Southwark Housing Commission to report on housing future

The independent housing commission has been appointed by Southwark Council to explore options for the future financing, ownership and operation of Southwark's housing stock for the 30 years beyond 2015/16. The commission has also examined proposals and will make recommendations for an investment strategy, for up to thirty years, that is sustainable, affordable and breaks the current cycle of an escalating demand for diminishing resources.

The commission is chaired by housing lawyer Jan Luba QC and is composed of experts. The preparation of the report has involved calls for evidence and information from stakeholders, tenants, leaseholders, residents, and all those who are involved and interested in providing housing across the borough.

"The provision of affordable, quality homes in places where people are proud to live is at the heart of (the Council's) vision. However, the Council face challenging years ahead and will need to develop a long term council housing strategy that meets the aspirations of tenants and is both sustainable and financially viable," the commission has said.

"Given cuts in government funding and levels of deprivation in Southwark the task of delivering improved housing is immense. One of the biggest challenges facing the Borough is providing a fairer place to live for tomorrow’s council tenants," it said.

The appointment of the commission is part of the Council's £326m five year housing investment programme, which is designed to ensure that all of the Council’s homes are made warm, dry and safe.

The report's findings could also be useful to other local authorities facing similar changes, the commission has said.