Rayner withdraws London Plan review

A review of the London Plan for housing ordered by the previous government has been withdrawn by the deputy prime minister to kick-start a new “partnership approach” aimed at boosting housebuilding in the capital.    In March, then secretary of state Michael Gove directed London mayor Sadiq Khan to partially review parts of the London Plan, which sets out the strategy as to how the city will develop and grow. Deputy PM Angela Rayner has now withdrawn that mandated review, but has also said action is needed to deliver the homes London needs. In a letter to the mayor, Rayner said she recognised the issues London faces and will work with the mayor to ensure he takes all possible steps to boost housing delivery. Withdrawing the direction will allow the government and Greater London Authority to take “a new partnership approach” to tackle the housing crisis, she said.   “I know mayor Sadiq Khan shares my commitment to tackle the housing crisis and boost economic growth to deliver real opportunities for Londoners,” said Rayner. “Our new approach will take more fundamental action and focus on a partnership approach to build the housing that London needs and unlock the city’s economic potential.” Under proposed changes to the National Planning Policy Framework, London needs to build around 80,000 homes per year – more than double the current average number of homes built per year in the capital. Image © ANDY RAIN/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock