What is the definition of Greater London?
Continuous Urban Area with lots of green space, not a city but contains City of London & Westminster
Greater London covers approximately 600 square miles and has a population of about 9.8 million people.
What are the borders of Greater London?
Defined as ‘within M25’, official border is slightly smaller
The M25 is a major motorway encircling Greater London.
Is Greater London considered a city?
No, it is not a city
The designation of a city is made by the monarch on government advice.
What are the main features of the Greater London metropolitan area?
Includes a larger ‘Travel to work’ area, population approximately 14-15 million
Significant areas include East towards Essex and Kent, and part of Surrey.
What is a borough in the context of London?
A sub-national division of England, established in 1965
Outside London, these areas are known as Local Authority Counties.
How are London boroughs divided?
Divided into inner and outer London, and further into wards
Only Islington and the City do not share borders with an outer borough.
What is the significance of the City of London?
Oldest part of Greater London with unique history and privileges
It has local authority duties like any other borough.
What are districts in London?
Smaller areas within a borough that emerged historically
Often have distinct atmospheres and can straddle borough borders.
What is the role of the Boundary Commission?
To maintain similar voter numbers in each constituency
Targets 275K voters per constituency.
What acts established the powers of the Greater London Authority?
Greater London Authority Act 1999, Greater London Authority Act 2007, Localism Act 2011, Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011
The GLC was abolished in 1986.
When were the first elections for the Mayor of London held?
May 2000
A referendum in 1998 showed 72% support for the position.
What are some of the main functions of the Mayor of London?
- Strategic planning and the London Plan
- Refuse or permit planning permission
- Transport policy via TFL
- Fire and emergency planning
- Police and crime policy
- Economic development
The London Plan outlines the Mayor’s vision produced each electoral cycle.
What are the two main directorates of Transport for London?
- London Underground (including Elizabeth Line)
- Surface Transport
Surface transport includes buses, trams, and river services.
What is the significance of the Elizabeth Line?
73 miles long with 41 stops, rated highly by users
Opened shortly before the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
What was Ken Livingstone known for as Mayor of London?
Introduced Oyster card system (now contactless payment)
Served as Mayor from 2000 to 2008.
What are the main responsibilities of borough councils?
- Education
- Social housing
- Planning
- Social services
- Libraries
- Waste collection
- Environmental pollution
Councillors typically meet to vote on policies for the borough.
What is the GDP of London in the context of the UK?
£550 billion, contributing 22.3% to the UK GDP
City & Camden contribute £154 billion, Westminster £90 billion, and Tower Hamlets £37 billion.
What makes London an important financial center?
- English-speaking population
- Historical connections
- Stable legal system
- Innovation
These factors contribute to London’s global economic significance.
What types of live performances are prominent in London?
- West End theatre
- Other theatres
- Live music venues
- Premier League matches
- World-class sporting events
Events like the London Marathon also play a significant role.
Fill in the blank: The ‘Travel to work’ area is about ______ square miles.
910 square miles
What is the logic behind the postal code system in London?
Postcodes are alphabetical, i.e., Wimbledon is SW19
This system helps in navigating and identifying locations.
