London
North London. Gardens, backland and big regeneration.
North London runs from the dense inner boroughs of Camden and Islington to the suburbs and Green Belt edge of Barnet and Enfield. It offers two very different kinds of opportunity: small sites, such as large gardens, backland plots and side extensions to houses, and some of London’s largest regeneration schemes. Philip’s career includes major regeneration work in North London, and our North London case study is a typical small-site question.
Boroughs
Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey and Islington. Each has its own local plan under the London Plan, and their policies on small sites, tall buildings and family housing differ.
What to consider
- Small sites and gardensThe outer boroughs have many large plots and backland sites. Garden land is not treated as previously developed land, so councils look closely at the character of the area, neighbours, access and trees.
- Conservation areasHampstead, Highgate, Islington’s squares and many suburban streets are conservation areas, where design, demolition and alterations are tightly controlled.
- Regeneration areasBrent Cross, Colindale, Meridian Water, Tottenham and the King’s Cross and Euston areas bring large-scale change, infrastructure and new transport.
- Green Belt edgeBarnet and Enfield have Green Belt on their outer edges. The 2026 temporary London affordable housing route does not apply to Green Belt or grey belt sites.
- Family housingSeveral boroughs expect a share of family-sized homes, which affects the mix and value on small and medium schemes.
Case studies
How we help
- Feasibility studies: what the site or building could become, and what each option costs and returns
- Site identification: finding and securing the right site
- Development management: managing the scheme, including the planning process and the right planning consultant
- Delivery strategy for complex sites
- Project management
London-wide rules
Common questions
Can I build in my garden in North London?
Sometimes. It depends on the size and shape of the plot, access, the character of the street, neighbours, trees and whether the area is a conservation area. A short feasibility study tests it before money is spent on design.
Do you work in every North London borough?
Yes: Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey and Islington.