London Plan Guidance

Ensure your build is fully aligned with the capital’s development vision

Delivering tailored strategies that demystify complex regulations

This compliance service focuses on meeting the requirements of policies SI 2, SI 3, and SI 4. These policies target carbon reduction, decentralised energy, and managing overheating risks, and together, they form the foundation of sustainable development under the London Plan.

Interpreting and implementing policies SI 2, SI 3, and SI 4 can be challenging, leading to planning delays, increased costs, and sub-optimal designs. Energy Digest simplifies the process entirely. We provide tailored reports and advice to ensure London Plan compliance while enhancing the energy performance of the property and establishing a safe, comfortable environment for its occupants.

Why do you need this service?

Simplified
compliance

Get clear guidance on meeting the intricate policies of the London Plan.

Cost-effective
solutions

Create a strategy that balances your planning requirements with practical considerations and financial feasibility.

Enhanced project
value

Produce building designs that attract stakeholders thanks to their innovative ideas and impressive sustainability credentials.

Our Process

Arrange an initial consultation,

during which we will discuss project details and relevant London Plan policies.

Develop a strategy

by creating tailored solutions for energy, decentralised systems, and overheating.

Perform dynamic simulations

and evaluate energy integration options through thorough assessment and modelling.

Prepare and submit detailed energy reports

for planning approval.

Deliver ongoing support

and assist with any queries or adjustments during the approval process.

Why choose Energy Digest?

Through conducting comprehensive energy assessments and utilising thermal modelling, our team will provide all the data and insight you need to ensure your city development is fully aligned with the London Plan. 
We’re highly experienced in interpreting and satisfying the requirements of the Plan’s components and will provide clear, in-depth documentation to support your planning submission. 

What’s more, we’ll develop actionable strategies to help you meet the short- and longer-term sustainability goals for your project.

Fast turnaround time

To help you meet your own deadlines, we’ll issue your London Plan statement within 10 working days. 

Collaborative expertise

We work closely with architects and developers to ensure cohesive strategies.

Tailored approach

We always deliver customised recommendations based on your project-specific needs and goals.

Unrivalled support

Our service doesn’t end with the reports. We can provide ongoing support and expertise, from planning to completion.

Speak to our
experts today

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

London Plan Compliance
FAQs

These policies are central to the London Plan’s sustainability framework:

  • SI 2: Focuses on minimising carbon emissions through the energy hierarchy (reduce demand, improve efficiency, use renewable energy).
  • SI 3: Promotes decentralised energy systems, such as district heating and combined heat and power (CHP).
  • SI 4: Addresses overheating risks by prioritising passive cooling measures to maintain thermal comfort.

Compliance with these policies is often required to gain planning approval for developments in Greater London – and this is where many customers need our guidance.

The Energy Hierarchy is a step-by-step approach to reducing carbon emissions, as outlined in SI 2:

  1. Be Lean: Reduce energy demand through efficient design.
  2. Be Clean: Use efficient energy supply systems, such as decentralised networks.
  3. Be Green: Generate energy on-site using renewable sources.
  4. Be Seen: Monitor and report on energy use post-construction.

The Hierarchy ensures developments minimise environmental impact and align with the London Plan’s carbon reduction goals.

The cooling hierarchy, part of SI 4, prioritises passive solutions to reduce reliance on energy-intensive cooling systems:

  • Minimise Heat Gains: Use shading, reflective materials, and appropriate glazing.
  • Passive Cooling: Optimise natural ventilation and thermal mass.
  • Active Cooling: Employ low-energy systems like ceiling fans or evaporative cooling.
  • Mechanical Cooling: As a last resort, use air conditioning efficiently.

Following this hierarchy ensures developments meet overheating requirements and maintain thermal comfort sustainably.

London Plan compliance strategies can usually be completed within 10 working days, though more complex projects may take longer.

Why We Address Multiple Policies in London Plan Energy Strategies

The London Plan’s energy policies require an integrated approach to achieve compliance efficiently. At Energy Digest, we craft unified strategies that go beyond ticking boxes, delivering long-term value and sustainability.
 
• Holistic Compliance: Align policies into a seamless strategy, ensuring your project meets all requirements without added complexity.
• Optimised Performance: We identify opportunities to reduce energy costs, improve efficiency, and enhance property value.
• Future-Ready Solutions: Our forward-thinking strategies prepare your development for evolving sustainability standards.
• Tailored to You: Every strategy is bespoke, aligning your project’s vision with London Plan objectives.

Spoke with Josh who not only reassured me but asked for a fee that I thought was fair. Thank you Josh. Use again? Definitely.

Steve Quirk

The team really know their stuff – super helpful and always had clear answers to any questions or compliance issues we ran into. Definitely our go-to for any future projects!

Nathan Donnelly

Quick and well priced water calculation service and received an appliance specification report alongside the certificate which was really useful for us and the building control officer, highly recommended!

Ilma Akhtar

Very knowledgeable about building regulations, and the industry. Always goes the extra mile to help out! 5*

Karim Meraga

Still unsure?

We offer free phone call and email support until you’re ready to proceed with us.
Access free support for your project now.

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