Berkeley Group boss Tony Pidgley has called for public land to be released to help alleviate London’s housing shortage.
Pidgley made the comments during his acceptance speech at the New London Awards, where he was named New Londoner of the Year for his contribution to the capital.
His companies have been responsible for the construction of some 40,000 homes in London over the past two decades.
He said: “We need to face into this housing crisis and make sure that we understand it and get it right.
“I like the new mayor [of London, Sadiq Khan]. I think his office is going to be pragmatic. They’re open for business and they’re listening.
“But the one thing that is in their gift is the public land. If they want to build additionality, build on the public land. Do not zone it. Do not let the prices go up. Do not let it become unaffordable. Deliver it.”
Holmes Road Studios, NW3, was named the overall winner at the event held at London’s Guildhall. It was designed by Peter Barber Architects, which also won best built project in the conservation and retrofit category for its Mount Pleasant Studios project.
Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners won the Mayor’s Prize for its Place/Ladywell residential project, which will provide 24 homes for local families in need.
The inaugural People’s Choice award went to reForm Architects and Elliott Wood’s Rotherhithe Bridge design.
View the full list of New London Awards winners >>
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