Harrow’s Labour Group has defended its affordable housing record, despite a report suggesting that it is among the worst in London.

The study, carried out by Trust for London and the New Policy Institute, found that the amount of affordable renting housing in the borough decreased by 102 homes between 2013/14 and 2015/16 inclusive.

This means that more affordable housing was demolished or converted into other forms of accommodation, rather than completed, across that three-year period.

When shared ownership properties are considered, the total increase stood at two per cent – the second-lowest rate in the capital after Bexley.

Labour responded by reiterating its commitment to housebuilding and accused the Conservatives of deliberately trying to sabotage its attempts to address the housing crisis.

Cllr Sachin Shah, leader of Harrow Council, said: “The Labour administration has been prioritising council housing and affordable housing, building the first social homes in 30 years and starting the refurbishment of Grange Farm estate, which will provide good quality housing for Harrow residents.

“We are determined to build even more affordable homes for Harrow residents, whereas the Conservatives have been constantly voting against house building in Harrow and do not acknowledge the housing crisis in our borough and in London.”

The research formed part of a wider examination of poverty in the capital.

Mubin Huq, director of policy at Trust for London, said Harrow’s situation was a case of “the good, the bad and the ugly” – he cited improvements in health and education but was critical of the approach to housing and the impact of council tax increases.

The council defended its position on other fronts, claiming that, historically, it has received some of the worst funding per person from the Government in the whole of the UK.

But Cllr Paul Osborn, leader of Harrow Conservatives, said this would not stand up as an excuse when it comes to “unacceptable” levels of affordable housing.

He cited proposals at Waxwell Lane and Vaughan Road car parks, which will see four out of 20 and three out of 33 new homes respectively, be deemed affordable.

“I strongly believe Harrow does need more housing, but I don’t agree that the current plans for high rise flats across the borough will result in a ‘Better Harrow’ or these plans are well thought through,” he said.

“High rise buildings with low levels of affordable housing will do little to resolve the problems of housing in Harrow.”