Downtown Dollars and Sense – Why Business Needs to Be Part of the Plan

Downtown Dollars and Sense – Why Business Needs to Be Part of the Plan
A summer series from the London Chamber of Commerce

You step out of your downtown office, looking for a quick bite or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. Maybe it’s a panini from a deli on Richmond, a wrap from the market, or a fresh espresso from a cozy new café on Dundas. As you wait, you run into a colleague you haven’t seen in a while. You talk shop, make a connection, and maybe even spark an idea that helps you reach new markets, better serve your customers, and ultimately grow your business. 

That’s just part of the everyday magic of a thriving downtown.

When we talk about reimagining the core, it’s not just about new trees, patio culture, or public art—though those are all important. It’s about economic sustainability. It’s about creating a downtown that fuels entrepreneurship, draws investment, and generates meaningful employment.

Downtown London is a critical economic engine. To keep it running—and to ensure it thrives—it needs ongoing care, smart investment, and a clear, future-focused plan.

The Case for Business at the Table

As the City of London rolls out its new Downtown Plan, it’s essential that the voice of business is front and centre. Here’s why:

1. Downtown is a launchpad for entrepreneurship

Small businesses are often born downtown—retailers, cafés, studios, and startups that add personality and vibrancy to the core. But without the right supports—affordable spaces, foot traffic, safety, and access to amenities—these businesses may struggle to survive, let alone thrive.

A thoughtful, strategic Downtown Plan can help remove those barriers by addressing zoning, permitting, public space design, and more.

2. Jobs are local—and downtown is at the centre

Downtown London supports over 28,000 jobs across both the public and private sectors. While it represents just 5.2% of the city’s land, it accounts for 7.2% of all employment—making it the largest concentration of jobs outside of the hospital sector.

It’s home to some of our city’s largest employers, including TD Bank and Canada Life as well as several major accounting and law firms, whose offices anchor thousands of professionals in the core. These major institutions not only provide stable, high-quality jobs, but they also generate steady foot traffic and economic activity that support surrounding small businesses—from sandwich shops and cafés to salons and boutique fitness studios.

3. Investment follows vision

Private sector investment doesn’t happen by accident—it follows a clear, shared vision. A strong Downtown Plan, with real implementation strategies and financial backing, creates confidence for developers, business owners, and investors looking to build something long-term.

Why You Should Get Involved

This isn’t just a municipal project—it’s a once-in-a-decade opportunity for London’s business community to help shape the core’s future. If you run a business, employ people, or depend on a vibrant downtown to draw in clients and talent, this plan matters to you.

The London Chamber of Commerce is committed to amplifying the voice of business throughout this process. We’re advocating for:

• Policies that encourage investment and reduce red tape
• A safe and welcoming downtown experience
• Strategic use of public space to support foot traffic and local retail
• Infrastructure and design that support the needs of today’s workforce
• Opportunities to attract and retain talent in London’s growing innovation and service economy

What You Can Do

• Speak up. Visit Get Involved London and share your ideas.
• Stay informed. Follow this summer series as we explore the key areas of the plan.
• Connect with us. Reach out to the Chamber with your insights, questions, or challenges—we want to hear from you.

Downtown has the potential to help London tackle big-picture challenges like economic inclusion, affordable housing, and climate resilience—but only if we get this right.

Let’s build a core where businesses thrive, jobs grow, and community comes to life.

Next up: Culture, Community, and Concerts: The Power of Placemaking