Westminster targets middle classes with ‘intermediate’ housing policy
Westminster City Council has unveiled a new policy that will see more affordable homes built for middle-income families, as well as a ban on the construction of new mansions.
The council will insist under the new policy, published in its City Plan today (12 November), that six out of every 10 new affordable homes will be for middle-income families.
It is also aiming to ban the construction of mansions or new homes that are more than 150 sq m (1,615 sq ft) in size under the draft plans.
Westminster City Council has unveiled a new policy that will see more affordable homes built for middle-income families, as well as a ban on the construction of new mansions.
The council will insist under the new policy, published in its City Plan today (12 November), that six out of every 10 new affordable homes will be for middle-income families.
It is also aiming to ban the construction of mansions or new homes that are more than 150 sq m (1,615 sq ft) in size under the draft plans.
It defines intermediate housing stock as homes available to rent at at least 20% below market rents (including service charges where applicable). It will also offer intermediate housing for sale as defined in the National Planning Policy Framework (2018).
The council stipulates that households with total incomes of between £30-90k would qualify for intermediate housing.
The revised NPPF includes a broader definition of affordable housing than in the 2012 edition. It includes starter homes with a cap of £450,000 in Greater London.
See also: Big changes in the revised NPPF
Westminster City Council cabinet member for planning and public realm, Richard Beddoe, said: “We’ve laid down the gauntlet for developers by introducing less restrictive rules. Now they need to do their bit and provide the homes for the working families who keep our city moving. Providing social housing remains a priority but the lack of intermediate homes must be addressed.”
In a statement, the council said that most homes in Westminster are out of reach for average owners. “Councils across London prioritise social housing, which already makes up 25% of Westminster homes. It’s a trend that leaves most average earners unable to find a place to live in the city,” it added.
The council is now consulting on its draft City Plan, which focuses on three key themes: creating more affordable homes, the right environment for business growth, and more open green spaces.
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