The Cabinet of Havering Council met on Wednesday 11 March 2026, discussing a range of significant issues including the construction of a new special educational needs school, the procurement of vital health services, and plans to address housing needs. Key decisions included approving the award of the main contract for the Balgores Special School, proceeding with the procurement of the Integrated Sexual Health Service and the Healthy Child Programme, and agreeing to a new build-to-rent scheme to increase housing availability.

Balgores Special School Construction Approved

Cabinet approved the award of the main contract for the construction of the new Balgores Special School in Gidea Park to Galliford Try Ltd for £38,552,461. This marks a crucial step in developing specialist educational provision for children with special educational needs in Havering. The new school aims to reduce the council's reliance on external provision, improve educational and wellbeing outcomes for young people, and support families by providing high-quality SEND education closer to home. Concerns were raised regarding the increase in the project's cost from original estimates, with officers explaining that the rise was due to design development, liaison with the trust running the school, and planning requirements. Safeguards were also discussed to ensure Havering residents are prioritised for places, with a phased opening and aligned consultation timelines with the trust, Astrum, being key strategies. The report also highlighted that the project is funded through the Department for Education's basic needs and high needs allocations.

Health Services Procurement Moves Forward

The council will proceed with the procurement of the Integrated Sexual and Reproductive Health Service, with a direct award under the Provider Selection Regime Process C to BHRUT (Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust). The contract, estimated at £9.1 million over seven years, will run from 1st October 2026 to 30th September 2033. Funding for this mandatory service will come from the ring-fenced public health grant, with any uplifts dependent on the grant's increase. Cabinet also approved the procurement of the Havering Healthy Child Programme, which provides public health services for children aged 0-19. The contract value is set to increase to £29 million over its seven-year term, funded by the Public Health Grant. Authority to decide on the procurement route for this programme was delegated to the Director of Public Health in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Adults and Health Wellbeing.

New Build-to-Rent Scheme to Address Housing Need

Cabinet approved in principle a proposal to enter into an overarching nominations agreement with Inspired Solutions for the delivery of up to 600 build-to-rent properties across Havering. This scheme aims to provide safe, stable, and better-value homes, moving families out of costly and unsuitable temporary accommodation, such as hotels. The agreement will grant the council a 40-year, 100% nominations right to tenants from its housing lists for properties that meet assessed housing needs and relevant standards. The first property-specific agreement for up to 100 units was also approved, with the council providing rent guarantees up to the current Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rates for the forty-year term. Concerns were raised about potential financial exposure if rental income assumptions prove over-optimistic, but officers stated that such exposures would be held by Inspired Solutions, not the local authority, with the DWP covering LHA costs. The scheme is designed to reduce the council's reliance on expensive temporary accommodation and is expected to address key demand challenges, potentially allowing the council to exit nightly paid accommodation altogether. The Renters' Reform Act was noted as providing tenants with increased security of tenure.

Estate Improvements and Retrofit Contract Extended

The contract with BTS Property Solutions Limited for estate improvements and external works to Housing Revenue Account (HRA) properties has been extended for one year, with a maximum value of £3 million. This extension is to ensure continuity of works while new strategic alliance contracts are procured. The works include various estate improvements, external works, safety and compliance measures, and energy efficiency upgrades. A discussion took place regarding Section 20 notices for leaseholders, with a commitment to improve the clarity of information provided about works and potential costs to ease the burden on leaseholders.

Flood Risk Management Strategy Adopted

Cabinet agreed to adopt the Local Flood Risk Management Strategy, Surface Water Management Plan, and their associated Action Plan. These documents replace existing plans from 2013 and 2015, updating data and approaches to manage flood risk from surface water runoff and groundwater. The plans identify critical drainage areas and outline measures to address flood risk, with an action plan prioritising schemes and studies. While a limited revenue budget is available for minor works and studies, the strategy aims to use cost-benefit analysis to bid for external funding from bodies like the Environment Agency.

Active Travel Strategy Approved

The Active Travel Strategy was approved, setting out a framework for improving walking, cycling, and other active travel options in Havering between 2026 and 2041. The strategy aims to increase viable alternatives for local journeys, supporting the council's goals for a healthier, safer, and more inclusive borough. It acknowledges the continued role of cars but seeks to provide more choices for residents. The delivery of the strategy is dependent on external funding, and all schemes will be subject to full consultation and scrutiny. The strategy was broadly welcomed by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee in November. Discussions highlighted the importance of integrating active travel into planning policies for new developments and working with schools to encourage active travel to school, addressing concerns about safety and displacement of traffic issues.

Four New Village Greens to be Designated

Cabinet agreed to the voluntary registration of four further village greens within Havering. These small, valuable green spaces are owned by the council and their designation aims to protect them for the mental and physical well-being of residents. The decision follows a successful programme of designating village greens across the borough, which has been well-received by local residents.

Funding Secured for New Children's Homes

Havering Council has accepted a £1.03 million capital grant from the Department for Education (DfE) to help establish two new registered children's homes. The council will contribute £0.515 million to the total capital requirement of £2.06 million to purchase and develop these properties. These homes will provide specialist residential care for children with complex needs, aiming to offer an alternative to inpatient mental health care, facilitate step-down from hospital, and prevent placement in high-cost, unregulated care homes. The scheme is projected to generate cost avoidance of approximately £1 million per annum, with an indicative return on investment of less than one year. Authority was delegated to the Strategic Director for Place to select and purchase the two homes, and to the Lead Member for Children’s Services to award the care contract following a competitive tender process. Discussions emphasised the importance of selecting detached properties in more rural areas and consulting with local ward councillors and residents on proposed locations.

Budget Monitoring Report Shows Financial Improvement

The third budget monitoring report for the 2025/26 financial year, as of the end of January, indicated an improved financial position for the council. A forecast underspend of £17.4 million on the General Fund was reported, a significant improvement from the previous month. The Housing Revenue Account (HRA) is also forecasting an underspend of £2.83 million. While the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) remains in significant difficulty with a forecast overspend of £31.5 million, bringing the overall deficit to £67.7 million, the council's overall financial performance is showing positive signs. The report noted that the council has not had to borrow explicitly to fund exceptional financial support, although borrowing continues for cash flow and capital programmes. Cabinet noted the progress towards delivering savings and the capital monitoring position. A total of £3,695,506.79 in irrecoverable Council Tax debt was presented for write-off approval.

Quarter 3 Corporate Performance Report Noted

The Quarter 3 Corporate Performance Report was presented to Cabinet. No specific decisions were made on this item, and it was noted by the Cabinet members.