On the basis of the latest deals, the prospects for a broadly based recovery in the area are on an upward curve.
At the heart of the improvement is a stronger economy that is clearly spreading out, like waves, from London. Indeed the national improvement started in London.
That has impacted on the outer reaches of the capital into the Home Counties and can be highlighted in a host of ways, starting with major developments around Wembley and the upgrading of Brent Cross Shopping Centre, all in the same borough.
But there is much more in north London, such as schemes in Colindale, Enfield and Tottenham. Unlike a few years ago, these look as though they can be achieved, adding to the extraordinary transformation of wide swathes of London and creating a host of viable towns within the total metropolis.
There should be no surprise in this because the population is increasing and heading up towards 10 million. That means the creation of more jobs and buildings to house and employ them and transport links to move them. Simple as that.
Also encouraging within this overall picture is the changes in Thurrock even before the impressive London Gateway is built. This part of Essex is achieving real change.
And then Cambridge, with a vast new development promoted by the university. It all adds up.