The Highgate Society responds to the Draft London Plan 2026

Members of the Highgate Society Planning Committee produced a 27-page response to the GLA’s consultation on the new Draft London Plan ahead of the 23rd October deadline. 

The full consultation submission can be read here.

The new Plan proposes significant changes to London’s planning policies, with a strong emphasis on increasing housing delivery and thus development densities. While recognising the need for new homes, the Society is concerned that some of the proposed changes weaken important safeguards for local communities, heritage, the environment and the quality of new development. In addition query whether this level of potentially damaging new housing is needed or even viable.  The plan quotes a requirement for 558,0000 new homes over 10 years but is based on out of date 2015 predictions of population growth of 1million when current ONS figures show London’s population fell by 0.3% last year. 

Particular concerns include the location and height of tall buildings, protection of conservation areas and historic assets, the capacity of transport and public services to support new development, the need to ensure that growth is accompanied by adequate infrastructure and the loss of the amenity provided by building on the Green Belt and other green spaces.We also highlight the importance of protecting local employment space, independent businesses and pubs.

The Society is not opposed to necessary development, but believes that growth must be appropriately located, carefully planned and supported by the infrastructure and safeguards needed to protect London’s distinctive neighbourhoods. It should also address housing need, which is largely for affordable housing. 

Our response therefore focuses on practical amendments to strengthen the Draft Plan while recognising the pressures facing London.

29th October 2026