Organisers spoke to 100s of people, receiving more than 100 signatures supporting their application.

Acting chair David Winskill said that the forum’s steering group will now start drafting a neighbourhood plan, which will include policies for development areas, social and community, business and shops, traffic and movement, open spaces, health, the town centre, heritage and development.

“The whole steering group is thrilled and this has come as a great early Christmas present, as a reward for all our hard work,” Mr Winskill said.

The forum plans to address the future of Crouch End shops, and how to ensure that independent outfits can keep thriving in a competitive climate.

Members will also discuss how to increase affordable housing stock to maintain the diverse social mix of the area.

In particular, Mr Winskill believes that Hornsey Town Hall has huge potential to provide social housing, as well as acting as an arts centre in the future.

Membership of the forum is open to everyone who lives, trades, works, learns, plays or visits the area.

The first AGM will be held on February 7th.

Visit crouchendforum.wordpress.com for more information.