The Havering Council Cabinet met to discuss several key issues, including the implementation of a special educational needs (SEND) unit at the Royal Liberty School, proposed changes to property licensing schemes, and future plans for former library sites. They approved recommendations for a new SEND facility, a framework for short breaks provision, and the extension of an alcohol and drugs contract. However, decisions regarding the future of former library premises were deferred for further review.

Royal Liberty School SEND Unit

The Cabinet approved the implementation of a 30-place SEND unit at the Royal Liberty School, designed to support pupils with communication and interaction needs. The development will cost up to £2.7 million, funded by a grant from the Department for Education (DfE). Councillor Oscar Ford, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, asked the Cabinet to support the recommendation, highlighting the increasing demand for SEND places in the borough.

Councillor Michael White raised concerns about potential cost overruns and the affordability of the £900,000 annual revenue cost, given Havering's high-needs block deficiency¹. Officers clarified that the cost is based on an average of £30,000 per placement, which is less than the cost of out-of-borough placements, and that the council would address any overruns through the capital programme.

There was also discussion about the transfer of risk to the Success For All Education Trust, the academy trust that runs the Royal Liberty School. While the report stated that the risk would be borne by the academy, Councillor White requested clarification on the specific risks being transferred. Officers agreed to provide further details on the risk allocation and project timeline, as the draft agreement with the academy trust indicated a retrospective effective date.

Short Breaks Provision

The Cabinet approved the letting of a framework for short breaks provision from October 2026, along with a six-month extension to current contracts. Councillor Ford explained that this would ensure continuity of services and allow for a broader and more flexible offer in the future. Short breaks provide opportunities for children and young people with SEND to engage in new experiences and provide respite for their carers.

Councillor White questioned how the council would prevent another overspend, after a £1.12 million overspend on short breaks the previous year, and whether the new £2.6 million annual budget would be sufficient. Officers explained that each department has spend control panels to manage expenditure, and that the director of the service would look at other areas in her budget where there is capacity to fund short breaks if needed. It was also noted that not providing a statutory service due to budget constraints was not an option, and that overspending on short breaks to prevent family breakdowns could be a cost-effective decision.

Councillor Keith Darvill asked about funding from central government, but officers clarified that there isn't a specific grant for short breaks, but that it may be included in the overall revenue support grant.

Adults Drug and Alcohol Contract

The Cabinet approved the extension of the adults drug and alcohol service contract with Change Grow Live (CGL) for three years, from April 2026 to March 2029, with an uplift of £501,205 due to inflationary pressures. Councillor Gillian Ford, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing, explained that the uplift and contract are funded from the public health grant and won't affect the general fund. She also noted that the Havering Combating Drugs Partnership has developed a comprehensive strategy to tackle substance misuse, based on detailed needs assessments.

Councillor White raised concerns about communications and engagement with residents, as highlighted in the report. Councillor Ford acknowledged the issue and welcomed councillor support in advertising consultations to improve resident feedback. She also confirmed that an improvement framework would be put in place, including communications.

Private Sector Housing Enforcement Scheme

The Cabinet approved new designations for additional licensing for houses in multiple occupation (HMO) and selective licensing. Councillor Christopher Wilkins, Cabinet Member for Finance, stepped back from the debate and did not vote due to owning two properties already licensed under the old scheme.

The proposals included a borough-wide HMO additional licensing scheme and a selective licensing scheme for all privately rented homes (excluding HMOs) within seven wards. These wards are Beam Park, Harold Wood, Rainham & Wennington, Rush Green & Crowlands, Squirrels Heath, St Albans and St Edwards.

Councillor White raised concerns about the powers the council would have to enforce spacing requirements and financial liabilities on landlords. Officers clarified that there were no additional powers, but that the geography covered by the schemes would be greater than before. They also committed to more proactive inspections and welcomed intelligence from councillors and others to trigger enforcement investigations.

Bridge Close Regeneration

The Cabinet agreed to make a compulsory purchase order (CPO) for the Bridge Close development, to acquire the remaining land on the site. Councillor Graham Williamson, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, explained that 79% of the various interests had been acquired so far, but a CPO was needed to ensure the acquisition of the necessary sites. The Bridge Close site is expected to deliver 1,070 homes, a school, a health centre, a community centre, and an upgraded River Rom.

Councillor White asked about the total CPO-related costs, viability assumptions underpinning the affordable housing range, and the minimum level of affordable housing the cabinet was prepared to guarantee. Officers stated that specific cost details were in an exempt appendix and could not be discussed in public session.

Future Proposals for Former Library Premises

The Cabinet discussed future proposals for three former library sites: Gidea Park Library, Harold Wood Library, and South Hornchurch Library. However, after considerable discussion, the Cabinet decided to defer making any decisions on the proposals.

The proposal for Gidea Park Library is to repurpose it into a six-person accommodation for children with disabilities, requiring demolition and a capital expenditure of £120,000. The Harold Wood Library is under evaluation by the Harold Wood Foundation for community use. The South Hornchurch Library would be disposed of by sale, with a potential demolition cost of £110,000, and proceeds going to upgrade the neighbouring community hall.

Councillor White raised concerns about committing funds before firm development plans and business cases were in place. He questioned why the cabinet was being asked to commit up to £230,000 for potential revenue expenditure before key information was available.

Councillor Darvill noted that the report gave different insights into the original plans for the sites and questioned whether the £300,000 saving from the library closures would be achieved, given the demolition costs.

Corporate Plan - Q2 Performance Report (2025/26)

The Cabinet agreed to the recommendations in the Corporate Plan Quarter 2 Performance Report.