The Sustainable Development Framework (SDF) positioned Transport for London as a leader in sustainable property development, securing a five-star GRESB rating and ranking first in the UK and third globally. Developed as a metric-driven system structured around nine sustainability dimensions and 120 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), the framework integrated environmental stewardship, social value and financial performance into a single performance-led approach.

Michael Cowdy acted as Project Director for the Climate & Ecological Resilience and Vibrant Places dimensions, overseeing the preparation of strategic optimisation briefs for development sites centred around public transport interchanges. The work included delivery of over 40 graphical reports across 20 pilot schemes, ranging from 100 to 3,000 residential units along key rail corridors. The commission encompassed benchmarking, KPI development, strategic framework design, stakeholder engagement, piloting and interactive dashboard integration.

Seven bespoke KPIs were established within the Vibrant Places dimension to articulate the value of high-quality public realm and building design. Combining qualitative and quantitative metrics, the framework prioritised vibrancy, inclusivity and legibility while enabling measurable performance outcomes. Implementation contributed to a 56% reduction in carbon emissions, £20 million in capital cost savings and an average Urban Greening Factor of 0.43, establishing a benchmark for performance-led, resilient urban development.