A by-election is to place after a council leader stepped down to join the Mayor's office.

Kaya Comer-Schwartz was both councillor for Junction ward, Archway, and Islington council leader before stepping down in October.

The by-election to fill her seat is taking place on November 28.

The candidates for Junction ward are, in alphabetical order:

  • Jackson Caines - Islington Independents
  • Rebecca Jones - Liberal Democrats
  • Bill Martin - The Socialist Party of Great Britain candidate.
  • Devon Osborne - Green Party
  • Brian Potter - Independent
  • James Potts - Labour
  • John Wilkin - Conservative Party

Applications to vote by proxy at this election must have reached the Electoral Registration Officer at Islington Town Hall in Upper Street by November 20.

Applications to vote by emergency proxy must reach the Electoral Registration Officer at Electoral Services, Room G04, Islington Town Hall, Upper Street, London, N1 2UD by 5pm on November 28.

First elected in 2013, Comer-Schwartz was leader for more than three years, and has been offered the position of London Deputy Mayor for policing and crime.

Former Islington Council leader and Jackson ward councillor Kaya Comer-SchwartzFormer Islington Council leader and Jackson ward councillor Kaya Comer-Schwartz (Image: Islington Council)

She said: “It has been the privilege of my life to serve as a councillor for the community where I grew up for the last 11 years and to lead this fantastic borough.

“I am extremely proud that this council has delivered so much for local people on the manifesto that we were elected on – fighting against inequality, transforming youth justice, tackling the housing crisis and creating liveable neighbourhoods that are healthier and safer for families and children.

“I know that this passion will continue because of the dedication to public service that thousands of council officers display every day in Islington.

“London is the greatest city on earth, and the opportunity to continue the fundamental reform of policing and approach to justice the Mayor has worked hard to deliver is an opportunity I couldn’t turn down.”

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: “I’m pleased to appoint Kaya Comer-Schwartz as London’s new Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime and I’m confident that she will help us to continue reforming the police and deliver a safer London for everyone.”