London is missing out on the benefits of mid-rise housing, and
clearer planning policy is needed to help the capital meet its
long-term housing targets, according to a new report from the
London Assembly Planning and Regeneration
Committee published today.
Between skyscrapers and semis: London's missing mid-rise
housing report sets out how a shift to mid-rise buildings
could unlock more homes while improving neighbourhood quality.
The report found that London is significantly less dense than
comparable global cities and that widespread, modest increases in
density—particularly in well-connected areas—could help deliver
thousands of additional homes. Evidence provided to the
investigation showed that mid-rise housing supports “gentle
density”, creates more liveable communities, and can provide the
family‑sized homes Londoners want.
Despite this, the report warns that the existing London Plan does
not provide enough clarity or direction to encourage mid-rise
development at scale. Expert guests told the Committee that
reliance on a design-led approach has created uncertainty for
boroughs and developers and has not resulted in consistent
delivery across London.
To address these challenges, the report calls for a series of
reforms ahead of the next London Plan,
including:
- Establishing mid-rise as the preferred development form in
high-access locations.
- Introducing a clear, London‑wide definition of mid-rise
buildings.
- Reinstating a modernised density matrix to link height and
density to local context and transport accessibility.
- Reviewing the effectiveness of design codes and supporting
boroughs and local residents to develop codes that enable
high-quality mid-rise housing.
- Funding two pilot projects to test earlier, more meaningful
local engagement in planning decisions.
Chair of the Planning and Regeneration
Committee, James Small‑Edwards AM,
said:
“London faces a perfect storm of pressures slowing delivery,
yet the answer is right in front of us. Mid-rise housing offers
the liveable, human‑scale density that residents want and that
our city needs.
“Through this investigation we heard clear evidence that
London should be building more mid-rise homes, and planning
policy must give the clarity to make that happen.
“Our recommendations set out practical steps to support
higher-quality development, rebuild trust with communities, and
ensure the next London Plan provides a stronger, more strategic
approach to meeting London's housing needs.”
Notes for editors:
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Read the report attached.
