Sutton is one of the best places for business owners and developers to invest in, according to a new report.

The report by BNP Paribas Real Estate lists Sutton as the sixth “least risky” town in the whole country for developers to invest in.

Various factors were taken into account including the number of empty shops, the types of businesses trading in the area, footfall figures and the affluence of local residents.

The report also highlights the convenience and variety of shops in Sutton as one of the reasons for its success.

It follows the recent opening of the flagship Go Gym in Grove Road, Patisserie Valerie in Sutton town centre and the unveiling of plans for the north end of the High Street, which could see the gas holders and old office blocks transformed into a major supermarket and residential complex.

Councillor Jayne McCoy, executive member for planning, economic development and housing at Sutton Council, said: “This report is great news and confirms what we’ve long known; times may be hard but Sutton is open for business and is very attractive to businesses and developers.

“It’s easy to take for granted what we’ve got here in Sutton; it’s one of the safest and greenest boroughs in the capital but we also have London on our doorstep. Our High Street has weathered the recession well and bucked the national trend, which has seen many areas become boarded up ghost-towns.

“We continue to welcome investors into Sutton and importantly they see the potential here. Unlike many of our neighbours we’re not overcrowded and there are still opportunities for the right sort of businesses, but we cannot afford to rest on our laurels.

"We’re working closely with our local businesses to organise lots of events throughout the summer and are supporting their plans to establish a Business Improvement District.”