Islington Council is set to enhance its support for housing delivery by granting a 250-year lease to Shelter from the Storm (SFTS), a local charity dedicated to aiding the homeless.
The decision, made at an Executive meeting on 26 June 2025, will allow SFTS to develop 11 new homes on council-owned land at Roseleigh Avenue, currently used as a car park. The development will be fully funded by SFTS, with seven of the homes designated as affordable rentals for households at risk of homelessness. Additionally, two three-bedroom units will be transferred to the council to provide much-needed family-sized council housing.
The 250-year lease has been granted at a peppercorn rent.
The move aligns with Islington's Strategic Asset Management Plan and its mission to provide a safe place to call home. The council aims to make the best use of its assets to deliver affordable housing, as stated in the Executive reports pack.
The Executive has delegated authority to the Corporate Director of Community Wealth Building to finalise the lease, following consultation with the Executive Member for Homes & Neighbourhoods, as detailed in the Executive reports pack. This decision underscores Islington's commitment to innovative partnerships in addressing housing needs.
The council's initiative reflects a strategic approach to leveraging community partnerships and resources to tackle homelessness and housing shortages, ensuring more residents have access to stable and affordable homes.