Sustainability
Sustainability was identified as important to those in St James’s. The sustainability objectives of the Neighbourhood Plan are fully aligned with the policies outlined in the London Plan 2021 and the Westminster City Plan 2021. Within the City Plan, specific policies address sustainability matters that are highly relevant to St. James's and are in line with the vision and objectives of the Neighbourhood Plan. These are summarised below and supported by the Neighbourhood Forum.
Local Environmental Impacts
Westminster City Plan Policy 33 says that the City Council will make sure that quality of life, health and wellbeing of existing and future occupiers, and the natural environment are not adversely affected by harmful pollutants and other negative impacts on the local environment.
Green Infrastructure
Westminster City Plan Policy 34 says that Developments will, wherever possible, contribute to the greening of Westminster by incorporating trees, green walls, green roofs, rain gardens and other green features and spaces into the design of the scheme.
Developments will also achieve a net gain in biodiversity alongside the planting of trees to optimise the city’s canopy cover.
Energy
Westminster City Plan Policy 36 says that the City Council will promote zero carbon development and expects all development to reduce on-site energy demand and maximise the use of low carbon energy sources to minimise the effects of climate change.
Design Principles
Westminster City Plan Policy 38 says that Development is expected to extend the lifetime of buildings and spaces and respond to the likely risks and consequences of climate change by incorporating principles of sustainable design.
Read the Neighbourhood Plan
Read more about sustainability policies in the Neighbourhood Plan