London’s system for allocating social housing is facing growing criticism as waiting lists climb to their highest level in more than 10 years, with more than 341,000 households now seeking a

home across the capital.

Evidence heard by the London Assembly Housing Committee has revealed intense pressure on local councils and wide disparities in how social housing is allocated between boroughs. Campaigners and experts warn that the current system is struggling to cope with a chronic shortage of homes, rising homelessness, overcrowded living conditions and an increase in evictions from the private rented sector.

Witnesses, including academics and local authority representatives, told the committee that allocation systems are being stretched by the need to balance a range of complex and competing housing needs. They also raised concerns about poor coordination between councils and housing associations, alongside the emergence of a “postcode lottery”, where waiting times, transparency and the likelihood of securing a home vary significantly depending on where applicants live.

The committee will meet on Wednesday to examine whether a more consistent, pan-London approach to social housing allocation is required. Members will also consider what role the Mayor of London could play, through guidance, policy frameworks or existing mobility schemes, to improve fairness, efficiency and outcomes across the capital.

The session will hear from two panels of witnesses. The first will include Daniel Reast, senior research officer at the Centre for London; Neil Morland, an independent housing consultant; Professor Katherine Brickell, professor of urban studies at King’s College London; and Dr Mel Nowicki, senior lecturer in urban geography at Oxford Brookes University.

The second panel will feature Tom Copley, Deputy Mayor for Housing and Residential Development, and Rory Weal, interim head of housing strategy at the Greater London Authority.

The meeting will take place on Wednesday 17 December 2025 from 2pm at City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, E16 1ZE. Media and members of the public are invited to attend, and the session will also be available to watch live or on demand via webcast and YouTube.

Updates can be followed on social media at @LondonAssembly.