The annual birth rate in Wandsworth has risen by almost a third since the start of the decade according to new population figures.

In 2000 the number of babies born in the borough was 3,948. In 2008 this had soared to 5,246.

 

The figures, which are compiled by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), also show that the increase over the period 2007 to 2008 was the highest for any London borough at 310 births.

 

Council leader Edward Lister said, “London is continuing to grow with most parts of the capital recording significant increases in births. The Wandsworth figures are particularly revealing and show the borough’s continuing popularity with young families. This is vital information which will help the council plan services over the coming years.”

The ONS figures for England and Wales show the annual birth rate in 2008 was the highest since 1972. This year’s estimates for the capital’s population are likely to show it at 7.63 million – the highest since the 1960s.

 

Wandsworth’s population is currently estimated at 281,800. Over 40 per cent of the local population is aged between 25 and 39 – the highest proportion in the country for this age group.