Hackney’s housing chief out in mayor’s cabinet reshuffle

Cllr Clayeon McKenzie. Photograph: Hackney Council

Hackney’s housing lead is to step down from the cabinet in May as part of a major reshuffle by borough leader Caroline Woodley.

Cllr Clayeon McKenzie (Labour, Hoxton) is to resign as cabinet member for housing services and resident participation after nine years in the role.

Alongside his current brief, Cllr Guy Nicholson (Labour, Homerton) will take over from McKenzie and serve as cabinet member for housing management.

In a statement yesterday, Mayor Woodley said: “Across the country, housing and children’s services have seen first hand the consequences of the previous government’s failed policies, which have resulted in increasing levels of need in our communities and huge pressures on public services.

“It is imperative to respond to these challenges in a way that best serves the residents of Hackney. I am therefore announcing a series of changes in how the council is administered.”

Cllr Anntoinette Bramble is also set to take on a larger brief covering children’s services and young people.

She will be assisted by Cllr Anya Sizer, who has been promoted to deputy cabinet member for families, early years and special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

McKenzie is to leave a post he has “held with pride”, the mayor added, and will support the administration from the backbenches.

“I am personally incredibly grateful to Cllr McKenzie for his commitment and dedication to the people of Hackney,” Woodley said.

“He has been crucial in navigating the council through the obstacles placed in front of us by the national housing crisis, and has constantly advocated for our communities.”

The changes are to take effect after the council’s annual meeting on 14 May.