London mayor says he opposes green belt building and supports starter homes

According to Inside Housing, Khan has had opened discussions with the government regarding housing policy and has offered to support the building of starter homes "in exchange for concessions" as well as pushing for complete control of the awaited 2016/21 housing investment programme.

At the mayor's first question time, Khan confirmed that he was discussing starter homes with the government but did not go into detail nor confirm if starter homes would be included in his 50% affordable homes target.

At an interview with ITV's Peston on Sunday Programme, Khan reiterated his pledge to offer housing to Londoners first. A condition may be imposed that requires to "market them for the first six months in London" before being able to obtain planning permission. According to the financial times, "City Hall said policy details were still to be worked out but Khan insisted he would be able to take action".

According to a statement, Khan last week “pledged to oppose building on London’s green belt and instructed his planning officers to ensure his view is reflected in all planning decisions made by the Greater London Authority (GLA)”.

Khan said: “it is vitally important we protect our city’s precious green spaces and that must include opposing building on the green belt. I’ve now met with my team of planners to make absolutely clear that this must stay at the forefront of planning decisions”.

Khan has also announced the appointment of his key team members, including deputy mayors for housing, transport and policing. James Murray, currently lead councillor for housing and development at Islington Council, has been appointed as deputy mayor for housing.

Planning expert Susanne Andreasen of Pinsent Masons, the law firm behind Out-Law.com, said "It will be interesting to follow Khan's early measures to deliver on his manifesto pledges. In particular, it will be interesting to see details of the proposed implementation measures, and the supporting evidence base, for the policy on marketing new homes to Londoners first."

"Khan has been less than supportive of the introduction of starter homes, making it clear that he does not regard it as a genuinely affordable product. Whether the government is willing to accommodate Khan's requested concessions, including ensuring replacements for social homes sold under Right to Buy and high-value council home sales, remains to be seen," Andreasen said.