Shaping London’s Future: CO—RE Director, Stephen Black, speaks at the London Planning Conference

Stephen Black, Director at CO—RE, joined this year’s London Planning Conference, Shaping London’s Future, hosted by Landmark Chambers.

Bringing together leaders from planning, development, law and local government, the conference explored many of the key issues shaping the capital’s built environment, including the emerging London Plan, and how to respond to the climate emergency.

Stephen shared his perspective on the current development landscape and the realities of delivering projects in London, alongside speakers including Deputy Mayor of London for Planning and Regeneration, Jules Pipe CBE; planning and development risk specialist Lindsay Garratt; Managing Director at Quod, Tom Dobson; Senior Director at Lichfield’s, Matthew Spry; and Head of Planning at Linklaters, Louise Samuel.

Key takeaways from the session included:

The London Plan: Following Jules Pipe CBE’s opening speech on the Greater London Authority’s plans for delivering new development, Tom Dobson shared his thoughts on the emerging London Plan and its implications for the future.

Managing planning risks: Lindsay Garrat, Winckworth Sherwood shared her insights on managing risk when acquiring sites and the importance of a clear understanding of the planning landscape.

The Oxford Street Development: Heather Sargant, Landmark Chambers, explored whether the Oxford Street Development Corporation could be a catalyst for further Mayoral Development Corporations and greater growth opportunities across London.

A valuable discussion on the opportunities and challenges facing the sector, and the role of planning in shaping London’s future.

Thank you to the organisers and fellow panellists for such an insightful discussion.