1.9.2 London

Question 1

London’s multiculturalism

Answer 1

London is a centre for many different cultures and communities. The large multi-cultural population leads to many cultural celebrations, such as the Notting Hill Carnival.

Question 2

Is London unequal?

Answer 2

Yes - It has huge areas of poverty and this is only set to continue as the gap between the rich and poor widens.
See Kensington compared to Newham.

Question 3

National importance of London

Answer 3

• London is the capital city of the UK
• The HQ of many International firms are based in London
• London is a national and international centre for culture, the arts, entertainment and tourism
• Since 2000 house prices and earnings have risen faster in London than anywhere else in the UK
• The HQ of many British firms are based in London
• Many iconic buildings like the Shard are owned by foreign investors
• London is by far the largest and wealthiest city in the UK
• London is a national and international centre for media, education, legal and medical facilities
• The city attracts investment from all over the world
• It is a focal point for migrants from other parts of the UK and from every corner of the earth!
• It is home to Wimbledon, Wembley, Lords, Arsenal, Tottenham, Chelsea etc!
• Along with New York London is one of the two most important financial centres in the world

Question 4

London’s ethnicity

Answer 4

Question 5

Urban greening in London

Answer 5

London is one of the World’s greenest cities - 47% of London is green space (parks, gardens, woodland, etc.)

Question 6

Benefits of urban greening in London

Answer 6

• Trees produce oxygen and absorb CO2
• Habitat for wildlife
• Food production (using allotments)
• Trees and green space reduce flood risk
• Physical wellbeing (exercise)
• Aesthetics/mental wellbeing/Rest and relaxation

Question 7

Social developments in London

Answer 7

• Urban renewal has brought economic investment and growth to parts of London. The Olympic regeneration in Newham has provided additional social housing, leisure facilities, and greater investment in education. The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park provide parklands, waterways, and leisure activities.
• Students in London’s primary and secondary schools improve at a faster rate than nationally.
• In Newham, the Every Child Programme offers children the chance to learn a musical instrument or take part in cultural events. All children will receive school meals which has helped attainment and better health.

Question 8

Economic developments in London

Answer 8

• The London living wage is calculated hourly rate of pay which give the ware rate needed for a worker in London to provide their family with the essentials of life.
  It is not compulsory but a voluntary commitment made by employers. It has been estimated that over 10,000 London families have been lifted out of the working poverty as a direct result of the Living wage.
• The Elizabeth line (crossrail), which opened in 2022, increased London’s rail based transport capacity by 10%. It is hoped that this will cut journey times, ease congestion and encourage regeneration.
• The Workplace scheme in Newham provides people with advice about jobs and training. Since 2007 it has supported 20,000 people.

Question 9

Environmental developments in London

Answer 9

• The congestion charge was introduced in 2003 to discourage driving in central London to reduce congestion and pollution.
• There are various ‘green’ transport policies which include: route-master buses, hydrogen fuel buses, charge points for electric vehicles, and zero emission taxis.
• Cycle superhighways and cycle hire schemes (Boris Bikes) helped to increase cycling in London.
• In response to the urban heat island effect in London, targets have been set to increase green cover in central London by 5% by 2030.

Question 10

Urban governance in London

Answer 10

• The role of the Mayor of London was created under the Greater London Authority Act 1999 as part of the government’s commitment to restore a city-wide government for London.
• Mayors are important to ensure that a city has a strong voice and can attract investment from home and abroad. Devolved powers include planning, transport, employment, economic development. Health, and policing.