As with the current London Plan, it is intended that the new Plan once adopted will enure for a 21 year period. However, as we have already seen when major changes occur, either politically or policy based, the Plan will be altered or even replaced.
The draft Plan will be a material consideration in the determination of planning applications whilst the 2008 version of the Plan remains in force. The draft Plan is shorter and is arranged in topics to make it more user friendly. Policies are split into three categories; Strategic, Planning Decisions and Local Development Framework preparation, but should be taken as whole rather than individual parts.
The draft has reaffirmed the Mayor's policy on affordable housing that the boroughs should seek the "maximum reasonable amount". This increases the proposed annual target for additional homes to 33,400 a year and the draft now includes minimum space standards for all new homes.
As a new policy and where it is feasible and viable, the Mayor in considering large retail developments, will seek the provision of affordable shop units suitable for small or independent retailers.
On the funding of Crossrail, the draft identifies contributions from development of up to £600 million. It is proposed that £300 million is funded through the use of s106 planning obligations and £300 million through the proposed Community Infrastructure Levy.
The draft Plan is issued for formal public consultation with a closing date of 12 January 2010. The examination in public is likely to be in the summer and autumn of 2010 with formal adoption in 2011. Click here to view the Mayor's London Plan consultation draft and have your say.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.