Hillingdon is an ambitious borough, and we have never shied away from growth. We recognise the need for new homes, jobs and investment, and our Growth Plan sets out how we can achieve that in a way that benefits our communities. But growth must be properly planned and backed by the infrastructure needed to make it work. Housing targets imposed from City Hall without sufficient evidence, or a proper understanding of the places and communities affected, won't achieve that. Our green belt is not spare land waiting to be built on. It protects communities from urban sprawl, supports wildlife and provides the open spaces our residents value. Once it is gone, it is gone for good. We are calling on the Mayor to rethink these proposals and work with boroughs on a plan for growth that is evidence led, infrastructure-enabled and shaped by local people.
Hillingdon Council Objects to Mayor's London Plan Over Green Belt Housing Proposals
The council argues that new housing targets lack sufficient evidence and a credible infrastructure plan, particularly concerning green belt land.
By Priya Shah
••2 min read
Hillingdon Council
Hillingdon Council has formally objected to the Mayor of London's draft London Plan, citing insufficient evidence and a lack of credible infrastructure plans for proposed housing developments, particularly on the borough's green belt land.
The council submitted its response during the consultation process, demanding significant revisions to the final strategy to ensure it is deliverable, evidence-based, and addresses the specific challenges of west London, including the potential impact of Heathrow expansion.
A primary concern is the requirement for 24,030 homes to be built in Hillingdon over the next decade, more than double the borough's current target. The draft plan designates Hillingdon with London's largest green belt housing allocation, proposing 14,750 homes on green belt land around Northwood, Ickenham, and Ruislip by 2036. Hillingdon Council advocates for prioritising brownfield sites and a more cautious, evidence-led approach to any green belt development.
While acknowledging the need for increased housing, jobs, and economic growth, the council states that the Mayor has not provided adequate evidence to support the proposed housing figures or demonstrate their feasibility. Questions have also been raised about the viability of supporting such growth, citing a lack of detail regarding necessary infrastructure, responsibilities, costs, and timelines. This is compounded by existing pressures in Hillingdon from housing growth, major infrastructure projects, data centres, industrial and logistics development, and the potential expansion of Heathrow.
Cllr Steve Tuckwell, Leader of Hillingdon Council, expressed these concerns, emphasising the importance of evidence-led planning and the protection of the green belt.
Based on information from the official source: London Borough of Hillingdon (26/10/2026)
