Waltham Forest Council has approved a major funding boost to tackle temporary housing needs in the borough, with a total of £28.8 million set to deliver at least 64 new affordable homes. This includes an £8.6 million grant from the Greater London Authority (GLA), alongside £20.2 million in council borrowing.

The initiative, called the Temporary Accommodation Acquisition Programme, aims to reduce the borough’s reliance on expensive and often unsuitable private temporary housing. Families who might otherwise be placed in hotels or temporary units outside Waltham Forest will instead have access to secure and stable housing closer to their community networks.

Councillor Ahsan Khan, Deputy Leader for Housing and Regeneration, said the programme is about protecting the borough’s most vulnerable residents. “It’s vital that families are supported through challenging times and can remain in their communities, near schools, support networks, and employment,” he stated.

The Council estimates that the move will save approximately £6 million over the next decade by avoiding costly private accommodation, while also ensuring better living conditions for those in need. The homes will be acquired on the open market and refurbished where necessary to meet quality standards.

The programme aligns with wider housing initiatives across Waltham Forest, including the Marlowe Road estate regeneration and further plans to increase the borough’s stock of genuinely affordable homes.

This decision underscores the Council’s ongoing commitment to housing equity, economic efficiency, and social inclusion—ensuring more residents have the chance to live with dignity and security.