Lib Dems defend Vauxhall Square vote.

Lambeth Liberal Democrats have hit back at Green Party criticism of their support for the Vauxhall Square development, arguing that the scheme's £80 million contribution towards off-site social housing could fund 350-400 council homes - more than the total built by Labour in 20 years of control.

In a statement responding to the Green Party opinion piece published by Brixton Buzz last week, the Lib Dems said the Greens' position "shows a misunderstanding of the borough's limited freedom in making planning decisions."

The party pointed out that the scheme provides 25% affordable housing - more than the 20% required by the Mayor of London's planning guidance - and warned that rejecting the application risked it being overruled by the Mayor or the Planning Inspectorate at additional cost to council taxpayers.

The development includes 122 social rent homes and 120 discounted rent homes built on site, alongside the £80 million payment in lieu of further affordable housing elsewhere in the borough.

Lib Dem housing spokesperson Cllr Simon Cordon said:

"Lambeth is lagging far behind our housebuilding target and this scheme will raise an extra £80 million to build hundreds of council homes across Lambeth in addition to the 122 social rent homes on site. This will help hundreds of families currently living in overcrowded accommodation, and people at risk of homelessness. The Green Party lack an alternative plan for providing the social housing Lambeth desperately needs. Their knee-jerk opposition to housing schemes, even those that provide hundreds of affordable homes and social housing, is irresponsible given Lambeth's housing crisis."

The Lib Dems also noted that following the centralisation of planning powers by successive Conservative and Labour governments, local councils have limited freedom over planning decisions and must comply with national and London policy or face legal challenge.