Clissold is a ward in the London Borough of Hackney. The name is derived from Clissold Crescent and the ward also borders Clissold Park in the neighbouring Lordship ward both of which form part of the Hackney North and Stoke Newington constituency. The ward has existed since the creation of the borough on 1 April 1965 and was first used in the 1964 elections. The boundaries of the ward from May 2014 are revised and will take in Clissold Park. Clissold has the highest percentage of residents cycling to work of all wards in London.

At the 2011 Census, this ward had a population of 12,212.

Geography Clissold is a ward in the London Borough of Hackney, located in the north-west of the borough. It borders the wards of Stoke Newington, Lordship, and New River, and lies close to the boundary with the London Borough of Islington. The ward includes residential areas around Stoke Newington Church Street and Green Lanes, and from 2014 its boundaries were revised to incorporate Clissold Park.

History The ward takes its name from Clissold Crescent and Clissold Park, which itself is named after the Clissold family, associated with the historic Clissold House located within the park. The area formed part of the ancient parish of Stoke Newington, which developed from a rural village into a suburban district during the 19th century. Clissold ward has existed since the creation of the London Borough of Hackney in 1965 and was first used in the 1964 local elections.

Demographics At the 2011 Census, Clissold ward had a population of 12,212. The area is characterised by a diverse population, with a mix of ethnic backgrounds and a relatively young age profile compared to the national average. The ward has a high proportion of working-age residents and is known for a significant number of professionals and families. Housing consists of a mix of Victorian and Edwardian terraced homes, purpose-built flats, and more recent developments. The area has experienced notable demographic change in recent decades, associated with wider patterns of urban regeneration and population growth in Hackney.

Transport Clissold ward is well connected to central London by public transport. Nearby railway stations include Stoke Newington and Rectory Road, providing London Overground services. Numerous bus routes serve the area, linking it to central London and surrounding districts. The ward has the highest proportion of residents cycling to work of any ward in London, reflecting both its proximity to central areas and the availability of cycling infrastructure.

Amenities and character The ward is centred around Clissold Park, a large public green space featuring lakes, sports facilities, a café, and a small animal enclosure. Stoke Newington Church Street, located nearby, provides a range of independent shops, cafés, and restaurants, contributing to the area’s reputation as a vibrant and desirable residential neighbourhood. The ward is often associated with a strong community identity and a mix of long-standing residents and newer arrivals.

Politics Clissold forms part of the Hackney North and Stoke Newington. The ward has historically returned councillors from the Labour Party, reflecting broader political trends in the borough. Elections are held as part of Hackney London Borough Council, with three councillors representing the ward. Boundary changes introduced in 2014 altered the ward’s extent, including the addition of Clissold Park.

Recent developments Like much of Hackney, Clissold has undergone significant change since the late 20th century. Rising property values and increased demand for housing have contributed to processes often described as gentrification. These changes have brought investment and new amenities to the area, while also raising concerns about affordability and the displacement of long-term residents.

Hackney council elections since 2014 There was a revision of ward boundaries in Hackney in 2014. 2022 election The election took place on 5 May 2022.

2019 by-election

A by-election was held on 12 December 2019, following the resignation of Ned Hercock.

2018 election The election took place on 3 May 2018.

2014 election

The election took place on 22 May 2014.

2002–2014 Hackney council elections There was a revision of ward boundaries in Hackney in 2002. The ward returns three councillors to Hackney London Borough Council, with elections every four years. At the previous election on 6 May 2010 Karen Alcock, Wendy Mitchell, and Linda Smith; all Labour Party candidates were elected. Turnout was 65%; and 5,600 votes were cast.Council Elections 2010 results - Clissold (LB Hackney) accessed 11 May 2010 In 2001, Clissold ward had a total population of 10,433. This compares with the average ward population within the borough of 10,674.LB Hackney Borough Profile "1.5 Population density", and table 1.10 "Population by ward, 2001" pp. 20; (LB Hackney, 2006) accessed 6 October 2009

2010 election

The election took place on 6 May 2010.

2006 election The election took place on 4 May 2006.

2002 election

The election took place on 2 May 2002, on new ward boundaries.

1978–2002 Hackney council elections There was a revision of ward boundaries in Hackney in 1978.London Borough of Hackney (Electoral Arrangements) Order 1977 1998 election

1994 election

1990 election

1986 election

1982 election

1978 election

1965–1978 Hackney council elections Clissold ward has existed since the creation of the London Borough of Hackney on 1 April 1965. It was first used in the 1964 elections, with an electorate of 9,029, returning three councillors. 1974 election

1971 election

1968 election

1964 election

References

External links London Borough of Hackney list of constituencies and councillors. Labour Party profile of Karen Alcock. Labour Party profile of Linda Smith.