This week in Hackney:

Council Approves £5.8 Million Framework for Children and Families Support Services

Hackney Council's Hackney Procurement Board met on Tuesday, January 13th, to approve a new Support Services Open Framework valued at an estimated £5.8 million over five years. This framework will allow the council to commission a range of targeted interventions for children, young people, and families, including mentoring, parenting assessments, and crisis support. The decision comes as demand and costs for these services have risen by 24% since 2022/23, and the council aims to move away from costly ad-hoc purchasing. The framework will introduce standardised rates, increase competition among providers, and improve contract monitoring, supporting the council's duty to achieve best value. Social value, including local employment and training, will be a key factor in evaluating bids, with an estimated whole-life cost projected between £6.4 million and £6.8 million.

The Board also approved contracts for regeneration advisory services, totalling £1,388,126.36 excluding VAT, to support the Hackney Regeneration Programme. These contracts, awarded to Bidder B and Bidder C, will run for three years with an option to extend. The selection process emphasised social value, with commitments to apprenticeships and work experience for Hackney residents.

However, decisions on a £17.1 million contract for Public Space Surveillance (PSS) and Optical Fibre Cable Installation and Maintenance, and the Sanctuary Scheme, were deferred to the next meeting on February 10th.

Read the full report on the Hackney Procurement Board meeting

Community Mental Health Transformation Takes Centre Stage

The Health in Hackney Scrutiny Commission was scheduled to discuss the East London NHS Foundation Trust's (ELFT) new community mental health offer on Thursday, January 15th. This initiative aims to create a more integrated mental health system, bringing together GPs, social care, and voluntary services. The discussion was expected to delve into how this new offer differs from previous models and address challenges such as short-term funding and alignment with the council's Neighbourhoods Programme. The impact on vulnerable individuals seeking mental health support is significant, as improved integration could lead to more accessible and effective care.

The Commission was also set to receive an update on adult social care services and review new performance dashboards covering funded care packages, assessments, waiting lists, and safeguarding enquiries. Additionally, the meeting was to address the implementation of recommendations from the national Fuller Inquiry, which investigated abuse of the deceased and aims to improve practices in mortuaries and related sectors. These discussions highlight the council's ongoing commitment to improving health and social care provision for all residents.

Read the full report on the Health in Hackney Scrutiny Commission meeting

Planning Committee Approves New Homes and Temporary Structures

The Planning Sub-Committee met on Wednesday, January 14th, approving planning permission for a two-storey vertical extension to create five self-contained residential units at 25 Elsdale Street, Hackney, London, E9 6QY. This decision, made subject to conditions and a Section 106 agreement, addresses the need for more housing in the borough. The committee also granted permission for the retention of portakabins for office and storage use at 40-43 Andrews Road, London, E8 4RL for three years. An application for 1-2 Furrow Lane was withdrawn. These decisions demonstrate the council's role in shaping the physical landscape of Hackney, balancing development needs with community concerns.

Read the full report on the Planning Sub-Committee meeting

Other Matters

• Safeguarding Review of Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy: The Children and Young People Scrutiny Commission reviewed a safeguarding practice review concerning Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy. The review highlighted concerns about harmful practices towards vulnerable pupils, including those with SEND, and disproportionate sanctions for Black pupils. The Commission also discussed strategies to improve outcomes for Black children and young people and the Hackney Education Strategy. Read the full report on the Children and Young People Scrutiny Commission meeting
• Inner North East London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee: This committee met on Wednesday, January 14th, to discuss the closure of Richard House Children's Hospice and the ongoing support for affected families. They also received health and finance updates for the region, including significant financial pressures within the Integrated Care System. Read the full report on the Inner North East London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting
• Audit Committee: The Audit Committee met on Tuesday, January 13th, to review the external audit progress, which highlighted significant weaknesses in the council's financial sustainability and governance, particularly concerning the use of reserves and compliance with health and safety standards in social housing. The committee also reviewed the corporate and directorate risk registers, including risks related to the council's financial position, cyber security, and temporary accommodation. Read the full report on the Audit Committee meeting
• Officer Executive Decisions: Two Officer Executive Decisions meetings were held on Friday, January 16th. One focused on the procurement of an external variable data print services contract, valued at £24 million, essential for statutory and business-critical communications. The other discussed proposed changes to the Future Shoreditch Area Action Plan, including updates to building heights and development capacities for key sites. Read the full report on the Officer Executive Decisions meeting (Print Services) and Read the full report on the Officer Executive Decisions meeting (Shoreditch Plan)
• Licensing Sub Committee A: This committee was scheduled to consider variations to premises licences for Pirate Studios and The Glove That Fits and Gardens on Tuesday, January 13th. Read the full report on the Licensing Sub Committee A meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• Licensing Sub Committee B will meet on Monday 26 January 2026 to consider premises licence applications for Popeyes and The Bike Shed. View meeting details
• Cabinet will meet on Monday 26 January 2026. View meeting details
• Scrutiny Panel will meet on Tuesday 27 January 2026. View meeting details
• Pensions Board will meet on Wednesday 28 January 2026. View meeting details
• Council will meet on Wednesday 28 January 2026. View meeting details

This week in Hackney:

Council to Invest £5 Million in Kitchen and Bathroom Upgrades for Council Homes

Hackney Council's Cabinet Procurement and Insourcing Committee met on Monday, January 5th, to consider a significant investment in its housing stock. The committee was presented with a proposal to award two contracts totalling £5 million for planned internal works, specifically focusing on kitchens and bathrooms. This decision directly impacts the living conditions of many residents, particularly those in council-owned properties.

The proposal involved directly awarding contracts from the Fusion21 external framework to two companies:

• Wates Property Services Limited was set to receive a contract worth £3 million.
• Chigwell London PLC was slated for a £2 million contract.

Both contracts are for a period of up to two years, with an option to extend for a further year. The urgency behind this decision stems from the need to avoid delays in commencing these essential works, with some residents having been informed that work would begin in early January 2026. The council highlighted that any delay could jeopardise its ability to meet obligations agreed with the Housing Regulator and complete improvements within the current financial year.

This procurement was sought under a general exception notice because the required 28-day notice period for a key decision could not be met. The council justified this by stating the need to prevent delays and ensure residents receive timely improvements. This approach, while expediting essential repairs, raises questions about transparency and the usual competitive tendering processes.

The report noted that this proposal represented a change from a previous business case approved in October 2024, which had a larger capacity. The shift to direct awards under the Fusion21 Framework was driven by the urgency to meet improvement plans agreed with the Housing Regulator.

The committee was recommended to approve these contract awards, a decision that will bring much-needed upgrades to the homes of many Hackney residents.

Read the full report on the General Exception Notices meeting

New Children's Homes and Fleet Upgrades Approved

The Cabinet Procurement and Insourcing Committee also met on Monday, January 5th, to approve several other key contracts that will impact services across the borough.

Commissioning Children's Homes in Hackney

A significant decision was the agreement to award a contract to a provider to deliver residential care and support for children looked after, aged 11-17. This five-year contract, with an option to extend for a further two years, aims to improve the quality of care for vulnerable young people by minimising disruption and keeping them connected to their communities. The chosen provider is committed to environmental sustainability and will pay at least the London Living Wage to its staff. Two new homes, Blossom House and Starbright House, are expected to be ready for children by September 2026. This initiative directly addresses the council's commitment to safeguarding and supporting its most vulnerable residents.

Fleet Vehicle Replacements

The committee also approved the purchase of new vehicles for essential council services.

• Housing Department: 89 medium-sized vans, two large sewer vans, and one platform access tower vehicle will be replaced. The council is transitioning to renewable biofuel HVO for most new vehicles, with one electric vehicle being procured, highlighting a step towards greener operations, though infrastructure challenges remain.
• Waste, Parks & Enforcement: A range of vehicles, including tipper vehicles, sweepers, and specialist vans for graffiti removal, will be replaced. Similar to the housing fleet, the council is prioritising renewable biofuel HVO and electric technology where feasible, acknowledging the ongoing need for infrastructure development.

These fleet upgrades are crucial for ensuring the continued delivery of vital services to Hackney residents, from waste collection to housing maintenance.

Read the full report on the Cabinet Procurement and Insourcing Committee meeting

Other Matters

• Arboricultural Maintenance and Tree Planting: A framework agreement was approved for arboricultural maintenance and tree planting services for four years. This will ensure the continued care of the borough's green spaces, supporting environmental objectives and aligning with the Mayor of London's targets for increasing tree canopy coverage.
• Scrutiny Panel: A Scrutiny Panel meeting was held on Friday, January 9th. The details of this meeting are still being processed.

Upcoming Meetings

• Licensing Sub Committee A will meet on Tuesday 13 January 2026 to discuss variations to premises licences for Pirate Studios and The Glove That Fits and Gardens, as well as Temporary Event Notices. View meeting details
• Planning Sub-Committee will meet on Wednesday 14 January 2026 to consider several planning applications, including new residential developments at Furrow Lane and Elsdale Street. View meeting details
• Inner North East London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee will meet on Wednesday 14 January 2026 to discuss the closure of Richard House Children's Hospice, a health update, and a finance overview. View meeting details
• Health in Hackney Scrutiny Commission will meet on Thursday 15 January 2026 to discuss community mental health services, adult social care performance, and the implementation of recommendations from the Fuller Inquiry. View meeting details
• Audit Committee will meet on Tuesday 13 January 2026 to review the council's financial health, risk management, and audit progress. View meeting details
• Children and Young People Scrutiny Commission will meet on Monday 12 January 2026 to discuss a safeguarding practice review concerning Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy, the CHSCP annual report, and improving outcomes for Black children and young people. View meeting details
• Hackney Procurement Board will meet on Tuesday 13 January 2026 to discuss contracts for Public Space Surveillance and Optical Fibre Cable Installation, as well as Development and Valuation Advisor services for regeneration programmes. View meeting details
• Officer Executive Decisions will meet on Friday 16 January 2026 to consider proposed changes to the Future Shoreditch Area Action Plan. View meeting details
• Officer Executive Decisions will meet on Friday 16 January 2026 to consider a new External Variable Data Print Services Contract. View meeting details
• Skills, Economy and Growth Scrutiny Commission will meet on Monday 19 January 2026 to discuss Hackney's business support provision for town centres and high street businesses. View meeting details
• Licensing Sub Committee E will meet on Tuesday 20 January 2026. View meeting details
• Health and Wellbeing Board will meet on Wednesday 21 January 2026. View meeting details
• Pensions Committee will meet on Wednesday 21 January 2026. View meeting details
• Living in Hackney Scrutiny Commission will meet on Wednesday 21 January 2026. View meeting details

This week in Hackney:

• Hackney Cabinet Approves Education Plan Amidst Falling Pupil Numbers
• Council to Purchase 174 Dwellings for Temporary Accommodation
• Hoxton Residents Deputation Against Low Traffic Neighbourhood Implementation

Hackney Cabinet Approves Education Plan Amidst Falling Pupil Numbers

The Hackney Council Cabinet met on Monday to discuss a range of issues, with a key focus on strategies for the future, aiming to improve the lives of residents. You can read the full report here.

A major item on the agenda was the approval of Hackney's Education Strategic Plan 2026-29. This plan aims to address significant challenges, including falling pupil numbers and the increasing complexity of special education needs. The Hackney Education Strategic Plan 2025-28 sets out how the council will cultivate a future where every child and young person can access an excellent education.

The report pack states that the council engaged with residents, schools and settings to co-create the plan. The plan's core commitments are to be resolutely anti-racist, to work in genuine partnership with parents and carers, and to champion the health and wellbeing of all young people. These principles guide priorities such as enhancing Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision, ensuring equity for underserved groups, and fostering a sustainable school system.

Also discussed was the Hackney Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and Inclusion 3 Year Strategy, which aims to ensure that all children and young people with SEND in Hackney receive high-quality education and support as close to home as possible. According to the report pack, around 20% of children and young people in Hackney have an Education Health Care Plan (EHCP) or receive SEN Support, which is greater than the London and national averages. The report pack states that the strategy is a product of extensive co-production, adhering to the principles of the Lundy Model¹.

Council to Purchase 174 Dwellings for Temporary Accommodation

The Cabinet also discussed the Capital Update and Property Disposals and Acquisitions Report. According to the report pack, this includes a proposal to purchase two sites comprising 174 self contained dwellings to add to the Council's supply of much needed Temporary Accommodation. You can read the full report here.

The acquisitions are described as an investment to save initiative , which will reduce the cost to the Council of providing temporary accommodation as well as improving the quality of accommodation for the families occupying the dwellings. This decision could significantly impact vulnerable families in Hackney who are in need of temporary housing.

The report pack also mentions a £0.141m investment in Road safety improvements at Green Lanes, which will seek to improve two crossings including installing a parallel crossing which will give priority to pedestrians and cyclists, allowing them to cross safely without dis-mounting and encouraging more active travel.

The report pack states that following the approval of the Council's Corporate Asset Management Strategy (CAMS) at October Cabinet, the attendees discussed a delegation to the Group Director Finance & Corporate Resources to enable the Council to take forward the financial sustainability negotiations and discussions to take place for the disposal of property assets. This delegation will support the delivery of the financial sustainability element of the CAMS, the delivery of capital receipts to fund the Corporate Transformation Programme and ensure the council obtain best values from any property asset disposals.

The report pack also advises that the Cabinet discussed a change to the council's accounting policy regarding the way they treat borrowing costs for assets under development. The council is changing its policy to capitalise the interest on borrowing costs for appropriate schemes in its housing and other regeneration programmes to take this cost pressure off both the Housing Revenue Account and the General Fund.

The Kings Hall Leisure Centre Refurbishment Project was also discussed, regarding the appropriation of the Kings Hall Leisure Centre site for planning purposes.

Hoxton Residents Deputation Against Low Traffic Neighbourhood Implementation

The Cabinet heard a deputation from Sandra Stewart, introduced by Councillor Kam Adams, regarding Opposition to Low Traffic Neighbourhood (LTN) implementation in Hoxton. You can read the full report here.

Low Traffic Neighbourhoods have been a contentious issue in Hackney, with supporters arguing they reduce traffic and improve air quality, while opponents claim they displace traffic and harm local businesses. This deputation highlights the ongoing debate and the need for the council to address residents' concerns.

Other Matters

• Planning Documents: The Cabinet discussed the adoption of several planning documents, including the Retrofit Supplementary Planning Document, the Commercial Alterations and Extensions Supplementary Planning Document, and the Residential Alterations and Extensions Supplementary Planning Document.
• Article 4 Directions: The Cabinet discussed an Article 4 Direction to Remove Permitted Development Rights for Change of Use from Use Commercial, Business & Service (Class E)² to Residential (Class C3)³ in Ridley Road, Dalston E8. The Cabinet also discussed the Confirmation of Article 4 Direction to Remove Permitted Development Rights in Brownswood Conservation Area and Beck Road Conservation Area.
• Care Charging Review: The Cabinet discussed the Care Charging Review - Policy Change Recommendations.
• Licensing Sub Committee E: The Licensing Sub Committee E met on Wednesday to address licensing matters, including a hearing regarding temporary event notices. No video was provided. You can read the full report here.

This week in Hackney:

• Parcel Locker Project Approved Despite Privacy Concerns
• Licensing Sub-Committee Hears Concerns Over Late-Night Bistro and Supermarket Alcohol Sales
• Council Reviews Housing Improvement Plan Amidst Safety and Repair Challenges

Parcel Locker Project Approved Despite Privacy Concerns

The Hackney Procurement Board approved recommendations to secure a concession contract for the Hackney Estate Parcel Locker Deployment Project, aiming to install and maintain parcel lockers on council-owned housing estates. You can read the full report here.

While the project promises annual income for the council and convenience for residents, some privacy advocates have raised concerns about data security and potential surveillance related to parcel locker usage. The board did approve the use of social media to generate market interest in the project.

Key details:

• The project is considered a spend-to-save investment with potential annual income for the council estimated between £300,000 and £500,000.
• The initial contract term is planned for four years, followed by two-year extensions.
• The contract will include break clauses for the council's convenience, likely with 24 months' notice after the initial term.

Licensing Sub-Committee Hears Concerns Over Late-Night Bistro and Supermarket Alcohol Sales

The Licensing Sub Committee E discussed applications to vary premises licences for DNA Bistro and Local Supermarket, both on Kingsland High Street. No video was provided. You can read the full report here.

DNA Bistro

DNA Bistro sought to extend its hours for alcohol sales and include various entertainment activities. A local resident stated that granting a licence to these premises would break all four of Hackney Council's licensing objectives¹. The police suggested amended times and an additional condition requiring SIA door supervisors² on an operational risk assessment basis.

Local Supermarket

Local Supermarket applied to extend its alcohol sales hours for off-sales until midnight. Four local residents submitted representations raising concerns regarding crime, public safety, nuisance, and child protection.

These cases highlight the tension between supporting local businesses and protecting residents from potential negative impacts of late-night alcohol sales and entertainment.

Council Reviews Housing Improvement Plan Amidst Safety and Repair Challenges

The Living in Hackney Scrutiny Commission received an update on the Housing Improvement Plan, addressing health and safety, repairs, complaints, and data management. You can read the full report here.

The report pack stated that Hackney Council self-referred to the Regulator for Social Housing (RSH) in June 2024, after engagement with Pennington Choices, the council's health and safety consultants, identified that there was no assurance as to statutory and regulatory requirements in relation to building safety compliance, asset and data management, or the associated assurance framework.

Key points:

• While the council claims 100% compliance across fire, water, and asbestos safety, and >99.8% in gas safety, challenges remain in electrical safety due to procurement delays.
• Non-emergency repairs completed on time is 86.7% for the year to date.
• The Housing Revenue Account (HRA) is required to identify significant mitigations in order to breakeven for 2025/26, and is forecasting to overspend on Operations expenditure by £6.886m.

Councillor Lynn Nicholson stated:

A significant quantum of work is now underway in improving the services, and rethinking and re-presenting the way in which Housing Services can be delivered over the course, from now on in, with an improvement programme that is now underway.

The report pack also notes that the current financial position and depletion of earmarked reserves places the HRA budgets under significant financial pressure and the current level of spend is not sustainable within the HRA MTFS and 30 Year Business Plan.

Other Matters

• Schools Cleaning Framework: The Hackney Procurement Board agreed to commence a tender exercise for a cleaning services framework for schools and children's centres within Hackney.
• Mosaic Social Care System: The Hackney Procurement Board approved the direct award to Supplier A for the support and hosting services for the Mosaic Social Care system.
• Children and Young People Scrutiny Commission: The Children and Young People Scrutiny Commission discussed budget monitoring for children and education services, the Families First Programme, sexual and reproductive health services for young people, and the Hackney Education Strategy 2025-2028.
• Skills, Economy and Growth Scrutiny Commission: The Skills, Economy and Growth Scrutiny Commission discussed the Hackney Transport Strategy 2026-2036.
• Licensing Sub Committee D: The Licensing Sub Committee D discussed licensing applications for 17B Kingsland Road and Projectx44, 44 Rivington Street.
• Pensions Committee: The Pensions Committee discussed the LGPS in England and Wales: Fit for the Future consultation and Pension Fund Voting Partner Procurement.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Cabinet will meet on Monday 15 December 2025 to discuss various matters. You can read the full report here.
• Licensing Sub Committee E will meet on Wednesday 17 December 2025 to discuss licensing applications. You can read the full report here.