Lewisham's new Mayor, Liam Shrivastava, has unveiled his administration's vision for the borough, centred on a 'Restore Pride' agenda. Speaking at the Council's annual general meeting on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, Mayor Shrivastava outlined key priorities including tackling visible issues like fly-tipping and waste management, driving forward an ambitious housing programme, and reshaping the local economy.

Mayor Shrivastava emphasised a commitment to serving the entire borough and fostering collaboration across the council chamber. Our focus now is on delivery, and ensuring that residents see tangible change, he stated. He added that the council will work constructively across this chamber, drawing on the experience and insight of members from all parties and in close partnership with our officers, our community organisations, and our residents to address differing priorities.

The 'Restore Pride' initiative aims to address neglected spaces and improve the overall appearance of the borough through practical measures and community engagement, such as encouraging community gardening. To measure success, the agenda will involve strengthening enforcement, improving waste systems on estates, and working directly with communities to tackle problem areas and beautify them. This is about more than cleanliness. It's about restoring confidence that the council is responsive, present, and on the side of residents, the Mayor added.

A significant focus will be placed on housing, with plans to deliver genuinely affordable homes for social rent and expand retrofit programmes. We believe housing is a fundamental human right, and our approach will reflect that principle, Mayor Shrivastava declared.

The administration also intends to reshape the local economy by building an economy of care. To achieve this, the Council will leverage its influence and spending power to support local businesses, strengthen ethical supply chains, invest in green industries and social care, and create opportunities rooted in the borough. This approach aims to align growth with fairness, resilience, and long-term wellbeing.

Furthermore, Mayor Shrivastava announced his intention to bring back Lewisham People's Day, a celebration of the borough's communities and culture, as part of a broader effort to strengthen community life and civic pride.

For more details on the council's plans, refer to the Public reports pack 20th May 2026.