London suburbs are 'the best UK urban areas'

Outer London is healthier, wealthier and greener than most urban areas in the UK, according to a study published this week for the Mayor of London.

The report found growing prosperity, a good quality of life and high levels of neighbourhood satisfaction among residents, with concerns mainly focused on very local environmental issues such as crime, litter and antisocial behaviour.

London mayor Ken Livingstone said: "Residents in outer London are enjoying some of the highest quality of life in any urban part of the country.

“This is particularly so now that outer London boroughs are benefiting from real improvements in public transport, more police on the streets and additional investment to protect our environment and clean up our public spaces."

North London Strategic Alliance assistant director Stephen King hoped that the report prompts further research. "In parts of outer London we have some of the highest unemployment rates in the European Union despite a strong economy. More work needs to be done looking at this paradox."

The report will now form part of the mayor's submission to the examination in public of the proposed alterations to the London plan next month.

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