Kanda and DP9 were delighted last week to host an “Investing in Westminster” reception, with potential major investors in the borough meeting the new Leader of Westminster City Council, Cllr Paul Swaddle OBE, and Cabinet Member for Planning & Growth, Cllr Tim Barnes.

Building upon Kanda’s track record of working across the political spectrum to have secured over 250 consents in Westminster and DP9 delivering some of the most high-profile schemes in recent years, the event and question and answer session, moderated by former BBC London Political journalist, Tim Donovan, explored a number of key themes, including:

The approach to the newly-created Oxford Street MDC, including how the local authority will look to hold the MDC to account and ensure growth benefits the wider communities of Westminster


A commitment to protecting and growing world class commercial spaces across the Central Activities Zone as a driver for the UK economy


A more proportionate and balanced approach to the retrofitting buildings and heritage


A more flexible approach to residential conversions and changes of use depending upon the building and area


More flexibility on residential tenure, mix and size of homes, along with a commitment to deliver more homes (not units!) for key workers


A more joined-up pre-application process, including an initial “pre-application in principle” with senior officers

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