The current emphasis of planning policy is placed on town centre development, and consequently thoroughfares in outer London typically see sporadic infill development. As the winning entry of the 2019 William Sutton Prize, this proposal aims to create a specific policy designation at either a city-wide or Local Plan level that promotes high quality and high density residential-led development.

Embedded in meticulous research, our design response was developed in response to the physical characteristics of busy roads on the outskirts of London. These routes are characterised by a lack of cohesive character, moderate levels of public transport accessibility and building heights of at least 3 storeys. Our response sets out a series of carefully calibrated design codes to dramatically increase both the quality and quantum of new affordable housing. Strict guidance would ensure new homes are dual aspect, and that amenity spaces are kept away from heavily trafficked roads, fronting instead onto internal courtyards.

Beyond the better use of under utilised brownfield land, this policy initiative was designed to benefit urban communities most desperately in need of accelerated housing delivery, including those on housing waiting lists, the homeless, the elderly and first-time buyers.