More than £85 million could be spent on buying back 310 ex-council flats for homeless people and refugees.

All of the homes were sold under the right-to-buy scheme started by Margaret Thatcher, and are part of Islington Council’s expanding buy back programme. In July, the authority took back 100 council homes.

The additional homes would be used to provide temporary accommodation for people experiencing homelessness, or who have had to flee Afghanistan or Ukraine.

Islington Council said it had received more than £81 million from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, and that it would itself spend more than £85 million on the scheme.

The properties will be a mix of homes ranging between one and four bedrooms for individuals and families. 

Cllr Una O’Halloran, executive member for homes and communities, said: “Every council home we buy back or build is another home where people can thrive.

“These homes will provide a secure base from which people who are experiencing homelessness or have had to flee conflict can start to rebuild their lives locally. 

“They will mean more people benefit from good quality temporary accommodation in Islington when they need it most.”

The proposals have been recommended for approval but are subject to a decision by the council’s executive next Thursday (October 19).