There are two undeniable facts about London; there is currently a housing crisis and land availability is an issue. But, could there be a solution by making it easier to do airspace extensions? Adding extra storeys to buildings where it is viable and safe could provide lots of new homes. There is certainly backing for this, particularly from the London Assembly Planning and Regeneration Committee. Let’s have a closer look at their recommendations, then you can speak to us if you want to work with creative architects in London.

A pattern book

The Assembly recently wrote to the Greater London Authority (GLA), specifically the Mayor of London, to recommend more support for upwards extensions. They estimate there could be the capacity for anywhere from 140,000 to over 1 million new homes. These could be built on top of existing buildings, including housing and commercial properties.

Critically, they are calling on the creation of a pattern book for airspace extensions. This would provide a list of approved templates, typologies, and layouts for projects. The goal is to make it easier to do this kind of project, creating clear frameworks and reducing uncertainty. Developers could look at a property, consider the design examples in the pattern book, and see what could or couldn’t work.

Past efforts

Significantly, this isn’t the first time airspace extensions have been proposed as a viable option for London. In fact, permitted development rights were expanded in 2020 for this very reason. Plans to further reduce restrictions have been under consideration since 2024. If you need help, discuss your ideas with leading architects in London.

On top of that, national planning policy and the London Plan both include sections about airspace development. Two boroughs, Haringey and Tower Hamlets, even have frameworks for projects in their areas. It aims to provide more certainty, and also ensure that any proposals respect the character of the boroughs.

Concerns

The most important thing to keep in mind here though is any airspace developments need to be high quality. While allowing permitted development can make things easier, there is a risk that it allows projects with poor designs. To avoid this, any pattern book should include design quality requirements.

What could happen?

It will be interesting to see what kind of response there is to these calls. The expectation is we could have an answer from the Mayor of London by 3rd November. Crucially, the London Assembly said they want to see key things like the introduction of clearer policy and standardised approaches over the next 10 years.

Explore viability with top architects in London

Creating more homes and housing in London is a tricky job, but creative designs are always the solution. This could include things like airspace extensions and finding answers for challenging sites. We’d love to help, applying our knowledge and diverse skills to find the best results, even if it means doing something completely new and innovative.

So, contact us and talk to some of the best architects in London today. We’re award winners, prioritising light and liveability.