Roman Road is a vibrant and diverse community that is in jeopardy. The area has the lowest home ownership rates in London, with 76% of accommodation provided by housing associations or private landlords. The private rental sector is expensive and short term. The housing provision is not meeting the long-term needs of residents who are finding themselves in compromised and unstable housing. This is coupled with a lack of affordable or social housing developments proposed in the area.

Therefore after identifying a plot close to Roman Road we made contact with the landowner in March 2018, informing them we were interested in setting up a Community Land Trust (CLT) to provide affordable housing for local people, on the land. We were encouraged by the landowner that they would consider our proposal. This was the catalyst in starting our journey in establishing the Roman Road Community Land Trust (RRCLT). Since then we have campaigned locally at the Roman Road market, online and through local community groups to gain support and bring together a core steering committee. We have heard many stories of local people struggling to stay in their homes or being separated from their families. Through support from National Community Land Trust Network (NCLTN) we have been having regular meetings to develop the core vision and objectives:

“... to protect the diverse community that makes Roman Road unique in perpetuity by providing truly affordable housing. We want to create an alternative solution for residents who are being forced out of the area due to increased property prices.”

However we need more support locally from people who can help lead positive change in our community before it is too late. We are in a rare position with so few sites in London where it is possible for the community to even get a look in, we cannot let this one go. The landowner has recently informed us that they are considering alternative options, therefore we need the full support from the community before it’s too late. Individually, members contribute their local knowledge and expertise, together, we have influence and weight to attract funding and the affordable housing we all want to see.

Please get in touch through the Roman Road Community Land Trust website or our Facebook page and join us at our next meeting.