London to overhaul its development strategy

17 December 2008

Mayor of London Boris Johnson will undertake a comprehensive review of the London Plan, a strategy for the development of the capital for the next decade or more.

Johnson opted for a total overhaul of the plan rather than make more alterations and updates as have been done in the past. The original London Plan was published in February 2004 with alterations made in December 2006.

The plan looks at all aspects of London’s development to improve the living, leisure and working experience of its citizens. This includes ensuring a good supply of modern office developments. There should be “a significant increment to current stock through changes of use and development of vacant brown-field sites” as well as “renovation and renewal of existing stock to increase and enhance the quality and flexibility of London's office market offer”. Particular attention would be made to the needs of small and medium sized enterprises.

Broughs should “enhance the environment and offer of London's office locations in terms of physical attractiveness, amenities, ancillary and supporting activities as well as services, accessibility, safety and security”.

The mayor’s decision for a comprehensive follows a consultation in July and the publication of the resulting Planning for a Better London document. The consultation supported a full review of the London Plan.