Legal News

A new survey has found that 82% of Londoners believe the capital is in the throes of a housing crisis.

An estimated 800,000 homes will be needed in the capital by 2021 and the Councils’ Survey of housing found that 27% of Londoners felt the need for affordable housing in the capital outweighed other issues such as transport or immigration.

Almost half (42%) of those questioned felt that London councils should be given more power by the Treasury over the way they use taxpayers’ money.

The poll by Ipsos MORI surveyed 1,000 Londoners aged over 18 in October 2013. The results of the telephone survey have been released before a debate in Westminster this week, which will be attended by key speakers such as London Councils’ executive member for housing Sir Steve Bullock, who said:

“Housing impacts on education, social care and business growth and Londoners want leadership.

“This polling shows that affordable housing is everybody’s problem – the housing crisis is bad for individuals, bad for families and bad for businesses. London’s future is on the line.”

Other leading public figures attending the Westminster debate include former New Labour Home Secretary Alan Johnson MP and Conservative MP Bob Neill.

The MORI poll of Londoners found that nearly half (47%) attributed London’s housing crisis to a lack of affordable homes and spiralling house prices – while 39% blamed lack of housing in London on immigration and a rising population. A total of 37% blamed lack of investment in affordable housing and lack of building or supply.

Duncan Lewis Housing Solicitors

Duncan Lewis is a leading firm of housing solicitors and can advise on Local Authority housing, disrepair of rental property, debt and mortgage repossession and Landlord and Tenant matters, including unlawful eviction.

For expert advice on housing law and Landlord and Tenant disputes, contact Duncan Lewis housing solicitors on 020 7923 4020.