The session focused around the work of the NLA Circular Economy Special Interest Group (SIG), chaired by Jonny Plant of Corstorphine & Wright, whose presentation highlighted both the momentum building across the sector and the significant structural barriers that still remain. The SIG’s ambition is not simply to document best practice, but to help shape an inspiring and tangible vision of a future built environment where circularity becomes embedded within mainstream delivery. 

A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the tension between aspiration and delivery reality. While examples of circular economy thinking are increasing across sectors and scales, panel members reflected on how progress is still often constrained by viability pressures, fragmented supply chains, programme certainty and traditional procurement structures. Questions emerged around how reuse and retrofit can become “business as usual” rather than exceptional case studies, particularly in a market environment where short-term cost certainty still dominates decision-making. 

Importantly, the discussion moved beyond individual buildings and towards the wider systems needed to support circularity. The panel explored what a functioning circular economy might look like at borough and regional scale — including the role of material hubs, local supply chains, planning policy alignment and community infrastructure. Tipping Point East in Newham and retrofit-led neighbourhood strategies in Camden were referenced as emerging examples of this more holistic approach, where retrofit, energy infrastructure, health, mobility and community resilience are considered together rather than in isolation. 

The conversation around Somers Town in Camden particularly resonated with the group, demonstrating how retrofit can extend beyond carbon reduction to support broader social and health outcomes. Members discussed the value of integrated approaches that connect retrofit with heat networks, active travel, food growing, public health and community engagement. The role of local authorities in enabling these long-term transitions was also highlighted, alongside the importance of blended finance models and stronger collaboration between public and private sector stakeholders. 

Alongside the circular economy discussion, the panel also began shaping NLA’s 2026 net zero programme and London Climate Action Week activity. Proposed themes included the future of new residential delivery under tightening energy standards, and how retrofit can be unlocked at neighbourhood scale through live study tours and real-world case studies. The panel agreed there is growing value in creating more practical, experiential learning opportunities that allow the sector to engage directly with projects, communities and delivery teams. 

The session reinforced a broader point that has increasingly defined the work of the Net Zero Expert Panel: achieving net zero is no longer solely a technical challenge. It is equally about leadership, systems thinking, collaboration and the ability to connect policy, finance, infrastructure, design and social outcomes into coherent delivery models. Circular economy principles are beginning to demonstrate what this integrated future could look like. However, scaling adoption will require confidence, coordination and a willingness across the industry to rethink long-established ways of working. 

The panel will reconvene in July at PRP to continue these conversations, with a growing focus on healthy cities, future neighbourhoods and the role net zero must play in shaping resilient, equitable urban environments.