The Next London Plan

The GLA have signalled that the next London Plan will continue to strengthen its focus on energy and sustainability.  The GLA has detailed that they are targeting adoption of the next London Plan in 2028, following a consultation on the detailed proposal in 2026 and submission to the Planning Inspectorate in 2027. Below is a summary of the energy and carbon topics presented so far:

• Energy Efficiency – There is recognition of emerging standards such as the Net Zero Building Standard, with future proofing presented as the rationale to target improvements beyond current and future Building Regulations. The consultation raises a question on the effectiveness of current requirements, suggesting potential changes could be considered, though at this stage it appears that the GLA are leaning towards tightening requirements.
• Heat Networks – There is continued support for heat networks and confirmation that elements required through other national requirements will be removed. A good example is heat network zoning, which sets a national requirement to designate zones to prioritise heat networks.
• Whole Life Cycle Carbon and Circular Economy – There is acknowledgement that this is a complex topic which has led to fragmented decision making at the borough level. This uncertainty is especially present when considering demolition. There is a suggestion that requirements may be strengthened through greater level of benchmarking – for instance, they propose an affordable housing category.