filtration pumps, reducing operational energy costs, and cut annual carbon emissions by over 11.5 tonnes – equivalent to powering 15 average-sized homes a year.

Policy Chairman at the City of London Corporation, Chris Hayward, said:

“Our Climate Action Strategy stretches far beyond the Square Mile. With 11,000 acres of open space under our stewardship, we’re uniquely placed to help drive environmental change right across London.

“This installation shows how we’re making our strategy a reality – cutting carbon, reducing energy costs, and delivering long-term sustainability for the benefit of all Londoners.

“The Lido is an iconic London landmark, and these solar panels will help future-proof it for generations to come, while preserving its historic character.”

Chair of the City of London Corporation’s Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood and Queen’s Park Committee, Alderman Gregory Jones KC, added:

“It won’t just be visitors who’ll be soaking up the sun in the future. This installation shows our determination to manage the Heath sustainably and sensitively, so it continues to meet the needs of users while tackling the urgent challenge of climate change.

“I’d particularly like to thank the whole team responsible for delivering this great project, demonstrating that renewable energy production can be secured sympathetically on historically sensitive buildings.”

Parliament Hill Lido is one of London’s best-loved outdoor swimming venues, attracting nearly 300,000 visitors each year. Since opening in 1938, it has seen a series of sensitive upgrades to enhance the experience for users while protecting its heritage value.

Hampstead Heath is one of the capital’s most iconic open spaces, attracting over 10 million visits a year. It is home to over 800 species of flora and fauna and a Site of Metropolitan Importance for Nature Conservation.

The scheme forms part of the City Corporation’s Climate Action Strategy, which commits the organisation to achieving net zero carbon emissions in its own operations by 2027, and across its full value chain and the Square Mile by 2040 – a decade ahead of national targets.

ENDS

Notes to editors

About the City of London Corporation: 

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile, dedicated to supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK – www.cityoflondon.gov.uk.

The new solar panels are Cradle to Cradle-certified, ensuring a highly sustainable supply chain and long product lifespan.

More about the City Corporation’s Climate Action Strategy – www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/services/environmental-health/climate-action

Penny was born and raised in Essex. She attended her local theatre school before studying at the London College of Fashion, after which she enjoyed a successful modelling career for over 15 years. She later gained a BTEC National Diploma in Photography and Design and turned professional in 2000. As Lady Stewart, Penny is married to Sir Rod Stewart, with whom she has two sons.

She has appeared in the West End, has been a regular guest panellist on Loose Women since 2014, and is heavily involved in multiple charity activities.

In 2021, Penny took an oath of office and since then, has served as a Special Constable with the City of London Police, where one of her primary concerns is making the streets safer for women. As a Special Constable for the City’s dedicated police force, Penny was on duty for Queen Elizabeth’s funeral in September 2022 and the King Charles’ coronation in May 2023.

Nominated for the Freedom by Sheriff of the City of London, Deputy Keith Bottomley, and the City Corporation’s Deputy Policy Chairman, James Thomson, Penny Lancaster attended her ceremony at Guildhall with her husband, family members, and friends.

Speaking after her Freedom ceremony, Penny Lancaster, said:

“I am truly humbled and thankful to receive the Freedom of the City of London. It is a true privilege to join a list of notable recipients, and to be recognised by such a historic institution.

“I am delighted to accept this honour, which reflects not just my efforts but the dedication of everyone whom I have had the pleasure to work alongside.

“I look forward to supporting its traditions and contributing to the vibrant community that makes this capital so special.”

City of London Corporation Policy Chairman, Chris Hayward, said:

“As she read aloud the Declaration of a Freeman during the ceremony, Penny Lancaster will have noticed the reference to playing a role to keeping the City safe which, of course, she has done in the City’s dedicated police force for the last five years.

“I am very pleased to send my warmest congratulations to Penny on receiving the Freedom, and hope that she, Sir Rod, and their guests will have very happy memories of this special day for many years to come.”

Sheriff of the City of London, Deputy Keith Bottomley, said:

“Nominating Penny Lancaster for the Freedom has been a particular pleasure, not just in recognition of her sterling work as a City of London Police Special Constable, but also for how she has lent her support to charities helping young people, and people who are blind or partially sighted.

“The City is one of the safest business districts in the world and as one of the Sheriffs of London, based at the Old Bailey, my colleagues and I are acutely aware of the essential role played by officers, serving at all ranks and drawn from a wide range of backgrounds, in this highly effective police force.”

City of London Corporation Deputy Policy Chairman, James Thomson said:

“Having known Penny since she became a Special Constable and, as a former Special myself, as well as former Chair of the City of London Police Authority, I am thrilled that Penny has been granted the Freedom of the City of London.

“During her time as a Special, she has highlighted the important role that our Special Constables undertake through voluntary service, as well as the importance and distinctive responsibilities of the City of London Police and its vital role protecting the Square Mile.” 

For nearly 200 years, the Square Mile has had its own dedicated police force. The City of London Police consistently performs above the national average in prevention, response, and victim care. It plays a vital national role in tackling fraud, economic, and cybercrime, protecting people and businesses across the UK. Its work in the Square Mile supports economic growth and helps safeguard the City’s role as a global financial centre.

One of the City of London’s ancient traditions, the Freedom is believed to have begun in 1237 and enabled recipients to carry out their trade. As well as being nominated for, or applying for, the Freedom, it is also offered by the City of London Corporation to individuals as a way of paying tribute to their outstanding contribution to London or public life, or to celebrate a very significant achievement.

Recent notable recipients include two-time Academy Award-winning actor and humanitarian, Cate Blanchett; best-selling novelist, Ken Follett; artist and President of the Royal Academy of Arts, Rebecca Salter; and former British Ambassador to the US, Dame Karen Roxburgh.

ENDS 

Notes for Editors:

About the City of London Corporation: The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK – www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

City of London Corporation 

 07 May 2026 
 

EMBARGOED UNTIL 00:01 08/05/2026

Tech firms invited to lead fightback against fraud 

• City of London Corporation is calling on tech firms to build a new digital verification service to lead the fightback against fraud
• New digital infrastructure will make fraud easier to detect, while reducing administrative costs, and streamlining consumers access to services
• Nearly £5 billion of benefits in fraud mitigation and digital modernisation could be achieved through the new service

The City of London Corporation, through its digital verification initiative, is calling on tech firms to input into a blueprint to support the development of digital verification services that will lead the financial sector’s fightback against fraud and protect consumers.

The digital verification service is proposed as a voluntary system that securely connects identity providers with other financial services businesses requiring identity checks.

Under the proposed model, individuals would verify their identity once with a trusted provider. That verification could then be securely reused by other financial services organisations who would support secure data transmission to confirm their identity via the orchestrator, reducing the duplication and administrative burden for firms and consumers.

Once implemented, the verification orchestrator will play a crucial role in detecting and preventing fraud, including by leveraging cryptographically verified identities. Once suspected fraud is flagged on the network, the system will flag this to other firms, limiting fraudsters entry points into the financial system.

A successful verification system could unlock what the City Corporation estimates as £5 billion in economic benefits over a five-year period, driven by fraud prevention and improvements to digital infrastructure.

This work supports the City Corporation’s wider efforts to tackle fraud, including its role as police authority for the City of London Police, which leads national policing response on fraud, cyber and economic crime and is working to strengthen prevention, improve reporting and help protect victims of fraud across the UK.

The City Corporation is committed to a whole‑system response, bringing together financial services, technology, government and policing to prevent fraud, disrupt criminal networks and protect the public, in order to strengthen the UK’s economic security.

Policy Chairman of the City of London Corporation, Chris Hayward said: 

“Fraud is a plague on banks’ balance sheets, costing them over £1 billion last year. To help mitigate this – we need a digital-first economy that instils trust in the system and delivers clear benefits to consumers through faster, safer, and more seamless access to financial services. It’s this conviction that has motivated our work to champion the development and introduction of a digital verification service. 

“Innovation enables new dangers - but it also solves them too. We’re asking companies who can provide this infrastructure to step forward and lead the sector’s fightback against fraud.”,

Ezechi Britton MBE, Chair of the Digital Verification Orchestrator (DVO) Initiative

“Fraud thrives on fragmentation, and the Digital Verification Orchestrator (DVO) Initiative is about fixing that - giving the financial sector a modern, interoperable way to verify identity once and reuse it securely across the system.

“This is a clear opportunity for technology firms to help scale UK-wide digital infrastructure that delivers real-world impact: cutting fraud, reducing friction for consumers, and lowering costs for firms. We are looking for organisation with the capability and ambition to help turn this into a functioning, trusted service for the UK economy.”

Alderman Sushil Saluja, Vice-Chair of the Digital Verification Orchestrator (DVO) Initiative

The Digital Verification Orchestrator model offers a pragmatic way forward - advancing a trust layer so firms can verify identity more securely, while making everyday interactions quicker and safer for consumers. By bringing together industry, innovators, and public authorities, we are creating the conditions for technology to be deployed responsibly and at scale in the fight against fraud.

Notes to editors

• Calls for input close on Thursday 14 May. Firms can demonstrate their capabilities and input here: Financial Expertise | Professional Talent | Growth Opportunities …

1. Context and purpose

The Digital Verification Orchestrator (DVO) Initiative has been developed by the City of London Corporation (CoLC) to progress a viable DVO model capable of supporting trusted digital verification at scale, particularly within financial services.  The work builds on extensive engagement with industry and government and the statutory baseline provided by the DSIT Digital Verification Services (DVS) Trust Framework.

The primary output of the DVO Initiative is publication of a blueprint which will clarify the responsibilities of the DVO as well as setting out what credentials an entity fulfilling this role will need to demonstrate.  It will also highlight existing market capability in this area and what next steps are required to scale the DVO model to support UK financial services.  Early work on the blueprint has been informed by discussions with organisations operating across financial services, specifically through the formation of a Working Group and Steering Committee who are overseeing the work.Industry input is now sought from entities that are well placed to provide insight into the role of the DVO and to potentially fulfil that function.  The information provided will be used to inform the contents of the blueprint in defining the responsibilities and credentials of a DVO and, where appropriate, to highlight specific examples of existing market capability. 

2. The Digital Verification Orchestrator – role description

Core roles and responsibilities

Based on the work of the SteerCo and Working Group to date, a DVO is expected to be able to:

1. Apply and, as required, set minimum standards as part of an orchestration layer
   Define and maintain technical and performance standards and security controls for participants (including accreditation under the DSIT DVS Framework where applicable), ensuring interoperability with UK and international identity frameworks.
2. Enable secure, resilient data transfer
   Be accountable for the integrity, availability and performance of orchestration flows (eg connectivity, APIs, metadata exchange) and for evaluating emerging technologies and standards to enhance orchestration capabilities, without processing or storing personal data.
3. Facilitate stakeholder coordination to support trusted verification data flows
   Collaborate with those operating across the model and regulators to support effective identify verification including providing a process for resolving operational issues outside of bilateral commercial contracts.
4. Support non-discriminatory market participation
   Enable fair and non‑discriminatory access for identity providers and relying parties, avoiding exclusivity or structural market advantage.

By contrast, the DVO does not act as:

• a data store;
• quality assurance for data attributes, or
• a regulator.

DVO credentials

To fulfil this role, a DVO must be able to demonstrate:

• Alignment with the DSIT DVS Trust Framework;
• Examples of integrating at least three identity providers and verification services;
• Adherence to audit and compliance processes including Systems and Organisation Controls reports and security audits;
• Experience of ensuring interoperability between different identity verification systems and standards including compliance with eIDAS;
• Proven capability to design scalable and flexible orchestration solutions; and
• Success in managing complex identity verification projects or platforms.

It is also desirable for a DVO to demonstrate the following:

• Experience in service orchestration and ensuring high availability and reliability, including system redundancy and management of third-party suppliers;
• Compliance with Tier IV Data center infrastructure standard for availability and redundancy;
• Examples of working with multiple stakeholders including technology providers, financial services and regulators;
• Strong communication skills to explain technical and compliance requirements clearly;
• An innovative mindset to adopt emerging technologies and standards in digital identity verification;
• A clear funding plan and viable business model;
• Strength to act independently among all the parties including direct experience of building and managing governance models;
• Awareness of the Model Context Protocol and Agentic Context Protocol; and
• Experience of providing a dispute resolution process.

Priority use cases

The Initiative is particularly interested in the ability of a DVO model to support high‑value financial services use cases, including:

1. KYC and initial onboarding
2. Verification to enable access to credit
3. Ongoing verification to combat fraud reduction
4. Re‑use and portability of verified information across institutions

These use cases are being used to test whether proposed DVO models are viable in practice.

3. How to provide Industry Input

Responses should be submitted via the following Microsoft Forms link by 0930 on Thursday 14 May..

Please note that respondents are not asked to provide any pricing, commercial terms, financial forecasts or other commercially sensitive information.  This is not a tendering or procurement process, but an opportunity to support the DVO Initiative by providing feedback on work carried out to date and to help demonstrate existing market capability in this area.

4. Use of information and next steps

Responses will be used to:

• Inform refinement of the DVO blueprint;
• Identify which organisations appear well placed to demonstrate existing market capability for a DVO; and
• Shape further targeted industry engagement (eg presentations or bilateral discussions).

Please note that the information provided may be shared with members of the DVO Initiative Working Group and SteerCo.  We may also contact organisations submitting Industry Input to partake in further discussions, provide further feedback on the blueprint and/or take part in meetings or other events relating to the project.  Any engagement with and/or reference to entities that have responded to provide Industry Input does not imply endorsement by City of London Corporation or any other organisations involved with the DVO Initiative.