Boris Johnson has called for new powers to take control of disused public land in the capital and ensure it’s used to meet London’s housing needs.
In 2012 the Mayor gained control of almost 700 hectares of surplus public land when the Homes and Communities Agency was abolished in the capital and its powers and landholdings transferred to his office.
City Hall says almost 90% of this land has already been released for development.
Mr Johnson wants Ministers to support an amendment to the Infrastructure Bill – currently being debated by Parliament – which would allow him to act as the Government’s land disposal agency within London.
If enacted, the amendment would mirror powers being granted to the HCA which continues to operate in other parts of the country.
Mayor Johnson said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for us to work with the government and unlock the potential of the many empty and unused sites across the capital.
“Rapid redevelopment, regeneration and most importantly thousands of new homes for Londoners could be just around the corner given the necessary fast-tracking powers.”
