Our journey

Luton is on a journey to be an inclusive, healthy, fair and sustainable town where everyone can do well, and talent can thrive. It’s an impressive ambition, and we’re on our way together. We are a town that’s getting things done.

We’re supporting business growth in the town, offering professional support and advice for organisations of all sizes and opening doors to help companies to grow. Luton is the best all round place for entrepreneurs and is third in the country for business start-ups.

Luton is well on its way to achieving net zero by 2040. We were the first town in the UK to declare a climate emergency and have a clear roadmap to reduce carbon emissions, increase green spaces, and accelerate green growth.

Luton and its people have set an ambitious vision for the town by 2040, to be a healthy fair and sustainable town. Over 700 residents and more than 100 organisations have helped to shape this vision, with many making clear commitments to deliver on the town’s shared priorities.

Luton is number one for the highest coverage of superfast broadband. Digital connectivity is setting us up for success with some of the most innovative, technology companies choosing Luton.

Luton is committed to becoming a child-friendly town. We are working together to build a town that has everything our children and young people want to grow up in a safe, fun environment that helps them achieve their aspirations.

For over a decade the University of Bedfordshire has been leading the higher education sector on the journey to Net Zero. The University is now ranked number one in England and number Two in the UK for its sustainable education and influence, according to the People and Planet League.

Luton’s iconic Bear Club, much-loved locally and a beacon for jazz fans was voted among the top 25 jazz clubs in the world by musicians and audiences and according to TripAdvisor is the 13th most popular jazz clubs in the UK.

Luton is officially the first Marmot town after the launch of Professor Sir Michael Marmot’s report into healthy equity in the town. This report sets an ambitious blueprint for change across the eight Marmot principles to improve the wellbeing and quality of life of all residents.

Building a town where no one has to live in poverty is at the heart of Luton 2040. Many employers are committed to paying all of their staff a Real Living Wage, so that everyone can enjoy a good standard of living.

Passengers from Central London can now get to London Luton Airport in less than 40 minutes thanks to the launch of the Luton DART and the Luton Airport Express Train. This faster, smoother and more sustainable connection amplifies Luton’s place as an international gateway to the South Eastern region.

Hat Gardens is the newest addition to our town centre and the first in a series of pocket parks as we begin to reopen the River Lea. This popular new space brings greenery and new events to our town centre, as well as encouraging the much-loved flamingos to flock back to Luton.

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