Angela Rayner Denounces Landlord's 'Vindictive' Eviction Practices in Croydon
Former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has launched a scathing attack on Criterion Capital, labeling the landlord's handling of eviction notices in Croydon as "incredibly vindictive" and dehumanizing. Speaking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS), Rayner condemned the company for treating residents "like a spreadsheet" and asserted that such entities "should have no place in providing homes for people."
Mass Eviction Concerns in Delta Point
Rayner visited Croydon on Tuesday, March 17, to meet with tenants at Delta Point, a property managed by Criterion Capital's in-house lettings arm, dstrkt. Many residents have received Section 21 no-fault eviction notices, sparking fears of a "mass eviction" ahead of the nationwide ban on such practices set for May 1. Rayner recounted emotional scenes, including a mother crying in front of her child, worried about her family's future. "This is their home, where they built their lives and their family," she said, emphasizing the human cost of profit-driven decisions.
Political and Council Backlash
The controversy has drawn widespread criticism, with London Councils, representing all 32 boroughs, warning Criterion Capital of a potential boycott for temporary accommodation use. Croydon Council, which utilizes some of the company's properties like Britannia Point in Colliers Wood, has also intervened. Mayor Jason Perry has written to Criterion seeking reassurances, while council officers conduct welfare checks and assess tenant situations. Rayner, who was in Croydon to support Labour mayoral candidate Rowenna Davis, argued that Criterion's actions compromise its ability to provide housing and called for accountability.
Criterion Capital's Defense and Tenant Impact
In response, Criterion Capital defended its actions, stating that the Section 21 notices are part of routine asset management and do not constitute evictions. The company stressed that no court orders have been sought or granted, and fewer than 5% of tenants are affected. It has offered to let tenants remain with new agreements and increased engagement to address concerns. However, Rayner remains unconvinced, directly challenging billionaire owner Asif Aziz: "Would you want your family to be treated like that? I bet you would lawyer up." The ongoing saga highlights tensions in London's housing market as the no-fault eviction ban approaches.
