Enfield launches 2040 growth plan amid rising unemployment
The council's 'Enfield Delivers' strategy aims to boost jobs and investment, but faces challenges including factory closures and a rising jobless rate.
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Enfield Council has introduced its Economic Growth Plan 2040, branded Enfield Delivers. The strategy aims to enhance job creation, skills development, business expansion, and investment across the borough. The council has set an objective for Enfield to become London's premier industrial and entrepreneurial district by 2040.
Economic Challenges and Opportunities
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The plan acknowledges rising unemployment as a significant challenge. Data from Trust for London indicates that Enfield's unemployment rate climbed from 4.4% at the beginning of 2025 to 7% by 2026, placing it among the top five boroughs in London for joblessness. This trend is particularly affecting young people seeking postgraduate employment. A recent setback for the borough was the closure of the Greggs factory in Brimsdown, which led to the loss of 181 jobs.
Enfield Council identifies the borough's strengths, including a substantial amount of industrial land, approximately 14,000 businesses (predominantly small and medium-sized enterprises), and a young, diverse, and entrepreneurial population. The growth plan is structured around three core priorities: fostering a productive and resilient economy, developing vibrant local areas, and cultivating a skilled workforce.
Growth Sectors and Future Outlook
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The strategy highlights four key sectors for future growth where Enfield possesses a competitive edge: advanced manufacturing, construction and net zero initiatives, logistics and wholesale operations, and creative industries. These areas were selected for their potential to generate high-quality employment, stimulate productivity, and attract capital. The council anticipates that ongoing regeneration projects, town centre investments, and improvements to transport, digital, and energy infrastructure will further unlock growth opportunities.
Council leader Alessandro Georgiou stated that the plan provides a clear roadmap for attracting investment, creating better jobs, supporting local enterprises, and equipping residents with necessary skills. He emphasised the plan's focus on delivery and its commitment to building a stronger economy for the borough's future.
Colin Lee-Own, who is involved in establishing an 'Enfield Employment Think Tank', expressed anticipation for the think tank's role in translating the growth plan's objectives into tangible employment pathways, particularly for marginalised communities facing employment barriers. Earlier reports indicated that over one-fifth of working-age residents in Enfield were claiming unemployment benefits, the highest proportion in London.
Next Steps
Further details on the Enfield Economic Growth Plan 2040, Enfield Delivers, can be found on the Enfield Council website at enfield.gov.uk/services/your-council/enfield-delivers.
Questions this report answers
+What is the Enfield Economic Growth Plan 2040?
The Enfield Economic Growth Plan 2040, known as Enfield Delivers, is a strategy launched by Enfield Council. It aims to boost jobs, skills, business growth, and investment within the borough, with an ambition to make Enfield London's leading industrial and entrepreneurial district by 2040.
+What is the current unemployment situation in Enfield?
Unemployment in Enfield has risen significantly, increasing from 4.4% at the start of 2025 to 7% by 2026, according to Trust for London data. This rate is among the highest in London, with young people particularly affected.
+What are the key sectors identified for growth in Enfield?
The Enfield Delivers plan identifies four key growth sectors: future-facing manufacturing, construction and net zero initiatives, logistics and wholesale operations, and creative industries. These sectors are expected to create high-quality jobs and attract investment.
+What recent setbacks has Enfield faced?
A notable setback was the closure of the Greggs factory in Brimsdown last month, which resulted in the loss of 181 jobs. Additionally, the borough has experienced a rise in its overall unemployment rate.
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