In the coming days London is likely to receive the first of a series of bailout measures attempting to address the brownfield high density development crisis gripping the capital. Expect a reduction in affordable housing thresholds from the prevailing 50% for public land and 35% for private land. Anticipate an easing of some of London’s many prescriptive design requirements. Hope for a loosening of late-stage reviews which have proved toxic to growth and attracting new investment to the capital.

According to Molior, their research suggests fewer than 1,000 homes commenced construction in London during Q3 2025. At this pace, they claim London is on track for just 5,000 residential construction starts in all of 2025. These are figures that cannot be ignored. The damage to the treasury’s coffers has forced the issue to the fore and embarrassed a Government which has sought to prioritise economic growth and housing delivery.