Local decision makers have reposed to our statement in favour of affordable housing quotas in Islington remaining at 50% with at least 35% social housing, despite the GLA’s reductions to the quotas to 20%.

We had responses came from Jeremy Corbyn MP, as well as the leaders of the local Green Party, Labour Party and Islington Community Independents. You can read some of their replies in full below.  

Thank you to all the groups and individuals who signed the statement – its now been sent to Tom Copley, London’s Deputy Mayor for Housing and Residential Development, and Sem Moema, the London Assembly Member for North East London, as well as the local newspapers.  You can read the statement here 

Thank you for the email I can say that this is something that we will support, we believe that housing is a human right and stand firm on our principles that we need more social housing at social rents.

Cllr Ilkay Cinco-Oner, Leader, Islington Community Independents

Thank you for this letter. I wholeheartedly sign onto the principles and asks – and will come back with a party wide statement 

We’ve attacked the degradation of standards for social housing  – and won’t stop speaking out. Any government that prioritises developers and profits over social housing and community investment has lost the plot. 

Cllr Benali Hamdache, Leader, Islington Green Party

Islington Labour have long recognised the scale and urgency of the housing crisis and has already taken decisive action to address it locally.

We have consistently set one of the most ambitious affordable housing policies in the UK, requiring 50% affordable housing on major developments, with at least 35% at social rent, reflecting the needs of residents on our housing waiting list.

We have also used the planning system to secure vital investment in local infrastructure through the Community Infrastructure Levy, ensuring that new development contributes to parks, transport, health facilities and community spaces. This approach supports sustainable growth and helps ensure that development benefits existing communities as well as new residents.

Crucially, Islington’s Labour Council has prioritised local democratic decision-making, working closely with residents and community organisations to shape development in a way that reflects local needs and aspirations. We have consistently defended the role of councils in planning decisions and the importance of community voice in shaping neighbourhoods.

We believe progress on housing must build on these principles: genuinely affordable homes, strong investment in local services, and accountable local decision-making. we will continue to advocate for solutions that meet Londoners’ needs and protect the long-term wellbeing of our communities.

Cllr Una O’Halloran, Leader, Islington Labour Party