Development policies further options
The Building Safety Levy (BSL) will come into effect on 1 October 2026. It is a tax on new dwellings and new bedspaces in purpose‑built student accommodation (PBSA).
Developers must pay the levy on certain building control applications or notices before completion or occupation of the building. The Council will collect the levy.
The Building Safety Levy (England) Regulations 2025 sets out how the levy will operate.
Consultation on a Development Management Local Plan Further Options report, accompanied by a Sustainability Appraisal, took place from 3 December 2012 to 31 January 2013.
The Further Options report set out the policy options and alternatives being considered by the Council for inclusion in a draft local plan, that when adopted will be used to guide, assess and determine planning applications. The plan will support the implementation of the Core Strategy and the London Plan, and will replace the saved policies contained in the Lewisham Unitary Development Plan.
The Council is now reviewing consultation comments and will prepare a draft plan for further public consultation in the summer.