Islington Council has approved a significant £2.4 billion plan to improve its housing stock over the next 30 years, following a critical judgement from the Regulator of Social Housing.
The decision, made by the council's Executive on Thursday 30 July 2026, was prompted by a C3 regulatory judgement issued by the Regulator of Social Housing. This judgement indicated serious failings in the council's delivery of consumer standards and highlighted the need for significant improvement. The inspection that led to this judgement took place in May 2026.
The Housing Improvement Plan outlines ambitious targets for enhancing stock conditions, conducting tenancy audits, and improving overall service delivery. Councillor Jason Jackson, Executive Member for Homes and Neighbourhoods, stated that the plan directly addresses the urgent needs identified by the regulator and aims to rebuild confidence and deliver excellence for tenants and leaseholders.
Key investments within the plan include £485 million allocated for housing stock improvements over the next five years, alongside a £58 million buyback programme designed to increase the number of homes under Islington's ownership. The council is also committed to achieving a 100% Decent Homes Standard across its entire housing stock by 2030.
The total investment of £2.426 billion over the 30-year lifespan of the plan will be funded primarily through the Housing Revenue Account (HRA), in line with the HRA Business Plan that was approved by the Council in February 2026.
To ensure transparency and tenant involvement in the implementation of the Housing Improvement Plan, the council will be publishing the plan and sharing it widely with tenants. Feedback will be actively sought to shape the plan's development. Progress reports will be presented to the Homes and Communities Scrutiny Committee, the Executive, and the Regulator of Social Housing. The council intends to build upon the positive tenant engagement culture noted by the Regulator, using residents' voices to refine services, including Tenancy and Housing Needs services, centrally provided services, and repairs and maintenance.
A Housing Improvement Board will be established to oversee these improvements. This board will be chaired by an independent figure and will provide regular reports to the Homes and Communities Scrutiny Committee.
Further details on the council's approach to communication and engagement can be found in the Communications and Engagement Strategy 2026-30 document. Communications and Engagement Strategy 2026-30
The council's Executive meeting details can be found in the Agenda frontsheet 30th Jul 2026 18.00 Executive, Public reports pack 30th Jul 2026 18.00 Executive, and Decisions 30th Jul 2026 18.00 Executive.
