The Cabinet of Southwark Council is scheduled to convene on Monday 02 February 2026, with a key focus on housing strategies and the delivery of new homes. The meeting will also address the council's approach to biodiversity and the admission arrangements for primary schools.

Older People's Housing Strategy 2026-2036

The Cabinet is set to consider the council's new Older People's Housing Strategy for 2026-2036. This strategy aims to address the housing needs of the borough's ageing population, with three core priorities: improving access to appropriate and affordable housing, ensuring timely and accessible support for older people to live independently for longer, and making it easier for older people to downsize into suitable housing. The report highlights the increasing proportion of older people in Southwark and the need for adequate housing and support services to meet their evolving needs. The strategy has been developed in consultation with older residents, their families, and housing providers, and aligns with the council's Southwark 2030 vision for a fair, green, and safe borough.

New James Court, Scylla Road – Proposed Community-Led Housing

A pilot scheme for community-led homes at a site in Peckham is scheduled for discussion. The Cabinet will consider noting the progress made to date, including the selection of London Community Land Trust (CLT) as the preferred delivery partner. The report proposes approving in principle the disposal of land at New James Court, Scylla Road, for the delivery of new community-led affordable homes. This initiative aims to provide genuinely affordable housing options that remain affordable in perpetuity, with sales values tied to local incomes.

Policy and Resources Strategy Report: Medium Term Financial Strategy Update and 2026-27 General Fund Budget Proposals

The Cabinet will consider proposals for the 2026-27 general fund budget, which will be recommended to the council assembly. This item also includes an update on the medium-term financial strategy.

Better Repairs - Repairs Modernisation

This item concerns the Better Repairs programme, which outlines Southwark's strategy for improving its repairs service.

Southwark Construction New Homes Update

An update on the council's new homes delivery programme is scheduled, detailing achievements up to 31 December 2025. Councillor Helen Dennis, Cabinet Member for New Homes and Sustainable Development, will present this report, highlighting the council's record in building new council homes and plans for future delivery. The report details progress across various sites and programmes, including estate renewal projects and innovative housing solutions.

Phase 2 of the Tustin Estate Renewal Update

An update on plans for Phase 2 of the Tustin Estate renewal is to be received. This significant housing project aims to deliver new homes, including council homes for social rent and homes for returning leaseholders, alongside wider estate improvements. The report details the proposed main works contract for Phase 2, which includes the construction of multiple blocks.

Southwark's Enhanced Biodiversity Duty Report

The Cabinet is asked to note and support the requirement to meet enhanced Biodiversity Duty reporting requirements introduced by the Environment Act 2021. The report, prepared in collaboration with Land Use Consultants Ltd (LUC), will be submitted to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) as Southwark's first statutory Biodiversity Duty report. It outlines the council's actions for nature recovery and future plans, covering habitat protection, planning policy integration, community engagement, and biodiversity net gain.

Admission Arrangements for Community Primary Schools – September 2027

The Cabinet will consider and agree the admission arrangements for community primary schools for September 2027. This includes agreeing the published admission numbers (PANs) for these schools. The report notes a general trend of falling school rolls across London and proposes reductions in the PANs for Keyworth Primary School and Phoenix Primary School to better match demand and ensure financial viability.

Disposal of Freehold at Westminster Bridge Road, London, SE1 7XW

A report concerning the disposal of the council's freehold interest in a vacant former office building at Westminster Bridge Road is scheduled for discussion. The property is in poor condition and requires significant investment, with no operational requirement for the council. The recommendation is to approve the disposal by auction or other appropriate methods to generate a capital receipt and remove ongoing holding costs.

Gateway 1: Procurement Strategy Approval Security Cover in Supported Hostels

The Cabinet will consider approving the procurement strategy for the supported hostels security contract. This aims to enhance provision and ensure the safeguarding and wellbeing of vulnerable residents. The report details the proposed procurement route, risks, and social value considerations, with an estimated annual contract value of £1.105m.

Response to the Overview and Scrutiny Committee report: Asylum Road Care Home - Disposal of the site by way of a long-leasehold interest with a selected party to deliver and operate a new care home at Asylum Road, SE15

This item presents the council's response to recommendations made by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee regarding the disposal of the Asylum Road Care Home site. The report outlines the council's acceptance of some recommendations, particularly concerning due diligence on Care Quality Commission ratings and future design reviews, while noting that others, such as detailed consultation on the land disposal itself, are addressed through existing statutory planning processes.