Redbridge’s Labour party have kick-started their campaign for May’s local elections.

Leader Cllr Jas Athwal joined Ilford South MP Mike Gapes to launch their key pledges this morning.

Key policies include introducing a landlord registration scheme, toughen planning enforcement and tackling illegal builds and “beds in sheds”.

The party also wants bulky waste collection to be free for everyone and promised to increase school place numbers in Redbridge.

Some pledges, including 30 minute free parking, increased powers for enforcement officers and a permanent pool were put forward as amendment’s to Thursday’s budget.

Labour’s proposals were voted out but some were adopted by the Conservative/Lib Dem administration and carried forward.

Cllr Athwal said: “We’ve been knocking on doors and talking to people intensively during the past two years and we have produced a series of pledges that we know we can deliver.

“With a £26million black hole left by the Tories, the next council faces tough choices.

“Redbridge Labour is ready to serve, by delivering the people’s priorities and tackling the cost of living crisis with a firm but fair approach to the council’s finances.”

Labour MP Mr Gapes said: “After 12 years of the Tories, I hope the people of Redbridge will vote for change.”

The local elections will be held on May 22.