Southwark Council's housing department has been described as having serious failings
by the Regulator of Social Housing, according to minutes from a Council Assembly meeting held on Wednesday, September 23, 2026. The revelation comes as the newly formed Joint Administration inherits what it terms a grim legacy
from the previous Labour administration. This legacy includes not only the housing department's rating but also a significant budget gap that the previous administration neither prepared for, nor adequately challenged its own government on.
The administration's core principles are to make Southwark more affordable, safer, and greener. To achieve these goals, a comprehensive Borough Action Plan will be developed over the next four years. This plan aims to make Southwark a place where residents find it easier to afford everyday essentials and young people are in good and sustainable jobs and training. It also focuses on delivering climate justice measures, enhancing biodiversity, reducing emissions, and significantly increasing recycling rates.
Furthermore, the action plan will address the housing crisis by building more council homes, improving tenant and leaseholder satisfaction, and reducing the number of void properties. The administration is also committed to tackling crime and anti-social behaviour, prioritising prevention, and taking effective enforcement action to build safer neighbourhoods. A key focus will be on preventing violence against women and girls, and protecting residents from extreme weather events.
Clean and green streets
are also a priority, with efforts to tackle fly-tipping and improve air quality by encouraging more walking, cycling, and public transport use. The administration pledges to defend Southwark's interests
by being loud and bold
in its demands of the government, particularly regarding the reported £102 million funding gap. They aim to provide good value for money and stand up for local people, refusing to accept declining standards as inevitable.
Central to the new administration's approach is creating a council that listens and residents can shape.
This will involve delivering community councils to empower residents to shape their local areas and establishing one stop shops
to make it easier to contact the council and receive timely answers. The aim is for residents to feel a tangible change, with the council actively listening to and acting on their feedback.
Finally, the plan aims to make Southwark a place to grow up and grow old well,
ensuring families can afford to live in the borough and providing services and amenities for all age groups. This includes ensuring residents can age well with appropriate homes and services.
Progress already noted by the new administration includes launching a uniform programme for families in need, accelerating the heatwave response, and investing £600,000 in Night Time Patrols. Further details on the Borough Action Plan can be found in the Printed minutes.
