Policy H2 is the small-sites policy; London's design policies explain how the capacity and quality of a particular scheme should be assessed. [1] [2]
What counts as a small site?
The adopted London Plan's small-sites category covers sites below 0.25 hectares. Westminster's official topic paper explains that H2 requires boroughs to support well-designed homes on such sites. That definition is not interchangeable with thresholds used for other regimes. [1]
For example, the statutory Biodiversity Net Gain exemption introduced for applications made from 6 August 2026 uses a different threshold: 0.2 hectares or less, with an exception where on-site priority habitat would lose biodiversity value. A site can therefore fall within London's small-site policy without qualifying for that BNG exemption. [3]
Support does not replace design assessment
The practical starting point is a design-led capacity study, not a target number of units imposed on an empty rectangle. Show how the proposal responds to the surrounding buildings and how its homes will work for their intended occupants. London's policies address internal accommodation, accessibility, daylight, privacy and external space. [2]
A useful submission explains:
- why the site is suitable for additional homes in its context;
- how the proposed building envelope was established;
- how the floor plans and outdoor areas provide appropriate living conditions;
- how access and servicing can function without undermining those spaces. [2]
Where a reduced or differently arranged scheme solves a constraint, show that comparison. This makes the reasoning behind the chosen design clearer than relying on the general policy support alone.
Read national policy in its current form
The NPPF published on 17 August 2026 gives substantial weight to effective use of underused land and sensitive additional development within existing plots under policy L2. It also retains explicit safeguards for safe access, street character and living conditions. Its support is a consideration in planning decisions, not a separate permission to build. [4]
References to earlier NPPF paragraph numbers should not be used as a substitute for identifying the current policy. For a project appraisal, distinguish the national policy case from compliance with the adopted development plan and the detailed merits of the layout. [4] [2]
What changed, and what is still a draft?
London's March 2026 support package changed specified housing-design guidance and introduced temporary residential cycle-parking standards. It did not withdraw the whole London Plan or all housing-quality requirements. Check the amended guidance rather than copying an older design checklist unchanged. [5]
The draft replacement London Plan is under consultation until 15 October 2026. The draft London Small Site Design Code is under consultation until 4 December 2026. Both may affect future appraisals, but neither was adopted on 2 October 2026. Any application relying on draft provisions should identify their status explicitly. [6] [7]