Newham’s updated Local Plan, which will shape future development in the borough, was approved at a meeting of its Full Council this week (Monday, 10 December).
The Local Plan contains an ambitious new housing target to deliver 43,000 homes between 2018 and 2033, alongside the creation of between 39,000 and 60,000 jobs, and important infrastructure delivery. The plan aims to achieve ‘Good Growth’, which is defined as socially, economically and environmentally sustainable development for Newham.
A bold housing delivery programme is an administration priority for Newham Council, with the updated Local Plan standing in line with this.
The Mayor of Newham, Rokhsana Fiaz, said: “The significance of this Local Plan is that it enables us to ensure that the right housing and infrastructure are put in place to ensure that we continue to create vibrant, diverse, and growing neighbourhoods in this borough.
“The Plan sets out the framework we will use to make sure that we can meet our ambitious housing delivery plans, while maintaining a quality environment and thriving local economy.
“It will achieve growth that benefits the whole borough; brings value to all our residents; and takes account of our need to protect the environment.”
An independent planning inspector, appointed by the secretary for state, has approved the Plan and declared it as ‘sound’, meaning it meets requirements laid out by the Government and is legally compliant. The Plan will form a basis for future planning within the borough.
Thirty Strategic Sites across the borough have been allocated to help deliver the objectives of the Plan, which reflect delivery of the highest housing targets in London. These major, mixed-use development sites are primarily located within the ‘arc of opportunity’ – land throughout Canning Town, Custom House, the Royal Docks and Beckton – but the Plan also seeks to ensure that the benefits of all new developments reach the whole borough.
The Plan also addresses the growing need for improved provision of healthcare and education facilities. These facilities are provided for within the Strategic Sites across the borough. Existing facilities will also be protected and enhanced as part of the Plan.