Tower Hamlets Council has taken a major step toward shaping the future of one of London’s most dynamic boroughs by approving the submission of its draft new Local Plan to the Secretary of State for independent examination.
The Local Plan is the borough’s most important statutory spatial planning document, setting out a strategic vision for growth and development across Tower Hamlets.
Once adopted, it will guide decisions on planning applications and ensure that development meets the borough’s priorities, including tackling overcrowding and reducing inequalities.
The Executive Mayor of Tower Hamlets Lutfur Rahman said: “Our Local Plan is a landmark achievement – setting a new standard for social and affordable housing in London and keeping families in the borough and strengthening our communities for generations to come.
“We are putting residents at the heart of development, with a commitment to deliver over 52,000 homes and an affordable housing target of 40% with a borough wide strategic target of 50%.
“Our priority is to keep residents in their communities by increasing genuinely social and affordable rented housing from 70% to 85% and building more family sized homes, reversing the dominance of one-bedroom units and tackling gentrification head-on with one of the most ambitious and transformative local plans London has ever seen.”
The proposed plan includes comprehensive policies on:
- Housing and affordable homes
- Employment and town centres
- Environment and biodiversity
- Design and connectivity
- Community infrastructure and waste management
It also identifies key site allocations for large-scale developments, helping secure vital infrastructure for the borough’s growing population.
Cllr Kabir Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Inclusive Development and Housebuilding, said: “In one of the country’s most densely populated boroughs, space is limited, so we need to plan smartly for the future. This includes unlocking Tall Building Zones where appropriate, to make the best use of land and support well-designed, efficient development. Our goal is to create homes for families and vibrant communities while using height and density thoughtfully.
“We will shape these plans together with residents, businesses, and stakeholders at every stage. Development will be inclusive, culturally sensitive, and sustainable. We will embed green spaces, provide opportunities for young people, protect local identity, and promote thriving businesses."
Formal examination process begins
Submission of the draft new Local Plan marks the start of the formal examination process under Regulation 22 of the Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012. An independent planning inspector will assess whether the plan is “sound” and legally compliant, as required by the National Planning Policy Framework.
The examination will include public hearings, expected in summer 2026, followed by consultation on any modifications recommended by the inspector. Subject to this process, the plan could be adopted by late 2026 or early 2027.
Preparation of the plan began in 2022 and has involved significant community input and consultation. Over 1,000 representations were received during the first statutory consultation in 2024, with further focused consultation in 2025 addressing key policies on tall buildings, affordable housing, and waste management.
Posted on Wednesday 26th November 2025