This week in Hackney:

New Venues Seek Licences Amidst Resident Concerns Over Noise and Nuisance

Hackney Council's Licensing Sub Committee E met on Monday, August 3rd, to consider two applications for premises licences. Both applications, one for Community Sauna CIC and another for Arsenal Cafe, were set to be reviewed by the committee, with potential impacts on public safety and nuisance being key considerations.

Community Sauna CIC: A New Venue for Eastway

The committee was to review an application for a new premises licence for Community Sauna CIC, located at 80 Eastway, London, E9 5JH. The applicant proposed a range of conditions for the licence, and representations were expected from various authorities including Environmental Health, the Police, and the Fire Authority. Crucially, local residents were also anticipated to make representations on the grounds of public safety and the prevention of public nuisance.

The officer's report was expected to detail a comprehensive list of conditions, many of which the applicant had already accepted. These conditions cover essential aspects of operating a licensed premises, from alcohol sales to noise control and waste management. The committee faced the decision of either refusing the application or approving it with conditions designed to uphold licensing objectives.

Arsenal Cafe: Licence Application for Blackstock Road

The committee was also set to consider an application for a premises licence for Arsenal Cafe, situated at 25 Blackstock Road, London, N4 2JF. This venue currently does not hold a licence. Similar to the Community Sauna CIC application, representations were anticipated from various authorities, including Environmental Health and the Police, as well as local residents concerned about public safety and nuisance.

The officer's observations were to outline mandatory conditions for alcohol sales and other operational requirements. The applicant had accepted conditions suggested by Environmental Enforcement concerning waste management and noise control. The committee's decision would hinge on whether the proposed conditions adequately addressed potential impacts on the local community.

The meeting agenda also included procedural items such as the election of a Chair and the approval of previous minutes.

Read the full report on the Licensing Sub Committee E meeting

Appointments Committee Gears Up for Key Executive Director Recruitment

The Appointments Committee met on Wednesday, August 5th, to formalise its leadership and establish a sub-committee for a critical recruitment process. The committee confirmed its Chair and Vice Chair for the upcoming municipal year and agreed to form an Appointments Sub Committee tasked with hiring a new Executive Director for Adults Health & Integration.

Leadership Confirmed for Appointments Committee

Councillor Rachel Nkiessu-Guifo, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy, Skills, High Streets and Markets (Dalston), was confirmed as the Chair of the Appointments Committee for the 2026/27 Municipal Year. Mayor Zoë Garbett was appointed as Vice Chair. These appointments had been previously agreed by Full Council. The committee also formally noted its Terms of Reference, as well as those of the newly established Appointments Sub Committee.

New Sub-Committee to Oversee Executive Director Recruitment

A key decision was the establishment of an Appointments Sub Committee. This sub-committee will be responsible for overseeing the recruitment of the Executive Director for Adults Health & Integration. This is a significant role, responsible for a vital area of council service delivery that directly impacts the wellbeing of vulnerable residents. The members appointed to this sub-committee include Councillor Rachel Nkiessu-Guifo, Mayor Zoë Garbett, Councillor Izzy Castello-Cortes, Councillor Florence Schechter, Councillor George Sheldon Grün, and Councillor Robert Chapman.

Read the full report on the Appointments Committee meeting

Appointments Sub Committee Elects Chair and Discusses Executive Director Role

The Appointments Sub Committee also met on Wednesday, August 5th, electing its Chair and discussing the recruitment of a new Executive Director for Adults Health & Integration. A significant portion of the meeting was held in an exempt session, meaning that the public and press were excluded, to discuss sensitive recruitment details.

Chair Elected and Recruitment Report Considered

Councillor Rachel Nkiessu-Guifo was elected as the Chair of the Appointments Sub Committee. The committee then resolved to consider a report detailing the recruitment and selection process for the Executive Director for Adults Health & Integration in an exempt session. This role is crucial for the effective delivery of adult social care, health, and integration services, and its recruitment process requires confidentiality.

The committee also noted the minutes from its previous meeting and confirmed that there were no questions submitted by the public.

Read the full report on the Appointments Sub Committee meeting

This week in Hackney:

Council Reviews International Twinning and Scrutiny Commission Remits

Hackney Council met on Tuesday, July 28th, to discuss significant changes to the borough's international relationships and the structure of its scrutiny commissions. The meeting saw a resolution to review Hackney's twinning policy, with a particular focus on the long-standing civic twinning agreement with Haifa, Israel. Councillors also agreed to rename and adjust the remits of several scrutiny commissions to better reflect their work and the council's priorities.

Hackney's Twinning Relationships Under Review

A key decision made by the Council was to initiate a review of Hackney's twinning policy and its existing relationships. The aim is to ensure these partnerships align with the Council's values. This review will include a formal process to terminate the 1968 civic twinning agreement with the City of Haifa, Israel. This decision was made in principle, subject to further engagement and an equalities impact assessment. The Mayor of Hackney, Mayor Zoe Garbett, was authorised to formally contact the Mayor of Haifa to seek their views on the proposed termination. A cross-party working group will be established to oversee this review, with final decisions to be made at a future Full Council meeting. This move aligns with the current administration's manifesto commitment to ensure international partnerships reflect Hackney's values.

Scrutiny Commission Remits Updated

The Council agreed to proposed name and remit changes for its Scrutiny Panel and Commissions. These adjustments are designed to better align their work programmes with the council's structure and strategic priorities, and to address issues of importance to local communities.

• The Living in Hackney Scrutiny Commission will be renamed the Housing & Homelessness Scrutiny Commission.
• The Health in Hackney Scrutiny Commission will become the Adults, Health & Integration Scrutiny Commission.
• The Skills, Economy & Growth Scrutiny Commission will be renamed the Skills, Place & Economy Scrutiny Commission.

Remit changes were also agreed for the Housing & Homelessness and Skills, Place & Economy Scrutiny Commissions to encompass a broader range of responsibilities, including planning, community safety, and environmental matters.

By-Election Results Noted

The Council formally noted the results of recent by-elections held in June 2026 for the Dalston and Hackney Central wards. Manal Massalha of the Green Party was elected for Dalston, and Noah Birksted-Breen, also of the Green Party, was elected for Hackney Central.

Deputation Received on Gambling Impact Assessments

The Council received a deputation raising concerns about delays in Gambling Impact Assessments (GIAs). The deputation highlighted the increasing number of gambling premises in Hackney and the potential harm they can cause to vulnerable residents. They urged the Council to lobby the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) to expedite relevant legislation and to update Hackney's Gambling Statement. The Council resolved to note the receipt of this deputation.

Council Constitution Amendments Agreed

Proposed name and remit changes to the Council's Scrutiny Panel and Commissions were agreed. The Monitoring Officer was authorised to make any necessary typographical or grammatical corrections and to amend all relevant parts of the Council's Constitution to reflect these changes.

Political Balance Review and Appointments Approved

Following the recent by-elections, the Council noted the revised political proportionality across its Committees, Sub-Committees, Commissions, Panels, and Boards. Consequently, appointments to these bodies were approved for the remainder of the municipal year, ensuring compliance with political balance rules.

Dispensation Granted for Maternity Leave

A dispensation was approved for Councillor Florence Cullen Davies from the statutory requirement to attend Council meetings for a period up to January 27, 2027, to accommodate her maternity leave. This decision ensures Councillor Cullen Davies does not cease to be a member of the Council due to her absence.

Appointments to Outside Bodies Agreed

The Council agreed to appointments, or nominations for appointments, of Councillors to various outside bodies on behalf of the Council. These appointments are for roles that contribute to the Council's strategic functions, partnership working, and knowledge sharing.

Appointment to Children and Young People's Scrutiny Commission

The appointment of Esther Abe as the Parent Governor Representative to the Children and Young People's Scrutiny Commission was agreed. This appointment aligns with legislative requirements for parent governor representation on this commission.

Audit Committee Annual Report Noted

The Council noted the Annual Report of the Audit Committee for the 2025/26 municipal year. The report detailed the Committee's activities in overseeing the Council's governance, internal control, risk management, and financial reporting, highlighting its role in ensuring financial resilience and effective resource management.

Read the full report on the Council meeting

Licensing Sub-Committee A Considers Premises Licence Variations Amidst Resident Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee A met on Thursday, July 30th, to consider applications for variations to premises licences for two venues: Bar A Bar and Circle 13. The hearings highlighted significant concerns from local residents regarding noise and public nuisance, alongside the applicants' arguments for business viability and community integration.

Bar A Bar: Extended Hours Application Faces Strong Opposition

The committee considered an application to vary the premises licence for Bar A Bar, located at 133-135 Stoke Newington Road, London, N16 8BT. The applicant sought to include plays and films, and to extend operating hours for live music, recorded music, performance of dance, late-night refreshment, and alcohol sales. The proposed extended hours were from 12:00 to 02:00 Sunday to Thursday, and 12:00 to 05:00 on Fridays and Saturdays.

Representations from the Metropolitan Police cited concerns about crime and disorder, public safety, and public nuisance. Local residents submitted numerous objections detailing persistent issues with noise, anti-social behaviour, litter, and public urination. The police initially withdrew their representation following negotiations but later reinstated it due to concerns about the premises allegedly operating beyond its current licence hours.

The applicant argued that the extensions were necessary for the venue's financial sustainability and to adapt to the changing nightlife economy. However, residents strongly contested this, providing evidence of ongoing disturbances and a lack of effective management. The committee deliberated on the significant number of resident objections and the police's concerns regarding the management's reliability and adherence to licensing objectives.

Circle 13: Community Venue Seeks Licence with Conditions

The committee also considered an application for a premises licence for Circle 13, located at 369-370 Helmsley Place, London, E8 3SB. The application sought permission for films, live music, recorded music, and the sale of alcohol from 08:00 to midnight Sunday to Wednesday, 08:00 to 01:00 on Thursdays, and 08:00 to 02:00 on Fridays and Saturdays. Late-night refreshment was requested until 02:00 on weekdays and weekends. The concept presented was a community-focused venue centred around pétanque, food, and hospitality, with alcohol sales being ancillary.

Representations from the Environmental Health Authority and the Police Authority were withdrawn after the agreement of a set of conditions. However, 11 local residents submitted objections, primarily concerning public nuisance from noise, particularly from the outdoor courtyard and late-night dispersal. Five representations were in support, highlighting the potential for community engagement and a safer street environment.

Residents expressed concerns about noise from outdoor activities, music, and patrons congregating outside, especially given the proximity to residential buildings. The applicant's representative presented a noise report and detailed operational plans, emphasizing the venue's community focus and proactive engagement. The committee engaged in a detailed discussion regarding the proposed hours, management structure, security arrangements, and the specific concerns raised by residents about noise and dispersal.

Read the full report on the Licensing Sub Committee A meeting

This week in Hackney:

Council Approves Major Investments in Children's Services and Community-Led Property Solutions

Hackney Council's Cabinet met on Monday, July 20th, making decisions that will significantly impact children's services and the future of community assets. The meeting saw the approval of crucial capital investments for schools and children's centres, alongside a commitment to exploring community-led alternatives for council properties, rejecting outright sales.

Urgent Safety and Refurbishment Works for Children's Services

The Cabinet approved significant capital investments totalling £1.1 million for children's services. This includes £1 million for the urgent refurbishment of Woodberry Down Primary School's kitchen and dining facilities. These areas were severely damaged by a sewage flood, and the funding will ensure a permanent, resilient, and cost-effective solution, restoring full operational capacity and eliminating the need for temporary setups.

Additionally, £100,000 was allocated for essential safety groundworks and a replacement canopy at Linden Children's Centre. A structural collapse at the centre posed immediate health and safety risks and impacted the children's environment. These investments are vital for ensuring the wellbeing of children and maintaining essential services.

Community Ownership Prioritised Over Property Disposals

In a move that directly reflects the administration's election manifesto, the Cabinet rejected the proposed disposal of two council properties: 28-32 Ellingfort Road and 77 Brooksby's Walk. This decision was made after considering public engagement and a subsequent review, with the Cabinet committing to a time-limited process to evaluate credible, community-led alternatives. This approach prioritises community ownership and keeping public assets in public hands, demonstrating a commitment to resident-led regeneration.

New Graffiti Removal Policy Adopted

A new Graffiti Removal Policy was approved, aiming to provide clearer definitions and a more consistent approach to managing graffiti and street art across Hackney. The policy distinguishes between graffiti and street art, prioritising the removal of offensive, discriminatory, or hate-based content. It also outlines clear criteria for removal, reporting mechanisms, and responsibilities for private property owners. This policy seeks to balance artistic expression with the need to maintain clean, safe, and inclusive public spaces.

Financial Position and Crisis Support Noted

The Cabinet noted the Council's overall financial position as at May 2026, which indicated a forecast overspend of £5.4 million on the General Fund. The report highlighted cost pressures in children's services, particularly concerning Special Educational Needs (SEND), and the continuing demand for adult social care. The Cabinet also delegated authority to explore funding for the Crisis and Resilience Fund and to reprofile expenditure for poverty reduction initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to supporting vulnerable residents during challenging times.

Britannia Masterplan Update and Other Decisions

An update on the Britannia Masterplan - Phase 2b was received, noting that the project's cost is likely to exceed the current approved budget. Revised estimated funding requirements were approved, and authority was delegated to explore all avenues to mitigate the Council's risk in relation to the disposal of new homes on the site. Quarterly updates will be provided.

The Cabinet also approved the minutes of its previous meeting and noted that the minutes of the Cabinet Procurement and Insourcing Committee would be considered at a future meeting. The Hackney SEND Reform Plan & Post-Inspection Plan was deferred to the September Cabinet meeting. Finally, the Cabinet approved the nomination of Andy Ehiogu as a Local Authority Governor for Benthal Primary School.

Read the full report on the Cabinet meeting

Licensing Sub-Committee D Addresses Noise Concerns and Community Impact

The Licensing Sub-Committee D met on Monday, July 20th, to consider several applications for premises licences and a temporary event notice. The decisions reflect the council's ongoing efforts to balance business needs with the well-being of residents, particularly concerning noise and public nuisance.

Premises Licence for Unit 4, 1 Bouverie Road Granted with Conditions

An application for a premises licence for Unit 4, 1 Bouverie Road, Hackney, was granted with specific conditions. While the applicants, chefs Georgia Laheef and Frank Guest, proposed a small eatery with limited evening hours and a commitment to alcohol only being consumed with meals, local residents raised significant objections. Concerns about public nuisance and safety, particularly regarding noise from the courtyard and increased footfall, were voiced. The committee granted the licence with conditions including a limit of 16 customers in the outside space and specific hours for its use, ensuring that noise is managed effectively.

Playroom at 75 Kingsland High Street Granted Licence with Reduced Hours

The committee considered an application for The Playroom, a basement venue at 75 Kingsland High Street, Hackney. The application sought late hours for recorded music and alcohol sales, exceeding the council's core hours policy for the Dalston Special Consideration Area (SCA). Representations from the Environmental Protection team and local residents highlighted a history of noise complaints and anti-social behaviour. While the applicant offered additional conditions, the committee decided to grant the licence with reduced hours, aligning with the SCA policy and imposing conditions on noise control and dispersal to mitigate impact on the surrounding residential area.

The Good Egg Licence Renewed with Conditions

An application to replace a lapsed premises licence for The Good Egg, a restaurant at 93 Stoke Newington Church Street, Hackney, was granted with conditions. The applicant, Dak Dak Ltd, sought to continue operating as a food-led neighbourhood restaurant with ancillary alcohol sales. A local resident raised concerns about potential noise disturbance due to poor sound insulation. The applicant offered several additional conditions, including maintaining music at background level and implementing a quiet departure policy, which were incorporated into the granted licence.

Temporary Event Notice for Inisa Empire Refused

A temporary event notice (TEN) for the Inisa Empire at 115 East Road, Newington, was refused following an objection from the police. The police objected on the grounds of public nuisance and public safety, citing the premises' residential location and previous noise complaints. The applicant, Seanette Fraser, proposed a one-off birthday celebration and submitted a management plan, but the committee, unable to amend the TEN at the hearing, ultimately refused the notice.

Read the full report on the Licensing Sub Committee D meeting

Scrutiny Panel Reviews Council Budget, Digital Strategy, and AI Use

The Scrutiny Panel met on Tuesday, July 21st, to examine the council's budget, its digital strategy, and the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation. The discussions highlighted significant financial pressures, particularly in children's and adult social care, and outlined the council's approach to adopting new technologies responsibly.

Budget Pressures and Savings Targets

The panel reviewed the council's budget for 2026/27, which stands at £424 million net revenue. Adult social services and children's social care account for over 50% of this budget. Significant cost pressures were identified across directorates, including increased demand and unit costs in children's social care, rising demand and complexity in adult social care, and pressures in benefits administration and environmental services. The council is forecasting an overall General Fund overspend of £5.4 million for 2026/27. Savings proposals totalling £26.6 million are in place, but several, particularly in Children and Education and Finance and Corporate Resources, are rated as 'Red' due to delays and uncertainty. The establishment of a Budget Scrutiny Task and Finish Panel was formally approved to further scrutinise these financial matters.

Digital Strategy and Responsible AI Adoption

The panel discussed Hackney's Digital Strategy 2025-28, which aims to deliver seamless digital services with AI and automation playing a key role. The strategy is guided by principles of being digital-first, people-centred, inclusive, co-created, secure by design, and data-driven. The council has adopted an AI policy that prioritises human-centred, open, fair, safe, and innovative approaches. Crucially, the policy prohibits AI use for sole decision-making in critical areas like employment or social care assessments and for facial recognition or predictive policing. A robust governance framework includes mandatory assessments for data protection, cyber security, and equalities impact, alongside review by the Technical Design Authority and the Data Ethics Board. Concerns about data sovereignty, privacy, and algorithmic bias were addressed, with assurances that data is not hosted outside the UK or EU and that procurement processes include checks on data hosting and algorithm transparency. Pilots are conducted with small groups, and data is kept within Hackney's infrastructure.

Complaints and Member Enquiries Highlight Service Demands

The annual report on complaints and member enquiries revealed a significant increase in Stage 2 complaints (up 45.6%) and member enquiries (up 44.6%). Housing services accounted for a substantial proportion of these. While response times for member enquiries have improved, the rise in volumes presents a challenge for staffing resources. The panel noted the importance of learning from complaints to drive permanent changes in policy and service delivery, with officers committing to follow up with specific examples.

Read the full report on the Scrutiny Panel meeting

Constitution Committee Recommends Changes to Planning Committee Structure

The Constitution Committee met on Tuesday, July 21st, to recommend significant changes to the Planning Committee's terms of reference. These changes, driven by new legislation, aim to streamline planning decisions and align Hackney with national best practices.

Planning Committee Elevated to Standalone Status

The committee agreed to recommend to Full Council the adoption of new Terms of Reference for the Planning Committee. This will see the Planning Sub-Committee elevated to become a committee in its own right, rather than a sub-committee of the Corporate Committee. This move is in response to the Planning and Infrastructure Act 2025, which comes into effect on 31 October 2026. The new legislation introduces reforms focusing on the size and composition of planning committees, the delegation of planning functions to officers, and mandatory training for committee members.

The proposed new Terms of Reference will clarify which planning applications are determined by officers and which are considered by the Planning Committee. A key aspect is the introduction of a National Scheme of Delegation, categorising applications based on their significance. This aims to ensure that decisions are made efficiently while maintaining robust scrutiny for major planning matters. The committee also recommended that the Monitoring Officer be given delegated authority to finalise these terms and any consequential amendments to the Planning Code of Conduct.

Appointments and Committee Review

The committee noted the appointment of Councillor Alastair Binnie-Lubbock as Chair of the Constitution Committee for the Municipal Year 2026/27. Councillor Rolf Dekker was nominated as Vice-Chair, subject to Full Council approval. The committee also reviewed its existing Terms of Reference and noted the minutes of its previous meeting.

Read the full report on the Constitution Committee meeting

Hackney Procurement Board Approves Key Contracts for Transport, Housing, and Utilities

The Hackney Procurement Board met on Wednesday, July 22nd, to approve several significant contract awards that will impact essential services across the borough. These include frameworks for passenger transport, housing support, and corporate utilities.

£24 Million Passenger Transport Framework for Vulnerable Residents

The Board approved the procurement of a Passenger Transport Framework with an estimated maximum value of £24 million over four years. This framework is crucial for providing transport services for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), looked after children, and vulnerable adults, fulfilling statutory duties under the Education Act 1996 and the Care Act 2014. The framework will be open, allowing new providers to join, and will prioritise quality in awarding contracts, with price evaluated at the call-off stage to ensure best value and reliable services.

Floating Housing Support Service Contract Awarded

A contract for a Floating Housing Support Service was approved with a total value of up to £1,932,000 over a maximum of seven years. This service will support residents with long-term mental health conditions, learning disabilities, and autism, as well as young people transitioning from care. The redesigned service specification includes enhanced requirements for supporting neurodiverse individuals and care leavers, aiming to improve outcomes and achieve efficiency savings through a combination of in-house and external provision.

London Accommodation Pathfinder Re-commissioned

The Board approved the contract award for the re-procurement of the London Accommodation Pathfinder (LAP) block contract. This service, led by the London Borough of Camden, provides accommodation and support for boys aged 16 and 17 at risk of entering the youth justice system. Hackney's maximum contribution is capped at £431,000 over five years. This initiative aims to reduce youth custody rates and offers a cost-effective alternative to secure training centres.

Corporate Water Supply Contract Approved

The award of a Corporate Water Supply contract to Supplier A was approved for one year, with an option to extend for a further year, at an estimated total contract value of £1.5 million. This contract will provide water and wastewater retail services across the council's corporate estate. The procurement was conducted via the LASER framework, ensuring a balance of quality, cost-effectiveness, and social value commitments, including support for local schools and careers education.

Read the full report on the Hackney Procurement Board meeting

This week in Hackney:

Noise Complaints Prompt Review of Two Popular Hackney Venues

The Licensing Sub Committee E met on Tuesday, July 14th, to consider two significant applications for the review of premises licences, both stemming from concerns about public nuisance. The venues in question are the popular entertainment hub Boxpark in Bethnal Green Road and Sevente on Hackney Road. These reviews highlight the council's ongoing efforts to balance vibrant nightlife with the right of residents to peace and quiet.

Boxpark Faces Scrutiny Over Noise

The committee was scheduled to examine a review of the premises licence for the four decking areas on the first floor of Boxpark, located at 2-10 Bethnal Green Road, E1 6GY. The review was initiated by a local resident, Joanna Gray, who cited public nuisance as the grounds for her complaint.

The application for review pointed to a shift in Boxpark's operation since 2023, moving from a restaurant-focused model to one heavily featuring amplified music and events. This change, according to the applicant, has led to persistent noise disturbances, particularly low-frequency bass, audible in nearby homes. Boxpark's open structure and construction were noted as factors contributing to sound transmission. Five local residents supported the review, while Boxpark Limited reportedly engaged in noise testing and resident outreach to address concerns. The committee had to consider Hackney's Statement of Licensing Policy, including provisions on cumulative impact, and could have chosen to modify licence conditions, suspend, or even revoke the licence.

Read the full report on the Licensing Sub Committee E meeting

Sevente Licence Under Threat Due to Persistent Noise Nuisance

Also under review was the premises licence for Sevente, located at 283 Hackney Road, E2 7JQ. This review was brought forward by Charlene Thorneycroft on behalf of the Environmental Protection Authority, also citing public nuisance.

Sevente has a documented history of 56 official noise complaints received by Environmental Protection between March 2023 and March 2026. Despite repeated engagement and advice from officers, statutory noise nuisance and complaints persisted. A Noise Abatement Notice was served in September 2024, followed by breaches of this notice and a subsequent prosecution. C&B Hospitality Limited, the licence holder, pleaded guilty and was fined £2,500 in January 2026 for two breaches of the abatement notice. The report indicated that the applicant was seeking the revocation of the premises licence due to the licensee's failure to uphold licence conditions, particularly regarding sound limiters. The officer's recommendation was for revocation, a decision that would significantly impact the venue and its patrons.

Read the full report on the Licensing Sub Committee E meeting

Major Investments Approved for SEND Provision, Heat Networks, and Children's Services

The Cabinet Procurement and Insourcing Committee met on Wednesday, July 15th, approving significant investments that will directly benefit vulnerable children and contribute to Hackney's environmental goals. The committee greenlit refurbishments for a special educational needs school, the development of a low-carbon heat network, and the recommissioning of vital children's therapy services.

New SEND Places at Baden Powell Primary School

The committee approved the appointment of a contractor to refurbish the former Baden Powell Primary School to create 48 new places for secondary-aged pupils with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND). This is a crucial step in addressing the growing demand for SEND provision in Hackney, where approximately 20% of children and young people have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) or receive Special Educational Needs (SEN) Support, exceeding both London and national averages. The project, costing £3.8 million, will also incorporate sustainable technologies, aligning with the council's commitment to environmental sustainability.

Colville Heat Network to Boost Green Energy

A Design, Build, Operate and Maintain (DBOM) contract was approved for the Colville Heat Network, a project valued at an estimated £34.81 million over 15 years. This initiative is vital for transitioning the Colville and Britannia developments away from individual fossil fuel heating systems towards a more efficient, low-carbon heat network. This decision directly supports Hackney's Climate Action Plan and its commitment to reducing carbon emissions, offering a cleaner and more sustainable energy future for residents.

Recommissioning of Children's Therapy Services

The committee also approved the procurement of Integrated Children's Occupational Therapy (ICOT) and Speech and Language Therapy (SaLT) services. These contracts, valued at up to £4.7 million for ICOT and £12.2 million for SaLT, aim to streamline service delivery, reduce duplication, and improve outcomes for children and young people. The preferred approach is joint commissioning with the North East London Integrated Care Board (NEL ICB), ensuring a coordinated and effective approach to children's health and wellbeing.

Family Group Conferencing Brought In-House

In a move to enhance family support, the committee agreed to insource the Family Group Conferencing (FGC) service, creating an in-house Family Led Decision Making (FLDM) Team. This decision, effective from October 1st, 2026, aims to increase family choice and improve the delivery of support packages for families, ensuring better outcomes for children and young people.

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

Libraries Strategy Praised for Community Impact, Work Programme Focuses on Resident Concerns

Hackney's libraries are evolving into vital community hubs, offering more than just books, according to an update presented to the Skills, Economy and Growth Scrutiny Commission on Monday, July 13th. The commission also began shaping its work programme for the upcoming year, identifying key resident concerns such as traffic management and waste services.

Libraries as Thriving Community Hubs

The commission reviewed the Libraries Strategy 2022-2026, highlighting significant achievements in increasing community engagement, staff satisfaction, and the overall impact of libraries as one-stop shops for residents. Despite a temporary dip in footfall due to the closure of Hackney Central Library, overall usage is rising, with digital engagement surging. Libraries are increasingly offering health and wellbeing programmes, digital inclusion support, and acting as a crucial point of contact for council services.

Councillor Siobhan MacMahon inquired about the progress of the Stoke Newington Library refurbishment, which is facing delays due to the building's condition but is expected to provide an updated timeline in the autumn. The commission also discussed the role of libraries as cooling spaces during extreme heat, noting that while Shoreditch Library is no longer designated as such, Hackney Central and Homerton libraries are equipped with cooling systems.

Shaping the Scrutiny Agenda

The commission also began planning its work programme for 2026/27, informed by extensive public feedback. Key areas of concern identified by residents include:

• Traffic Management: Persistent issues with gridlock, longer commutes, and traffic displacement due to Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) and road closures.
• Waste Management: Dissatisfaction with bin collection frequency, litter, and fly-tipping.
• Safety and Antisocial Behaviour: Ongoing concerns about public disorder and drug dealing in specific areas.
• Housing and Development: Worries about the impact of new housing developments on local services and rent inflation.
• Governance and Consultation: A feeling among residents of being excluded from decision-making processes.

Councillor Jasmine O'Connor suggested scrutinising the pressures on the voluntary and community sector and the challenges faced by local businesses. Councillor Izzy Castello-Cortes proposed reviewing the council's communication and consultation processes, particularly concerning LTNs. The commission's remit is set to expand to include community safety and the environment, renamed the Skills, Place & Economy Scrutiny Commission.

Read the full report on the Skills, Economy and Growth Scrutiny Commission meeting