A prominent organisation dedicated to London's sustainable recovery has launched a new podcast series to tackle the capital's most pressing issues head-on.
Continuing the Conversation on London's Future
The Central London Alliance CIC today announced the debut of London Talking. This new series aims to provide a platform for in-depth, expert-led discussions on the challenges and opportunities that will define London's growth.
The podcast builds directly on the momentum of a major public forum, London – Opportunities and Obstacles for Growth, which was held in October at The Emmanuel Centre in Westminster. That event gathered hundreds of senior business leaders, policymakers, and innovators for six high-level panels examining the city's economy, infrastructure, retail, and entrepreneurship.
Inaugural Episodes Tackle Investment and Regulation
The first two episodes of London Talking are available now, diving into critical areas for the capital's prosperity.
Episode One, titled Rebuilding Britain’s Investment Engine: Capital Markets, Pensions & London’s Future, features Charles Hall, Head of Research at Peel Hunt LLP. In conversation with host Tony Matharu, Chairman of the Central London Alliance, they explore why UK capital markets are failing to fund domestic growth and what bold strategies could restore London's status as a premier global investment hub.
Episode Two, Unlocking London: Planning, Licensing & Night-time Opportunities, sees leading barrister Gareth Hughes join Tony Matharu. Their discussion focuses on the regulatory and planning hurdles facing the hospitality and nightlife sectors. It also examines how reform and entrepreneurial thinking could breathe new life into unused spaces and support the city's vital evening economy.
A Call for Open Debate and Actionable Ideas
Tony Matharu emphasised the urgent need for constructive dialogue. "Debate and discussions are constructive and positive things to do," he stated. "Today, London is facing complex structural and functional challenges. The capital is suffering from a heads down silence, anxiety and uncertainty and at CLA we want to open up debate, to inspire fresh thinking and highlight opportunities."
He stressed that London's success is inextricably linked to the UK's overall prosperity. The podcast's core mission is to offer practical insights and actionable ideas for businesses, investors, and policymakers to help the capital not just recover, but thrive.
London Talking is designed for a broad audience, from business leaders and investors to policymakers and the general public. It seeks to help listeners navigate the complexities of London's economic landscape. The series is now available to stream on Spotify.