The Great London Housing Tally: Counting Bricks and Dodging Cranes (Because That's How Chaotic It Is)
Ah, London. City of dreams, pigeons, and a housing market that makes Monopoly look tame. But have you ever wondered, amidst the endless stream of estate agent windows and scaffolding nightmares, just how many new homes are built in this glorious mess of a metropolis each year? Buckle up, because we're diving into the wonderful world of London's new home numbers (and yes, it's a wild ride).
The Official Count: Numbers Don't Lie (Maybe)
According to the folks at City Hall, a respectable 36,000 homes on average have been built per year since Sadiq Khan became Mayor. That's a lot of bricks and mortar, folks! Hold on, though, before you start picturing a London lego set, a recent report threw a spanner in the works. Apparently, completions in 2023 were a measly 13,501, a nosedive of nearly 50% from the year before. So, what's the real tea? Probably somewhere in between, with the trend likely pointing upwards (slowly, like a confused sloth on roller skates).
Borough Breakdown: From Skyscraper Central to Sleepy Suburbs
London's a big place, and new home numbers vary wildly across its boroughs. Barnet seems to be leading the charge, while Richmond and the City of London are currently enjoying a rather quiet building season (quiet enough to hear a pin drop, or a banker's exorbitant bonus).
Affordable Housing is another story. Southwark takes the crown for most built in 2023, but the overall numbers suggest London needs to seriously up its affordable game.
The Big Question: Are We Building Enough?
Short answer: Nope. The Mayor estimates London needs a whopping 66,000 new homes a year to keep up with demand. So, we're basically building half of what we actually need. That's enough to make even the most stoic Londoner want to scream into a pillow.
But fear not! There's a glimmer of hope. Apparently, there are a cool 265,000 homes in the pipeline, which sounds fantastic! Except, nearly half are still stuck in the planning stages. Planning permission in London? That's a whole other kettle of fish (and a very bureaucratic one at that).
Still Confused? Fear Not, FAQ to the Rescue!
How to find out how many new homes are being built in my borough?
Your borough council website is a good starting point.
How can I influence the number of new homes built in London?
Contact your local MP or councillor and let them know your thoughts!
How do I become a developer and build new homes in London?
Deep breaths. Get ready for a paperwork marathon and a very patient accountant.
How can I afford a new home in London?
This one requires a time machine or a lottery win. Sorry, not sorry.
How do I dodge a rogue crane while exploring London's new developments?
Maintain good eye contact and develop a talent for the high jump. Just kidding (mostly).
So, there you have it, folks! The not-so-straightforward story of London's new home situation. It's a complex beast, but hopefully, this light-hearted look sheds a little light (and maybe a sprinkle of amusement) on the whole thing.
