Alexander Nicoll on the draft of the new Neighbourhood Plan

We have updated the Plan to put greater focus on sustainable design and enhancement of the natural environment. If approved, the new draft will replace the existing Plan, which gained statutory force in 2018.

Neighbourhood plans can only be written and approved with extensive public discussion and support. Hampstead’s is no exception. 

We were very pleased that our survey received many responses and showed strong backing for the new draft.

Underlying the whole effort is the vision that was expressed in the existing Plan. 

Reassuringly, more than 95% of respondents still support a Hampstead that is enduringly green, safe and walkable, lively and contemporary while protecting our heritage, with a strong local economy and a sense of community. Obvious, common-sense goals, you might say, but still important in setting policy priorities.

Residents gave strong support to the changes that we are proposing. 

Alexander Nicoll is pleased at the number of survey responses the Hampstead Neighbourhood Forum received (Image: A Nicoll)

For example, we have added a policy on sustainable development that prioritises refurbishment over demolition and new building and encourages the use of energy-efficient technologies and sustainable materials – provided that this does not damage Hampstead’s important heritage.

While some people had reservations about the details of, say, heat pumps, this policy was supported by 89% of respondents. One resident commented that "this new emphasis…is extremely important and the only responsible thing to do in this age of climate crisis."

Another change is to put greater emphasis on ‘biodiversity net gain’, which all development must demonstrate under new government rules. 

The new Plan supports, for example, living green roofs and walls and development that helps wildlife move more freely throughout Hampstead. 

These changes were supported by 88% of respondents, with one resident commenting that "the biggest blow to diversity/green space from private houses is people paving over front gardens."

Also well supported was a new policy that would encourage speedier, more efficient and less disruptive construction.

We are incorporating some suggestions into the new draft, soon to be submitted to Camden, which will carry out its own public consultation and submit it to an independent examiner. If all goes well, the revised Plan should take effect next year.

The results of our survey, including residents’ (anonymous) comments and our responses, can be found at: hampsteadforum.org. 

Thank you to all who took part.

• Alexander Nicoll is chair of the Hampstead Neighbourhood Forum.