Chris Best Email & Phone Number

I have been a part of the Sydenham community getting on for 40 years, both as a resident and an elected member. I am committed to working and living in vibrant community that gives a strong sense of place. My passion is working with people and getting involved in what matters to residents. I combined my 30 years extensive experience of the social housing sector, spending 10 years as CE for Soho Housing Association, with political office.From May 2018 I was appointed by Mayor Damien Egan to be his Deputy and continue in my role as Cabinet Member for Health & Adult Social Care. After three years as Deputy, at the May 2021 AGM. I changed roles to Chair the Health and Wellbeing Board. Following the Council elections in May 2022 I spent two years Chairing the Healthier Communities Select Committee and the South East London Joint Health Overview Scrutiny Committee.As an influential councillor I have delivered significant external investment to Sydenham since my election in 1986 - including the opening of the East London Line in May 2010; £3.5 million from Transport for London for high street improvements; £3.5 million from Myplace for a youth led centre as well as over £2 million from Lewisham’s Local Implementation Plan for other transport improvements. I provide effective community leadership as Chair of the Sydenham Town Centre Steering Group and SEE3, the Portas Pilot that includes Forest Hill, Kirkdale and Sydenham.

Listed skills include Public Sector, Stakeholder Engagement, Community Development, Local Government, and 20 others.