Journey by Maskells - Flipbook - Page 26
MASKELLS
THE ALLURE OF
CENTRAL LONDON
London is acknowledged as one of the most desirable
places in the world to live and work. But what is it about
the capital that continues to draw people in?
By PETER HERMON-TAYLOR - Managing Director, Lettings
24
ften ranked as the
number one city in the
world ahead of Paris,
New York and Tokyo,
London is a centre of culture,
wealth and power, with a lure that
never seems to fade.
O
London boasts world-class arts,
culture, education, shopping,
gastronomy, a highly skilled
workforce and high tourist demand.
Most importantly for the property
market, it is also a leading financial
centre.
Home to 8.8 million people
and with over 300 languages
spoken, London is a vibrant
and cosmopolitan city rich in
diversity. Indeed the most recent
census shows that over one third
of the population were born
outside the UK.
London’s geographical location
between Asia and North America
means it is perfectly positioned
as one of the key locations in
the global economy. The City of
London generates nearly £70bn
in economic output annually
and accounts for one in every
five financial services jobs in
Great Britain. Media and tech
are fast growing sectors, with
Google and Apple basing their
European headquarters in London,
indicating a high level of long-term
confidence.
Education is a major draw with
around 120,000 foreign students
studying here, whether at
dedicated schools such as the
Lycée Francais Charles de Gaulle in
South Kensington or the American
School in St John’s Wood or at one
of the world-famous universities
such as Imperial College which has
over 60% of overseas students.
