The ICC Commission (2004 to 2005)

The London Development Agency (LDA) set up the International Convention Centre (ICC) Mayoral Commission in 2004 to carry out a robust review on the need and feasibility for an ICC located in London.

The Commission's role was to inspire discussion from all quarters of business, local government, the professions and everyone who wants to contribute to the city's future.

The Commission's final report , launched in October 2005, found strongly in favour of a centrally located London International Convention Centre, and the LDA has since examined location options and potential funding packages for this kind of development.

The Commission was set up to be an independent body, made up of representatives from the public and private sectors, representing a cross-section of London's tourism, hospitality and business leaders.

Work of the Commission

The Commission spent 18 months looking at the potential benefits of building an International Convention Centre in London and identifying other ways in which the capital can reach its full potential in the lucrative business travel market.

A key part of the Commission's work was to ensure that the full range of stakeholders, in the private and public sectors, within the capital, across the UK and internationally, were engaged throughout the feasibility process and their views sought at every stage of the Commission's work. The Commission regularly reported on progress to the LDA, the Mayor and wider stakeholders throughout the process.

ICC Commission report to the Mayor

In July 2005 the Commission presented its recommendations to the Mayor and in October 2005 presented its report and conclusions to the Board of the London Development Agency. Having completed its task of assessing the feasibility of developing an ICC in London, the Commission stood down.

Although the Mayoral Commission found strongly in favour of a new London ICC the main issue that remains unresolved, despite subsequent work, is the identification of a suitable funding package for the project. Unless a new opportunity can be provided the project is unlikely to proceed at this time.

• ICC Commission report PDF 1989Kb