Lewisham Council has made a significant breakthrough in identifying potential small sites for housing delivery in the borough. Using an AI-based mapping tool, Small Sites AI Finder, the council has identified over 3,000 small sites with development potential, which could contribute to an estimated 9,700 new homes in the area.
The tool, developed with RCKa, uses AI and geographic information system (GIS) data to analyse land parcels across the borough, identify common types of small sites, and estimate their potential housing capacity. The council's strategic planning team collaborated closely with the supplier to refine the tool's outputs and ensure accurate results.
The analysis of planning application data also revealed a slight increase in approval rates following the adoption of the Small Sites Design Guide Supplementary Planning Document (SPD). This indicates that the guide has had a positive impact on decision-making for small site developments.
The insights gained from the Small Sites AI Finder will inform future policy work and engagement with landowners and developers, potentially leading to a significant increase in housing delivery in Lewisham.
The findings of this pilot project demonstrate the potential of using digital tools to identify and develop small sites for housing, which could have implications for other local authorities seeking to address housing shortages.