London plan
Councils are grappling with the London Plan's housing mandates and financial implications, while also progressing waste management strategies and development approvals.
Wandsworth Council is currently facing significant financial challenges, with Councillor Nick Austin stating in September 2026 that the London Plan's mandates contribute to a £7.7 million transport budget savings target by 2027. The plan necessitates doubling housing provision over four years while reducing associated Section 106 income by 50%, alongside an £84 million central government funding cut from April 2027.
Councils continue to approve new housing developments, often considering London Plan policies. In September 2026, Bexley Council's Planning Committee approved property conversions, considering London Plan Policy H9 for Houses of Multiple Occupation. Merton Council's Development and Planning Applications Committee approved a "car-lite" development with 249 social homes in August 2026, aligning with the plan's approach to public transport accessibility. However, Haringey Council's Planning Sub Committee received briefings in July 2026 for developments that fall short of affordable housing targets.
The West London Waste Plan (WLWP), which manages waste-related development across several boroughs, is being revised to ensure conformity with the London Plan, the strategic planning framework for Greater London. Hounslow Council's Cabinet recommended approval of the Proposed Submission version in July 2026, following changes made due to concerns from the Mayor of London. The Strategic Planning Committee in Havering will discuss the topic on 1 October 2026, and Hillingdon Planning Committee on 6 October 2026.
Key facts
- Wandsworth Council faces a £7.7 million transport budget savings target by 2027, partly due to London Plan mandates. Source
- The London Plan necessitates doubling housing provision over four years while reducing associated Section 106 income by 50%. Source 1 Source 2
- Bexley Council's Planning Committee approved property conversions in September 2026, considering London Plan Policy H9 for HMOs. Source 1 Source 2
- Merton Council's Development and Planning Applications Committee approved a "car-lite" development with 249 social homes in August 2026, aligning with the London Plan. Source 1 Source 2
- Changes were made to the West London Waste Plan in July 2026 following concerns from the Mayor of London regarding its conformity with the London Plan. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.