The announcement, welcomed by the Mayor of Newham, Forhad Hussain, builds on the legacy of the 2012 Olympics and highlights Stratford as a post-games regeneration success story. This development follows record investment in the area, which now hosts institutions such as the V&A, Sadlers Wells East, the BBC, world-class sports stadia, The Abba Voyage, and university campuses.
Economic projections suggest the Olympic Park area alone could generate over 11,000 additional jobs and £2 billion in annual economic output by 2035. The wider East London area is anticipated to create more than 200,000 jobs by 2050.
“"This is brilliant news for Stratford, Newham and London. The announcement means that you’ll be able to get from the heart of Stratford to central Paris in just two and a half hours. Stratford is one of London’s great regeneration success stories, and we’ll be working hard to ensure the rest of Newham feels the benefits of our new European connection. Newham is now the gateway to Europe. We’re open for business, and we’ll bring residents with us."
Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, expressed his delight, stating that the government's support will make Stratford International truly international for the first time, opening up significant opportunities for jobs, investment, and tourism. He also noted the devolution of new powers and funding to the capital.
Gianluca Rizzo, from the business forum Stratford Original, welcomed the announcement, seeing it as a crucial step towards realising Stratford's potential as a gateway to Europe. He emphasised the opportunity for independent shops, restaurants, markets, and cultural venues, and stressed the need for well-connected routes to encourage exploration of the area.
Dave Calfe, general secretary of ASLEF, the train drivers' union, also warmly welcomed the decision, calling the investment in Stratford International the 'right decision at the right time' and predicting a boost for Britain.
