Ken gets more power
Our omnipotent mayor will have even more power over the squabbling boroughs, under new rules that will come out next month. Building (subs only) writes that the mayor will take over chairmanship of the London Housing Board (currently with the GOL) and thus will be responsible for shaping the capital's housing strategy, which sets the priorities for the Housing Corporation's grant programme.
Ken may also have his planning powers extended. All council local development frameworks in the capital may have to conform with the policies set out in the London Plan - such as the requirement that affordable housing percentages - to the letter, unlike the discretionary powers they have now. About time too, as far as I'm concerned - what's the point of having this strategic joined-up Plan if the boroughs don't actually have to conform to it properly?
Ken may also have his planning powers extended. All council local development frameworks in the capital may have to conform with the policies set out in the London Plan - such as the requirement that affordable housing percentages - to the letter, unlike the discretionary powers they have now. About time too, as far as I'm concerned - what's the point of having this strategic joined-up Plan if the boroughs don't actually have to conform to it properly?
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