Charles Begley, Executive Director at London Property Alliance said Coronavirus had impacted Central London significantly as workers, tourists and visitors rapidly retreated away from the capital from 17 March. ‘The Government’s strong message to avoid public transport on public health grounds was listened to’, he said, ‘but it has now cemented in people’s minds.’ 

‘The consequence is that whilst both rail operators and TfL are now close to operating full services, demand is not rebounding to match this capacity. This lack of confidence in using public transport networks is causing devastating impacts to Central London’s economy. 

 “As people return from their summer breaks, it is crucial that the Government works with TfL, local government and businesses to encourage the safe return of workers and visitors to Central London. This collaborative effort is needed if we are to save local businesses and revive the economic and social vibrancy of London’s business districts, which in turn are important drivers of the national economy.”

The London Property Alliance is a membership body for the leading owners, investors, professional advisors and developers of real estate in Central London’s commercial centres. It creates a unified voice for 420+ real estate organisations involved primarily in the Cities of London and Westminster, which together generate nearly £130billion in GVA annually and are highly interlinked to London’s and the UK’s economy