Shaping a net zero future for London
Earlier this year, we attended the Centre for London’s 2025 London Conference, joining the conversation around shaping London’s journey toward becoming a net zero city by 2030.
Michael Clark, Design Director at Hadley, led a workshop on urban regeneration and circular development, centred on our 980 Great West Road site, and our plans to transform the former GSK HQ into a new neighbourhood for Brentford. Michael explored how design, delivery and governance can evolve to meet the challenges of decarbonisation whilst creating real, meaningful impact for communities.
Our session focused on some of the key questions shaping the future of sustainable development:
- With a retention strategy central to a masterplan, how can we make sure placemaking and local context remain a priority?
- How can we balance a clear vision and client brief with the flexibility to achieve ambitious, shared outcomes?
- How can policy and the London Plan encourage creativity, joy and excellence in residential design?
- What innovative approaches can make zero carbon delivery more achievable and foster a long-term investment mindset in the industry?
One of the most pertinent questions to emerge was whether investors and consumers are becoming more motivated by green credentials and social value. The consensus was clear –yes. Both investors and consumers are increasingly climate-conscious. As younger generations step into leadership roles and manage family funds, their priorities are shifting toward sustainability, climate adaptation and long-term value creation. People expect the places they live, work and invest in to respond to the changing climate, not just mitigate it.
A standout theme across the day was green finance and London’s growing leadership in this space. With over 80 green bonds listed on the London Stock Exchange, mobilising more than £30 billion in sustainable investment, the city continues to lead the way in aligning finance with climate ambition.
The message from the day was clear: decarbonisation must go hand in hand with improving quality of life and driving inclusive economic prosperity. Collaboration across the public, private and civic sectors will be essential to making that happen.
As B Corp-certified regeneration specialists, Hadley remains committed to testing new ideas, challenging standard practice and creating places that deliver real, lasting social and environmental value.
You can find out more about the event and its themes here.
