The first meeting of the second cycle of the NLA Expert Panel on Culture convened to set strategic priorities and shape London’s cultural and built environment policies. Discussions focused on integrating cultural infrastructure into planning, supporting creatives, and identifying policy gaps.

London’s cultural industries are a vital economic driver, central to the city’s growth strategy and identity. As a high-growth sector, culture fuels job creation, attracts talent, and strengthens London’s position as a global cultural capital. However, for culture to thrive, it must be fully embedded within policies on housing, infrastructure, and economic development. Accessibility and affordability remain critical challenges, particularly for the city’s large freelance and SME-based cultural workforce. The proposed House for Artistspilot presents an opportunity to establish a best-practice model for creative housing within the London Plan.

To ensure sustainable cultural growth, developers require clear guidance on integrating cultural infrastructure into projects, underpinned by data demonstrating its impact on retail, hospitality, and housing. A Cultural Uplift framework could incentivise investment, ensuring culture is embedded from the outset rather than as an afterthought. Learning from successful models, such as Camden’s Film Studios approach—where culture was incorporated from the planning stage—could help shape a more strategic, city-wide approach to cultural development. Providing clearer category classifications for cultural projects would further support planners and developers in making informed, long-term investments.

Public engagement and accessibility are also key to London’s cultural evolution. Expanding participation beyond traditional audiences—such as museums and theatres—to engage more diverse communities will be essential for fostering inclusivity. Supporting young and emerging creatives through mentorship, funding, and workspace access will help remove barriers to entry and nurture new talent. Additionally, fostering early partnerships between developers and cultural stakeholders will drive more meaningful cultural integration into new developments.

By adopting a strategic, inclusive, and data-driven approach, London can position itself as a leader in cultural innovation, ensuring a thriving creative ecosystem that benefits both the economy and society at large.

Proposed Next Steps
The output of this panel will be a set of recommendations for the creative industries, developers, and local authorities under the theme:
London Has Spoken: Culture Is a Must.

House for Artists Sub-Group
Led by Adriana Marques, this sub-group will focus on shaping a pilot model for affordable artist housing. The group will define the requirements, funding options, and planning frameworks needed to make this initiative a reality.

The panel will work towards establishing a policy-backed cultural framework that aligns with the London Plan, ensuring that culture remains a central part of urban development and placemaking. The next meeting will review progress on the survey, event planning, and the House for Artists sub-group.