RIBA responds to Draft London Plan

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has responded to the publication of Mayor of London’s Draft London Plan.

RIBA President Ben Derbyshire said

“Me and my team at the RIBA look forward to working with the Mayor of London and his Design Advocates to deliver a better and more sustainable London.”

“The UK’s housing crisis is at its worst in the capital, so I am pleased to see the Mayor of London taking the issue of affordability seriously in the new London Plan. Architects have a vital role in helping to achieve his targets and ensuring new homes are well designed and will stand the test of time.”

“We particularly welcome plans for a rapid densification across London, including the sparsely populated outer suburbs, providing much needed clarity for developers, housing associations and London boroughs. Where there is existing or planned public transport infrastructure, we should be building more new homes. We are delighted to note the provision of design continuity in the development process.”

“Whilst the RIBA welcomes the new London Plan, we remain concerned about the lack of opportunity for joined-up planning that exists elsewhere in the country. The RIBA continues to call for devolution deals for other local authorities on housing and planning, to empower all our city leaders to get building with the same determination as the Mayor of London.”