About the City

Democracy in the City of London

The City of London is governed in a way unlike any other part of the UK — blending ancient traditions with modern decision-making. Here’s a simple guide to how local democracy works in the Square Mile.

How Democracy Works

  • The City of London Corporation is your local authority, responsible for everything from planning and policing to public health and parks.
  • The Square Mile is divided into 25 wards. Each ward elects:
    • Common Councilmen – like local councillors
    • An Alderman – a senior civic figure for the ward
  • What’s unique? Businesses vote too, alongside residents. The City values everyone who helps it thrive.

Who Can Vote?

  • Residents registered to vote – just like any local election.
  • Businesses – depending on size, they can nominate employees to vote on their behalf.
  • Elections happen every four years for Councilmen, and periodically for Aldermen.

Key Decision-Making Bodies

Court of Common Council

  • The City’s main decision-making body (like a local council).
  • 100 elected members (Common Councilmen).
  • Meets monthly at Guildhall.

Court of Aldermen

  • 25 Aldermen (one per ward).
  • More ceremonial today, but involved in civic life and key appointments.

The Lord Mayor of London

  • Chosen annually by the Livery Companies.
  • Represents the UK’s financial and professional services globally.
  • Not to be confused with the Mayor of London!

What Do the Committees Do?

The Corporation runs through committees — each focused on different areas of City life. Here are the main ones:

Policy & Resources Committee

  • Sets overall strategy.
  • Oversees budgets, partnerships, and high-level planning.
  • The Chair is the City’s political leader.

Finance Committee

  • Manages the City’s finances and major funds.
  • Looks after investments, risk, and audit functions.

Planning & Transportation Committee

  • Decides on planning applications and street design.
  • Oversees transport, walking, cycling, and accessibility.

Police Authority Board

  • Oversees the City of London Police.
  • Focuses on crime prevention, public safety, and cybercrime.

Port Health & Environmental Services

  • Manages public health and food safety across ports (including the Thames).
  • Deals with air quality, waste, and pest control.

Community & Children’s Services

  • Looks after housing, education, adult social care, and health services.
  • Supports residents and vulnerable groups.

Culture, Heritage & Libraries

  • Promotes the arts, archives, libraries, and events.
  • Supports Destination City and cultural development.

Civic Affairs Committee

  • Looks after civic events, Lord Mayor’s Show, and protocol.
  • Ensures the City’s ceremonial life continues with pride.

Establishment Committee

  • Deals with the Corporation’s staffing, HR, and organisational structure.

Get Involved

  • Attend meetings – many are open to the public.
  • Contact your elected members – they represent you!

DESTINATION CITY: LANGBOURN’S VISION

Langbourn Ward is proud to support Destination City, the City of London Corporation’s bold initiative to reimagine the Square Mile as a vibrant, world-class destination for culture, leisure, and discovery. At the heart of this transformation is a simple goal: to make the City not just a place to work, but a place to enjoy — day and night, all year round.

Langbourn sits at the crossroads of history, commerce, and community — with iconic locations like Leadenhall Market, Eastcheap, and Fenchurch Street offering an extraordinary blend of heritage and modern-day energy. Destination City aims to unlock the full potential of these spaces, celebrating everything the Square Mile has to offer: its rich history, globally recognised arts and culture, and a thriving hospitality scene of restaurants, pubs, cafés, hotels, and hidden gems.

With a £2.5 million annual investment, Destination City marks a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape the future of the City as a leisure and lifestyle destination for workers, residents, and visitors from across the UK and the world. Langbourn is already seeing this vision come to life — from al fresco dining initiatives and pedestrian-friendly improvements to engaging events that bring our streets and courtyards alive.

The programme works in close partnership with cultural institutions, Business Improvement Districts like Aldgate Connect and Eastern City, and local businesses to deliver dynamic, seasonal programming throughout the year. Expect festivals, public art installations, live performances, and pop-up experiences that invite people to see the City in new and exciting ways.

As the City Corporation continues its significant cultural investment — already the UK’s fourth-largest funder of arts and heritage — Langbourn is proud to play its part in bringing this ambitious vision to life. We’re working closely with our neighbours and stakeholders to make Langbourn not just a place to pass through, but a place to linger, explore, and enjoy.

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