The property picture
THE GOLDMAN EDIT · WEEKEND BRIEFING
London regeneration, new planning decision rules, asking-price trends and the high street: four developments worth watching this weekend.
Lewisham Shopping Centre redevelopment put on hold
Lewisham Council confirmed on 20 October that Landsec is deprioritising the proposed redevelopment of Lewisham Shopping Centre, citing current market and economic conditions. The existing centre will continue operating. This is a pause in the proposals, not an announcement that the shopping centre will close.
Goldman view: regeneration schemes need viable construction economics and a credible affordable-housing agreement. Owners and investors should distinguish a stalled programme from a cancelled permission.
Sources: Lewisham Council, 20 October 2026
Planning decisions change from 31 October
A national scheme changing which planning applications are decided by officers or committees takes effect in England on 31 October 2026. Many minor applications will be determined by planning officers; certain significant proposals can still be referred to a committee, and residents can continue to submit planning comments. Spelthorne Council set out the forthcoming changes on 23 October.
Goldman view: applicants should check the route and decision-maker for each site before relying on a projected consent date; the planning merits and consultation requirements still matter.
Sources: MHCLG statutory guidance (1 June 2026); Spelthorne Council update (23 October 2026) · Spelthorne council notice
London asking prices rise monthly, but remain lower annually
Rightmove’s October 2026 asking-price index puts the average newly marketed London home at £673,942, up 2.5% on September but down 1.7% on October 2025. Its national average is £371,015, up 1.0% monthly. These are sellers’ asking prices, not completed transaction values.
Goldman view: a seasonal monthly bounce does not erase annual pressure. Compare local evidence, property type and achieved sales before setting a price or negotiating.
Sources: Rightmove House Price Index, October 2026 (issued 19 October)
Retail sales dip in September despite quarterly growth
ONS figures released on 23 October estimate that Great Britain’s retail sales volumes fell 0.4% in September, following August’s revised 0.7% rise. Over July to September as a whole, volumes were 0.7% higher than the previous quarter. Monthly volatility should not be mistaken for a uniform change in occupier demand.
Goldman view: the high street is not one market. Leasing decisions should be based on local footfall, tenant trading and the individual unit, not one national retail reading.
