Housing for Health: Waltham Forest’s Bold Strategy

Waltham Forest’s bold housing strategy is redefining what a council-led approach to housing can be—placing health and wellbeing at its core. In this episode, Eoin Quiery (Head of Housing Strategy, London Borough of Waltham Forest) and Will Temple (Senior Associate Director, PRD) share how they built an ambitious, resident-led roadmap to tackle affordability, homelessness, and sustainability. 

Housing as a health issue – Homes must be safe, warm, and affordable to heat. 

Resident voices matter – Extensive engagement helped shape the strategy, uncovering concerns about affordability, private renting, and regeneration. 

Strategic partnerships – The Housing Compact with housing associations strengthens delivery. 

Action on homelessness – A Housing Sustainment Team is preventing evictions early. 

Climate resilience – Retrofit success at Southfield Court shows healthier homes = better lives. 

Challenges Discussed: 

Rising housing costs – Waltham Forest has seen the fastest house price growth in the UK. 

Landlord exodus – Many private landlords are exiting the sector, creating instability. 

Public perception of development – Ensuring new homes feel accessible and beneficial to all. 

Resources: 

• Waltham Forest Housing Strategy: www.walthamforest.gov.uk 

• Marmot Review on Health Inequalities: www.instituteofhealthequity.org 

• UK Private Rental Sector Legislation: www.gov.uk/private-renting 

Waltham Forest is proving that housing is more than bricks and mortar—it’s a foundation for healthier lives.