This week in Camden:

Planning Decisions: Balancing Development with Community Concerns

Camden Council's Council meeting on Monday 13 July 2026 addressed significant changes to how planning decisions are made, alongside several important motions reflecting community priorities. The proposed amendments to the Council's Constitution aim to streamline the planning process, but concerns remain about ensuring resident voices are heard.

Streamlining Planning Decisions: A New Delegation Scheme

The Audit and Corporate Governance Committee referred a report to the Council concerning amendments to the Constitution, driven by new national regulations[^1] that come into effect on 31 October 2026. The proposed changes introduce a two-tier system for planning applications:

• Schedule 1 applications will be delegated to officers for decision.
• Schedule 2 applications will generally be delegated to officers, unless both the Head of Development Management and the Chair of the Planning Committee agree that the application raises significant planning matters or has substantial local economic, social, or environmental implications.

This shift aims to speed up decision-making, but it's crucial that the criteria for referring applications to the Planning Committee are robust enough to capture issues of genuine local concern. The report recommended that the Council approve these amendments.

Link to the Council meeting

Motions Address Key Community Issues

The Council also considered several motions, highlighting diverse resident concerns:

• Borough of Sanctuary: This motion celebrated Camden's recognition as a Borough of Sanctuary and its libraries as Libraries of Sanctuary. It reaffirmed the Council's commitment to supporting refugees and asylum seekers, a vital stance that ensures vulnerable individuals receive welcome and assistance.
• Trans Inclusivity and the EHRC Code of Practice: This motion expressed concerns about the Equality and Human Rights Commission's (EHRC) draft Code of Practice, which some fear could negatively impact trans people's rights. The Council was urged to reaffirm its commitment to being trans-inclusive and to ensure its departments and commissioned services apply the EHRC Code in the most inclusive way possible, consistent with the law. This reflects a commitment to upholding the rights of all residents, in line with the Equality Act 2010[^2].
• Climate Change Resilience: Acknowledging the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, this motion called for a plan to install solar panels and heat pumps on council buildings by 2030, alongside a review of support for property owners and the integration of climate action into procurement and planning. This directly addresses the council's commitment to tackling the climate emergency and protecting residents from its impacts, particularly those most vulnerable to heatwaves and rising costs.
• Planning Committee Independence: This motion raised concerns about the potential politicisation of planning decisions, particularly in relation to the Regis Road area. It stressed the importance of independent decision-making based on planning merits to maintain public trust.
• Support for Education Workers: This motion expressed solidarity with striking education workers and called for improved pay and conditions for teaching assistants and other support staff. It highlighted the impact of the cost of living crisis on these essential workers and urged the government to provide adequate funding for schools.

These motions demonstrate the council's engagement with a wide range of social, environmental, and economic issues affecting Camden residents.

Housing Safety and Resident Engagement: A Focus for Gospel Oak

The Gospel Oak District Management Committee met on Thursday 16 July 2026, focusing on crucial updates regarding housing investment, safety regulations, and resident involvement. These discussions are vital for ensuring that council homes are safe, well-maintained, and that residents have a strong voice in their management.

Awaab's Law: Progress and Challenges in Ensuring Safer Homes

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to an update on Camden's implementation of Awaab's Law. This legislation, which came into effect in October 2025, mandates social landlords to investigate and remediate damp and mould hazards within strict timeframes.

• Phase 1 Successes and Challenges: The council reported that Phase 1, focusing on damp and mould, is largely embedded and compliant with most statutory Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). However, challenges remain, particularly with resident access to properties, which is delaying emergency responses and hazard investigations. This can leave vulnerable residents, including those with respiratory conditions or the elderly, exposed to unhealthy living conditions.
• Phase 2 Preparations: The committee received an update on preparations for Phase 2 of Awaab's Law, which will expand the scope to cover a broader range of housing hazards. This will require a more complex, risk-based approach to compliance.

The commitment to Awaab's Law is essential for protecting the health and well-being of residents in social housing, ensuring that their homes are safe and healthy environments.

Link to the Gospel Oak District Management Committee meeting

Empowering Residents: Funding and Engagement Processes

The committee also discussed a refreshed process for bidding for DMC funding. This initiative aims to streamline the application process for resident-led projects while encouraging partnership working with community organisations. The updated Terms of Reference and Bidding Guidance documents are designed to make it easier for Tenant and Residents' Associations (TRAs) and other bodies to access funding for local improvements.

Furthermore, the meeting addressed the registration of TRAs and the co-option of tenant representatives onto the DMC. This ensures that resident voices are formally represented in decision-making processes related to their housing.

Housing Investment Strategy and Investigations

An update on the Housing Investment Strategy was provided, outlining plans to invest in the council's housing stock to ensure homes are decent, safe, warm and family-friendly. The committee also received a report on the work of the Housing Investigations team, which tackles tenancy fraud, such as illegal subletting and fraudulent applications. Recovering homes through these investigations is crucial for ensuring that council properties are occupied by those who genuinely need them, particularly in a borough with high housing demand.

Licensing and Gambling Policies Under Review

The Licensing Committee met on Wednesday 15 July 2026, to review the council's approach to gambling and to discuss initiatives aimed at improving safety in the night-time economy.

Statement of Gambling Policy: Protecting Vulnerable Individuals

The committee reviewed the draft Statement of Gambling Policy 2026-2029. Gambling can have significant negative impacts, with an estimated annual cost of £1.4 billion in England related to issues such as suicide, homelessness, and financial hardship. The updated policy aims to provide a clear, evidence-led framework for regulating gambling premises, with a focus on minimising gambling-related harm. This includes strengthening the council's response to factors that may increase risk, such as deprivation and financial hardship, ensuring that vulnerable individuals are protected. The policy will be subject to a public consultation.

Link to the Licensing Committee meeting

Enhancing Women's Safety in the Night-Time Economy

The committee also received an update on efforts to improve women's safety in Camden's evening and night-time economy. This includes the continued delivery of Welfare and Vulnerability Engagement (WAVE) training for staff in licensed venues, equipping them to identify and support individuals at risk. The council's commitment to tackling violence against women and girls (VAWG) is integrated into its licensing policy, with measures such as the 'Ask for Angela' scheme and the provision of Safe Havens. While reported drink spiking incidents saw a decrease in 2025, there was an increase in the first five months of 2026, highlighting the ongoing need for vigilance and preventative measures.

Other Matters

Licensing Panel A Considers New Venue and Licence Variation

Licensing Panel A met on Thursday 16 July 2026 to consider two applications:

• The Well Walk Theatre, Bookshop & Café: An application for a new premises licence for this venue at 49 Willow Road NW3 1TS. The application faced significant opposition from residents and local groups concerned about potential public nuisance, crime and disorder, and the impact of alcohol sales on the character of the area. Supporters, however, highlighted the venue's positive community contribution.
• Mag One: An application to vary the premises licence for this shop at 68 Rosslyn Hill, NW3 1ND. The variation sought to remove conditions related to the sale of strong alcohol and security measures, which the Metropolitan Police opposed, arguing they were essential for preventing crime and disorder.

Link to the Licensing Panel A meeting

This week in Camden:

Council Pledges £1 Million to Support Advice Services Amidst Financial Strain

Camden Council's Cabinet met on Monday 6 July 2026, making a crucial decision to extend funding for the Camden Advice Network (CAN) by £1 million for another year. This vital funding, running from April 2027 to March 2028, ensures that residents facing financial hardship, debt, and housing insecurity continue to receive essential independent advice. This decision comes as the council grapples with significant financial challenges, including rising costs for temporary accommodation and children's social care, highlighting the increasing demand for support services.

The CAN plays a critical role in helping vulnerable residents navigate complex issues, preventing them from falling into deeper crisis. The extension provides much-needed certainty for these organisations while the council undertakes a broader review of its financial resilience support.

Adult Social Care: Residents Demand Dignity and Choice

The Cabinet also heard the findings of the Who Cares? project, a borough-wide conversation involving over 1,500 residents about Adult Social Care. The overwhelming message from residents was a clear demand for dignity, compassion, fairness, choice, and control, with a strong preference for support that enables them to remain at home and connected to their communities. The council has committed to supporting an influencing approach based on these findings, signalling a commitment to a more person-centred approach to care. This aligns with the council's strategic plan, Supporting People, Connecting Communities, and reflects a desire to involve residents more deeply in shaping the services that affect their lives.

Major Investments in Housing and Mental Health Services

In addition to supporting advice services, the Cabinet approved procurement strategies for several significant projects:

• Mental Health Support: Approximately £5.5 million will be invested in community-based early intervention and prevention support services, known as Reach Out Camden. This initiative aims to provide timely, flexible, and relationship-based support for adults struggling with their mental health, jointly funded with the West North London Integrated Care Board. This investment is crucial, as mental health challenges can disproportionately affect vulnerable groups, and accessible community support can prevent crises and improve overall well-being.
• Housing Repairs: A substantial £59.8 million is earmarked for void property works over a potential seven-year term. This will involve procuring two contractors to manage repairs and refurbishments for empty council-owned homes across the borough. The aim is to minimise the time homes remain empty, maximising rental income and ensuring more families have access to stable housing.
• Kilburn Regeneration: Phase 3 of the Better, Safer Kilburn scheme, with an estimated value of £7 million, will proceed. This project focuses on improving safety, public realm, walking, and cycling in Kilburn, contributing to a more sustainable and liveable environment for residents.

These decisions demonstrate the council's commitment to investing in essential services, from mental health support to housing infrastructure, with a focus on improving the lives of all residents.

Link to the Cabinet meeting

Audit Committee Reviews Financial Health and Planning Reforms

The Audit and Corporate Governance Committee met on Tuesday 7 July 2026, scrutinising the council's financial management and upcoming changes to planning regulations. These discussions are fundamental to ensuring transparency, accountability, and the effective functioning of local government.

External Audit Strategy and Financial Oversight

The committee reviewed the external audit strategy for 2025/26, presented by auditors Forvis Mazars. This strategy outlines the approach to auditing the council's accounts, identifying key risks such as the valuation of assets and pension liabilities. The report noted that the council's total external borrowing remained stable at £294 million, while the Capital Financing Requirement (CFR) rose to £812 million. The committee also examined the Annual Treasury Management Outturn Report, which confirmed the council's prudent investment and borrowing strategies. The Internal Audit Annual Report for 2025/26 provided a Moderate Assurance opinion, indicating that while the control framework is generally adequate, some weaknesses exist that could put service objectives at risk. These reports are vital for maintaining public trust and ensuring the responsible use of taxpayer money.

Planning Functions: Adapting to New National Regulations

The committee was scheduled to discuss proposed amendments to the Council's Constitution to align with new national regulations on the delegation of planning functions. The Town and Country Planning (Discharge of Local Planning Authority Functions) (England) Regulations 2026 introduce a two-tier system for planning decisions, with a greater emphasis on officer delegation. This shift aims to streamline decision-making but requires careful consideration to ensure that resident concerns and the character of our neighbourhoods are still adequately represented. The report highlighted the need to update the Constitution to reflect these changes, which are set to come into effect from 31 October 2026.

Counter Fraud Efforts Highlighted

The 2025-26 Annual Counter Fraud Report detailed the council's efforts to combat fraud. The Anti-Fraud and Investigations Team (AFIT) and the Housing Investigations Team (HIT) reported significant successes, including the recovery of 55 properties through tackling tenancy fraud, preventing an estimated £3.63 million in losses. These efforts are crucial for protecting public funds and ensuring that resources are used for their intended purposes, benefiting all residents.

Link to the Audit and Corporate Governance Committee meeting

Health and Wellbeing Board Focuses on Public Health and Integrated Care

The Health and Wellbeing Board met on Wednesday 8 July 2026, addressing key public health issues and the integration of health and social care services. These discussions are central to ensuring the health and well-being of all Camden residents, with a particular focus on vulnerable groups.

Health Protection Update: Measles and Heat Alerts

The Director of Public Health provided an update on health protection issues, highlighting a rise in measles cases across London, with 18 reported in Camden between January and June 2026. Efforts to promote MMR vaccination are ongoing, a critical measure to protect children and prevent outbreaks. The board also discussed the council's response to a recent red heat alert, which involved public communications and the promotion of 'Cool Spaces' to help residents, especially the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions, stay safe during extreme weather.

Better Care Fund and Neighbourhood Health Plans

The proposed 2026-27 Better Care Fund (BCF) Plan was presented, outlining an integrated spending plan of nearly £46 million shared between Camden Council and the West and North London Integrated Care Board. This fund supports essential services like community equipment, homecare, and supported living for individuals with learning disabilities. A key investment is planned for therapy-led reablement to improve outcomes and integrate intermediate care.

Furthermore, the board was introduced to the concept of Neighbourhood Health Plans. These plans, a national requirement, aim to establish integrated, multi-disciplinary services delivered closer to people's homes. Camden's existing progress in joint local working aligns well with these new expectations, with a focus on developing Integrated Neighbourhood Teams (INTs) to empower individuals and offer greater choice in accessing support.

Link to the Health and Wellbeing Board meeting

Other Matters

Licensing Panel E Cancelled

The Licensing Panel E meeting, scheduled for Thursday 9 July 2026, was cancelled.

This week in Camden:

Housing Safety and Tenant Rights Under the Spotlight

Camden Council's District Management Committees (DMCs) have been actively discussing critical issues impacting residents' homes and rights. The Holborn District Management Committee met on Tuesday 30 June 2026, and the Hampstead District Management Committee met on Thursday 2 July 2026, both addressing the vital implementation of Awaab's Law and the ongoing efforts to improve housing standards.

Awaab's Law: Ensuring Safer Homes for All

Awaab's Law, named after a young boy who tragically died due to prolonged exposure to mould in his home, places new legal obligations on social landlords to address health and safety hazards. Both the Holborn and Hampstead DMCs received updates on Camden's progress with Phase 1 of the law, which focuses on damp and mould. While the council reports strong compliance with most statutory Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), challenges persist.

• Resident Access: A significant hurdle identified is resident access to properties, which is delaying emergency responses and hazard investigations. This can leave vulnerable residents, including the elderly and those with respiratory conditions, in unsafe living environments for longer than necessary.
• Phase 2 Expansion: The upcoming Phase 2 of Awaab's Law will broaden the scope to include a wider range of housing hazards, requiring a more comprehensive and risk-based approach to compliance.

These discussions underscore the council's commitment to improving housing safety, a commitment that directly impacts the health and well-being of all residents, particularly those in social housing.

Link to the Holborn District Management Committee meeting Link to the Hampstead District Management Committee meeting

Empowering Tenants: Registration and Engagement

Both committees also focused on strengthening tenant representation and engagement. The registration of Tenant and Resident Associations (TRAs) and the co-option of tenant representatives were key agenda items. This process ensures that residents have a formal voice in local housing matters.

• Constitution and Code of Conduct: The agreement of the committee's Constitution and Code of Conduct for the 2026/27 municipal year was a priority. These documents set the framework for how the DMCs operate, ensuring transparency and accountability in their advisory and consultative roles.
• Refreshed Funding and Bidding: A new process for bidding for District Management Committee (DMC) funding was discussed, aiming to make it more accessible and encourage partnership working with community organisations. This funding is crucial for resident-led community projects.

These initiatives are vital for fostering a collaborative relationship between the council and its tenants, ensuring that resident feedback directly influences housing management and improvements.

Children's Services and Directorate Performance Under Review

The Children, Schools and Families Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday 1 July 2026, examining the performance of the directorate and the health and well-being of the borough's young people.

Annual Health Report Highlights Inequalities

The committee was set to review the Annual Health Report for children and young people in Camden for 2025/26. This report, compiled by the Director of Health and Wellbeing, provides crucial data on population health metrics and highlights existing inequalities. The information, drawn from sources like the Office for Health Improvement (OHID) Fingertips Child and Maternal Health dashboard, is essential for identifying areas where targeted interventions are needed to support vulnerable children and families. The report also details work undertaken to improve health outcomes and address inequalities, with plans for the upcoming year.

National Children's Social Care Reforms Progress

A progress update on Camden's implementation of national children's social care reforms was also on the agenda. This is a critical area, as these reforms aim to improve the support and care provided to children and young people in the social care system. The report was intended to provide a high-level overview of the reform programme and summarise progress made since previous updates.

Link to the Children, Schools and Families Scrutiny Committee meeting

Investment, Environment, and Corporate Performance Scrutiny

Several scrutiny committees met on Thursday 2 July 2026, reviewing the performance of key directorates and the council's financial standing.

Investment, Place and Opportunity Directorate Performance

The Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee reviewed the Insight, Learning and Impact Report for the Investment, Place and Opportunity Directorate for 2025-26. This report detailed challenges and opportunities across various sectors, including development, planning, regeneration, and environmental sustainability. Issues such as construction inflation and increased graffiti were noted, alongside positive developments like planning consent for new homes and the ambition of the Camden Transport Strategy.

Link to the Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee meeting

Corporate Services and Financial Resilience

The Resources and Corporate Performance Scrutiny Committee examined the performance of the Corporate Services Directorate and received an update on the Council's Medium Term Financial Position. The report highlighted significant financial pressures within areas like Temporary Accommodation, Children's Social Care, and Adult Social Care, exacerbated by inflation and increased demand. The council faces substantial savings targets, necessitating careful financial planning to maintain essential services for residents.

Link to the Resources and Corporate Performance Scrutiny Committee meeting

Other Matters

Housing Directorate Performance and Tenant Satisfaction

The Housing Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday 1 July 2026 to review the performance of the Homes and Communities Directorate. A key focus was the presentation of Camden's Tenant Satisfaction Measure (TSM) results for 2025/26. These measures, required by the Regulator of Social Housing, provide a standardised view of housing service delivery, safety, and engagement, offering crucial insights into resident experiences. The committee also received an update on the Housing Investment Strategy, which outlines plans for significant investment in council homes to ensure they remain safe, warm, and family-friendly.

Link to the Housing Scrutiny Committee meeting

This week in Camden:

Housing Safety and Building Standards Take Centre Stage

The Housing Fire and Building Safety Panel met on Monday 22 June 2026, tackling critical issues that directly impact the safety and well-being of residents in council homes. The discussions focused on ensuring properties are safe from fire hazards, maintaining building integrity, and providing residents with essential safety information.

Stock Condition Survey: The Foundation of Safe Homes

A key report detailed the ongoing internal stock condition survey of tenanted homes. This survey is fundamental to understanding the state of Camden's housing stock and informing crucial investment decisions. The council's definition of up to date information, meaning within the past five years, aligns with industry standards and is vital for meeting the expectations of the Regulator for Social Housing. This detailed property-level data is essential for identifying and rectifying potential issues before they become serious safety concerns, particularly for vulnerable residents who may have limited mobility or other needs that make them more susceptible to harm.

Tackling Fire Compartmentation Risks in Commercial Properties

The panel received an update on Camden Council's strategy for addressing fire compartmentation risks within its extensive portfolio of 990 commercial properties. Many of these buildings have residential units above or adjacent, bringing them under the stringent requirements of the Building Safety Act. Intrusive surveys initiated in 2023 revealed that a significant number of these properties require essential works, such as upgrading ceilings, walls, fire stopping, and replacing fire doors. The pilot work on two properties and the broader programme aim to systematically mitigate these risks, ensuring that residents living in or near these commercial spaces are protected from fire spread.

Empowering Residents with Fire Safety Training

The panel also reviewed ongoing efforts to inform and educate residents about fire and building safety. The council's Your Home, Your Learning programme is being expanded to include Safety in the Home, and a formal Fire Warden Training is proposed for representatives of Tenant and Resident Associations (TRAs) from September 2026. A pilot online fire safety quiz has already been developed and tested with residents, demonstrating a commitment to accessible and engaging safety education. This proactive approach is vital for empowering residents to understand and respond to fire risks, potentially saving lives.

Performance in Fire Safety and Compliance

The meeting included a report on compliance across fire, legionella, asbestos, gas, electrics, and lifts (FLAGEL) for the housing portfolio during the fourth quarter of the 2025/26 financial year. It also covered Tenant Satisfaction Measures (TSMs), Building Safety Case submissions, and performance against Awaab's Law. While performance in most areas was strong, challenges with lift inspections and electrical checks due to access issues were noted. These compliance reports are crucial for demonstrating the council's commitment to maintaining safe living environments for all residents.

Link to the Housing Fire and Building Safety Panel meeting

Camden Town District Management Committee Addresses Short-Term Lets and Housing Issues

The Camden Town District Management Committee met on Wednesday 24 June 2026, discussing a range of housing-related matters, including the growing issue of short-term letting enforcement and the management of council-owned properties.

Tackling the Rise of Short-Term Lets

A significant focus was placed on the enforcement of regulations surrounding short-term lettings (STLs). The report highlighted the impact of the Deregulation Act 2015 on planning controls and the legal limits on STL duration. Camden Council is actively working to tackle STLs, particularly those occurring in Council-owned freehold properties. With an estimated 7,516 entire properties in Camden being used for STLs, concentrated in areas like Camden Town, the council's planning enforcement and leasehold efforts are crucial. A multi-disciplinary working group has been established to coordinate these efforts, aiming to balance the needs of the tourism economy with the preservation of residential amenity and housing availability for local residents.

Voids Programme and Housing Investment

The committee received an update on the voids programme, which tracks empty council properties. As of 26 May 2026, there were 356 active voids across Camden, with 48 in the Camden Town district. The report detailed void properties by size and the reasons for them being held, alongside average repair costs. This information is vital for ensuring that empty homes are brought back into use as quickly as possible, addressing the urgent need for social housing. The committee also reviewed updates on the Council's Housing Investment Strategy, which outlines plans to invest £670 million in its homes over the next five years to ensure they remain decent, safe, warm, and family-friendly.

Awaab's Law and Tenant Engagement

Progress on Camden's delivery against Awaab's Law was also discussed. The law, introduced following the tragic death of Awaab Ishak, places new obligations on social landlords to investigate and address health and safety hazards like damp and mould. Phase 1 of implementation, focusing on these hazards, is largely compliant, though challenges with resident access persist. The committee also reviewed tenant engagement reports, highlighting efforts to ensure resident voices are heard in the management and improvement of their homes.

Link to the Camden Town District Management Committee meeting

Licensing Panel C Meeting Cancelled

The Licensing Panel C meeting, scheduled for Thursday 25 June 2026, was cancelled. This meeting was due to consider a review of the premises licence for The Camden, located at 61-65 Crowndale Road, London, NW1 1TN. The review had been initiated by the Metropolitan Police due to concerns over breaches of licence conditions and the promotion of licensing objectives. The cancellation means that the decision on the licence review will be deferred.

Link to the Licensing Panel C meeting

Other Matters

Corporate Parenting Board Meets

The Corporate Parenting Board met on Tuesday 23 June 2026. This board is responsible for ensuring that looked-after children receive the best possible care and support, acting as a corporate parent to these young people. The board's work is vital for safeguarding the welfare and future prospects of children in the council's care, ensuring they have the opportunities and support needed to thrive.

Link to the Corporate Parenting Board meeting