Last updated: 25 April 2024
Next review: 15 April 2025
About Waltham Forest Council
Waltham Forest is one of the most diverse areas in the country. An estimated 47% of residents come from a minority ethnic background, many of whose first language is other than English. We are a vibrant and culturally rich borough, benefiting from a blend of ages, heritage ad local history.
The borough is divided into four areas; Chingford, Walthamstow, Leyton and Leytonstone. Each area has its own identity and heritage, from the Queen Elizabeth Hunting Lodge in Chingford to London’s oldest house in Walthamstow.
Waltham Forest is a borough of contrasts. We’re a sought-after destination named the coolest neighbourhood in London by Time Out magazine. We have a thriving business district and close transport links to central London. We’re also home to Europe’s largest wetlands, in Walthamstow, and the southern part of Epping Forest, which extends into Chingford.
Our cultural heritage is rich and spans hundreds of years. Our most famous ex-residents include William Morris, Alfred Hitchcock and Beryl Swain. We’re the birthplace of two men’s England football captains, David Beckham and Harry Kane, and the designer of the iPod, Jonny Ive - all three of whom attended the same local school (although not at the same time).
In 2019 we became the first London Borough of Culture.
We also have a proud musical heritage. At different times Waltham Forest has been home to Ian Drury, Damon Alborn, Talvin Singh, Fleur East and festive favourites East 17, who regularly return to the Town Hall for a Christmas performance.
Our local attractions include the William Morris Gallery, Vestry House Museum and God’s Own Junkyard; plus in 2023 the Soho Theatre Walthamstow will be opening its doors to bring world-class comedy, music and drama to the town centre.
About the Council
Our official name is London Borough of Waltham Forest – but you can call us Waltham Forest Council.
The Council is led by the Labour Party, and the make-up of the Council is as follows:
- 47 Labour
- 13 Conservative
The borough is split into 60 wards and local elections take place every four years. The last local election was in May 2022.
As a borough council, we have responsibility for many services including:
- waste and recycling
- community safety
- adult social care
- social housing
- planning
- business investment in the borough
- public health
Our motto is Fellowship is Life, which you’ll see emblazoned on the Assembly Hall at Fellowship Square.
"We’re a community first and foremost and we work together with our residents to help everybody thrive" Quote by William Morris
Our work is based on the following corporate priorities:
- 15-minute neighbourhoods (making sure everyone in the borough can access vital services within a short walking or cycling distance of their home)
- Connecting people with jobs
- Safe and healthy lives
- Confidence in our future
- Tackling the climate emergency
- Addressing the cost of living crisis