This week in Camden:

• The Licensing Panel E was scheduled to discuss an application for a new premises licence for Heaven Supermarket, and to consider the procedure rules for remote meetings.
• The Corporate Parenting Board did not publish a transcript.
• The Holborn District Management Committee was scheduled to discuss the Housing Revenue Account (HRA), service standards, resident participation, and an update on existing and future bids from TRAs.
• The Pension Committee was scheduled to consider a petition requesting the Council divest from companies involved in the Israeli occupation of the West Bank and Gaza.
• The Health and Wellbeing Board was scheduled to discuss the Camden Neighbourhoods Programme and approve the Council’s new Alcohol Strategy.
• The Kentish Town District Management Committee was scheduled to receive an update on the Domestic Abuse Housing Alliance Accreditation (DAHA)¹ and the Housing Transformation programme.
• The Hampstead District Management Committee was scheduled to discuss its budget, a report on housing and domestic abuse, and the Council’s heat metering programme.
• The Audit and Corporate Governance (Staff Appeals) Sub-Committee was scheduled to consider a former employee's appeal against their dismissal.

Licensing Panel E - Thursday 13 March 2025

The Licensing Panel E is responsible for considering applications for licences for things like pubs, clubs, and restaurants. They can grant, refuse, or vary licences, and can also impose conditions on licences.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Corporate Parenting Board - Thursday 13 March 2025

The Corporate Parenting Board has overall responsibility for the children in the Council's care. The Board is responsible for ensuring that Camden acts as a good corporate parent.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Holborn District Management Committee - Tuesday 11 March 2025

District Management Committees (DMCs) are committees of the council that are responsible for managing the council's housing stock in a particular area. They are made up of councillors and tenant representatives.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Pension Committee - Monday 10 March 2025

The Pension Committee is responsible for overseeing the Camden Council Pension Fund. This includes setting investment strategy, monitoring performance, and ensuring that the fund is being managed in accordance with the law. The committee is made up of councillors from all political parties represented on the council, as well as representatives from the trade unions that represent council employees.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Health and Wellbeing Board - Wednesday 12 March 2025

The Health and Wellbeing Board is a statutory body that brings together councillors, NHS representatives, and other partners to improve the health and wellbeing of people in Camden. The Board is responsible for developing and implementing a joint strategic needs assessment and a joint health and wellbeing strategy.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Kentish Town District Management Committee - Wednesday 12 March 2025

The Kentish Town District Management Committee is responsible for managing the council's housing stock in the Kentish Town ward.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Hampstead District Management Committee - Thursday 13 March 2025

The Hampstead District Management Committee is responsible for managing the council's housing stock in the Hampstead ward.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Audit and Corporate Governance (Staff Appeals) Sub-Committee - Thursday 13 March 2025

The Audit and Corporate Governance (Staff Appeals) Sub-Committee is a committee of the council that is responsible for hearing appeals from council employees who have been disciplined or dismissed. The sub-committee is made up of councillors from all of the political parties that are represented on the council.

The meeting was not open to the public.

This week in Camden:

• The Council was expected to approve its revenue and capital budgets for 2025/26, alongside motions relating to agency staff, the cost of living crisis, and Young Carers' Action Day.
• The Camden Town District Management Committee considered its annual budget, the Housing Ombudsman’s annual report, and the Council's tenant participation strategy.
• The Disability Oversight Panel discussed the adoption of a new Housing and Property Vulnerability Policy.
• The Gospel Oak District Management Committee was scheduled to discuss a range of issues affecting residents in Gospel Oak, including the Housing Revenue Account, resident participation, and the Estate Mission programme.
• The Licensing Panel D did not publish a transcript.

Council - Monday 03 March 2025

The Council meeting on 3 March 2025 was scheduled to consider several financial matters including proposed amendments to the Council’s constitution, adoption of a pay policy for 2025/26, agreement of members’ allowances for 2025/26, and the setting of the budget and council tax for 2025/26. The meeting was also due to receive the annual reports of the scrutiny committee chairs, a follow up report to the January themed debate on ‘working with partners’, and to debate three motions from councillors.

Camden Council, like all local authorities in England, is legally required to set a balanced budget each year. This means that its spending must not exceed its income. As you may remember from previous emails, Camden Council has faced significant budget pressures in recent years. This is largely due to factors outside of its control such as cuts to funding from central government, rising demand for services (particularly in adult social care and children’s services) and the rising cost of inflation.

The report pack for the meeting included several documents relating to the Council’s finances. The Treasury Management Strategy 2025-26 describes the economic context in which the budget has been set.

The global economic outlook remains very uncertain. There is a risk of recession in the UK as well as globally and there is a great deal of uncertainty about how long inflation will remain high. The effect of increases in interest rates to combat inflation is also uncertain and there is a risk that these increases will push economies into recession. There is a risk that both the level and volatility of inflation could be more significant and prolonged than current market expectations.

The strategy makes clear that this global uncertainty creates significant risks for the Council’s budget.

The Council is exposed to a number of financial risks which could have a detrimental impact on the Council’s financial sustainability and its ability to achieve its strategic objectives.

These risks include:

• Interest rate risk – the risk that interest rates will rise, increasing the cost of borrowing.
• Inflation risk – the risk that the cost of goods and services will rise faster than expected, putting pressure on the Council’s budget.
• Demand risk – the risk that demand for services will increase, putting pressure on the Council’s budget.

The strategy goes on to explain how the Council intends to manage these risks:

The Council’s treasury management strategy is therefore to manage these risks prudently and proactively, within clearly defined parameters, to ensure that the Council’s financial resources are managed effectively and efficiently in order to support the delivery of its strategic objectives.

The Council’s proposed budget for 2025/26 seeks to address these financial challenges. You can read the detail of the Council’s spending plans in the 2025/26 Revenue Estimates and Council Tax Setting document. You can also read more about the Council's Climate Budget in the Climate Budget document.

The meeting was scheduled to consider three motions:

• The first, proposed by Councillor Steve Adams, called on the Council to reduce its reliance on agency staff.
• The second, proposed by Councillor Patricia Leman, called on the Council to protect services for residents during the cost of living crisis.
• The third, proposed by Councillor Judy Dixey, proposed that the Council take steps to support Young Carers in Camden.

It should be noted that this is a summary of the information contained in the meeting pack provided for the meeting and it is not known whether the meeting discussed all of the points mentioned, whether any decisions were taken, and whether or not all of the information in the report pack was accurate. No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Camden Town District Management Committee - Wednesday 05 March 2025

This was a meeting of The Camden Town District Management Committee (DMC). As you may know, District Management Committees (DMCs) are committees of the council that are responsible for managing the council's housing stock in a particular area. They are made up of councillors and tenant representatives. DMCs are responsible for a range of things, including:

• Setting the budget for housing services in their area
• Monitoring the performance of the council's housing management service
• Making decisions about how housing services are delivered in their area
• Consulting with residents on housing issues

The Camden Town DMC is responsible for the council's housing stock in the Camden Town ward¹.

This week, the Camden Town DMC was scheduled to consider a number of reports, including:

• Tenant Participation Structure and Ways of Working
• Property Services and Housing Management - Repairing and Letting Our Properties
• Camden Town DMC Budget
• Cabinet Member for Better Homes Annual Report
• Property Management Update
• Procurement Act 2023
• Camden – Heat Metering Programme
• Housing and Violence and Domestic Abuse

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Disability Oversight Panel - Wednesday 05 March 2025

The Disability Oversight Panel is a committee of the council that is responsible for scrutinising the council’s work on disability issues. As you may know, there is a long history of campaigning by disabled people for equality and inclusion. The Disability Oversight Panel plays an important role in ensuring that Camden Council is meeting its responsibilities to disabled people. The panel is made up of councillors and representatives from disabled people's organisations.

The panel were scheduled to discuss the adoption of a new Housing and Property Vulnerability Policy. This policy sets out how the council will identify and support vulnerable residents. The policy is important because it will help to ensure that all residents have equal access to housing and that vulnerable residents are not disadvantaged.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Gospel Oak District Management Committee - Thursday 06 March 2025

The Gospel Oak District Management Committee met to discuss a range of issues affecting residents in Gospel Oak. This included a report on the Council’s plans to change the way it worked with Tenants and Residents Associations (TRAs) and District Management Committees (DMCs), a report on Camden’s service standards for housing, and a report on the Gospel Oak DMC budget. The meeting also received the annual report of the Cabinet Member for Better Homes, and a report on the Council’s heat metering programme.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Licensing Panel D - Thursday 06 March 2025

The Licensing Panel D did not publish a transcript. Licensing Panels are responsible for considering applications for licences for pubs, clubs and restaurants. They can grant, refuse, or vary licences, and can also impose conditions on licences.

This week in Camden:

• The Children, Schools and Families Scrutiny Committee discussed how the Council and Camden Learning were supporting schools in meeting the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, in improving school attendance, and how they had been supporting children in care.
• The Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee received progress reports from Thames Water and the Dockless Bike Hire scheme, and the annual report of the Cabinet Member for New Homes and Community Investment.
• The Housing Scrutiny Committee discussed the performance of the Council's housebuilding programme, and other social housing providers.
• The Resources and Corporate Performance Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to hear updates on the Council's finances, including complaints made against the Council and updates on the Community Investment Programme.
• The Cabinet discussed the Council's budgets, spending, and borrowing, as well as reports on services for people with learning disabilities and the Council's response to complaints made against it.
• The Planning Committee was scheduled to consider applications about works to the Alexandra Road Estate, an extension to the Royal Free Hospital, and applications about a range of other sites.

Children, Schools and Families Scrutiny Committee - Monday 24 February 2025

The Children, Schools and Families Scrutiny Committee scrutinises the work of the council's Children, Schools and Families department. The committee is made up of councillors from all political parties represented on the council. It meets six times a year to consider reports on a range of topics, including children’s social care, education, and early years provision.

This week the committee was scheduled to receive updates about a range of services provided to children, young people and families in Camden. The information below is taken from the report pack provided to attendees for the meeting and does not provide an account of what was actually discussed, or whether any decisions were actually made.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee - Monday 24 February 2025

The Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee scrutinises the work of the council's Culture and Environment department. The committee is made up of councillors from all political parties represented on the council. It meets six times a year to consider reports on a range of topics, including parks and open spaces, waste and recycling, leisure and culture, and the environment.

This meeting included a progress report from Thames Water on its activities in the borough, a progress report on the ongoing Dockless Bike Hire scheme, and the annual report of the Cabinet Member for New Homes and Community Investment.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Housing Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 25 February 2025

The Housing Scrutiny Committee scrutinises the council’s housing policies and activities. This committee has a wide remit, considering reports on a range of topics including housing strategy, homelessness, housing conditions, and the private rented sector.

This week the Committee was scheduled to consider the performance of the Council's housebuilding programme, and other social housing providers. It was also scheduled to consider a report on the Housing Ombudsman’s investigation into the Council’s handling of housing complaints.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Resources and Corporate Performance Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 25 February 2025

The Resources and Corporate Performance Scrutiny Committee scrutinises decisions taken by the council’s Cabinet. It also monitors the council's performance in achieving its strategic objectives. The committee is made up of councillors from all political parties represented on the council.

This meeting was scheduled to include a discussion about the Council's finances for the coming year, including updates on complaints made to the Council, as well as its Community Investment Programme.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Cabinet - Wednesday 26 February 2025

The Cabinet is Camden Council’s principal decision-making body. It is made up of 10 councillors, all of whom are members of the Labour Party, which has a majority on the council.

This week the Cabinet discussed the Council's budgets, spending, and borrowing, as well as reports on services for people with learning disabilities and the Council's response to complaints made against it.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Planning Committee - Thursday 27 February 2025

The Planning Committee determines planning applications in the borough. It is made up of 10 councillors from across the political spectrum. Planning applications are submitted to the council by developers, and can include anything from small-scale extensions to large-scale redevelopments.

This meeting was scheduled to consider applications about works to the Alexandra Road Estate, an extension to the Royal Free Hospital, and applications about a range of other sites.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

This week in Camden:

• The Licensing Panel B met to consider applications for new or varied premises licences for the Great Nepalese Tandoori Restaurant, SMSH Burgers, and Taco Bell.
• The Audit and Corporate Governance Committee met to discuss the Council's financial affairs including the adoption of its statement of accounts, its pay policy statement and the members' allowances scheme.

Licensing Panel B - Thursday 20 February 2025

The Licensing Panel B is one of three Licensing Panels in Camden. Licensing Panels determine applications for licences for things like pubs, clubs and restaurants.

This week's meeting was scheduled to consider three applications for new or varied premises licences:

• An application to vary the licence of the Great Nepalese Tandoori Restaurant, 48 Eversholt Street, London NW1 1DA, to allow use of their rear garden by customers.
• An application for a new premises licence for SMSH Burgers, 126 Charing Cross Road, London WC2H 0LA, to allow late night refreshment until 1am, Monday to Saturday.
• An application for a new premises licence for Taco Bell, 75 Southampton Row, London WC1B 4ET, to allow late night refreshment until 1am, Sunday to Wednesday, and until 4am, Thursday to Saturday.

All three applications were opposed by local people.

In previous emails, we've often focused on applications for new licences. As well as granting new licences, Licensing Panels also consider applications to vary existing licences. They can also review licences that have already been granted. You might remember that in our email on 18 January 2025, we reported on an application to review the licence of Sican, a restaurant on Whitfield Street. This review was requested by 39 local residents because they believed that the restaurant was undermining the licensing objectives of the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, and the prevention of public nuisance.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Audit and Corporate Governance Committee - Thursday 20 February 2025

The Audit and Corporate Governance Committee is a committee of the council that is responsible for scrutinising the council's financial affairs. This includes things like the council's budget, its accounts, and its governance arrangements. The committee is made up of councillors from all of the political parties that are represented on the council.

This week the Committee was expected to consider a number of reports, including reports on the statement of accounts for 2023/24, the draft pay policy statement, the draft members' allowances scheme, the audited accounts of two companies that the council has a financial interest in, the annual governance statement and the external auditor's annual report. The Committee was also expected to receive a presentation on the principal risk of Adult Safeguarding, proposed changes to the council's constitution and a report on the ending of the shared service arrangements between Islington and Camden Councils.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

This week in Camden:

• The Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee discussed issues affecting disabled residents, a new scheme to help vulnerable adults, and Camden's Healthy Weight Acceleration Plan.
• The Licensing Panel A was scheduled to consider applications for new premises licences from a kiosk on Kingsway and a restaurant on Cleveland Street, and to adopt new guidance on remote hearings.

Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 11 February 2025

The Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee scrutinises the work of the council’s Health and Adult Social Care department. The committee is made up of councillors from all political parties represented on the council. It meets six times a year to consider reports on a range of topics, including adult social care, public health, and the NHS. This week the committee considered reports on a range of issues affecting health and adult social care services in Camden.

Supporting Disabled Residents

This item considered how the health and social care system supports disabled residents. The report set out the findings of research into the challenges faced by disabled residents and their experiences of interacting with the health and care system in Camden. The report also highlighted a number of organisations that support disabled residents in Camden, including Camden Disability Action, Age UK Camden and Camden Carers.

Adult Early Help: A test and learn approach to prevention across the Council

This report considered the Adult Early Help (AEH) project. Adult Early Help is a new approach to supporting vulnerable adults that aims to prevent their situations from getting worse. It tests whether providing staff with more time and flexibility to build relationships with people could help them identify and support their needs sooner. The committee considered a report evaluating this project. This reflects a growing trend in social care towards early intervention and prevention.

Camden’s Healthy Weight Acceleration Plan – Year 1

This report considered Camden's Healthy Weight Acceleration Plan, which aims to support residents to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. The plan identifies five key areas of work: early years, schools, organisations and place shaping, weight management services, and population groups with greater needs. The committee were asked to consider a report describing the progress made in each of these areas.

Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee Work Programme and Action Tracker

This item considered the Committee’s work programme for 2025-26, which sets out the topics that the committee will be scrutinising over the coming year.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Licensing Panel A - Thursday 13 February 2025

The Licensing Panel A is responsible for reviewing applications for licences for things like pubs, clubs, and restaurants. The Panel can grant, refuse, or vary licences, and can also impose conditions on licences.

This week, the Licensing Panel A was scheduled to consider a number of items.

London Kiosk

The panel was scheduled to consider an application for a new premises licence for Mr Krish Aziz Virani for the sale of alcohol for consumption off the premises at a kiosk at 111 Kingsway, London WC2B 6PP.

The application was opposed by both the Metropolitan Police¹ and Camden's Licensing Authority. This is unusual, as in previous cases considered by Camden's Licensing Panels, such as the application for a new licence for Mason & Fifth Primrose Limited at 5-8 St Mark's Square, London, that we reported on in our email on 18 January 2025, representations have only been received from one of these bodies.

The Police explained that they had previously issued a closure order to the premises under Section 19 of the Licensing Act 2003² because they believed that the venue was selling alcohol without a licence.

Camden's Licensing Authority objected to the application because the premises are located within the Seven Dials Cumulative Impact Policy Area³.

The panel was also scheduled to consider a representation from Camden's Trading Standards team, which provided details of a number of enforcement visits they had made to the premises, and which included details of what they said were sales of illicit tobacco, vapes and alcohol.

ATTO

The panel was also scheduled to consider an application for a new premises licence for xGround Holdings Limited, for the sale of alcohol for consumption on and off the premises at a restaurant at 88a Cleveland Street, London, W1T 6NJ.

The application was opposed by the Charlotte Street Association⁴, who argued that it was contrary to Camden's licensing policy for restaurants to sell alcohol to customers who were not also ordering food.

The panel were also scheduled to consider a representation from PC Rachel Aldis, who explained that she had reached an agreement with the applicant about a number of additional conditions, and that the Metropolitan Police were therefore withdrawing their objection to the application.

Guidance on remote meetings held under the Licensing Act 2003 and Associated Regulations

This item was about the adoption of new guidance for remote hearings held under the Licensing Act 2003. Remote hearings were introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and have continued to be used since then, as they allow for greater flexibility and accessibility for participants.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

This week in Camden:

• The Licensing Panel E was expected to review the premises licence of The Sir Richard Steele pub in Belsize Park following complaints from local residents about noise.
• The Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) was expected to discuss its priorities for the coming year and the results of Religious Education qualifications taken by students in Camden schools.
• The Schools Forum discussed school funding for 2025/26, including the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) settlement from central government and a projected overspend on support for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Licensing Panel E - Thursday 06 February 2025

The Licensing Panel E is responsible for reviewing applications for licences for things like pubs, clubs, and restaurants. The Panel can grant, refuse, or vary licences, and can also impose conditions on licences.

This week, the Licensing Panel E was scheduled to review an application for the review of a premises licence under section 51 of the Licensing Act 2003¹ for The Sir Richard Steele, 97 Haverstock Hill, London NW3 4RL. The licence is held by Martin Power.

The panel was scheduled to consider its guidance on the procedures for remote meetings held under the Licensing Act 2003. These procedures were introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic to allow licensing hearings to continue to take place remotely. The guidance sets out how remote meetings will be conducted, including the use of Microsoft Teams and the streaming of meetings to the public. It also covers the process for submitting late papers, the role of the Chair, and the procedures for dealing with confidential items.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) - Thursday 06 February 2025

The Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) is a statutory body that advises the council on matters relating to religious education (RE) and collective worship in schools. All local authorities in England are required to have a SACRE, which is made up of representatives from different religious groups, teachers, and councillors. This week, the SACRE was expected to discuss a range of issues, including the adoption of its new protocol, a grant application from the Westhill/NASACRE for an RE project run with Camden schools, feedback on Camden's 2023-2024 Annual Report and to receive an update on the work of the Camden Faith Forum. It was also scheduled to discuss the adoption of a new monitoring process, and to receive an update from the Department for Education (DfE) on RE staffing and student outcomes in Camden's Secondary Schools.

Camden SACRE Annual Report

The meeting was to receive the Camden SACRE Annual Report ² for 2023-2024. Feedback from members was requested on the report.

The report details the work of the SACRE over the past academic year, and the outcomes of Religious Education qualifications taken by students in Camden schools. It covers a wide range of issues related to RE and collective worship in schools, including:

• The provision of RE in schools
• The quality of RE teaching
• The arrangements for collective worship in schools
• The SACRE’s work with schools and other partners

The report is an important source of information for anyone who is interested in RE and collective worship in Camden.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Schools Forum - Wednesday 05 February 2025

The Schools Forum is a statutory body that advises the council on the allocation of funding to schools. It is made up of representatives from schools, the council, and other stakeholders. The Schools Forum meets at least three times a year to discuss a range of issues relating to school funding, including the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG), which is the main source of funding for schools. The forum's key role is to make recommendations to the council on how the DSG should be allocated.

This week's meeting was expected to consider a number of reports, including:

• School Funding 2025/26
• Early Years Entitlements Funding
• School Meals Delivery in Schools Update
• Schools Forum Work Programme
• High Needs Block (HNB)

School Funding 2025/26

The total government funding for Camden was estimated to be £251.1m, which (after allowing for annual roll changes) is up by £20.29m from last year. The increase of 7.5% to total overall per pupil funding in Camden comprised increases in the per pupil rate of 2.25% with a further 5.3% uplift relating to the inclusion of the former Teachers Pay Additional Grant (TPAG), Teachers Pension employers contribution grant (TPECG) and Core School Budget Grant (CSBG) grants into the National Funding Formula (NFF) Schools Block DSG base budget.

High Needs Block (HNB)

This report provided an updated financial projection on HNB spend for 2024/25 and predicted a further increase in the deficit projection since the last report in November 2024.

The report pack predicted an in-year overspend of £2.6m for 2024/25, which is £0.5m higher than the predicted overspend in the previous report in November. The total projected HNB spend for 2024/25 was £56.94m, which represents a 12% increase on the £50.86m spent in 2023/24.

The Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) funding allocation from central government for 2025/26 was £58.58m, an increase of £3.85m over the 2024/25 figure. However, the report predicted that if previous growth trends continued, the HNB would overspend in-year in 2025/26 by £2.7m, and the reserves would be exhausted by 2026/27.

The report was scheduled to state that the increasing numbers of children and young people with high needs, and inflationary pressures seen in 2024/25, will continue to impact HNB spend in future years.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

This week in Camden:

• The Council was asked to consider the Council Tax scheme for 2025/26, alongside a petition about investments made by the Camden Pension Fund.
• The Corporate Parenting Board was scheduled to meet on Tuesday.
• The Council met on Monday to discuss a request for an extraordinary meeting to be held in relation to the council's Housing Repairs Service.
• The Licensing Panel C was scheduled to review the licence of Sican, a restaurant on Whitfield Street, following complaints from local residents.
• The Planning Committee considered a number of planning applications, including a request for 33 new homes on land adjacent to 46 Maresfield Gardens in Belsize Park.

Council - Monday 20 January 2025

The Council meeting included a range of topics scheduled for discussion, including updates on Camden's Council Tax scheme for 2025/26, a petition about investments made by the Camden Pension Fund, changes to the Camden Planning Protocol and Camden's Contract Standing Orders, a report on a previous themed debate about working with partners and institutions and a follow-up report to a previous themed debate on the Government’s 10 Year Health Plan for England. There were also three motions scheduled to be discussed, including one about making Camden an Age-Friendly Borough, one about the challenges associated with meeting housing targets and one celebrating the success of the Community Investment Programme.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Planning Committee - Thursday 23 January 2025

This meeting of the Planning Committee considered a number of planning applications, including proposals to redevelop part of 39a Fitzjohn's Avenue and to build on land adjacent to 46 Maresfield Gardens, to erect a rear extension at 73 South End Road, and to vary a previously approved application at Land adjacent to 1 Regency Lawn, Croftdown Road. The committee also reviewed the minutes from its previous meeting, which was held on the 14th of November 2024.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Licensing Panel C - Thursday 23 January 2025

The Licensing Panel C was scheduled to consider a report on an application to review the premises licence of Sican, 26-28 Whitfield Street, London. The review was requested by Gary Sollof and 38 local residents on the grounds that they believe that the operation of the premises is undermining the licensing objectives of the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, and the prevention of public nuisance.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Council - Monday 20 January 2025

The only item scheduled to be discussed in this Council meeting, other than routine matters, was a request for an extraordinary meeting that had been made by Councillors Simon, Chung, Dixey, Kirk and Jirira. The request asked the council to examine the council’s plans for addressing failures of the housing repairs service.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Corporate Parenting Board - Tuesday 21 January 2025

No transcript of this meeting of the Corporate Parenting Board was available at the time of writing.

This week in Camden:

• The Housing Scrutiny Committee met to discuss a number of housing-related matters, including the Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) Licensing Scheme, the Housing Revenue Account budget, and the Housing Investment Strategy.
• The Cabinet agreed to a number of proposals, including increases to rent and service charges, the sale of council homes, and a new contract for sexual health services.
• The Resources and Corporate Performance Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to hear updates on the council’s support for residents struggling with debt and the new Camden website.
• Licensing Panel B was scheduled to consider three applications for new or varied premises licences
• The Children, Schools and Families Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to discuss the findings of the council's Young Inspectors Scheme, the family hubs programme, and the impact of the government’s plans to reform children’s social care.
• The Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to discuss a range of topics, including a new approach to tackling environmental crime and an update on Camden's cultural programme.

Housing Scrutiny Committee - Monday 13 January 2025

The Housing Scrutiny Committee scrutinises the council’s housing policies and activities. This committee has a wide remit, considering reports on a range of topics including housing strategy, homelessness, housing conditions, and the private rented sector.

This week the Committee was scheduled to consider a number of reports, including a review of the Additional Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) Licensing Scheme, the Housing Revenue Account budget, and the Housing Investment Strategy.

Houses in Multiple Occupation

The committee was scheduled to discuss proposals for the renewal of the Additional HMO licensing scheme, which is due to expire at the end of the year. The current scheme requires landlords to license smaller HMOs in Camden. The mandatory licensing scheme that applies to all local authorities in England requires HMOs with 5 or more occupants from more than one household to be licensed, so Camden’s additional licensing scheme is intended to address concerns about the management and condition of smaller HMOs occupied by 3 or 4 people. These schemes are an important way for the Council to regulate the private rented sector and ensure that tenants are living in safe and well-managed properties.

The report pack suggests that a significant proportion of the HMOs in Camden are being managed poorly. The current scheme introduced a new policy of issuing 1-year licences for applications where there is cause for concern about a property’s management or condition. Of the 2,055 licences that had been issued under the scheme, 331 (17%) had been for 1 year. The report pack recommends that the current scheme continue until it expires on 8 December 2025, and that the Council consult on whether to introduce a new, borough-wide additional licensing scheme to take effect on its expiry.

Housing Revenue Account

The committee was also scheduled to discuss the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget and rent review 2025/26. The HRA is a ring-fenced account that local authorities in England must keep to record all income and expenditure relating to its council housing stock.

The report pack highlights a number of financial challenges faced by the HRA. These include the impact of government policies such as the bedroom tax, the removal of rent convergence, and the introduction of Right to Buy discounts. The report also highlights the impact of Universal Credit, enforced rent reductions, and a recent cap on rent increases.

The report pack also includes details of the Council’s Medium Term Financial Strategy for the HRA. This has identified a £7.6 million funding gap for the HRA, and the report recommends increasing social housing rents by 2.7% from April 2025. This is the maximum permitted increase under the government’s rent standard.

Housing Investment

The final report scheduled for consideration by the Committee was on the proposed Housing Investment Strategy for 2025–2030. The report highlights two key challenges: the urgent need to respond to the local housing crisis, and a lack of funding to maintain existing homes to the required standards.

To address this funding gap, the report suggests releasing some of the council’s poorly performing properties from the stock. It recommends releasing homes with high investment needs to minimise the number sold. The proceeds from the sale of these properties would be used to improve its remaining homes and to increase the supply of affordable housing in the borough.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing. This means we do not know what was actually discussed or decided at the meeting.

Cabinet - Wednesday 15 January 2025

The Cabinet is Camden Council's principal decision-making body. It is made up of 10 councillors, all of whom are members of the Labour Party, which has a majority on the council.

This week's meeting included a number of decisions relating to housing, including proposals to increase rents and service charges, to release properties from the council’s housing stock, and to renew the Additional HMO Licensing scheme.

Housing Revenue Account

The Cabinet considered a report on the proposed Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget and rent review for 2025/26, which had previously been considered by the Housing Scrutiny Committee.

The Cabinet agreed to increase social rents by 2.7% in line with the government’s rent standard. The Cabinet also agreed to increase charges for resident garages, private garages, estate parking, sheds, cupboards, allotments, keys and fobs. These proposals were agreed despite concerns that these increases would place additional financial pressure on residents at a time when many are struggling with the cost of living.

Housing Investment

The Cabinet considered a report on the Housing Investment Strategy for 2025–2030. The report sets out Camden's plan to ensure its housing stock meets the Decent Homes Standard. The Decent Homes Standard sets out the minimum standard that social housing in England must meet. This includes things like being in a reasonable state of repair, having modern facilities, and being reasonably energy efficient.

To address the funding gap for the HRA, the Cabinet agreed to a proactive asset management strategy. The report proposed releasing some of the council's homes from its housing stock, to raise funds to improve the remaining stock and to meet its strategic housing pledges. This proposal was met with resistance from some residents, who argue that the sale of council homes will exacerbate the housing crisis in Camden. However, the report argues that the sale of homes is necessary to ensure that the council can continue to provide good quality affordable housing.

HMO Licensing

The Cabinet considered a report on the proposed renewal of the Additional HMO licensing scheme. The Cabinet agreed to renew the scheme for a further five years when it expires on 8 December 2025. This means that landlords of smaller HMOs will continue to need a licence to operate in Camden. The Cabinet also agreed to simplify the fee structure for HMO licences.

Integrated Sexual Health Services

The final report considered by the Cabinet was about the future of integrated sexual health services in Camden, which are provided in partnership with three other London boroughs: Barnet, Haringey and Islington. The existing contract for these services is due to come to an end in June 2025.

In line with new government regulations, the Cabinet agreed to award a new contract to the existing provider, Central and North West London (CNWL) NHS Foundation Trust. The new contract will be for three years, with a possible extension of two years. The total value of the contract across the four boroughs is £47,525,890.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing, so we do not know what was actually discussed or decided at the meeting. However, Camden Council publishes a record of decisions taken at Cabinet meetings: Cabinet Decisions - 15 January 2025.

Resources and Corporate Performance Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 14 January 2025

The Resources and Corporate Performance Scrutiny Committee scrutinises decisions taken by the council’s Cabinet. It also monitors the council's performance in achieving its strategic objectives. The committee is made up of councillors from all political parties represented on the council.

This meeting was scheduled to include discussions on the council’s activities in relation to supporting residents with debt and maximising income. The committee was also scheduled to receive updates on the new Camden website and from the Cabinet Member for Finance and Cost of Living.

Cost of Living and Tackling Poverty

The committee was scheduled to receive a report on the Debt Transformation and Income Maximisation work programme. The report highlighted the challenges faced by residents who are in debt, especially those struggling with the cost of living. The committee heard about the work that is being done to support residents in managing their debt and maximising their income.

The committee was also scheduled to receive the Annual Report of the Cabinet Member for Finance and Cost of Living. This report described a range of measures that are being implemented to address the cost of living crisis, including the provision of warm spaces and food banks, as well as the development of new financial support schemes.

Camden.gov.uk website

The committee was scheduled to receive a report on the new Camden.gov.uk website. The report highlighted the importance of digital inclusion, and described a range of measures that are being implemented to make the website more accessible to residents who are digitally excluded.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Licensing Panel B - Thursday 16 January 2025

Licensing Panels in Camden determine applications for licences for things like pubs, clubs and restaurants. There are three panels: A, B and C.

This meeting of Licensing Panel B was scheduled to consider three applications for new or varied premises licences. The applications were:

• A new premises licence for Sainsbury's Supermarkets Ltd for their store at 6-12 Parkway, London.
• A new premises licence for Mason & Fifth Primrose Limited to sell alcohol at their premises at 5-8 St Mark's Square, London.
• A variation of the premises licence for Lightening Ltd for their Papa John's Pizza takeaway at 177 West End Lane, London.

Each of the applications were opposed by local residents.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Children, Schools and Families Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 14 January 2025

This meeting of the Children, Schools and Families Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to discuss a number of issues relating to children’s services in Camden, including the family hubs programme, the government’s plans to reform children’s social care, and the work of the council's Young Inspectors scheme.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee - Monday 13 January 2025

The Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee scrutinises the work of the council’s Culture and Environment Directorate. The committee is made up of councillors from all political parties represented on the council. It meets six times a year to consider reports on a range of topics, including parks and open spaces, waste and recycling, leisure and culture, and the environment.

This meeting was scheduled to include discussions on a range of topics, including an annual report from the Cabinet Member for Planning and a Sustainable Camden, a new approach to tackling environmental crime, an update on Camden's Cultural Programme, and a pilot project aimed at reducing street clutter.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

This week in Camden:

• The Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee was expected to hear updates on winter preparedness, the Camden Neighbourhoods Programme, and progress on transforming mental health support services.
• Licensing Panel A met to consider applications for new alcohol licences and to hear representations from residents who had concerns about potential noise and nuisance.
• The Hampstead District Management Committee met to discuss the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget for 2025/26, including proposed increases to rent and service charges, and the registration of Tenants and Residents Associations in the Hampstead area.
• The Holborn District Management Committee was scheduled to discuss the HRA budget for 2025/26 and to consider co-opting representatives from Tenants and Residents Associations onto the committee.
• The Kentish Town District Management Committee met to discuss the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget for 2025/26 and the registration of local Tenants and Residents Associations.
• The Gospel Oak District Management Committee met on Wednesday to consider the Housing Revenue Account Budget for 2025/26 and to review the list of registered Tenants and Residents Associations in the Gospel Oak ward.
• The Camden Town District Management Committee considered the Housing Revenue Account Budget for 2025/26, which included proposals for rent and service charge increases, and were scheduled to note the registration of Tenants and Residents Associations.

Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 07 January 2025

The Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee scrutinises the work of the council's Health and Adult Social Care department. This committee has a wide remit, considering reports on a range of topics including adult social care, public health, and the NHS.

This week the Committee was expected to receive an update from Councillor Anna Wright, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care¹. This update was scheduled to include information on adult social care waiting lists and safeguarding, as well as a summary of the key issues discussed at the National Children and Adult Services Conference which took place between the 27th and 29th of November 2024. The Committee was also expected to receive a report on winter preparedness, and an overview of the Supporting People, Connecting Communities Accommodation Plan, which sets out how Camden will meet the housing and support needs of vulnerable residents.

The most significant item on the agenda was a presentation on the Camden Neighbourhoods Programme, which has been developing over the past two years. This programme represents a significant shift in the way that health and care services are delivered in Camden, with a move towards a more integrated, neighbourhood-based approach.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Hampstead District Management Committee - Wednesday 08 January 2025

The Hampstead District Management Committee is one of seven District Management Committees (DMCs) in Camden. DMCs provide a forum for residents of council housing to scrutinise the services provided to them, to work with the council to shape those services, and to make decisions about how money is spent in their local area. The Hampstead DMC met this week to discuss a number of items including the registration of Tenants’ and Residents’ Associations, the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget for 2025/26 and rent setting.

Holborn District Management Committee - Wednesday 08 January 2025

Like the Hampstead DMC, the Holborn District Management Committee is a forum for residents of council housing. This week's meeting was scheduled to include a discussion of the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget for 2025/26. The committee was expected to consider a report by Daniel Omisore, Camden's Director of Finance, setting out the proposed budget and the financial pressures facing the HRA. It was also anticipated that the committee would be asked to co-opt representatives from Tenants and Residents Associations (TRAs) onto the committee. TRAs represent the interests of council tenants and leaseholders in Camden.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Kentish Town District Management Committee - Wednesday 08 January 2025

The Kentish Town District Management Committee is another of Camden's seven District Management Committees. This week the committee was asked to consider Camden Council's Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget for 2025/26 and proposals for rent and service charge increases. The meeting also included the formal registration of the tenants and residents associations that are represented on the committee.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Gospel Oak District Management Committee - Wednesday 08 January 2025

The Gospel Oak District Management Committee met this week to discuss the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget for 2025/2026. The committee considered a report prepared by officers setting out the proposed budget, including proposals for rent and service charge increases. The committee was also due to review a list of registered Tenant and Resident Associations (TRAs) in the Gospel Oak ward. TRAs play an important role in representing the views of council tenants and leaseholders and in scrutinising the council's housing services.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Camden Town District Management Committee - Wednesday 08 January 2025

The Camden Town District Management Committee is another of Camden's seven District Management Committees, providing a forum for residents of council housing in the Camden Town area. This meeting was scheduled to include a presentation and discussion of Camden Council's Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Budget for 2025/26. The committee was also due to note the registration of Tenants and Residents Associations (TRAs) in the Camden Town area. TRAs are resident-led groups who work with the Council to ensure that local services meet the needs of residents.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

This week in Camden:

• The Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee discussed waiting lists and safeguarding in adult social care, improvements to employment support for disabled residents, and a report on endometriosis.
• Licensing Panel C met to decide whether to grant a new alcohol and entertainment licence for Hawley Wharf Market Place.
• The Health and Wellbeing Board considered Camden's progress in tackling obesity, received an update on the role of community pharmacies, and considered a new health campaign for young people.

Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee - Monday 16 December 2024

The Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee scrutinises the work of the council’s Health and Adult Social Care department. The committee is made up of councillors from all political parties represented on the council. It meets six times a year to consider reports on a range of topics, including adult social care, public health, and the NHS.

This week the Committee considered reports on a range of issues affecting health and adult social care services in Camden.

Waiting lists and safeguarding

The Committee were provided with an update by Councillor Anna Wright, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care, on the work that is being done to reduce waiting times for Adult Social Care assessments and reviews. The report highlighted an increase in demand for services, with over 3,000 requests for support in the first six months of the financial year 2024/25. The report explained that the council has increased investment in social workers and occupational therapists to help address these issues.

Endometriosis

The Committee also discussed endometriosis, a condition that affects 1 in 10 women in the UK, following a presentation of a report from Healthwatch Camden. The report highlighted the challenges faced by women with endometriosis in accessing diagnosis and treatment. This is an issue that has been raised by campaigners for a number of years. In 2021, the government announced a new Women's Health Strategy for England, which aims to improve the health and wellbeing of women and girls. The strategy includes a commitment to improve the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis.

Progress update on health, disability and employment

A progress report on employment support in Camden was also presented to the Committee. This report focused on Camden’s progress in developing a 'population health' approach to employment support, which aims to address the wider determinants of health, such as housing, education, and employment. This reflects a growing awareness of the importance of these wider determinants of health in improving health outcomes.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Licensing Panel C - Thursday 19 December 2024

Licensing Panels in Camden determine applications for licences for things like pubs, clubs, and restaurants. There are three panels: A, B and C.

This meeting of Licensing Panel C considered an application for a new premises licence for Hawley Wharf Market Place, a new development at Camden Market. This was the most significant item on the Panel’s agenda.

The applicant, Ground Gilbey Limited, applied for a licence to sell alcohol and to provide live and recorded music and dance in the outside area of the market between 12:00 and 21:00, seven days a week. This is a common type of licence application, which allows businesses to operate in a way that is safe and controlled.

The application was made in the context of a series of planned events to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Camden Market.

A number of representations were received from local residents, some of which objected to the application on the grounds of potential noise and nuisance. This is a common concern raised in relation to licensing applications, and Licensing Panels are tasked with balancing the needs of businesses with the rights of residents.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Health and Wellbeing Board - Wednesday 18 December 2024

This meeting of the Health and Wellbeing Board included a number of updates about public health issues affecting Camden.

Obesity

The Board discussed Camden’s Healthy Weight Acceleration Plan. This plan, which was adopted earlier in the year, sets out the borough’s approach to tackling overweight and obesity in both children and adults. The Board heard about the range of initiatives already underway to promote healthy weight in the borough, including new investment in breakfast clubs and school meals, and plans to expand the number of schools taking part in the Healthy Schools programme.

This meeting highlights the importance that the council places on tackling obesity, which is a significant public health issue across the UK. In 2020, the government published a new obesity strategy which set out a range of measures to reduce obesity rates.

Community pharmacies

The Board also heard about a number of challenges facing community pharmacies in Camden. The meeting heard that workforce shortages, increasing costs and stock shortages are placing pressure on pharmacies across the borough. Despite these challenges, the Board also heard about the potential for pharmacies to provide a wider range of clinical services in the future.

This discussion highlights the vital role that community pharmacies play in delivering healthcare. Pharmacies are often the first point of contact for people seeking healthcare advice and support. The government has recognised the important role that pharmacies can play in relieving pressure on the NHS, and has invested in a number of schemes to expand the range of services offered by pharmacies.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

This week in Camden:

• The Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee discussed an update on the council's Biodiversity Strategy, the performance of Camden’s leisure centres and the ongoing work to make Camden a “Cleaner, Safer” borough.
• The Resources and Corporate Performance Scrutiny Committee discussed the Insight, Learning and Impact Report, a document which summarises performance across all of the services provided by Camden Council, alongside updates on the Council Tax Support Scheme for 2025/26 and the Camden Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS).
• The Children, Schools and Families Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to hear the annual reports of the Cabinet Member for Best Start for Children and Families and the Cabinet Member for Jobs, Young People & Culture, and to discuss safeguarding arrangements for children in the borough.
• The Housing Scrutiny Committee discussed plans to improve the energy efficiency of council homes by installing solar panels and battery storage and the council’s response to concerns about the quality and affordability of private rented accommodation.
• The Cabinet agreed to a scheme to retrofit the Council’s housing to make it more energy efficient, approved an increase to the Council Tax Support Scheme, and discussed the financial pressures facing the Council.
• The Licensing Panel B was scheduled to review the licence of a premises in Chancery Lane following allegations of worker exploitation, as well as considering an application for a new off licence in Fleet Road.
• The Planning Committee considered a number of planning applications including proposals to build a new entrance and additional bedrooms at the Travelodge hotel on Drury Lane, to install new windows and heating systems at Alexandra Road Estate, and to demolish an existing extension at a property on Maresfield Gardens.

Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee - Monday 09 December 2024

The Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee scrutinises the work of the council’s Culture and Environment Directorate. The committee is made up of councillors from all political parties represented on the council. It meets six times a year to consider reports on a range of topics, including parks and open spaces, waste and recycling, leisure and culture, and the environment.

Annual report of the Cabinet Member for Voluntary Sector, Equalities, and Cohesion

Councillor Nadia Shah, Camden Council's Cabinet Member for Voluntary Sector, Equalities and Cohesion¹, presented her annual report to the Committee.

The report provides an overview of the work undertaken by the portfolio over the past year, and sets out the key priorities for the coming year. It begins by describing Camden's voluntary and community sector, which comprises over 2,400 organisations of different sizes and delivers essential support to residents. Shah’s report praises the work of this sector and describes the ways in which Camden has worked to support it. This includes launching the 'We Make Camden VCS Investment Programme', a seven-year commitment to provide £4 million annually to the voluntary and community sector.

The report goes on to describe a number of important initiatives and projects that were undertaken to support communities and address inequalities in the borough. Key areas of focus for this work included the response to the cost of living crisis, Camden's designation as a Borough of Sanctuary, and the council's ongoing work with the Interfaith Network to build community cohesion.

A key part of Camden's work on equalities and community empowerment has been the expansion of Warm Spaces. The report highlights the vital role played by the council's partners in the voluntary and community sector in managing 40% of these spaces. These spaces are a network of over 50 public venues across the borough where residents can go to keep warm, meet others, and access advice and support.

The report then describes the work that has been carried out to address equality and diversity in the borough, starting by reiterating the council’s 'Diversity Mission'. This states that by 2030 the council hopes Camden's leadership roles are as diverse as its communities. As part of this work, the report describes a number of initiatives, including the 'Camden Equity Network' and the 'Camden Inclusion Calendar'.

Councillor Shah's report highlights Camden's commitment to disability inclusion through a range of initiatives and campaigns, including the Disability Oversight Panel, Disability Awareness Month (December), and the ‘Active for All Day’ held at Talacre Community Sports Centre. The report also describes the steps that have been taken to improve disability access to leisure facilities.

This section of the report concludes by highlighting two significant achievements in the council's work on equality. The first of these is Camden’s recognition of care experience as a protected characteristic. This means that care experience has the same legal protections as other protected characteristics like race or gender, and commits the council to improving outcomes for care-experienced people. The second achievement is the launch of Camden's ‘Strategy for Diversity in the Public Realm’, which aims to make Camden's public spaces more representative of the borough's diverse communities.

The report concludes by setting out the council's plan to develop an 'Equalities and Disproportionality Strategy', which will be a long-term framework for addressing inequality across all council services.

Update on the Biodiversity Strategy

The committee were scheduled to receive an update on the council’s Biodiversity Strategy, ‘Creating space for nature in Camden’, and its associated action plan. The Biodiversity Strategy was adopted in January 2022 in response to the Climate and Ecological Emergency declared by the council in October 2019. The report outlines a number of recent changes to national legislation and policy that relate to the Biodiversity Strategy, and then describes some of the work that has been carried out by the council since the last update.

One of the areas highlighted in the report is the work to create a ‘Nature Recovery Network’ for the borough. The Camden Nature Recovery Network will set out the council’s priorities for nature, and describe the steps it will take to support nature across Camden. The report describes a number of different types of opportunities that have been identified as part of this work, including working with developers to ensure that they benefit nature, and working with community groups like those who have proposed creating a ‘Camden Nature Corridor’ from Hampstead Heath to Talacre Gardens.

Another area highlighted in the report is the work that has been carried out to achieve 'Biodiversity Net Gain' from developments. Biodiversity Net Gain is a requirement of the Environment Act 2021, and requires that developments deliver a 10% net gain in biodiversity. The report describes the challenges of applying the biodiversity net gain requirement in an urban area, and states that because many applications are excluded from the requirement, the outcome with regard to biodiversity in Camden is not yet fully known, and not necessarily positive.

The final area of work described in the report is the work to create a new full-time ‘nature engagement’ role in the council. This new role will be funded using Section 106 funding² from developments, and money from the HS2 Biodiversity Assurance Fund. The role will focus on improving access to nature, and supporting community groups working to improve nature in the borough.

The report concludes by describing the work that is being carried out to promote Camden's work on biodiversity, including the development of a new ‘green’ section of the council website.

Resources and Corporate Performance Scrutiny Committee - Monday 09 December 2024

The Resources and Corporate Performance Scrutiny Committee scrutinises decisions taken by the council's Cabinet, which is responsible for most day-to-day decisions. It also monitors the council's performance in achieving its strategic objectives. The committee is made up of councillors from all political parties represented on the council.

Insight, Learning and Impact Report - Quarter 2 2024/25

The second quarter report of the year covered a range of data collected by council services, alongside emerging trends, challenges and opportunities. One of the biggest opportunities the report highlighted was the start of the Money Advice Camden pilot, which is scheduled to fully launch in January 2025. The report included a cost of living dashboard which showed that an average of 765 applications for support from the Household Support Fund¹ were received every month. The report highlighted challenges in the Housing service, noting that Camden has a duty under Part 7 of the Housing Act 1996 to secure temporary accommodation for homeless households in priority need. It highlighted that at the end of September 2024, the Council was providing temporary accommodation to 968 households of which 536 were families, and that this number has increased by 45% since the end of September 2023. The report also highlighted a range of successes, such as the significant progress that has been made on tackling damp and mould, noting that the overall number of live cases ranges between 250 and 300 at present and this is a significant reduction on the caseload generated last year by the proactive communications carried out following the tragic death of Awaab Ishak. The report identified concerns about rising homelessness amongst asylum seekers, noting that those granted Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK are then required to make their own housing arrangements and can also approach local authorities to apply as homeless – many are leaving Home Office accommodation to sleep rough.

Children, Schools and Families Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 10 December 2024

This meeting of the Children, Schools and Families Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to hear the annual reports of the Cabinet Member for Best Start for Children and Families and the Cabinet Member for Jobs, Young People & Culture, and to discuss safeguarding arrangements for children in the borough.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Housing Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 10 December 2024

The Housing Scrutiny Committee discussed plans to improve the energy efficiency of council homes by installing solar panels and battery storage and the council’s response to concerns about the quality and affordability of private rented accommodation.

Energy Efficiency in Council Homes

A report entitled “Retrofit at Scale for Council Homes – Procurement Strategy” was prepared for the meeting. It puts forward a plan to improve the energy efficiency of council homes by installing solar panels and battery storage and sets out a method for paying for the work. This would be a pilot scheme, to be delivered in partnership with a private investor through a new “Special Purpose Vehicle” (SPV), involving around 3,000 council homes. If successful, the pilot could be extended to more council homes.

Housing Revenue Account Budget 2025/26

A report prepared by Emma Cardoso, Strategic Finance Lead for Housing, provides an update on the HRA budget. This is the council's ring-fenced budget for social housing.

Cabinet - Wednesday 11 December 2024

The Cabinet is Camden Council's principal decision-making body. It is responsible for most day-to-day decisions about the running of the council. The Cabinet is made up of 10 councillors, all of whom are members of the Labour Party, which has a majority on the council.

Procurement strategy for a retrofit at scale pilot

This report recommended that the Council start a scheme to install solar panels and battery storage at 3,000 council homes, which is 9% of the Council’s housing stock.

Council Tax Support 2025/26 and Housing Benefit disregarded income from assessments

This report provided details about the Council Tax Support (CTS) scheme for the 2025/26 financial year. The report recommended that the Council agree to uplift the current scheme in line with changes in the London Living Wage.

Licensing Panel B - Thursday 12 December 2024

Licensing Panels in Camden determine applications for licences for things like pubs, clubs and restaurants. There are three panels, A, B and C.

The Licensing Panel B meeting was scheduled to consider a request for a review of a licence for Blue Garden, at 74 Chancery Lane, London WC2A 1AA, following a request from the Metropolitan Police, and an application for a new off licence at 90 Fleet Road, London NW3 2QX.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Planning Committee - Thursday 12 December 2024

The Planning Committee determines planning applications in the borough. The committee is made up of councillors who represent different wards across Camden. Applications are brought before the committee where they are considered to be controversial, or where they raise significant policy issues.

The Planning Committee meeting on Thursday 12 December 2024 considered a range of planning applications for sites across the borough.

TRAVELODGE HOTEL, 10 DRURY LANE

The report pack included an application for the erection of a two-storey extension to the existing Travelodge Hotel to form a new step-free entrance.

ALEXANDRA ROAD ESTATE, ROWLEY WAY

The report pack included two sets of applications associated with thermal and heating improvements across the entire Alexandra Road Estate.

50 MARESFIELD GARDENS

The report pack included a proposal for the demolition of the existing side extension and its replacement with a single-storey extension behind a new garden wall.

KINGSWAY HOUSE, 103 KINGSWAY

The report pack included an application for a change of use of the existing building from commercial use (Class E) to apart hotel use (Class C1), a roof extension and the retention of Class E use at ground floor.

124 THEOBALD'S ROAD

The report pack included an application for the refurbishment of the existing commercial building and a number of extensions to increase floorspace, including a nine-storey front extension, the introduction of a roof terrace and the provision of a Class E café unit.

This week in Camden:

• The Pension Committee discussed reports on the investment performance of the Camden Pension Fund, an update of its list of employers, its engagement work, and the progress of the London Collective Investment Vehicle.
• The Holborn District Management Committee was expected to feature discussion of the council's Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget for 2025/26, including the proposal to increase rent in line with inflation and further service charge increases for tenants.
• The Schools Forum considered a report on the provisional Dedicated Schools Grant for the 2025/26 financial year, an update on arrangements for the procurement of school meals from April 2025 and the work programme for the remainder of the school year.
• The Leaseholders' Forum was scheduled to elect its new Chair, Vice Chair and Communications Member after the triennial elections, receive updates from the Associate Cabinet Member for Leaseholders and the Head of Leaseholder Services, and consider Camden's new Asset Management Strategy.
• The Licensing Panel A meeting was scheduled to consider three applications for the variation or grant of new premises licences for three sites in the borough, and a report about remote meeting etiquette.
• The Hampstead District Management Committee was scheduled to include a discussion of the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget for 2025/26, and an update on the Housing Transformation programme.
• The Audit and Corporate Governance Committee meeting included updates on external and internal audit work, a review of principal risks, an update on politically restricted positions within the Council, proposed amendments to standing orders for procurement, and a report on recent changes to polling districts and places.

Pension Committee - Monday 02 December 2024

The Pension Committee is responsible for overseeing the Camden Pension Fund. The committee is made up of councillors from all political parties represented on the council, as well as representatives of the trade unions that represent council staff. The committee meets four times a year.

The meeting was scheduled to include reports on the investment performance of the Camden Pension Fund, an update of its list of employers, its engagement work, and the progress of the London Collective Investment Vehicle. No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Holborn District Management Committee - Tuesday 03 December 2024

The Holborn District Management Committee is one of seven District Management Committees (DMCs) in Camden. DMCs are forums for residents of council housing in Camden. The role of DMCs is to:

• hold the council to account for the services it provides to residents.
• work with the council to shape housing services.
• make decisions about how money is spent in their area.

This meeting considered a number of housing-related matters, including the Housing Revenue Account budget for 2025/26, an update on the Housing Transformation programme, and a response to concerns raised by residents at a previous meeting about the future of the Holmes Road Depot.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Schools Forum - Wednesday 04 December 2024

The Schools Forum is a statutory body which advises the local authority on the planning, provision, and funding of education in the borough. It has representatives from schools, early years settings, the council, and other stakeholders. The Forum must meet at least three times per year.

This meeting of the Schools Forum considered a report on the provisional Dedicated Schools Grant for the 2025/26 financial year, an update on arrangements for the procurement of school meals from April 2025 and the work programme for the remainder of the school year.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Leaseholders' Forum - Wednesday 04 December 2024

The Leaseholders' Forum is a statutory body that represents the interests of leaseholders in Camden. The Forum meets four times a year to discuss issues relating to leasehold properties in the borough.

This Leaseholders' Forum was scheduled to elect its new Chair, Vice Chair and Communications Member after the triennial elections, receive updates from the Associate Cabinet Member for Leaseholders and the Head of Leaseholder Services, and consider Camden's new Asset Management Strategy. The Forum was also scheduled to receive presentations on the impact of HS2 on leaseholders in Camden and a report from its Major Works Working Group.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Licensing Panel A - Thursday 05 December 2024

Licensing Panels in Camden determine applications for licences for things like pubs, clubs and restaurants. There are three panels, A, B and C.

This Licensing Panel A meeting was scheduled to consider three applications for the variation or grant of new premises licences for three sites in the borough, and a report about remote meeting etiquette.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Hampstead District Management Committee - Thursday 05 December 2024

The Hampstead District Management Committee is one of seven District Management Committees (DMCs) in Camden. DMCs are forums for residents of council housing in Camden. The role of DMCs is to:

• hold the council to account for the services it provides to residents.
• work with the council to shape housing services.
• make decisions about how money is spent in their area.

This meeting was scheduled to include a discussion of the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget for 2025/26, and an update on the Housing Transformation programme. Updates on the Regis Road Regeneration Strategy, the CCTV programme, and the repairs and voids services were also scheduled to be provided.

The meeting was also scheduled to include consideration of a funding bid from Harben Estate Tenants and Residents Association (TRA) for match funding towards improvements to the estate's green space and children’s play area.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Audit and Corporate Governance Committee - Thursday 05 December 2024

The Audit and Corporate Governance Committee is responsible for overseeing the council’s financial reporting, internal control, and risk management processes. The committee also scrutinises the work of the council’s external auditors. The committee is made up of councillors from all political parties represented on the council. It meets four times a year.

The report pack for this meeting included updates on external and internal audit work, a review of principal risks, an update on politically restricted positions within the Council, proposed amendments to standing orders for procurement, and a report on recent changes to polling districts and places.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

This week in Camden:

• The Camden Town District Management Committee discussed a number of housing-related matters including the Housing Revenue Account, the Housing Transformation programme, new bids for the Camden Town DMC budget, and the ongoing regeneration of the Regis Road area.
• The Kentish Town District Management Committee met on Tuesday, but no transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.
• The Disability Oversight Panel received updates on the council's efforts to improve digital accessibility, and to promote sport and physical activity for people with disabilities.
• The Gospel Oak District Management Committee met to discuss the Housing Revenue Account budget for 2025/26, updates on the Housing Transformation Programme, and the allocation of the committee's budget. They were also scheduled to receive updates about the ongoing regeneration of the Regis Road area.

Camden Town District Management Committee - Wednesday 27 November 2024

The Camden Town District Management Committee is one of seven District Management Committees (DMCs) in Camden. DMCs are forums for residents of council housing in Camden. The role of DMCs is to:

• hold the council to account for the services it provides to residents.
• work with the council to shape housing services.
• make decisions about how money is spent in their area.

This week the Camden Town DMC discussed a number of housing-related matters including the Housing Revenue Account, the Housing Transformation programme, new bids for the Camden Town DMC budget, and the ongoing regeneration of the Regis Road area.

No transcript was available at the time of writing. However, you can read the meeting papers on Camden Council's website: Camden Town DMC Meeting Papers - 27 November 2024.

Disability Oversight Panel - Monday 25 November 2024

The Disability Oversight Panel scrutinises the council's work on disability issues and ensures that the council meets its legal duties to disabled residents.

The Panel received a report on the Council's progress in making its websites more accessible. The report described the range of measures that had been taken to achieve this, including:

• The redesign of the camden.gov.uk website.
• The relaunch of the Adult Community Learning booking site.
• Improvements to forms relating to the Camden Accessible Transport System.

The Panel also received an update on sport and physical activity opportunities for disabled people in Camden. It was reported that GLL, the charitable social enterprise that runs Camden's leisure centres, offered 10 targeted disability sessions.

No transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing.

Gospel Oak District Management Committee - Thursday 28 November 2024

The Gospel Oak District Management Committee considered a report on the Housing Revenue Account (HRA), which is the account that councils use to manage their housing stock. The report highlighted the financial pressures facing the HRA, including rising inflation, interest rates, and the cost of repairs. These are issues affecting councils across the country, not just in Camden. This was also discussed in the Camden Town DMC meeting. You may remember that when this issue was discussed by the Housing Scrutiny Committee meeting on 12 November 2024, the committee heard that Camden is forecasting an overspend of £3.5m on the 2024/25 HRA budget.

The Committee also considered the latest developments in the Housing Transformation Programme, a major project which is intended to improve the way the council delivers its housing services. This ambitious project is a direct response to the challenges described in the Housing Strategy 2020-2025, which states that: We will deliver a once in a generation transformation in how we deliver our housing services to meet these challenges.

Members also discussed the allocation of the Gospel Oak DMC budget. As is typical for this stage of the financial year, most of the budget remained unspent.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

This week in Camden:

• The Council was due to meet on Monday but no transcript was available at the time of writing.
• The Licensing Committee was due to discuss changes to licensing rules for pubs and restaurants, as well as revisions to the terms and conditions for street trading licences.
• The Licensing Panel D considered applications for new alcohol licences and heard representations from residents who had concerns about potential noise and nuisance.

Licensing Committee - Tuesday 19 November 2024

The Licensing Committee meeting was scheduled to include a discussion of the council's draft revised Statement of Licensing Policy for 2024-2029, which sets out how the council will regulate businesses that sell alcohol, provide late-night refreshment, or offer entertainment. The meeting was also scheduled to discuss proposed changes to the terms and conditions for street trading licences.

Review of the Statement of Licensing Policy

The Licensing Committee is tasked with reviewing the Statement of Licensing Policy every five years. The policy seeks to balance the needs of businesses and residents. It aims to prevent crime and disorder, protect public safety, prevent public nuisance, and protect children from harm, all while allowing businesses to operate and thrive. These aims are often referred to as the four licensing objectives.

The draft policy included guidance for pubs, restaurants and takeaways on how to promote the four licensing objectives, including things like staff training, age verification policies, and dispersal procedures. It also outlined the council's approach to regulating the night-time economy and its strategy for tackling issues like alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour.

A key part of the policy is the framework hours for licensed premises. These set out the standard hours during which premises can sell alcohol. The draft policy contained a proposal to change these hours. This is a relatively unusual occurrence. The last time the framework hours were changed was in 2017.

The policy also considered the needs of specific groups, including women, children and young people, and people with disabilities, ensuring that licensed premises are accessible and inclusive for everyone.

Street Trading Licence Terms and Conditions

The Licensing Committee was also due to discuss changes to the terms and conditions of street trading licences in Camden, to be implemented from 1 April 2025.

Street trading, which is the selling or offering for sale of any article in a street, can only take place with the permission of the council. Councils have the power to regulate street trading under the London Local Authorities Act 1990.

Street trading is an important part of the local economy in Camden, providing jobs and opportunities for small businesses. However, it’s important to make sure that it’s carried out in a way that is safe and doesn’t cause a nuisance to residents, businesses, or visitors to the borough.

These changes were designed to ensure that trading is undertaken responsibly, that consumers are protected, and that the local environment is protected. This included proposals to promote the use of sustainable packaging, reduce waste, and encourage traders to use environmentally friendly forms of transport.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Licensing Panel D - Thursday 21 November 2024

The Licensing Panel D met on Thursday 21 November 2024 to consider a number of licensing applications, including applications for new premises licences and variations to existing licences. The meeting also received an update to the guidance for remote hearings.

Licensing Panels are responsible for making decisions on applications for licences for pubs, clubs, restaurants and off-licences. The Licensing Act 2003 gives local residents and businesses the right to make representations to the licensing authority about licence applications. This helps to ensure that decisions about licensing are made in an open and transparent way.

Pastino: 92 Tottenham Court Road, W1T 4TL

The Panel considered an application for a new premises licence for Pastino at 92 Tottenham Court Road. The application requested permission for the sale of alcohol for consumption on and off the premises.

One representation was received from a local residents' association, the Charlotte Street Association, objecting to the application on the grounds of public nuisance. Their concerns related to the potential for noise and disturbance from the premises. The representation requested a number of conditions to be added to the licence if it were to be granted. These included restrictions on outside drinking and the hours of use of the external forecourt area.

67 Whitfield Street, London, W1T 4DE

An application to vary an existing licence for Officina 00 Restaurant at 67 Whitfield Street, to allow the sale of alcohol in an outdoor area, was also considered by the panel.

Two representations from local residents were received, both of which objected to the application on the grounds that the outdoor area was too close to their homes and that the noise from the restaurant would be a nuisance. One of the residents was concerned about the restaurant's Noise Impact Assessment, a document that is submitted with licence applications to demonstrate how the premises will manage noise levels.

This application and the representation received in relation to it highlight how licensing decisions can often involve balancing the competing interests of businesses and residents. In this case, the Panel had to weigh the restaurant's desire to expand its business against the residents' right to a peaceful enjoyment of their homes.

Guidance on remote meetings

Finally, the Panel discussed the updated guidance for remote meetings. This included discussion of technical aspects of remote hearings, like how meetings are recorded and how members of the public can participate. It also covered the panel's power to mute participants, and what happens if a participant is disruptive. The updated guidance makes it clear that the Chair of the Panel can mute any participant, including voting members, if they feel it's necessary to do so.

The use of remote meetings became more commonplace during the COVID-19 pandemic. This has had a significant impact on the way that local authorities operate. While the guidance makes it clear that the council is committed to ensuring that remote meetings are accessible and inclusive, it is important to consider whether they are always the most appropriate way to conduct council business, particularly where contentious issues are being discussed.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

This week in Camden:

• The Resources and Corporate Performance Scrutiny Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday was due to discuss the council's progress in achieving its four missions, the implementation of the We Make Camden partnership strategy, and the committee’s work programme for the year.
• The Children, Schools and Families Scrutiny Committee meeting on Monday discussed a range of issues affecting children and young people in the borough including persistent absence from school, complaints made about Children’s Services, and school place planning.
• The Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee meeting on Monday was due to discuss a range of topics including the Dartmouth Park Area Healthy Neighbourhood scheme, the Camden Transport Strategy Delivery Plan, library services and waste management.
• The Cabinet meeting on Wednesday was scheduled to consider the adoption of the new Transport Strategy Delivery Plan and the funding request from Transport for London (TfL) needed to support it.
• The Housing Scrutiny Committee meeting on Tuesday discussed the Housing Transformation Programme, including an update on the programme’s progress, an overview of the revised Anti-Social Behaviour Policy, and a report on the work being done to tackle rough sleeping in the borough.
• The Planning Committee on Thursday considered applications for the redevelopment of several sites across the borough, including Highgate Studios on Highgate Road and the NCP Car Park on Saffron Hill.
• The Licensing Panel C met on Thursday to consider an application for a new premises licence for a shop at 167 Malden Road.

Resources and Corporate Performance Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 12 November 2024

The Resources and Corporate Performance Scrutiny Committee scrutinises decisions taken by the council's Cabinet, which is responsible for most day-to-day decisions. It also monitors the council's performance in achieving its strategic objectives. The committee is made up of councillors from all political parties represented on the council.

This week, the committee was due to consider reports on a range of topics, including the implementation of Camden Council’s missions-based approach to delivering its strategic objectives, the council's partnerships strategy for delivering on these objectives, and the Committee's work programme for 2024/25.

This meeting was scheduled to take place on Tuesday, but no transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Children, Schools and Families Scrutiny Committee - Monday 11 November 2024

This meeting of the Children, Schools and Families Scrutiny Committee considered a range of issues affecting children and young people in the borough, including persistent absence from school, complaints made about Children’s Services and school place planning in the borough.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee - Monday 11 November 2024

This meeting of the Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee was due to discuss a range of topics including the Dartmouth Park Area Healthy Neighbourhood scheme, the Camden Transport Strategy Delivery Plan, library services and waste management.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Cabinet - Wednesday 13 November 2024

The Cabinet is Camden Council's principal decision-making body. It is responsible for most day-to-day decisions about the running of the council. The Cabinet is made up of 10 councillors, all of whom are members of the Labour Party, which has a majority on the council.

This week's Cabinet meeting was scheduled to consider the adoption of the new Transport Strategy Delivery Plan, and the funding request from TfL needed to support it.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Housing Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 12 November 2024

The Housing Scrutiny Committee scrutinises decisions made about housing in the borough. It holds the Cabinet to account for its decisions on housing, and can make recommendations to the Cabinet on how housing services could be improved. The Committee also carries out reviews of specific housing issues, such as homelessness, and the condition of council housing.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Planning Committee - Thursday 14 November 2024

The Planning Committee determines planning applications in the borough. The committee is made up of councillors who represent different wards across Camden. Applications are brought before the committee where they are considered to be controversial, or where they raise significant policy issues.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Licensing Panel C - Thursday 14 November 2024

The Licensing Panel C is responsible for making decisions on applications for licences for things like pubs, clubs and restaurants. The panel is made up of three councillors.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

This week in Camden:

• The Schools Forum discussed proposals for the local school funding formula in 2025-26 and the allocation of High Needs Block funding.
• The Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to discuss safeguarding, Councillor Anna Wright's annual report on health and adult social care, and screening programmes.
• The Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education was due to consider an application from Gospel Oak Primary School to renew their determination on collective worship.
• The Planning Committee discussed changes to planning processes and received updates on national policy reforms.
• The Licensing Panel B was due to consider a new premises licence for Bidborough Works, and to carry out an expedited review of the licence of the Golden Lion Pub.

Schools Forum - Tuesday 05 November 2024

The Schools Forum is a statutory body which advises the local authority on the planning, provision, and funding of education in the borough. It has representatives from schools, early years settings, the council, and other stakeholders. The Forum must meet at least three times per year.

This meeting's agenda included the formal approval of the minutes of the previous meeting, a report on school place planning, an update on the High Needs Block and the Camden Local Inclusion Fund, discussion of the Schools Funding Formula for 2025/26, and the recommended terms of reference for the High Needs Block Subgroup.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 05 November 2024

This meeting was scheduled to consider a number of reports relating to health and adult social care in Camden.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) - Thursday 07 November 2024

The Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) advises Camden Council on matters related to religious education in schools.

This meeting was scheduled to include discussion of the provision of religious education in the borough and the work of the Camden Faith Forum, as well as the renewal of Gospel Oak Primary School's application for a determination on collective worship.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Planning Committee - Monday 04 November 2024

The Planning Committee is responsible for making decisions on planning applications. The committee is made up of 14 councillors, who are appointed by the full council. The committee meets every four weeks.

This week the Planning Committee was due to discuss a range of issues relating to planning in Camden, including updates to planning processes, a review of national policy changes, and data on the performance of the planning service.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Licensing Panel B - Thursday 07 November 2024

Licensing Panels in Camden determine applications for licences for things like pubs, clubs and restaurants. There are three panels, A, B and C.

This meeting of Licensing Panel B was scheduled to discuss an application for a new premises licence for Bidborough Works, at the former Camden Town Hall on Judd Street, and an expedited review of the licence of the Golden Lion pub on Royal College Street.

No transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

This week in Camden:

• The Housing and Fire Safety Advisory Panel discussed the Council's fire safety performance in the first quarter of 2024/25.
• The Standards Committee talked about whether councillors should be allowed to make decisions on matters that could affect their finances, like Housing Benefit and Council Tax.
• The Corporate Parenting Board met on Tuesday, but no information about the meeting has been made available.

Housing and Fire Safety Advisory Panel - Tuesday 22 October 2024

The Housing and Fire Safety Advisory Panel met to discuss a number of fire safety related issues, including Camden's performance on fire safety in council homes in the first quarter of 2024/25, and the findings of an independent audit of Camden’s fire risk management system.

Fire Safety Performance in Camden Council Homes

The Panel received a report on the Council's fire safety performance, including updates on compliance with fire, legionella, asbestos, gas, electrics and lifts (FLAGEL) for the first quarter of 2024/25.

The report also provided an update on the progress made in completing fire safety actions and the delivery of fire risk actions.

One of the areas where there have been problems in previous years is lift safety. You may remember from previous emails that in 2023, residents of the Ampthill Estate in Swiss Cottage complained of frequent lift breakdowns.

Building Safety Case Files

The report also provided an update on the progress made in completing Building Safety Case File submissions. Building Safety Case Files are required for higher-risk buildings under the Building Safety Act 2022. The report noted that the first five Building Safety Case Files were submitted to the Building Safety Regulator in Q1 2024/25. These buildings were 9A York Way, 1-80 Dalehead, 1-80 Oxenholme, 1-80 Gilfoot, and 1-161 Burnham.

Independent Audit of Camden's Fire Risk Management System

The Panel also received a report on an independent audit of Camden’s fire risk management arrangements against the BSI Fire Risk Management System BS9997 criteria.

The report set out the findings of the Audit, and the actions that the Council will be taking in response.

In general, the audit found that the council has a good fire risk management system, though it did identify several areas where it could be improved.

Fire & Building Safety Charter Annual Report 2023/24

Finally, the meeting received the annual report on the Fire & Building Safety Charter, which sets out the council's commitments to working with residents to keep them safe in their council homes.

The report details the council's performance against its five charter commitments, and highlights some areas for improvement in 24/25.

Standards Committee - Monday 21 October 2024

The Standards Committee met to discuss a number of standards related issues, including a proposal to update the form that Camden Councillors use to declare their financial interests, and an annual report on the number of complaints that have been made about councillors. The Committee also received an update on recent standards news and noted the standards guidance that had recently been issued to councillors.

Revising the Register of Interests Form

The Committee discussed a report on a proposal to change the form that Camden Councillors use to register their financial interests.

Councillors are required by law to register their financial interests, and to declare those interests at any meeting where they are present and the matter under discussion could reasonably be regarded as affecting their financial position or the financial position of a close associate. This is so that residents can be confident that councillors are not making decisions for personal financial gain. The rules on when councillors have to declare interests, what they have to declare, and what happens if they fail to declare an interest are set out in law. The relevant legislation is the Localism Act 2011.

The existing Register of Interests Form has been in place since March 2022, when it was last revised. The main change proposed in the report is the addition of new columns to the form so that councillors have to separately list their own interests, and those of their spouse or partner. You can see the proposed new form here: Appendix B_ Revised Register of Interests Form.

General Dispensation for Members

The Committee considered the question of when councillors should be permitted to participate in decisions on matters in which they have a financial interest.

Under the law, councillors are generally not allowed to participate in discussions or vote on matters in which they have a financial interest. However, councils are able to make exceptions to this rule by granting what are known as dispensations. This is provided for by Section 33 of the Localism Act 2011.

Since 2012, Camden has given all councillors a general dispensation allowing them to participate in decisions on housing, school meals and transport, and statutory sick pay. This is on the grounds that councillors are also residents of the borough, and so these decisions affect them in the same way as members of the public. The meeting agreed to renew this dispensation, and to extend it to cover Local Council Tax Support Schemes.

Annual Monitoring of Code of Conduct Complaints Against Members 2023-24

The Committee received a report from the Borough Solicitor, Andrew Maughan, on the number and nature of complaints made about Camden's councillors between June 2023 and June 2024. Eleven complaints were received, none of which were judged to require a formal investigation.

Update on Standards Matters - October 2024

The Committee received a report from Andrew Maughan, the Borough Solicitor, summarising a number of standards issues that have been in the news since the last meeting of the committee.

This report covered a range of issues, including:

• The use of council resources for political purposes.
• The conduct of councillors on social media.
• The role of the Monitoring Officer.
• The relationship between councillors and officers.

Standards Information and Guidance Record

The Committee received a report on all of the standards guidance that had been issued to councillors recently. This mostly consisted of guidance relating to councillors registering their interests.

Corporate Parenting Board - Tuesday 22 October 2024

The Corporate Parenting Board met on Tuesday 22 October 2024. Unfortunately, no information about the meeting has been made available.

The Corporate Parenting Board is responsible for overseeing the council's duties towards children in its care. These duties are set out in the Children Act 1989.

This week in Camden:

• The Council was scheduled to meet on Monday, but no transcript of the meeting is available.
• The Disability Oversight Panel discussed an update to Camden's Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Strategy 2022-27.

Council - Monday 14 October 2024

The Council was scheduled to meet on Monday 14 October 2024. Unfortunately, no transcript is available for this meeting.

The Council is the main decision-making body of Camden Council. It is responsible for setting the council's budget, agreeing its policies, and making key decisions about how the council is run. The Council is made up of 54 councillors, who are elected by the residents of Camden every four years.

Disability Oversight Panel - Tuesday 15 October 2024

The Disability Oversight Panel met to consider an update to the implementation of Camden Council's Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Strategy 2022-27.

The Disability Oversight Panel is a committee of Camden Council that is responsible for scrutinising the council's work on disability issues.

The meeting's agenda included the formal approval of the minutes of the previous meeting, and a report on the implementation of the council's SEND strategy.

Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Strategy Implementation Update

A report was presented to the meeting by the Director of Education Commissioning & Inclusion providing an update on the implementation of Camden Council's SEND Strategy 2022-27.

The report began by outlining the challenges facing the council in meeting the needs of children and young people with SEND, noting that:

Nationally and locally, we are seeing increases in the number and complexity of the population of children with SEND. Funding is set nationally and local authorities across the country are struggling to meet needs within the budget provided.

These challenges are not unique to Camden. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of children and young people being diagnosed with SEND. This has put a strain on local authority budgets, as the cost of providing support for children with SEND has also increased.

The report highlighted that 76.3% of new Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) were issued within 20 weeks. This is above the national average of 54%, but lower than the 90-97% previously achieved by Camden.

EHCPs are legal documents that set out the special educational, health and social care needs of a child or young person aged up to 25 with SEND. Local Authorities have a statutory responsibility to provide the support specified in a child's EHCP.

Strengths of Camden's SEND Offer

The report highlighted that 97% of schools in Camden are rated good or outstanding by Ofsted, the Office for Standards in Education, Children's Services and Skills, including 37% of primary schools that are rated outstanding.

It went on to describe Camden's approach to inclusion, noting that a high proportion of Camden pupils with EHCPs - nearly 50% - attend mainstream settings¹.

The government's ambition is for as many children and young people with SEND as possible to be educated in mainstream settings.

It also pointed to the success of Camden's Exceptional Needs Grant (ENG) scheme, which provides schools with funding to support pupils with SEND without the need for an EHCP. The report noted that this scheme has been praised by the Department for Education (DfE) as an innovative approach to support schools to meet needs earlier.

Areas For Development

The report also highlighted several areas where it was suggested improvements could be made to Camden's SEND offer.

The report proposed taking a holistic approach to improving the education provision continuum in Camden in order to ensure that all children are able to access the right education for them. The phrase education provision continuum refers to the range of different educational settings that are available to children and young people, from mainstream schools to specialist schools and colleges.

Noting that families are currently waiting too long to get a diagnosis, the report proposed continuing to work with the Integrated Care Board (ICB) to reduce waiting times for diagnosis. ICBs are responsible for planning and delivering health and care services in their local areas.

Acknowledging feedback from families that they do not feel that they are effectively worked with as partners by professionals, the report proposed to maximise the opportunities available from the newly formed Centre for Relational Practice to provide high quality workforce development.

The Planning Committee was scheduled to meet on Thursday 01 August 2024.

Planning Committee - Thursday 01 August 2024

Details: Meeting link

This meeting was scheduled to consider planning applications for the change of use of a vacant office building to an apart-hotel at 14 Bedford Row, and the construction of a roof extension to an office building at 40 Bernard Street.

14 Bedford Row, 12-13 Jockey’s Fields, and 14 Jockey’s Fields

The application for 14 Bedford Row concerned a proposal to change the use of the existing office building to an apart-hotel, providing 65 bedrooms.

The report pack prepared for the meeting suggested that because of the site's location in the Central Activities Zone (CAZ), it was likely to be highly desirable for residential development. Camden Council's Local Plan states that in such cases, 50% of the new floorspace should be for residential use. A payment in lieu of on-site or off-site provision of housing was proposed instead, as the change of use would only affect the upper floors of the building. This echoes a similar decision made at the Planning Committee meeting on 27 June 2024, when an application for a change of use from office to residential at 245 Euston Road was granted, despite not meeting the 50% requirement.

Section 106 legal agreements, commonly known as S106 agreements, are a mechanism by which local authorities can secure financial contributions from developers in association with the granting of planning permission. These contributions, known as Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), are used to fund infrastructure projects that support the development, such as transport improvements, affordable housing, or public open space.

The report pack proposed that such an agreement should be used to secure funding for cycle storage, electric vehicle charging points (EVCPs) and sustainable drainage.

The report pack concluded that subject to conditions relating to the S106 agreement, and other conditions relating to noise, waste and drainage, the development would not harm neighbouring amenities, the local transport network, or infrastructure.

40 Bernard Street

The application for 40 Bernard Street concerned a proposal for the refurbishment of the fifth floor of the building, the addition of a sixth floor roof extension, and the relocation of plant to the roof. This would increase the amount of office floorspace by 960 sqm.

As with the application at 14 Bedford Row, the report pack noted that Camden's Local Plan requires 50% of new floorspace to be used for residential development where development involves the creation of more than 200sqm.

The report pack proposed a payment in lieu of on-site or off-site provision of 480 sqm of residential floorspace, calculated at a rate of £1,500 per sqm, resulting in a total payment of £720,000, to be secured through a Section 106 legal agreement.

The report pack concluded that the proposal would provide a high standard of design and finish, and was sympathetic to the surrounding area. It recommended that the application be approved subject to conditions, including a restriction on the hours of use of the roof terrace, and requirements for noise mitigation measures.

This week, Camden Council held two meetings: the Corporate Parenting Board and the Holborn District Management Committee.

Corporate Parenting Board

Date: Tuesday 02 July 2024
Details: Meeting link

Unfortunately, no transcript is available for this meeting. The Corporate Parenting Board is responsible for overseeing the council's duties towards children in its care. This includes ensuring that looked after children have access to the same opportunities as their peers, and that they are safeguarded from harm. The Board also monitors the performance of the council's Virtual School Head and the Director of Children's Services.

Holborn District Management Committee

Date: Tuesday 02 July 2024
Details: Meeting link

The Holborn District Management Committee met to discuss a number of issues including the Housing Transformation Programme, fire safety works, parking, and anti-social behaviour. They approved a funding request from the Medway Court Tenants and Residents Association (TRA) for barriers and gardening tools.

District Management Committees (DMCs) provide a forum for local residents to raise issues with Councillors. There are seven DMCs in Camden, which meet on a rotating basis. Each DMC covers a different geographical area within the borough, and residents are encouraged to attend the committee that covers their area.

Housing

Councillors heard complaints about the repairs service, including that repairs reported during a walkabout of the Tybalds Estate in November 2023 had not been undertaken, and that residents of the Brunswick Estate were unhappy about major leaks, broken garage doors, and high heat levels in the summer months. There were also concerns about the way that out-of-hours messages from residents were being dealt with by the repairs contact centre.

Camden's housing stock is currently undergoing a major programme of repairs and improvements under the Housing Transformation Programme. This programme, which was launched in 2020, aims to improve the quality of life for residents by bringing all homes up to a good standard. As part of the programme, the council is investing £1.2 billion in repairs and improvements to its 24,000 homes.

Fire Safety

Concerns were also raised about fire safety works. The meeting heard from residents of the Brunswick Estate, who were unhappy about the Council's requirement to have hardwired fire alarms installed in their homes. Currently, both battery powered and hardwired alarms meet the relevant British Standards, though hardwired alarms are generally considered to be more reliable. It was noted by the meeting that the London Fire Brigade had agreed that battery powered alarms were suitable in this case. Camden Council is the leaseholder for the homes at the Brunswick Estate.

Residents of the Brunswick, Dudley Court and Gamages Estates complained about the conduct of the Council's contractor, Mulalley & Co, who were carrying out the fire safety works. There were allegations that appointments were not being made in advance, that demands were being made to be given entrance, and that residents had received threatening letters. In one instance, an elderly resident at Brunswick Estate became housebound after getting their arm stuck in a new fire door.

Parking

Complaints were made about parking, with residents expressing concerns about the number of people sub-letting their parking bays through the website JustPark, and calling for more clarity about the waiting list for parking spaces. The Principal Caretaking Manager agreed to investigate the sub-letting allegations and help residents navigate the waiting list system.

Anti-Social Behaviour

Anti-social behaviour at Winter Garden House was also discussed. A lack of a TRA in the building was highlighted as a barrier to sharing vital local intelligence, but it was noted that CCTV was now operational. Residents of the nearby Powis House complained they had not been consulted about the issues at Winter Garden House, despite being affected by them.

The meeting also discussed the upcoming Residents Conference, including the proposed budget for the event. The committee agreed to note the briefing and funding request.

The Holborn District Management Committee meeting highlights the important role that local residents play in holding Camden Council to account. It also shows the value of having a forum where residents can raise their concerns directly with their elected representatives.

This week, the Camden Council held several meetings, although not all provided detailed information or proceeded as planned. Here's a summary of the meetings:

Camden Town District Management Committee

Date: Wednesday 26 June 2024
Details: Meeting link

The Camden Town District Management Committee convened this Wednesday. Unfortunately, no transcript or summary of the meeting is available. District Management Committees typically address local issues and community concerns, providing a platform for residents to engage with their councillors.

Licensing Committee

Date: Wednesday 26 June 2024
Details: Meeting link
Status: Cancelled

The Licensing Committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday was cancelled. This committee usually oversees the granting and regulation of various licenses within the borough, including those for alcohol, entertainment, and taxis.

Gospel Oak District Management Committee

Date: Thursday 27 June 2024
Details: Meeting link

The Gospel Oak District Management Committee also met this week, but similar to the Camden Town meeting, no transcript or summary is available. These committees play a crucial role in addressing hyper-local issues and fostering community engagement.

Licensing Panel C

Date: Thursday 27 June 2024
Details: Meeting link
Status: Cancelled

The Licensing Panel C meeting scheduled for Thursday was cancelled. Panels like this one are responsible for deciding on specific licensing applications and ensuring compliance with local regulations.

Understanding the workings of your local council is essential for active community participation. District Management Committees like those in Camden Town and Gospel Oak are vital forums where residents can voice their concerns and influence local decisions. Licensing Committees and Panels, though not meeting this week, play a significant role in maintaining the standards and safety of services within the borough.

Stay tuned for more updates and insights into Camden Council's activities and decisions.