GLA issues new co-living guidance for London
The Greater London Authority has issued new London Plan guidance on large-scale co-living schemes.
The guidance provides advice that the GLA said will “assist developers, boroughs, and others involved in design and planning”, based on a consultation carried out between 27 January and 27 March 2022.
The GLA said co-living development should be located in well-connected, well-served areas, with ease of access to public transport, active travel options and proximity to wider amenities and facilities in the area. Developments should also be car-free and not contribute to car dependency.
The Greater London Authority has issued new London Plan guidance on large-scale co-living schemes.
The guidance provides advice that the GLA said will “assist developers, boroughs, and others involved in design and planning”, based on a consultation carried out between 27 January and 27 March 2022.
The GLA said co-living development should be located in well-connected, well-served areas, with ease of access to public transport, active travel options and proximity to wider amenities and facilities in the area. Developments should also be car-free and not contribute to car dependency.
Developers should refrain from developing a large number of co-living schemes in one area, the GLA said: “In areas where demand for [co-living] is likely to be particularly high, and this could have a negative impact on creating mixed and inclusive neighbourhoods, local planning authorities may, with appropriate evidence: introduce a local policy framework that limits the number of developments or units within a defined area; ensure separation; or focus [development] in specific places.”
The GLA said that in larger co-living developments, particularly where opportunities to provide a mix of sizes and tenures within the borough or area are constrained, it may be appropriate to seek blocks of conventional C3 housing in addition to co-living.
The GLA has recommended that developments include public amenities, such as restaurants, bars and communal workspace, at no extra cost to residents.
The GLA guidance also clarified the range of resident amenities that developments should include, with a minimum standard that enables all residents to:
cook, prepare and eat meals;
relax and socialise, including with guests;
work from home; and
do laundry.
The guidance said that adequate laundry and drying facilities should be provided for residents at no additional charge and should not be used by the management company for washing bedding and linen.
