Southwark Council Embraces Housing Scrutiny Recommendations
Southwark Council has accepted six out of seven recommendations from its Housing Scrutiny Commission, signalling a commitment to improving housing services and resident engagement.
The Executive committee met on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, to review the commission's findings, which covered a range of critical areas including the council's work with social landlord partners, major works projects on several estates, the resident engagement strategy, and the use of temporary accommodation.
Councillor Reginald Popoola, Executive Member for Council Homes, presented the council's response, highlighting the acceptance of recommendations aimed at strengthening relationships with housing associations, improving oversight of major works, and ensuring residents have a more significant voice in departmental improvements.
Key accepted recommendations include the identification of a single point of contact within the Housing Department to liaise with social landlords, the maintenance and regular sharing of an updated register of housing association contact details, and the revitalisation of the Housing Association Forum to foster closer working and knowledge sharing.
The council also committed to continuing to review major works projects for potential cost recovery, particularly where works fall short of contractual requirements. This commitment follows significant issues identified with major works projects on the Fair Street/Devon Mansions, Canada, and Kirby Estates.
Regarding the revised Resident Engagement Strategy, the council acknowledged the need for a more resident-centric approach that reflects the diverse histories, stock conditions, and tenant/leaseholder balances of different estates. While the strategy already incorporates flexibility, the council will further strengthen this narrative in its next review, scheduled for 2028.
However, one recommendation was not accepted. The commission had suggested exploring mechanisms to let properties earmarked for demolition as permanent tenancies during substantial delays. The council's response indicated that granting permanent tenancies in such cases could significantly complicate, increase the cost, and prolong regeneration schemes due to statutory rights and protections afforded to tenants, including the right to buy. The council stated it would continue to provide occupants with as much certainty as possible regarding timescales and future accommodation.
The Executive's acceptance of the majority of the recommendations demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing resident concerns and enhancing the effectiveness of housing services across the borough.