This breakfast seminar explored the role of the draft London Plan in shaping London’s future economic growth and global competitiveness.
At a time when the capital is seeking to strengthen its position as a leading global city, the discussion considered how planning policy can support investment, innovation and job creation, and how the Central Activities Zone can continue to drive growth across London.
Following a keynote address from Jules Pipe CBE, Deputy Mayor for Planning, Regeneration and the Fire Service, a panel of policymakers and industry leaders discussed the challenges and opportunities facing London’s development sector. Jules also highlighted how the findings from our Space for Change, Cycling and the City and Global Cities Barometer research have helped shape the evidence base for the draft Plan and contributed to the wider conversation around workplace needs and future growth (see further reading below).
Key discussion points included the challenge of viability and how collaboration between policymakers and the industry can help bring forward the next generation of commercial development. The panel also explored how growth sectors such as AI and life sciences are changing the development landscape with a need for high-quality, flexible workspace and how location is key for modern development, with businesses often prioritising connections to culture, leisure experiences and attractive public realm.
Hosted at Varnish Works within Endurance Land’s Regent Quarter masterplan, a 60,000 sq ft mixed-use destination comprising 12 office buildings and 20 retail and leisure units. Located in the heart of King’s Cross, Regent Quarter is home to a diverse mix of occupiers, from OpenAI to life scientists and sustainable enterprises.
Thank you to our speakers:
Katy Ghahremani, WPA Board & Partner, Make Architects (panel chair)
Georgina Grant, Head of Asset Management – Covent Garden, Shaftesbury Capital
Celeste Giusti, Team Leader, Strategic Planning, GLA
Jules Pipe CBE, Deputy Mayor for Planning, Regeneration and the Fire Service, GLA
Richard Rixson, Director, Endurance Land
Simon Swietochowski, CPA Vice Chair & Development Director, BNP Paribas AM Alts
