Currently, just 1.5% of homes in the area are classed as ‘intermediate’, ie at least 20% below market rent.

This comes as Westminster City Council has revised its housing target and now plans to build 1,495 new homes each year, with 35% of these properties being classed as affordable.

Developers will also be encouraged to use modern methods of construction – such as modular homes, where suitable – to build high-quality affordable homes.

The council is working on its city plan to set out how Westminster will enter the next few decades.

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This will focus on three themes: creating more affordable homes, the right environment for business growth and more green spaces.

Richard Beddoe, cabinet member for planning and public realm at Westminster City Council, said: “We’re proud that one in four of our homes are social housing but, as a city for all, we’re determined to create homes for our residents, especially average earners and middle-income families.

“We’ve laid down the gauntlet for developers by introducing less restrictive rules. 

“Now they need to do their bit and provide the homes for the working families who keep our city moving. 

“Providing social housing remains a priority, but the lack of intermediate homes must be addressed.”