As schools re-open and we settle back into routine (save for the 1 week tube strike), below is a rundown of the planning sector news and updates from the summer months.
Planning news:
Plans for the partial pedestrianisation and public realm improvements for Regent Street, Piccadilly Circus and Haymarket from City of Westminster and the Crown Estate were launched and public consultation began.
English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill had its first reading in the House of Commons. The Bill outlines the proposed mayoral powers and CIL charges, currently applied on development in London, for combined mayoral authorities across the country.
LB Lewisham adopted the new Local Plan on the 16th July.
City of Westminster adopted new SPD guidance for public realm on 16th August.
The Transport Secretary will unlock surplus railway land for new brownfield homes through the formation of a new development company, Platform4, which will create new jobs, homes and regeneration across the country.
New National Licensing Policy Framework to be developed to revitalise high streets across the country. The Framework will facilitate the change from retail to event and hospitality, with a focus on protecting cultural and nightlife venues from threats of closure and enhanced agent of change principles.
WEA successes:
WEA Planning secured planning permission for the demolition and replacement high quality, sustainable family dwelling in the Totteridge Conservation Area in LB Barnet. WEA Planning worked closely with the client and Open Studio Architects WEA Planning devised a planning strategy to secure the dream family home.
WEA Planning win a Non Material Amendment permission in LB Haringey in a highly sensitive location.
Other things we’ve enjoyed over the summer:
August saw the city and its public spaces transformed for the Greenwich + Docklands International Festival. Parks and squares formed the stage for dance and circus acts, re-imagining the possibilities for urban spaces and using the city as a backdrop.
Image credits: Cie des Chaussons Rouges 'Epiphytes', photo: Emily Tanzini-Hale.