This week in Camden:

Babylon Park Licence Change Sparks Police and Council Concern

A cancelled meeting of Licensing Panel A was scheduled to discuss a request from Babylon Park, an entertainment venue in Camden Town, to significantly alter its premises licence. Link to the Licensing Panel A meeting The application seeks to remove several conditions related to alcohol sales and security, prompting objections from both the Metropolitan Police Service and the Licensing Authority.

• Babylon Park, located at 8 Castlehaven Road, currently operates under a licence that restricts alcohol consumption to specific event rooms, requires SIA door supervisors on Fridays and Saturdays, limits alcohol sales to pre-booked functions with substantial meals, and prohibits alcoholic shots.
• The applicant requested the removal of these conditions, which the Metropolitan Police Service argued would contradict the venue's original intended purpose.
• The Licensing Authority also objected, noting that the venue is situated in a Cumulative Impact Area¹ and that the application breaches Camden's adopted policy on Framework Hours².
• The Licensing Authority suggested that the venue adopt measures to support the Licensing Objectives, including staff training on harassment prevention and awareness of support campaigns like Ask for Angela³.

The outcome of this application could have implications for the management of licensed premises in Cumulative Impact Areas and the enforcement of licensing objectives related to public safety and nuisance.

Focus on Accessibility and Women's Safety in Camden's Nightlife

The Licensing Committee met to discuss crucial issues surrounding accessibility for disabled people and women's safety in Camden's evening and night-time economy. Link to the Licensing Committee meeting

• The committee considered a report on improving disabled access in licensed premises and events, highlighting the legal duties under the Equality Act 2010 and practical improvements for Camden venues.
• The report outlined challenges such as physical access gaps, inconsistent standards, insufficient staff training, lack of sensory provision for neurodiverse people⁴, and poor communication of accessibility information.
• Proposed next steps include developing an accessibility guide for licensees, offering training sessions, collaborating with Camden Disability Action, launching an Accessible Venue Award, and including access checks in joint inspections.
• The committee also received an update on initiatives to improve women's safety in the evening and night-time economy, including Welfare and Vulnerability Engagement (WAVE) training and the 'Ask for Angela' scheme.
• Camden's revised Statement of Licensing Policy (2024-29) explicitly references women's safety, requiring safety statements from new applicants and encouraging staff training and participation in safety schemes.
• Statistics on reported drink spiking incidents in Camden were also presented, noting that Holborn & Covent Garden and Camden Town remain spiking hotspots.

These discussions reflect Camden's commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all residents and visitors, particularly those who are most vulnerable. The emphasis on training, collaboration, and policy updates demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing accessibility and safety concerns in the borough's nightlife.

Standards Committee Examines Councillor Conduct and Government Proposals

The Standards Committee convened to discuss a range of issues related to councillor conduct, including a government consultation on strengthening the standards framework and the annual monitoring of Code of Conduct complaints. Link to the Standards Committee meeting

• The committee considered a report on the government's consultation on strengthening the standards and conduct framework for local authorities in England, which proposes a mandatory minimum code of conduct, stronger sanctions for breaches, and a right of appeal.
• Councillor Sharon Hardwick, Chair of Standards Committee, noted support for an Independent Chair for Standards Committee, but the Borough Solicitor, Andrew Maughan, explained that it would not be lawful at present.
• The committee reviewed the annual monitoring report on Code of Conduct complaints, noting that none of the 11 complaints received required a formal investigation.
• The most significant trend among the complaints was an alleged failure to act on issues raised and/or to engage in correspondence.
• The Borough Solicitor stressed the importance of responding to correspondence and highlighted a case at another council where a councillor breached the Code of Conduct by emailing a fellow Planning Committee member during a meeting.

These discussions highlight the importance of ethical conduct and accountability in local government. The committee's review of complaints and consideration of government proposals demonstrate a commitment to maintaining high standards of behaviour among elected officials.

Housing Panel Focuses on Fire Safety and Compliance

The Housing Fire and Building Safety Panel met to discuss fire and building safety in council homes, with a focus on compliance performance, resident training, and future work plans. Link to the Housing and Fire Safety Advisory Panel meeting

• The panel reviewed a report on the council's performance on compliance with fire, legionella, asbestos, gas, electrics and lifts (FLAGEL) safety regulations for council homes in Q4 2024/25.
• The report noted that the council had received two Building Assessment Certificates (BACs) from the Building Safety Regulator for high-rise buildings on the Ampthill Square estate.
• The panel also discussed preparations for Awaab's Law, which will require social landlords to investigate and fix dangerous damp and mould within set time periods.
• The panel considered proposed changes to their terms of reference, in line with the recommendations of the Grenfell Inquiry Phase 2 report⁵.
• The panel discussed a report on raising resident awareness of fire and building safety, and to provide their views on a proposed resident training programme.

These discussions underscore the council's commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents, particularly in light of recent tragedies and regulatory changes. The focus on compliance, training, and resident engagement demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing fire and building safety concerns in council homes.

Health Committee Praises Social Care, Examines Mental Health Model

The Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee met to discuss Adult Social Care in Camden, including the Care Quality Commission's assessment and a new model of mental health social work. Link to the Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee meeting

• The committee discussed the Care Quality Commission's (CQC) assessment of Camden's Adult Social Care (ASC) services, which awarded them the first Outstanding rating in the country under the new CQC Assurance framework.
• The report pack noted that Camden remains focused on continuous improvement, including strengthening resident and carer voices and enhancing support for people experiencing multiple disadvantages.
• The committee received an update on the development of a new model of Mental Health Social Work in Camden, which aims to work in partnership with the NHS Mental Health Services and strengthen integrated neighbourhood working.
• The new model includes a Mental Health Social Work Hub and localised Mental Health Social Work Teams (MHSWTs).
• The committee also considered the Insight, Learning and Impact Report – Quarter 4/End of Year 2024-25, which identified challenges such as the complexity of work on service, the financial viability of providers, and a sudden increase in drug-related non-fatal overdoses.

These discussions highlight the council's commitment to providing high-quality social care services and addressing the complex needs of vulnerable residents. The focus on integration, prevention, and continuous improvement demonstrates a proactive approach to meeting the challenges facing the adult social care sector.

Health Board Tackles Key Public Health Challenges

The Health and Wellbeing Board convened to discuss health protection, pharmaceutical needs, and strategic priorities, with a focus on improving the health and well-being of Camden residents. Link to the Health and Wellbeing Board meeting

• The board considered the Camden Better Care Fund Plan 2025-26, which outlines how Camden Council and the North Central London ICB will integrate their spending, with a pooled annual budget of £44,900,088.
• The board reviewed the draft Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment (PNA) report for 2025-28, which found no current or future gaps in the provision of necessary pharmaceutical services in Camden.
• The board received an update on health protection issues, including a measles outbreak in a primary school, a cluster of Invasive Group A Streptococcus (iGAS) cases among people who inject drugs and people living with homelessness, and a new COVID-19 variant.
• The board discussed short-term strategic priorities, proposing the adoption of three new priorities: reducing alcohol-related harm, reducing drug-related harm, and embedding prevention in neighbourhoods.

These discussions demonstrate the board's commitment to addressing key public health challenges and improving the health and well-being of Camden residents. The focus on prevention, integration, and collaboration reflects a comprehensive approach to tackling complex health issues.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Resources and Corporate Performance Scrutiny Committee will meet on Monday 14 July 2025 to discuss the Leader's annual report, the council's financial position, and its work programme for the coming year. Link to the Resources and Corporate Performance Scrutiny Committee meeting
• The Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee will meet on Monday 14 July 2025 to discuss a call-in of a decision regarding a Healthy School Street scheme, a petition to ban barbecues in a local park, and updates on low carbon environments and plant-based catering. Link to the Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee meeting
• The Housing Scrutiny Committee will meet on Tuesday 15 July 2025. Link to the Housing Scrutiny Committee meeting
• The Audit and Corporate Governance (Appointment Panel) Sub-Committee will meet on Tuesday 15 July 2025. Link to the Audit and Corporate Governance (Appointment Panel) Sub-Committee meeting
• The Cabinet will meet on Wednesday 16 July 2025. Link to the Cabinet meeting
• The Pension Committee will meet on Thursday 17 July 2025. Link to the Pension Committee meeting
• Council will meet on Monday 21 July 2025. Link to the Council meeting
• The Planning Committee will meet on Tuesday 22 July 2025. Link to the Planning Committee meeting
• Licensing Panel C will meet on Thursday 24 July 2025. Link to the Licensing Panel C meeting

This week in Camden:

Magical Mystery Licence Sparks Debate Amid Noise Concerns

Camden's Licensing Panel E was scheduled to meet to consider a new premises licence application for Magical Mystery, a planned community arts, music and cultural events venue at 135-149 Shaftesbury Avenue. Link to the Licensing Panel E meeting The application has drawn both strong support and significant opposition, primarily due to concerns about potential noise and disruption in the Seven Dials area.

• The applicant, Liam O Hare of City Halo, seeks a licence for regulated entertainment, late night refreshment, and alcohol sales until 1:00 AM on weekdays and 3:00 AM on weekends.
• While 34 representations support the application, 15 oppose it, including one from a Responsible Authority for Licensing, one from a Resident Association, and fourteen from residents.
• Opponents fear increased noise levels, despite a noise impact assessment concluding that the venue's operation would not result in an increase to average noise levels in the area.
• The applicant highlights the venue's commitment to Camden's Evening and Night-Time Strategy and its engagement with local stakeholders, resulting in scaled-back activities and proposed hours.
• The Licensing Authority representation notes that the application seeks to permit licensable activity outside the framework hours within the Seven Dials Cumulative Impact Policy Area.

The decision on this licence could set a precedent for balancing cultural initiatives with the needs of residents in a densely populated area. The outcome will likely hinge on the panel's assessment of the noise impact assessment and the applicant's proposed operating schedule.

Camden Considers New Rules for Remote Licensing Hearings

The Licensing Panel E was also scheduled to discuss and agree on procedure rules for remote meetings held under the Licensing Act 2003. Link to the Licensing Panel E meeting These rules aim to ensure fairness and transparency in remote hearings, which have become increasingly common.

• Hearings will be conducted via Microsoft Teams, with both audio and video functionality required for all participants.
• Unless dealing with confidential items, hearings will be streamed live and recorded for public access.
• Parties must identify a single speaker, and late materials must be submitted by 7pm two working days before the hearing.
• The Chair has the discretion to mute disruptive contributors or terminate their participation.

These rules are designed to balance accessibility with the need for orderly and efficient proceedings. The ability of the Chair to mute or remove disruptive participants underscores the importance of maintaining decorum in remote hearings.

Planning Committee to Review Camden Town Entertainment Venue and Belsize Office Space

The Planning Committee is scheduled to meet to discuss three planning applications, including an interactive entertainment venue in Camden Town, a new office space and flat in Belsize, and remodelling works to a building in Hampstead Town. Link to the Planning Committee meeting

• The committee will consider an application for a change of use at the Atrium Building, Stables Market, from its current interactive entertainment use to a similar one operated by The Viking Planet (UK).
• The committee will also consider an application concerning 27 Elizabeth Mews, involving excavating a new basement extension for new office space and erecting a mansard roof extension with a terrace.
• The committee will also consider an application concerning 41 Rudall Crescent, involving remodelling the existing building, including facade alterations, a rear extension with a first-floor terrace, and enlargement of the existing roof extension.

Audit Committee Examines Fraud, Finances, and Property Management

The Audit and Corporate Governance Committee met to discuss a range of critical issues, including internal audit findings, counter-fraud measures, treasury management, and revisions to the council's remedies policy for property management complaints. Link to the Audit and Corporate Governance Committee meeting

Internal Audit

The Head of Internal Audit provided a moderate assurance opinion for 2024-25, indicating that the council's systems of internal control, risk management, and governance are adequate but require some improvement.

Counter Fraud

The committee reviewed the 2024-25 Annual Counter Fraud Report, which revealed that the Anti-Fraud and Investigations Team received 120 referrals of suspected fraud, theft, or irregularity, with 66 found to be substantiated.

Property Management

The committee considered proposed changes to the Audit and Corporate Governance Committee - local compensation remedies policy Property Management, which is considered in dealing with formal complaints, and to approve the revised policy. Key updates include clarifying eligibility for remedies, defining financial remedies, and updating compensation amounts.

Treasury Management

The committee reviewed the Annual Treasury Management Outturn Report 2024-25, noting that Camden Council's total external borrowing stood at £294 million as of March 31, 2025, a reduction of approximately £21 million compared to the previous year. However, the Council's Capital Financing Requirement (CFR) rose to £705 million, up from £656 million the year before.

External Audit

The committee discussed the External Audit Strategy 2024-25 from Forvis Mazars for the audit of the 2024/25 accounts. Unlike for 2022/23 and 2023/24 Forvis Mazars plan to conduct a full audit of the Council for 2024/25.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Resources and Corporate Performance Scrutiny Committee will meet on Monday 14 July 2025 to discuss the Leader's annual report, the council's financial position, and its work programme for the coming year. Link to the Resources and Corporate Performance Scrutiny Committee meeting
• The Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee will meet on Monday 14 July 2025 to discuss a call-in of a decision regarding a Healthy School Street scheme, a petition to ban barbecues in a local park, and updates on low carbon environments and plant-based catering. Link to the Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee meeting
• The Housing Scrutiny Committee will meet on Tuesday 15 July 2025. Link to the Housing Scrutiny Committee meeting
• The Audit and Corporate Governance (Appointment Panel) Sub-Committee will meet on Tuesday 15 July 2025. Link to the Audit and Corporate Governance (Appointment Panel) Sub-Committee meeting
• The Cabinet will meet on Wednesday 16 July 2025. Link to the Cabinet meeting
• The Pension Committee will meet on Thursday 17 July 2025. Link to the Pension Committee meeting
• Licensing Panel B will meet on Thursday 17 July 2025. Link to the Licensing Panel B meeting

This week in Camden:

Disability Job Hub Shows Promising Results, But Challenges Remain

The Disability Oversight Panel met on June 24th to discuss the Disability Job Hub and its impact on supporting disabled residents seeking employment. Link to the Disability Oversight Panel meeting The panel also discussed national and sub-regional work and health programmes.

• The Disability Job Hub, launched in April 2023, provides one-to-one support to residents, including reasonable adjustments advice, CV building, job application support, and interview practice.
• Over the two-year pilot, the hub onboarded 107 residents, with 21 supported into paid employment, 10 into paid work experience, 10 into volunteering, and 23 into education or training.
• The report highlighted areas for development, including educating employers, peer support, and establishing a Disability Job Hub Governance Board.
• The panel also reviewed the Housing and Property Vulnerability Policy (Draft Version), raising concerns about care packages for residents aged 65+ potentially disadvantaging other disabled residents.

The Disability Job Hub's success stories, like that of resident C who secured a contract with Camden Carers after receiving support, demonstrate the potential of targeted employment support. However, the report also acknowledges the need to address systemic barriers and improve employer engagement to further enhance outcomes for disabled residents. The panel's concerns about the Housing and Property Vulnerability Policy highlight the importance of ensuring equitable access to services for all disabled residents, regardless of age.

Holborn Residents Grapple with Anti-Social Behaviour and Heating Network Concerns

The Holborn District Management Committee (DMC) convened on June 24th to address community safety, housing performance, and heating network issues affecting residents. Link to the Holborn District Management Committee meeting

• The committee received an update on anti-social behaviour (ASB), with drug use and drug dealing identified as the most frequently reported issues in Holborn and Covent Garden and Bloomsbury wards.
• The report outlined actions taken to address concerns, including walkabouts, patrols, collaboration with the Central District Alliance (BID), and the launch of the Anti-Wee Project.
• The committee also discussed the council's heat networks, noting that Camden operates a large number of district and communal heating systems supplying over 12,000 homes.
• The council has allocated funding to invest in district heat networks, with an expected investment of £100m over the period 2025-2030.

The high number of ASB reports in Holborn highlights the need for continued efforts to address drug-related issues and improve community safety. The council's investment in heat networks is crucial for ensuring residents have access to reliable and efficient heating, especially given the recent changes to the remit of the Energy Ombudsman, which now allows them to handle disputes related to all heat networks.

Children, Schools and Families Scrutiny Committee Hears Deputations on Free School Meals and Autism Assessments

The Children, Schools and Families Scrutiny Committee met on June 23rd to discuss a range of issues, including deputations on free school meals and autism assessments. Link to the Children, Schools and Families Scrutiny Committee meeting

• Rachel Dooley and Serinity Isaiah presented a deputation on the Camden Free School Meals Scandal, alleging the denial of free school meal vouchers to out-of-school pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
• They argued that Camden Council was failing to provide support offered by other councils and was in breach of the Equality Act, Human Rights Act, and UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).
• Dooley and Isaiah also presented a deputation concerning Camden's functional needs assessment and autism, arguing that Camden Council was using an outdated and unlawful Functional Needs Assessment tool that excludes autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sensory, and communication needs.
• The committee also reviewed a report on the Ofsted Inspection of Local Authority Children's Services (ILACS), which confirmed that Camden Children's Services were judged to be Outstanding.

The deputations on free school meals and autism assessments raise serious concerns about the council's support for vulnerable children and families. The allegations of discrimination and breaches of legal obligations warrant further investigation and action. While the Outstanding rating from Ofsted is a positive achievement, it is crucial that the council addresses the issues raised in the deputations to ensure that all children in Camden receive the support they need.

Hampstead DMC Discusses Tenant Issues, Bids, and Community Safety

The Hampstead District Management Committee (DMC) met on June 26th to discuss tenant and leaseholder issues, consider bids for local projects, and receive updates on community safety and other housing-related topics. Link to the Hampstead District Management Committee meeting

• The committee elected a chair and vice-chairs for the 2025-26 municipal year.
• The committee considered the registration of Tenant and Resident Associations [TRA] and the co-option of tenant representatives.
• The committee discussed housing and property performance, including Key Performance Indicators [KPIs] and Tenant Satisfaction Measures [TSMs].
• Four new bids were submitted for consideration, including funding for a video door entry system, well-being activities for sheltered residents, CCTV cameras, and a secure bike shed.
• The committee received a community safety report, which highlighted drug use and rough sleeping as the top ASB activities in the Hampstead DMC area.

The Hampstead DMC's discussions on tenant issues, bids, and community safety demonstrate the committee's role in addressing local concerns and improving the lives of residents. The consideration of new bids for projects like CCTV cameras and bike sheds reflects the committee's commitment to enhancing safety and security in the Hampstead district.

Other Matters

• The Corporate Parenting Board met on June 24th. Link to the Corporate Parenting Board meeting No transcript was provided.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Audit and Corporate Governance Committee will meet on Wednesday 02 July 2025 to discuss the internal and external audits, counter fraud work, treasury management, the remedies policy and the committee's effectiveness. Link to the Audit and Corporate Governance Committee meeting
• Licensing Panel E will meet on Thursday 03 July 2025 to discuss procedure rules for remote meetings and a new premises licence application. Link to the Licensing Panel E meeting
• The Planning Committee will meet on Thursday 03 July 2025 to discuss three planning applications. Link to the Planning Committee meeting
• The Standards Committee will meet on Monday 07 July 2025. Link to the Standards Committee meeting
• The Licensing Committee will meet on Monday 07 July 2025. Link to the Licensing Committee meeting
• The Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee will meet on Tuesday 08 July 2025. Link to the Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee meeting
• The Health and Wellbeing Board will meet on Wednesday 09 July 2025. Link to the Health and Wellbeing Board meeting
• The Housing and Fire Safety Advisory Panel will meet on Thursday 10 July 2025. Link to the Housing and Fire Safety Advisory Panel meeting
• Licensing Panel A will meet on Thursday 10 July 2025. Link to the Licensing Panel A meeting

This week in Camden:

Kentish Town Residents Object to Late-Night Refreshments

The Licensing Panel D convened on June 19th to address several licensing applications, focusing on late-night refreshment hours for businesses on Kentish Town Road. Link to the Licensing Panel D meeting The panel considered applications for Urban Chocolatier and Domino's Pizza, as well as a transfer of premises licence for Sican on Whitfield Street.

Urban Chocolatier

Urban Chocolatier's application for a new premises licence faced opposition from local residents and a councillor, with seven representations received. Concerns centered on public safety, prevention of public nuisance, crime and disorder, and the protection of children from harm. The application sought permission for late-night refreshment until 1:00 AM for dine-in customers and 2:00 AM for deliveries, with opening hours extending until 2:30 AM. The application also did not include the council's Women's Safety principles, which commit licensed premises to act responsibly and take all forms of female harassment seriously.

The police initially objected but withdrew their representation after the applicant agreed to additional conditions, including ending dine-in service at 1:00 AM and deliveries at 2:00 AM.

Domino's Pizza

Domino's Pizza sought to extend its late-night refreshment hours, prompting objections from a resident association and a ward councillor. The application aimed to extend hours to midnight from Sunday to Thursday and 1:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays, with delivery services continuing for an additional hour. Concerns focused on the prevention of public nuisance. Like Urban Chocolatier, the application did not include the council's Women's Safety principles.

Sican

The panel also considered an application to transfer a premises licence for Sican, located at 26-28 Whitfield Street. The police objected to the transfer, arguing that it would undermine crime prevention efforts, as the application was made after the licence had been revoked and was pending an appeal. The police believed that transferring the licence to a new company with the same director would effectively reinstate the same circumstances that led to the revocation.

Kentish Town Tackles Anti-Social Behaviour and Housing Issues

The Kentish Town District Management Committee (DMC) convened on June 17th to address pressing issues related to community safety, housing performance, and budget allocations. Link to the Kentish Town District Management Committee meeting

Community Safety

The committee reviewed a report on anti-social behaviour (ASB) in the Kentish Town District, revealing that drug use and drug dealing were the most frequently reported issues across multiple wards. The report detailed actions taken to address these concerns, including obtaining closure orders for properties associated with ASB, issuing warnings, and securing injunctions.

The report also highlighted a new proactive hotspot strategy, deploying frontline practitioners to pinpointed ASB hotspots.

Housing Performance

The committee discussed reports on repairing and letting properties, revealing that as of May 13, 2025, there were 459 active voids to be re-let, with an additional 115 properties held for other projects. The council is reviewing information on the Home Connections website to help applicants decide if they would like to bid on an available property.

Budget

The committee discussed the Kentish Town DMC budget for 2025/2026, which is £157,770.00. Two new bids were listed for consideration: the installation of planters in the West Garden of Kenbrook House, and facilitating activities to improve the health and wellbeing of sheltered housing tenants.

Camden Town DMC Focuses on Safety, Budget, and Tree Management

The Camden Town District Management Committee (DMC) met on June 18th to discuss community safety, budget allocations, and tree management. Link to the Camden Town District Management Committee meeting

Community Safety

The committee received a report on community safety and anti-social behaviour (ASB) in the Camden Town District, revealing that drug use and rough sleeping were the most frequently reported issues. The report detailed actions taken to address these concerns, including walkabouts with residents, issuing Acceptable Behaviour Agreements (ABAs), and obtaining possession orders for properties associated with persistent ASB.

Budget

The committee discussed the Camden Town DMC budget for 2025/2026, which is £158,490.00. One new bid was listed for consideration: installing a new lock system at Albert Street TRA.

Tree Management

The committee received a report on the performance of the tree management contractor, Treehab Limited. The report provided an update on the role the Tree Service undertakes across housing estates and provided service performance information.

Gospel Oak DMC Addresses Anti-Social Behaviour and Housing

The Gospel Oak District Management Committee (DMC) met on June 19th to discuss community safety, budget allocations, and housing issues. Link to the Gospel Oak District Management Committee meeting

Community Safety

The committee received a report on community safety and anti-social behaviour (ASB) in the Gospel Oak District, revealing that drug use and drug dealing were the most frequently reported issues. The report detailed actions taken to address these concerns, including intensive resident engagement, walkabouts with residents, and the installation of signage to promote awareness and discourage ASB.

Budget

The committee discussed the Gospel Oak DMC budget for 2025/2026, which is £151,040.00. One bid was listed for consideration: a bid from Gospel Oak Sheltered Housing Scheme for a programme of well-being activities for sheltered residents, along with equipment.

Housing

The committee received a report providing an overview of empty homes in Camden, and the council's void improvement programme. The report stated that at the time of writing, the number of void properties to be re-let was 459, and that there were a further 115 properties which are empty and not in the letting process as they are being used for projects.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Children, Schools and Families Scrutiny Committee will meet on Monday 23 June 2025 to discuss the Ofsted Inspection of Children's Services, the Annual Health Report on Children, Young People and Families, and persistent absence in schools. Link to the Children, Schools and Families Scrutiny Committee meeting
• The Disability Oversight Panel will meet on Tuesday 24 June 2025 to receive an update on the Disability Job Hub. Link to the Disability Oversight Panel meeting
• The Corporate Parenting Board will meet on Tuesday 24 June 2025. Link to the Corporate Parenting Board meeting
• The Holborn District Management Committee will meet on Tuesday 24 June 2025 to discuss community safety, the council's budget, and tenant engagement. Link to the Holborn District Management Committee meeting
• The Hampstead District Management Committee will meet on Thursday 26 June 2025 to discuss housing performance, DMC bids, and local issues. Link to the Hampstead District Management Committee meeting
• The Audit and Corporate Governance Committee will meet on Wednesday 02 July 2025. Link to the Audit and Corporate Governance Committee meeting
• Licensing Panel E will meet on Thursday 03 July 2025. Link to the Licensing Panel E meeting
• The Planning Committee will meet on Thursday 03 July 2025. Link to the Planning Committee meeting