Neighbourhood planning in London

This report by our Planning and Housing Committee captures the challenges involved in making neighbourhood plans a reality in London, and sets down markers to light the way.

The Government wants the Localism Act to give people genuine power at a local level to shape how their neighbourhoods develop, beyond just responding to consultations on planning applications.

The Committee supports this intention, but believes the Mayor and boroughs need to make space in London’s existing – and unique - planning regime if the plans are to have a realistic shot at success.

'Beyond consultation' is based on evidence from a range of stakeholders including neighbourhood forums, community groups, ward councillors and the Mayor’s planning team.

The report makes recommendations to the Mayor that are intended to help incorporate neighbourhood plans within the existing planning hierarchy, and to boroughs to help them support community groups despite the pressure on resources.

To help communities define and develop successful neighbourhood plans the report identifies three particular issues that neighbourhood planners need to address to gain credibility for their group or forum, and secure a greater chance of success:

Legitimacy: Groups need to ensure their plans are truly representative of local people, and local authorities must have a legitimate process in place to consider it so people have faith in the system.

Resources: Groups need to realistically assess their strengths and weaknesses in areas like knowledge of the planning process, communication skills and leadership.

Support: The Mayor, borough planners and ward councillors all have a role to play in providing support and advice to local groups. Relationships with other neighbourhood planning bodies across London – and even beyond – are essential to share successes and ways around any difficulties.

Watch a short video of Committee Chair Jenny Jones AM talking about the report:

Read our report in full: