Efficient transport links through existing and future networks loom as the key factor in the economic growth of the region.
In this case, it is the full range of transport links from road and rail to airports, through the two major international hubs of Stansted and Luton. There are several aspects to this situation.
First, the emergence of the high tech corridor along the M1 from London to Cambridge taking in Stansted Airport but also including the City Airport.
At the London end is the fast expanding Stratford and East London and a technology hub at the former Sanofi facility in Dagenham that will now have a technical college.
On the doorstep of this area is the new container port at Thurrock. At the northern end is the rapidly expanding scientific and technology powerhouse of Cambridge.
This will be enhanced by the new Crossrail link across London from Heathrow that will reach into Essex.
A further significant area is emerging in Bedfordshire, centred on Dunstable and Luton, which is mainly due to new link roads from the A5 to the M1, but includes the expanded Thameslink that is creating new transport hubs.
There are other positive changes in the region with the recovery of the commercial side of Watford and the success of Park Royal.