The draft London Plan has been one of the biggest stories this month. It sets out bold plans to build more housing in the city. However, it is dividing opinion. Some support the proposals while others are critical of different elements. One council in particular has been scathing in their response. We want to have a closer look here, then you can trust us if you need services like guaranteed rent and management from a lettings agent in Hillingdon.

There are a number of bold proposals in the draft London Plan. This includes specific housing targets for different boroughs (including affordable homes), strategic release of Green Belt land, strategies for growing the economy, and more. It also covers key topics like data centres and tall buildings.

Response

Hillingdon Council has been critical of the plan and what it means for the borough. They have concerns about the housing target, risk to green space, impact on infrastructure, and failure to consider what the expansion of Heathrow Airport means for the borough.

The draft Plan is proposing setting Hillingdon a goal of delivering 2,403 new homes every year. That is more than 50% higher than the current target. Plus, as an Outer Borough, at least 20% of the housing would need to be affordable. While recognising it is important to build homes, the council has concerns about putting so much pressure on them to deliver them. Speak to us if you choose properties in the area and want to work with a lettings agent in Hillingdon.

Green Belt

By far the biggest bone of contention with the proposals is the idea that Green Belt land in Hillingdon could be released for development. The estimate is it would provide space to deliver 61% of the housing target. However, the council is criticising this claim.

Hillingdon Council Leader Steve Tuckwell said the “Green Belt isn’t spare land”. It provides significant value for the area, protecting against urban sprawl, improving air quality, and providing a haven for wildlife. As a result, it deserves protection.

Heathrow

There have been proposals to expand Heathrow Airport for more than twenty years. Plans took a big step forward in recent years, including the lifting of a ban on applications for a third runway in 2020. Since then there have been applications for the development from Heathrow Airport Holdings and Arora Group. The latter was rejected in favour of Heathrow’s plans.

Hillingdon Council has criticised the fact the draft London Plan does not account for the impact of Heathrow’s expansion. If it does go ahead, it would be one of the biggest infrastructure projects in Europe. In light of that, Cllr Tuckwell questions how feasible it is to deliver thousands of homes at the same time.

Choose a bespoke package of services from a lettings agent in Hillingdon

If you want to get the best results with properties, it’s important to choose the right services. This can ensure you avoid issues with tenancies, property management, and legal requirements. Finefair Ltd can help, tailoring everything to suit your portfolio. We even arrange guaranteed rent.

We’re a great option if you want a lettings agent in Hillingdon or other areas. So, get in touch today and let’s discuss what we can do for you.