Newsteer’s Planning team recently co-hosted a roundtable with Quoin Partners, bringing together clients and industry voices to sense check where London is heading ahead of the May 2026 Borough elections.

The discussion was open, candid and, at times, sobering – but it provided a clear snapshot of current market sentiment.

Key themes

• Uncertainty is the biggest barrier

Confidence in the system remains fragile, with timing, consistency and decision-making all impacting delivery.

• Politics is shaping outcomes

Planning is increasingly influenced at a local level, with fragmented control and shifting priorities adding complexity.

• Viability remains under pressure

Even policy-supported schemes are struggling to translate into delivery due to cost and funding constraints.

• Investment is returning – cautiously

There are early signs of activity, but capital is highly selective and focused on lower-risk opportunities.

• Leadership is the differentiator

Where there is clear direction, schemes progress. Where it is lacking, they stall.

Looking ahead

There was a shared sense that momentum may be starting to build again at a national level – and that the market is ready to respond if the right conditions are created.

As the elections approach, clarity and consistency will be critical in turning policy ambition into delivery.