Politics
Planning and Infrastructure Bill 2026: Brixton planning contributions compared with other London boroughs
The bill changes how developer levies are calculated and distributed, directly affecting funds available for Brixton roads, parks and community facilities.
How we reported this
The Planning and Infrastructure Bill 2026 alters the formula used by local authorities to set community infrastructure levies on new developments. Lambeth Council, which covers Brixton, will apply the revised rates from April 2027 onward, placing the area in a mid-tier category alongside boroughs such as Lewisham and Greenwich.
Why the changes take effect now
Central government published updated viability guidance in the 2026 budget papers that requires councils to recalculate levy thresholds every two years. Lambeth last revised its rates in 2024, so the new legislation triggers an immediate review that must be completed by December 2026.
Brixton residents will notice the effects through the mix of projects funded by these levies. Money collected from developments near Brixton Market and along Coldharbour Lane supports local bus shelters, cycle lanes and playground upgrades. Under the new formula, contributions from smaller residential schemes will rise by the amount set in the bill's schedule 3 table, while larger commercial projects face a lower rate than currently applies in Camden.
Local examples and budget figures
The legislation states that 35 percent of levy receipts must support affordable housing within the same ward. In Brixton this means payments from the Somerleyton Road scheme will help finance 42 additional units at the Myatt's Field estate. Neighbouring Southwark, by contrast, retains 40 percent of its receipts for the same purpose, giving it a higher share for equivalent sized projects.
Policy analysts note that Lambeth's current annual levy income stands at £8.4 million according to the council's 2025-26 accounts. The bill projects a £1.1 million increase for the borough once the new rates apply, though the figure depends on the number of planning permissions granted in 2027.
The government says the policy will standardise collection methods across England by 2028. Lambeth Council must publish its revised charging schedule for public consultation in September 2026, after which residents can submit comments on the proposed rates before final adoption.