By coincidence the area chosen was one I had been to previously in 2022 and it was an estate owned by 2 housing associations, L&Q and Sovereign Network. Shaban's ward colleague, Rita had a work commitment and could not make it.
The canvass was largely very positive and Shaban was well known in the estate as an active Councillor, and being born and bred in Canning Town and as a local shopkeeper.
There was a refurbishment scheme going on which was causing problems and concerns to residents which generated a lot of case work.
I am always interested in Housing communal notice boards and L&Q seemed better than Sovereign but I noticed that their estate inspections seemed over due, but at least they were publicised unlike Sovereign. Sovereign was also criticised by residents for not responding to emails. Newham Housing has I admit very similar issues.
As Labour Group Chair I am planning to visit all Newham wards in the next few months.
