There is a desperate need for social housing in Lewisham.
If I am elected as Labour’s Mayoral candidate, I will fight to ensure that the GLA, developers and Lewisham Council work together to build far more social and genuinely affordable housing.
I have a robust record on housing. I am a board member of Phoenix Community Housing Co-op, a tenant-led housing association which provides social housing across Downham and Bellingham. Before that I set up and chaired the Housing Committee on Lewisham Council.
I have worked with Phoenix on a 60-apartment extra care complex in Downham which will free up much needed social housing in the borough whilst providing community and care facilities and allowing residents to maintain their independence. Hazelhurst Court will be completed in September and is expected to be fully let by December.
I agree with Sadiq Khan where he says:
“London, like many other cities, faces tough challenges in meeting the housing needs of its population. Everyone should have access to a suitable place to live, supply should meet demand.”
Social renters should be protected from sky high rents, private renters should get a fair deal and high standards. There should be new genuinely affordable housing, so that ordinary people have the choice to buy a home. No one should sleep on the street – we must ensure we help those that don’t have a home at all.
Lewisham Council’s record on housing is good, but it can always be improved. There is so much more to be done for our residents.
I know we can vastly improve the rate at which we provide social housing in the borough despite imposed cuts and austerity. Together we can provide good quality council & social housing, community facilities and jobs for local people. I will work with the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan to get a good deal for Lewisham.
Housing is in crisis, it must be a priority.
As your Mayor, I will fight tirelessly to improve social and council housing.
Dispossession Screening & Panel
On Saturday 9th September, I will be speaking on a panel following the screening of Dispossession: The Great Social Housing Swindle.
Buy tickets here.
Watch the trailer.