Docklands News

The housing market is anticipated to rebound strongly in 2026 as buyers take advantage of falling mortgage rates. Experts predict a recovery driven by first-time buyers, although the upper end of the market could face challenges. A recent base rate cut to 3.75% may boost market sentiment, with UK Finance predicting around 1.20m house sales in 2026 and 2027. Regional disparities will persist, with northern regions forecasted to see outperforming growth compared to the south. House prices are expected to rise modestly, influenced by factors such as wage growth and inflation. Quality in newly built homes remains a priority amid rising demand, emphasising the need for standards and customer care in the industry.

Daily Mail   London Evening Standard   The I  

London house prices are falling in about half of the capital's boroughs, particularly in expensive areas. According to the Office for National Statistics, the average London house price in October was £547,000, down 2.4% year-on-year, while prices rose 1.7% across the UK. Prime boroughs like Kensington and Chelsea, Westminster, and the City of London saw steep declines, whereas more affordable areas such as Havering, Lewisham, and Waltham Forest experienced price growth.

City AM  

A pilot scheme in Camden targeting rogue landlords is being expanded to eight more London boroughs, including Barnet, Ealing, and Lewisham, to tackle unsafe, mould-ridden, and poorly maintained rental properties. Using Rent Repayment Orders and access to Universal Credit data, councils can now reclaim up to 24 months of rent from landlords who ignore safety standards, protecting tenants and taxpayers alike. The scheme aims to safeguard around 400,000 households across England and strengthen enforcement against landlords who exploit the housing benefit system. Officials say the rollout will ensure safer homes, deter criminality in the private rental sector, and recover public funds for reinvestment in housing improvements.

London Evening Standard  

Proposals to tackle the housing crisis by prioritising high-density, mid-rise housing inspired by traditional mansion blocks found in areas such as Marylebone and Kensington have gained MPs' backing. A report by the Policy Exchange think tank argues that such developments can deliver high density without high-rise towers, be up to 40% cheaper to build, and significantly increase housing supply, potentially adding 1m homes in London. The paper highlights that Victorian-style mid-rise areas often achieve higher densities than modern skyscraper developments.

City AM  

The redevelopment of Battersea Power Station has transformed the area into a luxury enclave attracting multimillion-pound apartments and high-end retail. Long-term locals feared displacement, but a recent partnership between developers and Wandsworth Council will deliver 203 council homes, marking a rare victory for mixed-income communities amid gentrification pressures.

The Guardian  

Newham councillors have approved the Silvertown Quays project, a 7,172-home development in east London including shops, restaurants, a school and leisure facilities. The scheme will deliver at least 26.38% affordable housing, below the borough’s 50% target, due to viability constraints. A revised agreement also secures £6.3m in developer funding for a new bridge to the ExCel Centre by reducing contributions to the council’s employment team. "This is an exciting moment for Silvertown", said Jess Wallis, development director for Lendlease. "The first homes are ready; new residents are moving in; and the new cycle bridge will make it easier for everyone, new and long-standing residents alike, to connect with the wider city. From the beginning, we’ve focused on delivering affordable homes early and making sure local people feel the benefits right away. Silvertown’s future is being built with and for the local community".

Architects' Journal (16/12/2025)   The Standard (13/12/2025)