Burnham urged to boost West End with tax cuts and extra policing

Andy Burnham has been warned that the West End risks losing its status as one of the world's top shopping and hospitality destinations if immediate action isn't taken to cut tax and increase policing. The New West End Company (NWEC), representing 800 businesses in the district, has urged the government to reduce business rates and invest in a new retail crime agency.

The district, which pays £17bn in tax annually and accounts for eight percent of the UK's business rates bill, generates three percent of the country's total economic output and supports over 350,000 jobs. However, soaring business rates, rising employment costs, and national minimum wage increases are driving businesses out of London to cities like Dubai, Tokyo, and Singapore.

The NWEC has called on the government to create a new national taskforce to tackle retail crime and the exploitation of vulnerable people on the streets. The industry body has pledged £23m of investment in security operations over the next five years. Business leaders, including Sandeep Bhalla of The Connaught hotel and Adam Hawksbee of Marks and Spencer, have backed the NWEC's plans, emphasizing the need for a tax system that supports growth and a safe, welcoming West End for visitors.