I've worked in the area since 2004. Although I agree with the points he is making, I don't really see the author coming up with any solutions. The problems are rooted in the right to private property.

I'm also fairly certain that Hackney have an issue with corruption. The way to flip properties in the area is to buy up a building with a B1 use (office), then apply to planning permission to build a residential penthouse or two on the top of the building. Build the flats, sell them for an insane amount of money to a couple of bankers, job done. I've been told off the record by estate agents that certain people have "more luck" with these applications than others, but what can you do?