ONE of London’s most experienced housing campaigners is set to be appointed Tenants’ Champion, should Conservatives retain control of Wandsworth Council on May 3.
Mira Bar-Hillel was the housing correspondent of the Evening Standard for over 30 years.
During her career she has continually stood up for the rights of Londoners. Her biggest victory was a Standard campaign which resulted in legislation in 1996 enabling millions of leaseholders to fight back against rogue landlords and agents. She will bring her vast experience and passion to Wandsworth if there is a Conservative victory on May 3.
Her role will be to champion AST tenants’ rights in private sector housing, defending tenants from landlords/agents who fail to fulfill their obligations to keep rented property safe and secure.
She will actively take on individual cases where there is a conflict between tenant and landlord, with aim of bringing about a mutually acceptable resolution.
Mira is just one of a number of 'Champions' that the Conservatives plan to bring into the Town Hall should they retain control, marshaling expertise both inside and outside of the council. Champions will also be appointed for Older People, New Homes and Healthy Streets.
Council leader Cllr Ravi Govindia, CBE, said: “One in three people are living in the rented private sector. For most it is a convenient and an affordable choice and the vast majority of landlords are responsible.
“However we know that problems do exist particularly when it comes to inadequate maintenance, inflated agency fees and return of deposits. Put simply we will not allow Wandsworth residents living in the private rented sector to be treated unfairly which is why I will be delighted to welcome Mira who is one of London’s most respected voices on housing should voters put in their faith in us on May 3.
“Our record on housing is one of delivery. We have earmarked £350 million to improve housing in Wandsworth, building new homes for people on low and middle incomes, improving our existing council housing and transforming housing estates in Roehampton and Battersea. The appointment of Mira will ensure that no stone is left unturned when it comes to safeguarding tenants’ rights and conditions in Wandsworth regardless of who the landlord is.”
Mira said: “Some councils believe that the answer is more licensing schemes for landlords. In my experience, without enforcement these schemes are little more than hollow PR exercises. I intend to roll up my sleeves and work tirelessly to resolve the problems of local people living in the private rented sector within the existing legal framework – while campaigning to improve it to their benefit."