The latest figures from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) using a new way of calculating the numbers, agree with Hounslow Council’s argument that the borough’s population has been underestimated.

According to the latest ONS estimates, the population for the borough has now reached 216,800 - a rise of 4,300 people.

Population figures are important for local authorities as this number helps establish the amount of money received by central government known as the RSG or Revenue Support Grant Settlement.

The previous 2005 mid year estimate for the London Borough of Hounslow remained staunchly fixed at 212,500, despite repeated attempts by the London borough challenging this assessment.

Cllr Peter Thompson, leader of Hounslow Council, said, "We welcome these population figures from the ONS. While we acknowledge there will be both winners and losers in this new method of reporting the population figures, we have been saying, quite loudly, that we are a growing borough. These figures vindicate our position."

Population counts have been a concern since falling population estimates appeared in the 2003 mid-year estimates. These indicated that the local population fell by 3,700 between 2002 and 2003. Since then the council has been engaged in an active lobbying campaign with Ministers, with the Office of National Statistics (ONS), and in partnership with other interested authorities.

Last year, the data for Hounslow was ONS 2007 mid year estimate 211,831 compared to the GLA 2007 mid year estimate 218,500. Each 1,000 people generate approximately £500k in formula grant meaning that if the GLA figure was the more accurate then Hounslow was being deprived of around £3.3m grant each year that this carries on.

May 2, 2007