Lewisham Mayor Shrivastava marks 100 days, tackles fly-tipping and housing

Lewisham Mayor Liam Shrivastava has marked his first 100 days in office, during which the borough's Green administration has initiated a review of its collaboration with Home Office immigration enforcement. The council plans to refuse assistance on immigration raids whenever legally permissible. This move makes Lewisham the first UK council to pass such a motion, with Mayor Shrivastava indicating that other council leaders have expressed interest in a similar approach. The council will conduct a thorough review of its systems and processes concerning immigration enforcement assistance.

Tackling Fly-Tipping and Housing Challenges

In response to a significant rise in fly-tipping incidents, Lewisham Council has been actively working on its Love Lewisham campaign. The borough recorded 33,471 fly-tips in 2024/25, making it the third worst affected in London. Since May, the council reports clearing over 11,000 instances of dumped waste and issuing more than 65 fines to offenders. The campaign includes local action days, additional crews for bulky waste collections, and increased CCTV surveillance.

Mayor Shrivastava is also focused on increasing genuinely affordable housing. He has joined forces with the Mayors of Tower Hamlets and Hackney to legally challenge London Mayor Sadiq Khan's emergency housing measures. These measures, introduced to expedite development, allow for fast-tracking projects that deliver 20% affordable housing, a reduction from the previous 35% target. Mayor Shrivastava stated that the challenge reflects the administration's principles regarding affordable housing.

Supporting Food Justice and Community Initiatives

Mayor Shrivastava is demonstrating his commitment to food justice and poverty reduction by donating 20% of his mayoral allowance to local organisations. The first donation supported a community meal at All Saints Community Centre in New Cross. The Mayor has expressed a desire to establish a food justice hub, envisioned as a space incorporating a social supermarket, community kitchen, and commercial kitchen facilities for small food businesses. Additionally, the Sydenham Night Market, featuring local food and drink businesses, has been launched and runs until September 17.

The council has also established a Rogue Landlord Taskforce to enhance enforcement against landlords and ensure compliance with the Renters’ Rights Act. Plans are also underway for the council to buy back properties.