We will continue to advocate for practical, evidence-based policies that support our members and address London’s housing challenges. We remain committed to working with the Mayor, the Greater London Authority (GLA), and the UK Government to ensure Londoners have access to a diverse, affordable, and high-quality housing market.
Towards a new London Plan consultation →
A growing crisis in housing supply
Our members’ insights and independent research point to a growing shortfall in housing delivery across London. We note that while the UK Government estimates London’s need at 87,992 homes per year, Savills’ data suggests this figure should be between 90,000 and 100,000—and possibly even higher given recent under-delivery.
We’ve urged the GLA to prioritise housing delivery above other competing objectives. Despite recognising the importance of climate targets, inclusion, and health, the Plan must not let these aims derail efforts to build enough homes. Recent data shows construction starts in London have dropped to their lowest level since 2010, with 23 boroughs recording zero starts in Q1 2025.
The overlooked role of the PRS
One of our strongest criticisms is that the consultation pays insufficient attention to the PRS. The sector plays a vital role in housing London’s diverse population, especially in the face of limited affordable and social housing. Without adequate policy support, the PRS is at risk of shrinking, driving up rents and reducing tenant choice
We are calling for stronger collaboration between the GLA and central government to reduce the tax burden on landlords, streamline regulation, and provide funding support — particularly to those offering homes to vulnerable groups and tenants on low incomes. Propertymark would offer our support for any London-wide scheme to match landlords with households currently in temporary accommodation.
Short-Term Lets and regulatory reform
We continue to raise concerns about the impact of short-term lets on housing availability, and support the introduction of a national registration scheme, as enabled by the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act. The mayor must press the UK Government to enact these measures without delay.
We’ve also recommended exempting landlords using regulated, qualified agents—such as Propertymark members—from unnecessary licensing schemes, recognising that these agents already meet high standards of compliance and professionalism.
Supporting builders and infrastructure delivery
The consultation rightly recognises the need for a diverse development sector. We’ve highlighted how small and medium-sized builders can help address the supply crisis, especially through modern construction methods like modular housing, but we stress that the GLA must work with lenders and insurers to remove barriers to entry for SMEs.
Additionally, infrastructure must be planned in tandem with new housing. This is especially important for families, who are disproportionately impacted by policies that prioritise walking and cycling routes over vehicle access.
