The draft London Plan is one of the biggest topics at the moment. It could mean significant changes to the kind of developments we see in the city in the future. Notably, it is proposing new housing targets, a series of affordable housing tiers, a focus on Brownfield development, and strategic release of Green Belt land. Barnet Council’s response to it is really interesting. Let’s have a closer look. Then, if you want to arrange guaranteed rent in Barnet or other areas in London, we offer great services.

Building more housing

As we said, the most significant part of the draft Plan is the new housing targets. It acknowledges that there are different viability challenges in Inner, Central, and Outer London. So, there will be specific targets for boroughs. Some are a massive increase on the current goals. Plus, the affordable housing tiers would mean projects must deliver 35%, 30%, and 25% depending on which part of the city it is.

Barnet Council is one borough where the housing target is increasing. It will rise to 3,273 per year, up 38%. This translates to an extra 909 homes annually. While the area has been one of the top performers for housebuilding in the last 5 years, their yearly average during that period is 2,157.

Response

Responding to the news, Councillor Ross Houston said Barnet is “committed to building the homes residents need”. At the same time, they will ensure developments have appropriate plans and there is sufficient investment in infrastructure to support them. Speak to us about properties and guaranteed rent in Barnet.

However, the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Homes and Regeneration also had a warning. Houston said growth would only be possible with “significant government investment”. This would allow the improvements in infrastructure to support developments.

Additionally, Cllr Houston had a response about the potential release of Green Belt land. He said while the draft London Plan sets the case for it, the local boroughs are the ones with the power to decide boundary changes.

A sign of things to come

While on the topic of building more housing in Barnet, the GLA recently gave permission for two significant projects. The plans by Arada and Barratt (with both designs by JTP), were rejected by the council in December. In both cases there was criticism about the scale of the new buildings. However, the Mayor of London’s office chose to overturn the decisions last month. It will now allow work to progress to create almost 1,500 new homes at Great North Leisure Park and nearly 300 at High Barnet Station.

Expert support and guaranteed rent in Barnet

The draft London Plan could have a massive impact on the city, creating new homes, communities, and opportunities for investors. If you’re the latter and want some help, you can rely on us. We provide fantastic services, adapting them to suit any portfolios. As a result, you can get the best solutions.

One thing we excel at is guaranteed rent in Barnet and other areas in London. It provides unbeatable value and stability. We recommend it if you want to ensure you don’t miss out because of voids or tenancy problems.

So, contact us today if you need any help.