In-depth political analysis of the Green-led boroughs in London  

The 2026 local elections have reshaped London’s political landscape. The Green Party now controls Hackney, Lewisham and Waltham Forest, while also holding significant influence in Lambeth, Southwark and Haringey through minority administrations and coalitions.

As Green politicians take on positions of power across the capital, they are beginning to shape local policy, planning decisions and regeneration priorities. Understanding how these new administrations are operating is becoming increasingly important for anyone working in the built environment. 

For anyone working across London’s built environment, this report is a snapshot of where Green influence is now translating into power. It looks at the boroughs where the party is leading or shaping administrations, the key leaders driving the agenda, and the early decisions that indicate how these councils may approach housing, regeneration, public services and local governance. 

This first edition covers:

The Greens’ gains across London

How the party took control of Hackney, Lewisham and Waltham Forest, became the largest party in Lambeth and Haringey, and entered coalition government in Southwark. 

Six borough deep dives 

Detailed political profiles of Lewisham, Lambeth, Southwark, Hackney, Haringey and Waltham Forest, including leadership, governance models, housing priorities and the early direction of each new administration

The first Planning Committee decisions

Analysis of the earliest planning meetings under the new administrations, highlighting emerging approaches to affordable housing, viability, design and development.

The Mayor of London affordable housing legal challenge

An examination of the dispute over the Mayor of London’s emergency housing measures and why Green-led boroughs are opposing the reduction of the affordable housing threshold from 35% to 20%. 

The key political figures shaping London’s Green agenda 

Profiles of the mayors and council leaders now driving decision-making across Green-led and Green-influenced boroughs.