Barking and Dagenham Council’s Cabinet approved a new five-year Housing Strategy yesterday (Monday 16 February), setting out a bold plan to deliver more affordable homes, raise standards across the borough’s housing stock, tackle tough sleeping and homelessness, and support residents to live well in safe, secure neighbourhoods. 

The strategy sets a clear long-term vision for housing in Barking and Dagenham, reflecting the borough’s increasing population and economic opportunities, and the need to ensure that everyone has access to a decent, affordable place to call home. It brings together plans to accelerate new home delivery, improve the quality and sustainability of existing homes, and tackle health inequalities through joint working with other services. 

Rooted in the council’s It Starts Here vision, the strategy recognises that good housing is the foundation for good health. From early years to later life, secure housing is where strong communities are built and futures begin.

Councillor Maureen Worby, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Health and Housing, said: “The council’s Housing Strategy is about putting residents first but also being honest about the scale of the challenge we face. Barking and Dagenham is changing fast, and we are determined to make sure that change works for everyone.

“It starts here with safe, affordable homes that people can rely on; homes that give families stability, support good health and open the door to opportunity. We’re proud to be one of the top affordable housebuilders in London, but there’s more to do. This five-year strategy sets out how we will continue to work with partners to deliver the homes our borough needs, now and for the future.”

The strategy outlines the council’s commitment to working closely with housing associations, developers, private landlords and residents to deliver high-quality homes, improve housing management and support those most affected by the cost-of-living and housing crises. It sets out plans to:

• Deliver more genuinely affordable homes and make better use of existing homes
• Strengthen homelessness prevention and reduce reliance on temporary accommodation
• Raise standards on repairs, safety and compliance, including a zero-tolerance approach to damp and mould
• Increase the supply of accessible and adaptable homes, and improve pathways for residents who need support
• Strengthen resident involvement through scrutiny and co-production

By taking a long-term, place-based approach, the council aims to ensure that housing services supports growing neighbourhoods, stronger communities and a greener, more inclusive borough.

A Resident Scrutiny Panel is being established to oversee the strategy, review performance and shape further improvements.

Residents who would like to join the panel and be part of fulfilling the Council’s housing ambitions can get in touch at housingstrategy@lbbd.gov.uk.

For more information see the Strategy and Action Plan on the council’s website at www.lbbd.gov.uk/housing/housing-strategy-2026-31