The Greater London Authority has launched a public consultation titled Towards a New London Plan, inviting Londoners to help shape the capital’s development strategy for the next 20 - 25 years. This initiative is particularly relevant to communities like Norwood, as it addresses critical issues such as housing, infrastructure, climate resilience and economic growth.
What Is the London Plan?
The London Plan is the statutory spatial development strategy for Greater London. It sets out policies on housing, transport, land use, and the environment to guide development across the city. The current plan was adopted in 2021, but with London’s rapidly evolving needs, a new version is being shaped to address emerging challenges and future opportunities.
What’s Being Proposed?
A key part of the consultation focuses on how London can meet its growing housing demand. One proposal under consideration is raising the city-wide housing target from 52,000 to 88,000 new homes per year. To achieve this, the Mayor is exploring whether some currently protected land could be used for development - not just Green Belt land, but also Metropolitan Open Land (MOL).
While there is no Green Belt in Lambeth, much of the borough - including parts of Norwood - is designated as MOL, which currently enjoys the same level of protection. MOL includes many of our parks, playing fields, woodlands, nature reserves and even golf courses. These areas could potentially be opened up for housing development, making local input especially important.
Why It Matters to Norwood
The potential re-designation or development of Metropolitan Open Land could significantly affect Norwood’s green spaces and community facilities. The outcomes of this consultation will directly influence decisions about local development, environmental protections and public access to open land. Your feedback can help ensure any changes reflect the priorities of local people.
How to Get Involved
The consultation is open until 11.59pm on Sunday 22 June 2025. Residents can participate by:
- Completing the online survey, which covers various sections of the plan.
- Joining discussions on the Talk London platform.
- Registering for updates on the consultation's progress.
For more information and to participate, visit the official consultation page here.
Upcoming Online Events
You can also attend one of the following online information sessions to learn more about the proposals and how to take part:
- Wednesday 29 May 2025 - 5pm - 6pm
- Thursday 6 June 2025 - 12pm - 1pm
Registration details for these events are available on the consultation website.
Why It Matters to Norwood
The outcomes of this consultation will directly impact local planning decisions, including housing developments, transport infrastructure, and environmental policies in areas like Norwood. Community input is crucial to ensure that the plan reflects the needs and priorities of local residents.
Norwood Forum encourages all community members to engage with the consultation and share their views on shaping the future of our neighbourhood and the wider city.