Housing and regeneration are at the heart of Harrow Labour’s 2018 manifesto, as it defended its record in the face of government cuts and warned against the prospect of a Conservative council.

The borough’s Labour Group has based this latest document on four key pledges as it looks to secure another four years in control of Harrow Council.

The party has promised to build more homes for Harrow residents, keep the borough clean, revitalise the economy and protect against Tory cuts.

It outlines Labour’s key aims – helping those who are most in need and protecting key services – while launching a clear attack on the alternative.

“A Labour-run Harrow council will always mark its success on how it delivers for the most vulnerable in our society.

“I am clear that this will be our top priority. In everything we do, we will always ensure that those that need our support the most will get it,” said Cllr Sachin Shah, leader of Harrow Council.

“This election will be a real choice. A choice between a positive, outward-looking future for Harrow or a Tory inward vision.

“A choice between the cruel pro-austerity Tory party or an anti-austerity pro-public service Labour party.

“A choice between a Labour vision of helping all residents meet their aspirations or a Tory party where you are on your own.”

According to its manifesto, Harrow Labour will implement a “once-in-a-generation” £1.75 billion regeneration project in the borough.

This, it says, will lead to 5,500 new homes, 3,000 new jobs, more than 100 new apprenticeship opportunities and revitalise the landscape of the whole region.

It also vows to protect public health services, support the borough’s education network, help tackle crime and promote a “zero tolerance” approach to fly-tipping.

All this, it argues, will be achieved despite “relentless” cuts from central government.

Cllr Paul Osborn, leader of Harrow Conservatives, accused Labour of creating a host of problems during its eight years in power.

He questioned its approach to housing – advocating a “homes not towers” policy – and suggested the problem of fly-tipping has got out of hand.

“We’ve been listening to local people and we know what needs to be fixed,” he said.

“We want to bring more business to Harrow and focus on local issues that will make a real difference to residents.”

Harrow Conservatives have released a seven-point pledge in the run up to the elections on May 3.