Derelict land is the key to London’s housing crisis

London’s housing crisis could be eased by building on vast swathes of unused brownfield land, according to new research. 

The analysis by SBA Property Management, found that the capital has enough derelict land to accommodate at least 414,273 new homes.

This brownfield space, defined as previously developed land no longer in use, covers a staggering 3,515 hectares – that’s roughly 25 times the size of Hyde Park.

Despite the potential, only 56% of brownfield sites currently have full planning permission for development so thousands of plots remain idle despite an acute housing shortage.

‘London’s vast reserves of brownfield space’

Habib Mogul, a director at the firm, said: “London’s vast reserves of brownfield space hold the key to alleviating the city’s housing shortages and catalysing local economic growth, while also reducing pressure to build on precious Green Belt land.

“At present, however, thousands of brownfield sites lie empty across London, with development made difficult by complex planning regulations.”

London’s 2021 target of delivering 52,000 new homes annually remains unmet, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

While brownfield development offers a solution, strict planning regulations and high costs continue to hinder progress.

The most significant brownfield potential

SBA says that Southwark boasts the most significant brownfield potential, with a capacity for at least 54,550 new homes.

However, just 37% of its brownfield sites have full planning permission.

Other boroughs with substantial potential include Brent, Wandsworth, Waltham Forest and Haringey, each capable of accommodating more than 25,000 new homes.

Developing brownfield sites offers several advantages

The firm says that developing brownfield sites offers several advantages including having existing infrastructure like transport and amenities.

Also, bringing derelict land back into use will create jobs, help with environmental improvements and boost property values.

However, overcoming challenges like site contamination is crucial and there’s a government fund worth £180 million to help.

SBA also says that relaxed planning rules are needed to encourage brownfield applications in areas struggling to meet housebuilding targets.