Islington Council has outlined its priorities for 2026 after a year that saw hundreds of families move into affordable homes, major investment in public spaces, and millions secured in cost-of-living support for residents.
In a New Year message, council leader Cllr Una O’Halloran reflected on what she described as a challenging but productive 2025, pointing to tangible improvements across housing, welfare support and community facilities.
Housing remained a central focus throughout the year. The council says hundreds of families were rehoused in safe, genuinely affordable homes, while planning permission was granted for a major regeneration scheme at the Barnsbury Estate. The development is expected to deliver 1,116 new homes in what the authority describes as a once-in-a-generation project.
Alongside housing delivery, financial support for residents continued to expand. Since April 2024, Islington’s Income Maximisation Service has helped residents secure £16.2 million in additional income, with further help available through the council’s Resident Support Scheme.
Investment in public spaces and services also featured prominently in the council’s year-in-review. Barnard Park reopened following a full refurbishment, while children across the borough benefited from free meals and holiday activity programmes. More than 200,000 visits were recorded at the newly upgraded Sobell Leisure Centre, and the borough’s Black Cultural Centre hosted events throughout the year celebrating culture, diversity and opportunity.
Community recognition was another highlight. The council awarded Freedom of the Borough to Arsenal Women following their UEFA Champions League win, and to local fundraiser John David Dade, who has raised almost £500,000 for the Poppy Appeal.
Looking ahead, the council says its focus for 2026 will remain on expanding affordable housing, protecting tenants, improving street safety, and widening opportunities for young people.
Cllr O’Halloran said the council would continue to centre its decisions around residents:
“Every project, every service, every decision is about making life better for you and your neighbours – we are making it happen by working together for a more equal future.”
