Fix Housing — Without Losing Local Character

Bromley needs new homes, but development must be done properly and in the right places. Liberal Democrats support meeting genuine housing need while defending the Green Belt and protecting valued green spaces. Green Belt land should not be treated as an easy option when there are better alternatives that respect local character and community concerns.

We will back the right homes in the right locations, including genuinely affordable homes and family housing, so young people and families can stay in Bromley rather than being priced out. New development must be well designed and supported by the schools, health services, transport capacity, and local facilities needed to support it, not place further strain on services that are already stretched.

We will push Bromley Council to build council-led social housing more quickly, so local people in housing need can access secure, genuinely affordable homes. Delivering council-built homes faster will also help reduce the rising cost of temporary accommodation, easing pressure on the Bromley taxpayer and providing better outcomes for families.

We are concerned about the lack of action to bring empty homes back into use. At a time when housing need is rising, long-term empty properties represent a missed opportunity. We will press London Borough of Bromley to make better use of existing housing stock, using incentives and enforcement where appropriate to ensure homes are lived in, not left vacant.

We will support town centre living where it helps revitalise high streets, brings footfall to local businesses, and makes better use of brownfield land. This approach can deliver new homes while strengthening town centres and reducing pressure on suburban neighbourhoods.

Growth should strengthen communities, not overwhelm them. Residents must be involved early in planning decisions, not consulted after key choices have already been made. We will continue to stand up for local voices in the planning process and work to ensure development in Bromley is fair, balanced, and rooted in local character.