London Under Construction

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. Its primary focus is how to sustain the demands of a growing population.

It states ‘The 2000 year history of London has been one of constant change. It has grown from a port and river crossing point into a bustling centre of national Government and international commerce. It has been an imperial capital, and a city embracing villages and towns as it grew. It has been home for people in all walks of life, and from all parts of the world.’ If goes onto say ‘Wealth and poverty, old and new city and suburban rub shoulders. Several times in its past it has fought off disaster and resisted the best efforts of planners to remake it. This is the dynamic, everchanging city – and its people – that the policies in this plan seek to sustain’.

Permitted Development

It goes without saying that people need to live near jobs, good public transport or roads links. In addition to providing these key aspects, London is dynamic and multicultural making it the perfect hub. Despite the provisions of the London Plan and its goal, we all know the demand for good quality housing and office space in safe neighbourhoods outstrips supply.

To help meet this demand, the Government introduced Permitted Development guidelines to make it easier for home owners to extend or make alterations to their properties. These relaxed rules are due to remain in place until May 2019 when they will be reviewed again, perhaps to include commercial applications.

Building Up Is the Solution

Restrictions set in place by the Government for large basement conversions have made it more difficult for property owners to extend downwards. However, there’s a huge opportunity to provide additional housing or office space by the redevelopment of flat roofs above existing buildings. Planners are urging property owners to build upwards to reach the ever-growing property demand. As supported by the Mayor of London, the initiative is viable for residential or commercial properties.

There has also been an increase in proposed and approved construction of high-rise buildings in London which have been primarily for office or residential use.

So, to refurbish, renovate or extend existing property is a great solution to provide additional accommodation, substantially saving on moving costs. Although most alterations will still face some scrutiny under planning laws, it’s often the only way to obtain extra living or office space without relocating.

BRAC Contracts have completed many projects in and around London – take a look at our portfolio. We offer fit out, design and build, renovation, refurbishment and roofing services. So, if you would like to discuss a project you feel is suitable for BRAC Contracts then please contact Adam Clark on adam@brac-contracts.co.uk, telephone 01268 573933 or click here.