London has become a veritable theme park for domestic and global investors. Strong growth, a healthy development pipeline and a steady influx of world-class occupiers look set to ensure the merriment continues. But the entry fee is on the up – especially in the capital’s prime central submarkets.
Luckily there is plenty of room to expand. The question is how far are overseas investors prepared to move out of their comfort zone?
This issue of the London Investor Guide focuses on core versus fringe opportunities. While the core is still streaks ahead in terms of investment values and a five-year development pipeline, the growth potential and possible returns further afield look set to be colossal.
Commercial rents in London’s fringe areas are skyrocketing – in some cases by up to 30% in five years. And the residential market has largely reversed in the past 12 months as the heat has been drawn out of the heart of the city and into outer boroughs.
What we really need as the capital expands is a fresh vision to prepare for growth. And so, in an Investor Guide exclusive, London’s master planner Sir Terry Farrell has done just that as he unveils his new plan for a bigger, greener, better-connected city.
Whether you are prepared to pay a premium for safe, central investment opportunities or take a punt on some of the increasingly exciting fringe alternatives, investing in London will always be an enthralling ride.
Emily Wright, global editor, Estates Gazette
