The Leader of Wandsworth Council was welcomed to Apple's new London campus yesterday (Monday, March 6) to meet directors from the tech giant and discuss the benefits of a new local partnership.

Simon Hogg said: "I'm delighted to welcome Apple to their new home here in Wandsworth and start the conversation on developing a long and fruitful partnership. We have shared ambitions for education, the environment, inclusion and the voluntary sector which will really benefit our wider community.

"We're looking forward to being good neighbours and ensuring that the positive effects of this relationship are extended across the whole borough with a focus on growth and job opportunities."

The council is working with Apple to foster new connections with local neighbours in the community including schools, voluntary groups and services.

Over the last few months, Apple executives have also visited primary schools in Wandsworth. Pupils and teachers at St Mary's and Sacred Heart RC primary schools have picked up coding skills through the Battersea Apple Project, which has helped teachers gain Apple Teacher qualifications.

Kate Stock, the council's cabinet member for children, met Apple representatives last year when they visited local primary schools to discuss the environment, sustainability and future opportunities for children.

Apple's new London offices at Battersea Power Station have been designed by Foster + Partners, who are also based in Battersea. The offices take up 46,000 sq m over six floors of the Power Station, with workspaces designed to maximise opportunities for collaboration.

Many of Apple's corporate employees in the UK are now moving into the new campus – which will boost Battersea's growing reputation for business, attracting more start-ups and entrepreneurs to locate in the new design and tech quarter emerging in the borough.