Consultation is now underway for the next version of the London Plan – the strategic spatial development strategy that shapes how Greater London will grow and develop over the next 20 to 25 years. At its core, it supports the Mayor’s vision of “Good Growth”: sustainable, inclusive, and future-proofed development across the city.
In this guide, we break down what the current London Plan means for planning applications, what to expect from the upcoming update, and why understanding this document is crucial for anyone involved in development, design, or construction in London.
What Is the London Plan 2021?
The London Plan is the statutory spatial development strategy for the Greater London area. It is written by the Mayor of London and published by the Greater London Authority. The document sets out the objectives of the plan to ensure that London is:
- Making the best use of land
- Building strong & inclusive communities
- Creating a healthy city
- Delivering the homes Londoners need
- Growing a good economy
- Increasing efficiency & resilience
Local planning authorities across Greater London must align their local plans with this document. This means that if you’re submitting a London planning application, it needs to adhere to guidance and policies set out in the London Plan.
The current London Plan (London Plan 2021) is under review, with a draft of the new plan expected in 2026 for consultation. The new plan is anticipated to cover the period from 2027 to 2050.
Understanding the Purpose of the London Plan
The London Plan is in place to shape how London evolves and grows, encompassing everything from housing and transport to the environment and economy. The document is built around 8 key goals:
- Setting a Development Framework: The London Plan outlines a comprehensive vision for the city’s growth, covering economic, environmental, transport, and social aspects.
- Guiding Local Development: The plan provides the policy foundation for London’s boroughs to create their own local plans, ensuring alignment across the capital.
- Ensuring Sustainable Growth: At the heart of the plan is the concept of “Good Growth” – development that benefits everyone. This includes prioritising affordable housing, mixed-use neighbourhoods, and reducing reliance on cars.
- Integrating the Mayor's Policies: The plan incorporates the Mayor’s policies on topics like transport, economic development, and housing, bringing together the geographic and locational aspects of these strategies.
- Driving Economic Opportunity: The London plan supports the growth of London's economy and promotes wealth creation across the city.
- Promoting Social Equity: The plan aims to improve the quality of life for all Londoners, tackle inequalities, and build inclusive, connected communities.
- Improving the Environment: The London Plan seeks to enhance the environment in London by addressing climate change, air quality, and other environmental issues.
- Delivering Joined-Up Policy: The plan ensures collaboration across the GLA Group, including Transport for London, so policies are effectively implemented and mutually reinforced.
Who Oversees the London Plan?
The Mayor of London is ultimately responsible for producing and overseeing the London Plan, with support from the Greater London Authority (GLA) and input from the London Assembly.
It’s also backed by legislation: the Greater London Authority Act 1999 provides the legal basis for its creation and implementation.
How the London Plan Affects Planning Applications
The London Plan plays a central role in shaping how planning decisions are made across the capital. It sets out a long-term vision for London’s development around housing, transport, and the environment over the next 20-25 years.
Importantly, the London Plan is a legally binding part of the development plan for every local planning authority in Greater London. This means that planning applications must be assessed against its policies, and decisions should generally align with them – unless there are strong planning reasons (known as material considerations) that justify an alternative approach.
1. Local Plans & General Conformity
All development plan documents and neighbourhood plans across London must be in “general conformity” with the London Plan. This ensures a consistent and strategic approach to growth, while still allowing local authorities to respond to the specific needs of their communities.
2. Planning Application Decisions
In practice, this means that most planning applications in London are determined in accordance with both the London Plan and the local plan. However, if there are exceptional circumstances, such as unique site conditions or significant community benefits, these can be considered as valid reasons to deviate from the plan.
3. The Mayor’s Role in Planning Applications
The Mayor of London also has a direct role in the planning process, particularly for developments of Potential Strategic Importance (PSI). These larger or more impactful applications are referred to the Mayor, who can issue comments, request changes, or even take over the decision-making process entirely.
4. A Long-Term Strategy
It’s worth noting that the London Plan isn’t set in stone. It’s reviewed and updated regularly to ensure it continues to reflect the needs, challenges, and opportunities facing London.
How to Create Compliant Planning Applications & Building Design
If you're submitting a London planning application, aligning with the London Plan is essential. That means:
- Meeting minimum housing space standards
- Designing for sustainability & energy efficiency
- Preserving or enhancing heritage & conservation areas
- Supporting active & public transport over car use
- Ensuring accessibility & inclusive design
UK Planning Applications Beyond London
Outside London, the relevant local planning authority (typically the district council in two-tier council areas) will check planning applications. However, there are some exceptions; planning applications can be made directly to the Planning Inspectorate in certain cases.
What to Expect in 2025? The New London Plan
The current London Plan was published in 2021 and is reviewed every 5 years. The mayor is now starting to prepare for the next London plan. The indicative timetable is set out below:
- May 2025: High level document – Towards a London Plan
- 2026: Draft London Plan consultation
- 2026 – 2027: Examination process
- 2027: Adoption
How Stroma Can Help with London Planning Projects
Stroma Built Environment specialises in helping clients meet the sustainability requirements of the London Plan. With a long track record of supporting London planning applications, we provide the essential documentation needed to demonstrate compliance with the Greater London Authority’s environmental and energy policies.
Our services cover key sustainability assessments, including SAP, SBEM, and BREEAM, and we ensure all reports are delivered in the correct format to support a smooth and successful planning process.
Explore our Energy Performance Services to learn more, or get in touch with our team to discuss how we can assist with your next project.