London needs open workspaces for creativity and growth

This week, permitted development rights (PDR) – which allow the fast-tracked conversion of office space to residential use – will come permanently into force, having been temporarily in place since 2013. In areas of London with excess office space and a limited supply of housing, this will help policymakers meet the enormous challenge of supplying enough homes, alongside efforts to enrich the city’s economy and labour market. Yet the changes, while helping one goal, may diminish the other, explains Carys Roberts.