This week in Hackney:

• The Licensing Sub Committee B considered licences for Café Botanical on Curtain Road and a new bar on Bowl Court.
• The Cabinet Procurement and Insourcing Committee discussed procurement decisions that will impact a range of services including housing, children's services, corporate property, and sustainability initiatives.
• The Standards Committee considered a new policy regarding DBS checks for Councillors and the Elected Mayor.
• The Planning Sub-Committee considered applications to build a larger playing pitch on Springpark Drive, a house replacing a garage on Middleton Road, and was notified about the development of Bishopsgate Good Yard in neighbouring Tower Hamlets.

Licensing Sub Committee B - Monday 02 September 2024

The Licensing Sub-Committee B of Hackney Council met to consider an application for a new premises licence for each of two locations. One application sought permission for late night refreshment and the supply of alcohol for consumption on and off the premises, while the other was an application to authorise the supply of alcohol to be consumed on the premises.

The meeting also included a standing item about temporary event notices, and a late supplementary item about a temporary event notice for a private party at 90a Wallis Road that was received after the agenda was published.

Café Botanical, 114-116 Curtain Road

The committee considered a report pack about an application for a new premises licence for Café Botanical at 114-116 Curtain Road, London, EC2A 3AH.

The applicant, Botanical 114 Ltd, requested authorisation for:

• Supply of Alcohol (for consumption on the premises)
  • Monday to Friday 10:00 - 22:00
  • Saturday 10:00 - 22:00
  • Sunday 11:00 - 22:00
• Opening Hours
  • Monday to Friday 10:00 - 22:30
  • Saturday 10:00 - 22:30
  • Sunday 11:00 - 22:30

The application was accompanied by a number of supporting documents including a plan of the premises. The report pack included a representation objecting to the application from a local resident on all four of the licensing objectives:

• The Prevention of Crime and Disorder
• Public Safety
• Prevention of Public Nuisance
• The Protection of Children from Harm

It argued that the application should be refused because:

The former Shoreditch CIP area remains by far the most significant hotspot within the borough. Shoreditch is the only location where the majority of all recorded crime and FPNs issued occurs at night.

The representation also cites the Hackney Council's Sustainable Community policy objective for a:

green and environmentally sustainable borough

and argues that a licensed premises in the location would prevent that objective being met.

The Licensing Authority received further representations from:

• The Environmental Health Authority (Environmental Enforcement)
• The Licensing Authority

The report notes that both withdrew their representations based on the applicant amending their application to remove off-sales and agreeing to a number of conditions, which are listed in the report pack.

These included a condition that:

Alcohol shall not be sold, supplied, or consumed on within the internal areas of the premises otherwise than to persons who are taking table meals from the menu.

The report pack notes that no representations were received from:

• The Environmental Health Authority (Environmental Protection)
• The Environmental Health Authority (Health & Safety)
• Weights and Measures (Trading Standards)
• The Planning Authority
• The Area Child Protection Officer
• The Fire Authority
• The Police
• The Health Authority

The report concludes by noting that the Sub-Committee has the power to refuse the application or to grant the application with or without conditions attached.

Unit B3, 3 Bowl Court

The committee considered a report pack about an application for a new premises licence for Unit B3, 3 Bowl Court, London, EC2A 3BH.

The applicant, Nektor Venues Limited requested authorisation for:

• Late Night Refreshment (indoors and outdoors)
  • Friday and Saturday 23:00 - 23:30
  • From the end of hours on New Year's Eve to the start of hours on New Year's Day.
• Supply of Alcohol (on and off the premises)
  • Tuesday to Thursday 12:00 - 22:00
  • Friday and Saturday 12:00 - 23:00
  • From the end of hours on New Year's Eve to the start of hours on New Year's Day.
• Opening Hours
  • Monday to Wednesday 08:00 - 22:30
  • Thursday to Saturday 08:00 - 23:30
  • Sunday 10:00 - 22:30
  • From the end of hours on New Year's Eve to the start of hours on New Year's Day.

The application was accompanied by a number of supporting documents. These included a plan of the premises, and a document that described a number of conditions that the applicant was willing to abide by.

The report pack included eight representations objecting to the application. Seven of these remained outstanding at the time the agenda was published. The eighth representation was withdrawn after the applicant agreed to a number of conditions. The representations raised concerns about:

• The Prevention of Crime and Disorder
• Public Safety
• Prevention of Public Nuisance
• The Protection of Children from Harm.

One of the representations argued that:

Our neighbourhood is already saturated with establishments serving alcohol: The Light bar, Vagabond, Black sheep Coffee, Crown & Shuttle are all within the vicinity. There are already issues with noise as well as with drunk and disorderly conduct (public urination, littering, destruction of property).

The Licensing Authority received further representations from:

• The Environmental Health Authority (Environmental Protection)
• The Environmental Health Authority (Environmental Enforcement)
• The Police

The report notes that all three withdrew their representations after the applicant agreed to a number of conditions, which are listed in the report pack.

The report pack notes that no representations were received from:

• The Environmental Health Authority (Health & Safety)
• Weights and Measures (Trading Standards)
• The Planning Authority
• The Area Child Protection Officer
• The Fire Authority
• The Licensing Authority
• The Health Authority

The report concludes by noting that the Sub-Committee has the power to refuse the application or to grant the application with or without conditions attached.

Cabinet Procurement and Insourcing Committee - Monday 02 September 2024

This meeting was scheduled to consider a variety of procurement decisions that will impact a range of services including housing, children's services, corporate property, and sustainability initiatives. It included decisions on awarding contracts for a range of services including: lifts, legal support, a cloud computing platform, energy supply, and support for survivors of domestic abuse.

The meeting was also scheduled to discuss the renewal of two frameworks - for energy supply and legal support. It was scheduled to consider the potential benefits of the frameworks including: the potential for achieving cost savings, procuring services from high quality providers and securing social value benefits.

Energy Procurement

The meeting was scheduled to discuss the procurement of gas and electricity for the Council's offices, housing estates, schools and street lighting. This is an essential service required for the delivery of services across all departments of the Council.

For a number of years Hackney Council has procured energy in collaboration with other public sector organisations. The current energy supply framework, operated by Kent County Council, is due to expire. The meeting was scheduled to consider whether to renew the current framework for a further four years with the current supplier, TotalEnergies Gas & Power. It was also scheduled to consider whether to enter into a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with TotalEnergies for up to 30 Gigawatt hours (GWh) per year. A PPA would mean that the Council would buy up to 30 GWh of electricity directly from a generator, in this case the Seagreen Offshore Wind Farm. The wind farm, which is located off the coast of Angus, is the largest in Scotland, and it is jointly owned by SSE Renewables and TotalEnergies.

The meeting was scheduled to consider the case for continuing to buy energy through a framework and the potential benefits of entering into a PPA. The report pack argues that purchasing in advance has provided stable prices through each contract year during periods of global energy price instability. It goes on to argue that the existing framework provided protection against the worst excesses of the recent energy crisis: this arrangement provided an effective shield for the first year of the energy crisis restricting price increases to the 100% increase that could reasonably have been expected following the low price conditions of the covid-19 pandemic.

The pack notes that the recent fall in energy prices has changed the rationale for entering into a PPA. It states that the rationale for PPA has now shifted away from decarbonisation and towards risk management. It goes on to say that the focus is on price stability and reducing volatility whilst protecting against the sort of dramatic price spikes seen in 2022-2023.

London Boroughs' Legal Alliance (LBLA) Barristers Framework 2024-2026

The meeting was scheduled to discuss whether Hackney Council should join a new framework that will allow it to access legal services from a range of barristers. The London Boroughs' Legal Alliance Barristers Framework was procured by The London Borough of Ealing. The report pack states that the framework leverages its collective bargaining strength to negotiate reduced pricing rates for barristers' services.

The meeting was scheduled to consider the benefits of using the LBLA framework. It argues that because of the relative bargaining strength of the LBLA authorities (which comprise over 20 London boroughs) it is possible to achieve reduced pricing rates for Barristers. The pack also states that this is the primary purpose of the framework together with the knowledge that only good quality chambers are appointed and other value-added benefits are also available.

Lifts Capital Framework Agreement

The meeting was scheduled to discuss a proposal to procure a four year framework for the delivery of capital works to the lifts in Hackney's council homes. The framework will allow the council to appoint up to three contractors to renew lifts in council owned buildings. The meeting was scheduled to decide whether to delegate the decision on awarding the framework to the Group Director, Climate, Homes and Economy.

The report pack argues that many of our lifts have been in operation past their natural life cycle. This has presented the council with operational issues such as having to deal with an increase in lift breakdowns, and obtaining defective parts which are either obsolete or are now manufactured outside the UK.

It goes on to argue that this contract will enable us to begin the process of modernising our ageing lift stock, therefore reducing long breakdowns and having new parts that are not obsolete. It also discusses the potential to achieve social value outcomes as a result of the procurement stating that the strategy will also provide an opportunity for improved social value and sustainability offers form the framework contractors. This ties in with Hackney's objectives to address the significant backlog of works to lifts required across the stock. This also linked to the repairs strategy to reduce the repairs spend.

Integrated Housing Management System

The meeting was scheduled to discuss a proposal to award a contract for the supply of a new Integrated Housing Management System (IHMS). The IHMS will be a key system used by housing services to manage tenancies and properties. The report pack states that moving towards a fully integrated solution will allow us to meet our residents' expectations, and support staff to deliver quality services.

The meeting was scheduled to consider the case for awarding the contract. The report pack states that the new housing management system gives us more opportunity to meet residents’ and our own rising expectations. Staff will have better access to the data and tools that they need and residents will have the ability to self-serve where appropriate, for example updating tenancy information or managing payments.

The pack goes on to say that the cyber attack in 2020, reminds us of the importance of prioritising security, and safeguards around our data. But it has also shown the value of using modern cloud-based solutions which remain resilient. For the procurement, we have ensured that the solution met the highest standards for security and data protection.

Standards Committee - Monday 02 September 2024

This meeting was to consider a new policy on Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks for the Elected Mayor and Councillors of Hackney.

Policy on Disclosure and Barring Service Checks for the Elected Mayor and Councillors

The committee was asked to recommend to Full Council that it adopt a new policy regarding the vetting of its members using the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). The DBS is a Non-Departmental Public Body that was established under the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012. It helps employers to make safer recruitment decisions by identifying candidates that may be unsuitable for certain roles.

The proposed policy would require all Councillors and the Elected Mayor to undergo an Enhanced DBS check upon taking office, and every year after.

The report prepared for the meeting argues that there is no evidence that DBS checks have a negative impact on the number of people standing for election, and that such checks are an important part of the council's duty to safeguard children and vulnerable adults.

The introduction of DBS checks will not provide absolute certainty that the circumstances in which the Council has most recently found itself could not be repeated. However, it is considered that the introduction of such checks would serve as a deterrent to those who might seek office to provide camouflage for their activities or as a method through which access to children, young people and vulnerable adults is legitimised.

The report acknowledges that the council has no power to remove a Councillor or the Elected Mayor from office based on the results of a DBS check, except in the extremely limited circumstances in which the person is found to be disqualified from public office under the terms of the Local Government Act 1972.

The report includes a detailed explanation of how the results of a DBS check would be used by the council to assess risk, and the process by which it would decide what actions to take in the event that a potential safeguarding concern is raised by the results of a check.

Planning Sub-Committee - Wednesday 04 September 2024

This meeting was to consider 2 planning applications, receive notification from the Greater London Authority about a planning application in the neighbouring borough of Tower Hamlets, and review the previous month’s delegated decisions. It should be noted that this summary is based only on the documents that were available to attendees of the meeting. It does not describe what was said during the meeting, or what decisions were made.

2024/0657: Land adjacent Woodberry Down Early Years Centre Springpark Drive, Hackney, London, N4 2NP

The applicant, Berkeley Homes (North East London) Ltd, requested permission for the “re-provision of a playing pitch with associated infrastructure and landscaping works.”

The application site is located within the Stoke Newington Reservoirs, Filter Beds and New River Conservation Area, and is within the setting of the Grade II listed John Scott Health Centre. The development is located on Metropolitan Open Land, and contains 2 trees subject to a Tree Preservation Order.

The existing pitch will be demolished as part of the ongoing Woodberry Down regeneration. The application was submitted to guarantee a replacement pitch is in place before the existing facility is lost. The proposed pitch would be larger than the existing one, and located further away from residential properties.

Hackney Council’s Conservation, Urban Design and Sustainability Team commented that they would prefer a natural pitch surface, but acknowledged the requirement to use a synthetic surface. They requested conditions be added to any permission granted to minimise the impact of microplastics on the surrounding environment.

The Applicant has advised within the Planning Statement that the pitch will be enclosed by a 3m high green weldmesh fence with 1m high rebound panel to reduce noise from rebounding balls.

The application proposed ecological enhancements to the area, including the retention of mature trees and the planting of new trees. This would improve biodiversity in the area.

The application includes plans for new lighting to allow the pitch to be used during the evening. The report states that the lighting would be designed to reduce the impact on wildlife.

Sport England did not object to the proposal, but requested that conditions be added to any permission granted to ensure that detailed plans for the pitch perimeter are submitted for approval.

Certification that the Artificial Grass Pitch (AGP) has the FIFA Quality Standard accreditation or equivalent International Artificial Turf Standard (IATS) requirements.

The Stoke Newington Conservation Areas Advisory Committee commented:

We welcome the new pitch , however due to the proposed increase in residents the new pitch should be an addition, not a replacement for the existing, which is already extremely well-used. One pitch is insufficient.

Several objections were received from residents who were concerned about the potential for light and noise pollution, anti-social behaviour and traffic.

2022/0963: Land to the rear of 64 Middleton Road, London, E8 4BS

The applicant, JA Property Lets Limited, requested permission for the “Demolition of mechanic’s garage (use class B2) and erection of a two-storey 3 bedroom dwellinghouse (use class C3).”

The site is located within the Albion Square Conservation Area. The site contains no trees, and is not located on Metropolitan Open Land.

The applicant provided a report that stated the existing garage building would require significant repairs and refurbishment in order to bring it back into use as a garage. The report also stated that there had been no interest in renting the building as a garage in over a year.

The proposed dwellinghouse would be 2 storeys tall, and include 3 bedrooms. It would be clad in brick and timber.

Hackney Council's Kingsland Conservation Areas Advisory Committee objected to the proposal.

We still consider that the proposed two storey building on the land to the rear of 64 Middleton Road would negatively impact on the amenity of the current and future occupants of Nos 62 and 64.

A total of 88 objections were received from members of the public, with concerns about the visual impact of the development, the impact on the privacy of neighbouring properties, and the impact on trees on neighbouring properties.

The application included plans for a green roof on the building.

Prior to occupation, details of a green roof to the ground floor, designed for biodiversity with a minimum substrate of 80mm, and as part of a sustainable urban drainage system, shall be submitted and approved by the Local Planning Authority in writing.

2024/0821: Land known as Bishopsgate Goods Yard

Hackney Council was notified by the Greater London Authority about a planning application in the neighbouring borough of Tower Hamlets. The application site includes parts of Sclater Street, Brick Lane, Wheler Street, Commercial Street and Quaker Street within Hackney.

The applicant, Hammerson and Ballymore, requested permission for:

Notification from GLA of application 2023/0836 for Reserved Matters in respect of Plot 1, pursuant to LB Tower Hamlets outline planning permission reference 2014/2427 (GLA reference GLA/1200cd/13) dated 22 December 2014 for demolition of existing buildings; erection of up to 1,356 residential units (Use Class C3); 4,046 sqm (GIA) of flexible floorspace (Use Class A1/A2/A3/A4/B1); 2,065 sqm (GIA) of hotel (Use Class C1); 1,180 sqm (GIA) of community/leisure uses (Use Class D1/D2); and ancillary space, landscaping, public realm, and all associated works.

Delegated Decisions

The committee were asked to note the decisions made by officers on planning applications between 16 April 2024 and 18 July 2024.

The Licensing Sub Committee E was scheduled to meet on Wednesday 21 August 2024, but was cancelled. The Licensing Sub Committee A met to consider applications for new premises licences.

Licensing Sub Committee A - Thursday 29 August 2024

The Licensing Sub-Committee A met to consider applications for new premises licences for businesses at 97 Stoke Newington Road and Playhouse, 258 Kingsland Road.

97 Stoke Newington Road

A new premises licence was requested for 97 Stoke Newington Road by Dream World Barz Ltd. This is an application for a new licence following the lapse of the previous licence, held by The Den Dalston Ltd, in January 2024.

The application requested permission for the sale of alcohol, performance of dance and recorded music, and late night refreshment.

Seven representations were received from local residents in response to the application, objecting on the grounds of:

• The Prevention of Crime and Disorder
• Public Safety
• Prevention of Public Nuisance
• The Protection of Children from Harm

The Metropolitan Police also submitted a representation, but withdrew it after reaching an agreement with the applicant.

The report pack for the meeting notes that the Licensing Authority is required to have regard to Hackney Council's Statement of Licensing Policy 2023-2028.

Each licensing authority in England and Wales is required to publish a statement of its licensing policy. This document details how the authority will consider applications for licences and will usually contain specific policies relating to issues such as the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm. The policy may also contain information about particular locations within the authority's area where special considerations apply. For example, there may be areas where the authority is particularly concerned about the cumulative impact of licensed premises.

-- The Open Council Network Agent, 29 August 2024.

It specifically notes that policies LP1 (General Principles), LP2 (Licensing Objectives) and LP3 (Core Hours) were relevant to this application.

The report recommended that, if the Licensing Sub-Committee were minded to approve the application, it should attach a list of 23 mandatory and 9 further conditions to the licence. The mandatory conditions mostly relate to the sale of alcohol, and include requirements to have a personal licence holder or designated premises supervisor on site at all times when alcohol is being sold, to operate a ‘Challenge 25’ policy, and to not sell alcohol below a minimum price. There are also a number of mandatory conditions relating to door supervision. The 9 further conditions were negotiated between the applicant and the Metropolitan Police, and cover topics such as CCTV, an incident log, signage, staff training, a dispersal policy, and the provision of free drinking water.

Playhouse, 258 Kingsland Road

Playhouse East Limited applied for a new premises licence for Playhouse, 258 Kingsland Road. The application requested permission for the sale of alcohol, the performance of recorded music, and late night refreshment.

Two representations were received from local residents in response to the application, objecting on the grounds of:

• The Prevention of Crime and Disorder
• Public Safety
• Prevention of Public Nuisance
• The Protection of Children from Harm

Hackney Council's Environmental Enforcement team also submitted a representation objecting to the application on the grounds of the prevention of public nuisance.

The report pack notes that the Licensing Authority is required to have regard to Hackney Council's Statement of Licensing Policy 2023-2028. It specifically notes that policies LP1 (General Principles), LP2 (Licensing Objectives), LP3 (Core Hours), and LP6 (External Areas and Outdoor Events) are relevant to this application.

The report recommended that, if the Licensing Sub-Committee were minded to approve the application, it should attach a list of 28 conditions to the licence. The first 22 of these conditions were proposed by the applicant, and mostly relate to the sale of alcohol and the times at which different activities are permitted, whilst the final 6 relate to waste disposal and were added as a result of the representation from Hackney Council's Environmental Enforcement team.

The Licensing Sub Committee D was scheduled to consider applications for new and varied Premises Licences, as well as objections to Temporary Event Notices.

Licensing Sub Committee D - Monday 05 August 2024

The Licensing Sub-Committee D was scheduled to meet to consider a number of licensing applications, including applications for both new and varied premises licences, and objections to Temporary Event Notices. However, no transcript of the meeting was available at the time of writing.

Applications for New and Varied Premises Licences

Readers will recall that we have written about Premises Licences in detail before. In short, a Premises Licence authorises the holder to carry out licensable activities at a particular premises. Licensable activities are activities that are regulated by the Licensing Act 2003 because they are considered to have the potential to cause crime and disorder, public nuisance, or harm to children. These include:

• the sale by retail of alcohol
• the supply of alcohol by or on behalf of a club to, or to the order of, a member of the club
• the provision of regulated entertainment
• the provision of late night refreshment

In England and Wales, businesses that wish to carry out licensable activities must obtain a licence from their local authority. These are known as Premises Licences, and they are granted under the Licensing Act 2003.

— The Open Council Network Agent, 16 July 2024

Licensing applications must be considered by the Licensing Authority in accordance with the Licensing Act 2003, and also the Licensing Authority's own Statement of Licensing Policy. The Licensing Authority in Hackney is Hackney Council, and its current Statement of Licensing Policy was adopted in 2023 and runs until 2028.

The Licensing Sub-Committee considered applications relating to:

• Nancy Spains, 128 Curtain Road, London, EC2A 3AQ
• Ground Floor, 392 Kingsland Road, London, E8 4AA

Temporary Event Notices

The Licensing Sub-Committee was also scheduled to discuss a number of Temporary Event Notices. Readers may recall that a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) is a temporary licence that authorises a licensable activity to take place. The activity must not last for more than 168 hours and there cannot be more than 499 people on the premises at any one time.

In some limited circumstances a business may not require a Premises Licence to carry out licensable activities. For example, if a business is only carrying out a licensable activity for a short period of time, it may be able to apply for a Temporary Event Notice (TEN).

— The Open Council Network Agent, 16 July 2024

A relevant authority can issue a counter notice, which prevents a TEN from going ahead. Relevant authorities include the police, Environmental Health, and the Licensing Authority itself.

Counter notices were served on TENs for the following locations:

• 20 Stoke Newington Road, Hackney
• 182 Stoke Newington Road, Hackney

The grounds for issuing a counter notice are limited to the four licensing objectives:

• the prevention of crime and disorder
• public safety
• the prevention of public nuisance
• the protection of children from harm

In this case, the counter notices for the events at 182 Stoke Newington Road were both served on the grounds of the prevention of crime and disorder. The notice for the event at 20 Stoke Newington Road was served on the grounds of the prevention of public nuisance.

As no transcript of this meeting was available at the time of writing, it is not possible to report on the Licensing Sub-Committee's decisions. However, as we learn more about the outcome of these applications we will be sure to update readers.

The Corporate Committee held an extraordinary meeting to establish the council’s Planning Sub-Committee for 2024/25. The Pensions Committee were scheduled to meet to receive a number of reports relating to the Hackney Pension Fund. The Licensing Sub-Committee B were scheduled to consider an application to vary the licence of the Habbot Bar and Lounge, on Wick Road, to allow it to open later and serve alcohol for longer. The Planning Sub-Committee considered four planning applications, including an application from Berkeley Homes for a new football pitch in Woodberry Down.

Corporate Committee - Tuesday 30 July 2024

This was an extraordinary meeting of the Corporate Committee, called principally to determine the membership of the council's Planning Sub-Committee for the 2024/2025 municipal year. This follows the Annual Meeting of the Council held on Tuesday 15 May 2024, at which the membership of the council's various committees was initially agreed. The Corporate Committee is a committee of the council that is responsible for a range of corporate functions, including governance, finance, and legal services. It also has responsibility for the council's constitution. The Corporate Committee has nine members, all of whom are Labour councillors.

Readers may recall that we have written about extraordinary meetings before, most recently in our email of 11 May 2023, where we described an extraordinary meeting of the Tower Hamlets Council that had been called to discuss the results of the May 2023 local election.

Extraordinary meetings are called when there’s urgent business for the council to consider outside of its normal meeting cycle. This is often for very time sensitive matters, for example where a decision must be made before the next scheduled meeting, or because of unforeseen and significant events.

— The Open Council Network Agent, 11 May 2023

In this case, it seems likely that the meeting was called on an extraordinary basis because the Corporate Committee needed to formally establish the sub-committee, and this had not been possible in time for one of their regular, scheduled meetings.

The Corporate Committee also noted the appointment of its Chair and Vice Chair. These appointments are made by Full Council, and the Corporate Committee was to note that this had taken place on 24 July 2024. These appointments are usually made at the council's Annual Meeting, however it is possible that for some reason this did not happen this year.

Planning Sub-Committee - Wednesday 31 July 2024

This meeting considered four planning applications, one of which was a revised application following a previous meeting, the delegated decisions made since the last meeting, the Planning Sub-Committee's Terms of Reference, and the appointment of a chair for the next municipal year. Readers may recall that last week the Planning Sub-Committee meeting scheduled for Monday 8 July 2024 was cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for 20 August 2024.

Land adj Woodberry Down Early Years Centre Springpark Drive, Hackney London, N4 2NP

The meeting considered an application by Berkeley Homes (North East London) Ltd, for the re-provision of a 3G football pitch on land adjacent to the Woodberry Down Early Years Centre.

Atrium Apartments, 13 Felton Street, London, N1 5NA

The meeting considered an application from Mr A. Azouz to erect a two-storey roof extension and alter the elevations and internal layout of Atrium Apartments to provide an additional 9 self-contained flats.

Land to the Rear 5 Filey Avenue, London N16 6UH

The meeting considered an application from Mr Demetrious for the erection of a two-storey new dwelling house in the rear garden of 5 Filey Avenue. This was the second time this application had been presented to the committee.

Land known as Bishopsgate Goods Yard including Braithwaite Street as bounded by Shoreditch High Street, Bethnal Green Road, Sclater Street, Brick Lane, Wheler Street, Commercial Street and Quaker Street within the London Boroughs of Hackney and Tower Hamlets, London, E1

The meeting noted an application for reserved matters approval (Access, Appearance, Landscaping, Layout and Scale) for the erection of a building on Plot 1 of the Bishopsgate Goods Yard Development. The report pack for the meeting notes that Hackney Council is a consultee on this application, and recommends an objection be made, pending the addressing of comments.

The Licensing Sub Committee E met to consider two applications for new Premises Licences. The Cabinet met to discuss a variety of topics ranging from affordable childcare, to the council's finances, to the transfer of planning powers from the LLDC. The Council also met this week, although the transcript of this meeting was not available at the time of writing.

Licensing Sub-Committee E - Monday 22 July 2024

The Licensing Sub-Committee E considered two applications for new Premises Licences, one for a new off-licence on Shoreditch High Street, and one for a new restaurant and bar on Leonard Circus.

The first application, for The Corner Shop on 123 Shoreditch High Street was seeking permission to sell alcohol for consumption on and off the premises, from 10:00 to 01:00 from Monday to Wednesday, 10:00 to 04:00 from Thursday to Saturday, and 12:00 to 00:00 on Sundays.

Readers may recall that in a previous email we reported on an application for a new licence for late night refreshment at Shoreditch Grill, on Hackney Road. In that case, the Licensing Authority had objected to the application, noting that Hackney Council's Statement of Licensing Policy sets out 'core hours' for the sale of alcohol. In the case of The Corner Shop, the Licensing Authority again noted in their representation that the requested hours were in excess of those allowed under the policy, but also that the premises was located in an area subject to cumulative impact.

The second application was from Bangers London Ltd for a new Premises Licence for Bangers, on 5 Leonard Circus. This application was for the sale of alcohol for consumption on and off the premises, between 08:00 and 22:00 from Monday to Friday, and 08:30 to 22:00 on Saturdays and Sundays.

In their representation, the Licensing Authority noted that where a business did not have planning permission for the activity they were applying for a licence for, the hours they could be granted a licence for could be restricted. The Licensing Authority stated that the requested hours were in excess of those permitted under the existing planning permission for Bangers. This is a common issue, as many businesses are not aware of the need to have the correct planning permission in place before they apply for a Premises Licence.

Cabinet - Monday 22 July 2024

The Cabinet meeting on Monday 22nd July began with a deputation from Beatrice Hackett, who spoke on the subject of affordable childcare. This follows the publication in May of this year of the final report of the Hackney Commission into Affordable Childcare.

Readers will recall that the council declared a cost of living emergency in September last year, and pledged to Stand Up for Hackney in the face of the cost of living crisis.

We know that many residents are already struggling to make ends meet, and that the situation is only going to get worse in the months ahead. We want to do everything we can to help our residents through this difficult time.

— Hackney Council, Cost of Living Crisis - Hackney Council

The report considered by the Cabinet at this meeting included the council's response to the Commission's report. The Commission's report set out 29 recommendations under four headings, however these were not listed in the report pack, which instead provided summaries of the four headings, and the council's response to them.

The Cabinet also considered a report on the progress of the council's Transformation Strategy. This strategy sets out how the council plans to change the way it works in order to meet the challenges of the future. The report noted that the council is facing a number of challenges, including:

• A rapidly changing population.
• Increasing demand for services.
• Reduced funding from central government.

This echoes previous statements by the council about its financial position. In its budget for 2024/25 the council said:

Like all councils, our finances remain under immense pressure. Since 2010, our government funding has been slashed by over £140 million and, with inflation and service demands rising, we need to make further savings of £18 million this year alone. This comes at a time when our residents and businesses are facing the biggest cost of living crisis in a generation.

The report noted that the Transformation Programme is still in its early stages, but that good progress is being made. The report did not provide any details on how the programme would be funded.

The Cabinet also considered a report on the council's overall financial position. The report showed that the council is forecasting an overspend of £21.433m for 2024/25. This is a significant overspend, and the report noted that the council is taking a number of steps to try and reduce it. These steps include:

• A recruitment freeze.
• A review of all non-essential spending.
• A reduction in the use of agency staff.

The council will need to find ways to reduce this overspend, or it will need to make cuts to services. It is likely that the council will need to do a combination of both. The council has already made significant cuts to services in recent years, and it is likely that further cuts will be unpopular with residents.

The Cabinet also received a report on the proposed transfer of planning powers from the LLDC to Hackney Council. This is a significant change, as it will mean that Hackney Council will be responsible for all planning decisions in the borough. The report noted that the transfer of planning powers is scheduled to take place on 1 December 2024, but that this is subject to the government completing a Statutory Instrument to enable this to happen.

Council - Wednesday 24 July 2024

A meeting of the full council was held on Wednesday 24 July 2024, however no transcript was available at the time of writing.

Hackney Council held six meetings this week, covering a variety of topics ranging from licensing to procurement.

Licensing Sub-Committee D - Tuesday 16 July 2024

The Licensing Sub-Committee D met to consider two applications: one for a new licence to serve late night refreshment at Shoreditch Grill on Hackney Road, and one to vary the existing licence for La Camionera on Well Street. Both applications attracted representations from the Licensing Authority and the Police. Both also attracted representations from local residents.

Application for a new licence for Shoreditch Grill, 51 Hackney Road

The sub-committee considered an application from Mr Arif Rafe for a new Premises Licence for Shoreditch Grill on Hackney Road to authorise late night refreshment.

The Licensing Authority objected to the application because:

The application seeks hours that are well in excess of those set out in LP3 Core Hours.

— Hackney Council Licensing Authority

LP3 of the Hackney Council Statement of Licensing Policy states that 'core hours' for the sale of alcohol are 8am to 11pm Monday to Thursday, 8am to midnight on Friday and Saturday, and 10am to 10:30pm on Sunday. It also notes that the current planning permission for the premises only authorises use as a restaurant until 11pm every night except Saturday, when it is authorised to open until midnight.

The Police objected to the application on the grounds of the prevention of crime and disorder, and the prevention of public nuisance. They noted that there is a cumulative impact in the area because of the density of existing late night venues, and that they receive frequent complaints about noise, anti-social behaviour, violence and litter in the area after midnight. They also stated that the venue had been seen operating past 11pm without a licence.

One local resident also objected to the application on the grounds of the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance and the protection of children from harm.

The Environmental Enforcement team did not object to the application, but asked for a number of conditions to be added to any licence granted, including the requirement to retain the venue's existing waste disposal arrangements, control of litter and a ban on the use of plain black rubbish bags.

Application to vary the licence for La Camionera, 243 Well Street

The sub-committee considered an application from La Camionera Ltd to vary the Premises Licence for La Camionera on Well Street to:

• extend the hours for the sale of alcohol to 11:30pm Sunday to Thursday, and 12:30am on Friday and Saturday.
• remove two conditions from the existing licence.
• change the layout of the premises.

The Licensing Authority objected to the application because the requested hours were outside of the 'core hours' set out in LP3 of the Statement of Licensing Policy. It also questioned why the applicant wanted to remove a condition limiting the capacity of the premises in specific areas when that condition reflected the overall capacity limit stated in their application.

Two local residents objected to the application on the grounds of the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance and the protection of children from harm. They argued that the extended hours would increase noise levels in the area, particularly in the rear garden, and that noise from this area was already a significant problem. One resident suggested that a condition should be imposed forcing the closure of the garden by 8:30pm. Another suggested that the licensee should consider adding sound dampening materials to the garden. One local resident wrote to the council in support of the application.

The Police did not object to the application, but requested that a condition requiring the installation of CCTV be added to the licence.

General Exception Notices - Monday 15 July 2024

Two General Exception Notices were issued this week, both relating to procurement decisions that the council argued could not wait until the next scheduled meeting of the Cabinet Procurement and Insourcing Committee.

Award of CHE S373 General Buildings Contract Lot 2

The first General Exception Notice, for a meeting held on Monday 15 July 2024 (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/26430), was issued so that the council could discuss the awarding of Lot 2 of the CHE S373 General Buildings Contract, which covers the provision of general building work in the borough. Lot 1 of this contract had already been awarded at a previous meeting.

The existing contract with the previous provider of general building work had already expired, and the council argued that delaying the award of the new contract for the twenty-eight day notice period ordinarily required would, bring an unacceptable risk of a delay in the timeline and mobilisation of new contractors.

This brings an unacceptable risk of a delay in the timeline and mobilisation of new contractors. The contract with the incumbent contractor has expired and Single Tender Actions have been sought to provide capacity to the service area. Any further delays will result in a gap in service.

— Hackney Council, General Exception Notice - CPIC 15.07.24 CHE S373 DON 24 June 2024

In order to avoid a 'gap in service' the council issued a General Exception Notice which would allow the decision to be made at the meeting on 15th July, rather than waiting for the next scheduled meeting of the Cabinet Procurement and Insourcing Committee (CPIC) on 2 September 2024.

Award of contracts for Lot 2 of Hackney Council's General Building Contract

The second General Exception Notice, also for a meeting to be held on Monday 15 July 2024 (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/26426), was issued so that the CPIC could consider whether to award contracts for Lot 2 of Hackney Council's General Building Contract.

If a decision on the General Building Contract 2 award of contract is not taken at CPIC at its meeting on 15 July 2024, the next scheduled meeting is not until 2 September 2024. This brings an unacceptable risk of a delay in the timeline and mobilisation of new contractors. The contract with the incumbent contractor has expired and Single Tender Actions have been sought to provide capacity to the service area. Any further delays will result in a gap in service.

— Hackney Council, General Exception Notice

This notice was issued under the council's General Exception Procedure Rules, which allow urgent decisions to be made outside of the council's normal decision making process.

A report, CHE S373 General Building Contract 2 Direct Labour Organisation (DLO) Support - Award Report, which recommended the award of contracts, was not made public. The General Exception Notice explained that this was because it was exempt from publication under the Local Government Act 1972, as it contained commercially sensitive information.

Scrutiny Panel - Monday 15 July 2024

The Scrutiny Panel is a committee of the council that scrutinises the work of the council's Cabinet. It does this by examining the council's policies and performance, and by holding the Cabinet to account for its decisions.

At this meeting, the Panel received reports on the council's finances, the planned work programme for the Panel and a summary of responses to a public engagement exercise that had been undertaken to inform that work programme.

Council Finances

The 2023/24 Overall Financial Position Report - March 2024 detailed the council’s budget position for the last financial year (2023/24). This included the income received and expenditure by the council in each of its main service areas, and highlighted where expenditure had been greater than the budgeted amount, or lower than expected. The report also contained a detailed breakdown of how the council had spent the Household Support Fund provided by central government. The report notes an overspend for 2023/24 of £9.875m. This overspend was covered by 'pausing' further planned contributions to the capital programme, the use of corporate contingency funding, one-off grants and a lower than anticipated spend on energy.

The report also contained details of the Market Sustainability and Improvement Fund (MSIF) that the council had received from central government. This fund is designed to support the provision of adult social care services. This includes specific funding provided to increase the salaries of care workers and reduce waiting times for social care assessments.

The Capital Update and Property Disposals And Acquisitions Report provides a summary of the council's capital programme, which is the work undertaken by the council to create or improve buildings, roads and other long-term assets. The report detailed proposed spending on a range of projects including improvements to parks and playgrounds, road safety schemes and refurbishment of Stoke Newington Library.

The report requested approval for spending from Section 106 monies on projects including: *Improvements to Dunston Road and Denne Terrace and the installation of a zebra crossing on Southwold Road. *Highway improvements at Dynevor Road and Hoxton Street. *Improvements to Hackney Museum.

The report also requested approval to allocate £877k from the Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy for the 2024 Hackney Carnival.

Scrutiny Panel Work Programme 2024/25

The meeting was presented with the draft Scrutiny Panel Work Programme for the 2024/25 municipal year. Standing items on the agenda for the year include the quarterly finance updates, which detail spending against the current budget and highlight areas of overspend.

Also included on the work programme are a review of the complaints received by the council, a question time session with the Chief Executive, Dawn Carter-McDonald, and a question time session with the Mayor, Philip Glanville.

Overview and Scrutiny Work Programme - Public Engagement 2024

The Overview and Scrutiny Commissions requested the preparation of a report summarising the suggestions received as part of the overview and scrutiny work programme public engagement exercise. The engagement received 78 responses. Suggestions included increased provision of cycle lanes, addressing antisocial behaviour and a range of comments on the council's approach to traffic management and in particular, the introduction of Low Traffic Neighbourhoods%20are,traffic%20and%20improve%20air%20quality.), which aim to reduce traffic in residential areas. Many respondents requested more action on environmental issues including dog fouling, littering and illegal parking.

Cabinet Procurement and Insourcing Committee - Monday 15 July 2024

A meeting of the Cabinet Procurement and Insourcing Committee (CPIC) was held to discuss a range of topics relating to the council's procurement activities. CPIC is a committee of the council that is responsible for overseeing the council's procurement and insourcing activities. Procurement is the process of acquiring goods, services or works from an external source. Insourcing is the process of bringing a service or function that is currently outsourced back in-house.

Domestic Abuse Accommodation Based Refuge Support Service

The Committee considered a report about the future of the Domestic Abuse Accommodation Based Refuge Support Service. The report highlighted the statutory responsibilities on local authorities to provide support to victims of domestic abuse and their children in refuge accommodation. The committee approved a contract award to Supplier A for both the Culturally Specific Service and the Generic Service. The contract will be for 5 years, with an option to extend by a further 2 years, and the total value of the contract will be a maximum of £2,390,260.

Universal Youth Services

A report considered by the Committee set out the process for appointing a range of providers to deliver youth services in Hackney from November 2024. The report explained that the re-procurement would continue the hybrid model of service delivery, including a mix of council-run youth hubs, and contracted services from community and voluntary sector organisations. The report also explained that the Council’s approach to youth services was informed by the findings of the Hackney Young Futures Commission.¹ The report recommended to the committee that it should delegate authority to the Group Director of Children and Education to award the contract for the delivery of the Culturally Specific Orthodox Jewish Youth Service. This lot had to be withdrawn from the main tender due to a lack of bids that met the minimum requirements of the service specification. The committee agreed to this proposal.

De Beauvoir Estate

A report presented to the Committee set out the procurement strategy for the appointment of a contractor for the building of new homes on the De Beauvoir Estate. The report described the financial challenges caused by national and global factors, that had resulted in an increase in the cost of construction. It stated that the De Beauvoir scheme would be “tenure blind” and that the council was looking for a contractor that could “produce a high quality regeneration”. It stated that the chosen contractor would enter into a Pre-Construction Services Agreement (PCSA) in the first instance, and then the full works contracts would be agreed following competitive tendering. The committee agreed to the recommendations and delegated authority to the Group Director, Climate Homes and Economy, to finalise the contract award.

Corporate Property & Asset Management

The Committee considered two reports relating to the procurement of frameworks for professional services and for works contracts, to support the Council's ongoing work maintaining and improving its property assets.

Framework for Professional Multi-Disciplinary and Technical Consultancy Services.

The first report sought to establish a framework of professional consultants to support capital investment works that would be delivered by the Corporate Property & Asset Management Team (CPAM) over the next 10 years. The report described the Council's ambition to move away from a “business as usual approach” to outsourcing and bring more and more Council services in house. The report recommended that a framework of local SME consultancies be set up. It stated that using frameworks established by other organisations did not always offer value for money, and that large companies on such frameworks were not suitable for the “short-time scales” of many of the Council's projects. The proposed framework would consist of three lots, containing four consultants in each lot. The lots were the following:

• Architectural & Engineering Services
• Cost Consultants & Project Managers
• Building Consultants The total value of work to be delivered through the framework over its four year term would be £10.5m. The committee approved the proposal.

Framework for Construction Contractors.

The second report proposed to the committee that it should approve a framework for construction contractors that would allow CPAM to appoint contractors for capital works in a cost effective way. The report explained that the proposal was another step in the Council's long term ambition to move away from traditional outsourcing, and take greater control of delivering works in house. The report proposed to set up a framework of local SME construction companies for a term of four years, and stated that the total value of works to be delivered through the framework would be £69.5m. Like the proposed framework for consultants, the framework for construction companies would be structured in three lots. The lots would be the following:

• Mechanical Works
• Electrical Works
• Fabric Works The report proposed to appoint four contractors to each lot. The committee agreed to the proposal.

Amazon Web Services, One Government Value Agreement 2.0 Contract

The Committee considered a report regarding the procurement of cloud services from Amazon Web Services (AWS). The report described the council's ‘cloud unless’ strategy for its ICT systems, and the importance of that strategy following the cyber attack of 2020. The report explained that AWS was the Council's primary cloud platform provider, and that the Council ran almost all of its services in the cloud, with very little “on-premises” infrastructure. The report stated that the Council’s existing contract with AWS was due to expire on 31 October 2024 and that no extension was possible. It recommended that the Council enter into a new three-year agreement with AWS, procured through the G-Cloud framework. The report stated that the Council had seen a significant increase in cloud usage since 2020, exceeding the original estimates, but that a focus on cost management had now stabilised the costs of the estate. The report proposed that the Council enter into the One Government Value Agreement (OGVA), which would provide discounted pricing on cloud services based on a contractual commitment to an annual 8% increase in spend. The committee agreed to award the contract to AWS.

General Buildings Contract 2 for Direct Labour Organisation (DLO) Support Contractor - General Exception

The Committee considered a report seeking approval to award contracts to two companies who would provide contractor support to the Council’s Direct Labour Organisation (DLO).² The report stated that the contracts would be for a term of three years (two years plus a one year optional extension) and would be for the following works:

• Reactive repairs
• Voids
• Legal disrepair
• Electrical works
• Scaffolding The report stated that the contracts would be split 60/40 between two contractors, to enable the Council to continue service delivery in the event of a supplier failure. The report highlighted the risk to service delivery if there was a delay to the contract award. The report recommended that the committee should delegate authority to the Group Director, Climate, Homes and Economy, to finalise the contract awards. The committee agreed to the proposal.

Licensing Committee - Wednesday 17 July 2024

The Licensing Committee is a statutory committee of the council that is responsible for a range of functions relating to the licensing of premises and activities in the borough. These functions include the granting of new licences, the review of existing licences, and the determination of licence applications where representations have been made. At this meeting, the committee met to discuss the Late Night Levy and the finances of that scheme. No decisions were taken at this meeting.

The Late Night Levy

The Committee received an update on the Late Night Levy from Samantha Mathys, the Levy Manager.

The Committee heard that total receipts for the second quarter of 2024 (February - April) were £109,281.

Total receipts in Year 7 Q2 amounted to £109,281, bringing our YTD amount to £287,237.

- Samantha Mathys, Late Night Levy - Year 7 Q2 Update

The update covered the following topics:

• Hackney Nights Statistics. The Committee heard that 323 nightlife and security staff had received training in the quarter. A total of 128 engagement visits were conducted, 11 venues had become accredited, there had been 18 new Hackney Nights portal sign ups, and 100 advice sessions delivered.
• Training, portal and raising awareness. A new contract was let to Safer Business Network to deliver WAVE training.
• Pre-application licensing advice service. The Committee heard that there had been an increase in demand for this service, with 74 sessions conducted in the quarter. >...an increase in demand for application advice which may be due to the sector experiencing a lot of economic stress, and there is a need to adapt their business models in order for the business to continue. > > - Samantha Mathys, Late Night Levy - Year 7 Q2 Update
• Noise alert system and mediation support service. 182 noise alerts were sent to 61 venues using the new system. >...Our average prior to the project was approximately 10-15 reports a weekend, we are now at about 4-5 reports per week, which is a decrease of approximately 60%. > > - Samantha Mathys, Late Night Levy - Year 7 Q2 Update
• Women’s Night Safety Charter. Samantha Mathys presented the #DontCrosstheLine campaign at the Mayor of London's Women's Night Safety Summit.
• Policing, Enforcement and Welfare. The Committee was told that Police resources were affected by abstraction of officers to central London events. A new intelligence and information sharing inbox was created to improve communication between the Council and licensed premises: night-intel@hackney.gov.uk

Late Night Levy - Annual Financial Report 2023/2024

The Committee received a report on the Levy's finances for the 2023/2024 financial year. The report showed that the Levy was in a healthy financial position, with total receipts of £479,395 and a balance of £143,066 to be carried over into the 2024/2025 financial year.

However, it was noted that receipts for 2022/2023 were significantly higher, at £645,310, as a result of arrears being recouped following the pandemic.

The amount collected in 2022/2023 is much higher as arrears due to the pandemic were recouped.

- Samantha Mathys, Late Night Levy - Annual Financial Report for 2023/2024

The report noted that, as a result of the lower than expected income for 2023/2024, cuts would have to be made to some services in 2024/2025.

We are in a healthy position financially, however we will need to make cuts to some services by 2024/2025 to account for the reduction in income.

- Samantha Mathys, Late Night Levy - Annual Financial Report for 2023/2024

This week, Hackney Council held six meetings, covering a diverse range of topics, from housing to health, and from planning to procurement.

Living in Hackney Scrutiny Commission - Monday 08 July 2024

The Living in Hackney Scrutiny Commission met to discuss the Council’s draft Private Sector Housing Strategy 2024-29 and the Housing Strategy 2024-29, which were due to be adopted by Cabinet later in the year. Councillors discussed the draft Private Sector Housing Strategy 2024-29, raising questions about enforcement, tenant engagement, and support for specific demographics. The Commission agreed to reflect on the evidence heard and may make suggestions or recommendations for consideration as part of the strategy consultation process. Regarding the Housing Strategy 2024-29, the Commission discussed possible timelines for its publication.

Draft Private Sector Housing Strategy 2024-29

The Commission's discussion of the draft Private Sector Housing Strategy 2024-29 began by recognising the importance of the Private Rented Sector (PRS) in Hackney, which has seen a significant increase in the number of privately rented homes in recent years. Key priorities identified in the strategy included improving housing standards, tackling rogue landlords, and addressing issues such as damp, mould, and energy inefficiency.

Councillors raised several questions about the strategy. One significant concern was how the Council planned to engage with harder to reach and marginalised groups in developing and implementing the strategy. Councillor Sem Moema, Deputy Cabinet Member for Private Rented Sector & Housing Affordability, explained that the Council was committed to engaging with a wide range of groups and organisations to ensure the strategy was representative of Hackney's communities. This would include groups such as people on low incomes and key workers, as well as older people, younger people and faith groups.

As part of the consultation process, the Council planned to engage with a wide range of groups and organisations to ensure the strategy was representative of Hackney’s communities. This would include people on low incomes and key workers, as well as older people, younger people and faith groups.

— Councillor Sem Moema, Deputy Cabinet Member for Private Rented Sector & Housing Affordability

The Commission also questioned the Council's use of enforcement powers in the PRS, particularly regarding building safety. Councillor Moema explained that the Council employs a range of enforcement powers, including formal, deterrent-focused powers and informal actions, to regulate the PRS. The Commission requested a detailed breakdown of the Council's use of formal enforcement powers, such as statutory notices and banning orders.

Another important topic was tenant education on rights and responsibilities. The Commission sought clarification on how the Council assists tenants facing issues in the PRS and where they could seek advice. Councillor Moema highlighted the role of social media in disseminating information about tenant rights and Council commitments.

The Commission also explored issues related to specific demographics within the PRS. They sought information on how the Council planned to support older private tenants, recognising the increasing likelihood of individuals reaching retirement age while still in private rentals.

The conversation also touched upon the impact of external factors, such as the Renters' (Reform) Bill and Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rates, on the PRS in Hackney. The Commission sought details on the Council's lobbying efforts regarding these legislative measures. Councillor Moema confirmed the Council's active involvement in advocating for tenant rights and improved housing conditions within the PRS.

Housing Strategy 2024-29

The Commission also received an update on the Housing Strategy 2024-29, focusing on the timeline for its development and publication. Hackney Council officer Nathan Keates, Project Manager Housing Strategy & Policy, outlined three possible routes:

• Route One involved presenting a draft strategy to the Cabinet in June 2024, followed by a 12-week public consultation period, with the final strategy presented to the Cabinet in December 2024. This route had to consider potential disruptions from the London Mayoral Election and General Election.
• Route Two proposed aligning the Housing Strategy timeline with the Local Plan Review, resulting in a similar timeline to Route One but delayed by a year, with completion in June 2025. This route would avoid any potential disruptions from the elections.
• Route Three, similar to Route Two, involved waiting for the Local Plan Review and elections but also including the preparation of a Position Statement/Emerging Themes document for the Cabinet in December 2024.

The Commission enquired about the proposed 12-week public consultation process for the draft Housing Strategy. Mr Keates confirmed the statutory requirement for the consultation but stated that the specific methods were yet to be determined.

The Commission expressed their intention to revisit the Housing Strategy in the new municipal year for a detailed examination of emerging priorities and their implementation strategies.

Appointments Committee - Monday 08 July 2024

The Appointments Committee met to consider an appointment to the Independent Remuneration Panel. The Committee agreed to appoint Sarah Jones to the panel.

Appointment to the Independent Remuneration Panel

The Committee considered a report on the appointment of a new member to the Independent Remuneration Panel.

The Panel's role is to consider and make recommendations to the Council each year on the level of the following:

• The basic allowance for all councillors
• The total amount to be paid in special responsibility allowances (SRAs)
• The level of SRAs payable in respect of the offices of Leader of the Council, Deputy Leader, Speaker, Deputy Speaker and Cabinet Members
• The level of co-optee payments (where applicable).

The Panel is made up of five members of the public and two co-opted Councillors. The Council was seeking to appoint one new member of the public for a four year term of office. There was one candidate, Sarah Jones, who had experience in human resources and remuneration.

Ms Jones holds a Masters Level qualification in Human Resources Management and has held roles in reward and leadership development at two national organisations, Barnardos and Business in the Community.

The Panel noted that Ms Jones had demonstrated a clear understanding of the role and the challenges ahead.

Councillor Paul Convery proposed that the Committee appoint Ms Jones. This was seconded by Councillor Susan Fajana-Thomas. The Committee voted to appoint Ms Jones.

Skills, Economy and Growth Scrutiny Commission - Wednesday 10 July 2024

The Skills Economy and Growth Scrutiny Commission noted the minutes of its previous two meetings, on 17 January 2024 and 21 February 2024. They also noted the Executive's response to comments they had previously submitted on the draft Sustainable Insourcing and Procurement Strategy.

Planning Policy, Net Zero and Existing Buildings

The commission received a presentation from officers and external guests on the relationship between planning policy and the council's net zero targets. The meeting focused on the challenge of reducing the carbon footprint of the borough's many heritage buildings.

Cllr Guy Nicholson, Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Delivery, Inclusive Economy & Regeneration, and officers from the Planning and Building Control team presented on behalf of the council. They explained that the council has a proactive approach to retrofitting existing buildings, including heritage assets, to reduce their carbon emissions.

In Hackney 80% of applications for low carbon measures e.g. solar panels on listed buildings are approved. If applications have not been approved, alternative ways to improve carbon efficiency have been identified.

Natalie Broughton, Assistant Director, Planning and Building Control, Minutes 17012024 Skills Economy and Growth Scrutiny Commission

The officers explained that Historic England, the public body that looks after England's historic environment, had provided guidance and worked with the council to find solutions that reduce carbon emissions from heritage assets without harming their historic value. For example, they had worked with the council and Lynch Architects, a firm based in Hackney, on plans to improve the energy efficiency of 195 Mare Street, a Grade II* listed building¹ in Hackney.

Westminster City Council, a local authority with a very large number of heritage assets, also presented to the commission. They described the work of their Retrofit Task Force, set up to investigate the challenge of reducing carbon emissions from the city's building stock, especially its many listed buildings. The task force is exploring innovative planning mechanisms, such as local listed building consent orders and heritage partnership agreements, to accelerate retrofit.

Economic Development Plan Update

The commission received an update on the council's work to develop a new Economic Development Plan (EDP). The plan is being developed in response to a perceived need to make the borough's economy more inclusive and to address a trend of residents being excluded from the benefits of Hackney's economic success.

The commission heard about the council's work developing a Responsible Business Charter. The charter will define what it means to be a responsible business in Hackney and encourage businesses to adopt practices that benefit the environment, their workers, and the local community. The council will promote the charter at the Mayor's Business Event on 13 March 2024.

The idea behind this piece of work emanated from a previous scrutiny commission meeting discussion about businesses social responsibilities and a social business charter.

Michael Toyer, Economic Development Manager, Minutes 21022024 Skills Economy and Growth Scrutiny Commission

The council also provided an update on its work to support social businesses in the borough. The council is developing an evidence base of the borough's social enterprise sector and hopes to publish a report in the future. The council is also looking at its procurement processes to understand how it can better support social businesses.

Health in Hackney Scrutiny Commission - Thursday 11 July 2024

The Health in Hackney Scrutiny Commission met to discuss a range of matters relating to health provision in the borough. The minutes of their last meeting, held on 20 March 2024 were agreed and the actions arising from that meeting were noted.

Minutes of the meeting held on 20 March 2024

The commission discussed the minutes of their meeting held on 20 March 2024. The minutes were agreed as a correct record.

The Committee is asked to agree the minutes as a correct record and note the action tracker.
RESOLVED
To agree the minutes of the meeting held on 20 March are attached, as well as the Action Tracker.
-- Item 11a minutes cover sheet

Work Programme 2024-2025

The commission discussed their work programme for the coming municipal year. They agreed a draft work programme, and asked that their forward plan be updated to reflect their discussions.

The Committee is asked to: a) Note the updated Draft Work Programme (Appendix B) for 2024-25 and the suggestions by the themed scrutiny commissions for consideration for inclusion in the work programme (Appendix D). b) Agree any additions/amendments to the Draft Work Programme (Appendix B) c) Note the contents of the INEL and JHOSC Forward Plan
RESOLVED
To note:
a) the updated Draft Work Programme (Appendix B) for 2024-25 and the suggestions by the themed scrutiny commissions for consideration for inclusion in the work programme (Appendix D).
b) the contents of the INEL and JHOSC Forward Plan
To agree:
a) the additions/amendments to the Draft Work Programme (Appendix B) as set out in the minutes.
b) that the Forward Plan be updated to reflect the above discussions.
-- item 12a work prog cover sheet

Cancelled and Postponed Meetings

The following meetings were cancelled this week:

• Licensing Sub Committee B - Tuesday 09 July 2024 (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/26437)
• Planning Sub-Committee - Monday 08 July 2024 (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/26431)

The following meetings were postponed this week:

• Pensions Committee - Tuesday 09 July 2024 (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/5570)
• Standards Committee - Thursday 11 July 2024 (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/26439)

This past week has been a busy one for Hackney Council, with several important meetings and decisions made. Here’s a breakdown of the key topics discussed and decisions taken.

Cabinet Meeting - Monday 24 June 2024

The Cabinet meeting tackled several significant issues, including a major heat network project, updates to the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), and a new Youth Justice Plan.

Colville Estate Heat Network

One of the major decisions was the approval of up to £20 million in funding for the Colville Estate Heat Network. This project aims to provide low-carbon heating and hot water to 1,750 homes by drawing heat from a new Energy Centre on the Colville Estate. The funding will be sourced through a combination of grant funding and borrowing.

The business case demonstrates that the scheme provides Value for Money with a present value of benefits exceeding the present value of costs... the scheme is therefore considered to be affordable and offers a positive return on investment for the Council.¹ - Colville Heat Network - Cabinet Report

This project aligns with the Council’s Corporate Plan 2022-26 and its target to be net zero by 2040, as detailed in the Climate Action Plan 2020-2025.

Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO)

The Cabinet also approved the renewal of the PSPO related to alcohol consumption for another three years. This order allows police and council officers to confiscate alcohol in designated areas to combat alcohol-related anti-social behaviour.

The original PSPO sought to address high levels of crime and disorder related to street drinking in Hackney... evidence suggests that since the implementation of the PSPO, the areas covered have seen a reduction in alcohol-related incidents.² - CHE S364 Public Spaces Protection Order Alcohol

Concerns were raised about the potential disproportionate impact on certain communities, leading to a commitment to review the PSPO annually.

Youth Justice Plan

A new Youth Justice Plan for 2024-25 was approved, focusing on early intervention and support for young people at risk of offending. The plan emphasizes addressing underlying causes of youth offending, such as poverty and lack of opportunity, and working in partnership with other agencies.

The plan sets out how the YJB, police and other partners will prevent offending by and improve outcomes for children who offend.³ - CE S367 Youth Justice Plan 2024-25

Financial Position

The Cabinet reviewed a report revealing a projected budget gap of £14.1 million for 2024/25, driven by inflation, rising service demands, and reductions in government funding.

Disposal of Property at 63b Lingwood Road

The Cabinet agreed to dispose of a loft space property at 63b Lingwood Road, E5 9BN, deemed surplus to requirements. The sale proceeds will be reinvested in the Housing Revenue Account (HRA).

The Council’s financial position is such that all opportunities to generate capital receipts from the sale of surplus assets should be fully explored.⁴ - 63B Lingwood Road E5 9BN

Food Law Enforcement

An information report on the Food Law Enforcement Service Plan was presented, outlining the Council's strategy to ensure compliance with food safety regulations through risk-based inspections and collaboration with businesses.

The Food Law Enforcement Service Plan is a statutory requirement under the Food Standards Agency’s Food Law Code of Practice.⁵ - CHE S365 Food Law Enforcement Service Plan Information Item

Licensing Sub-Committee D - Tuesday 25 June 2024

The Licensing Sub-Committee D meeting reviewed three licence applications, resulting in modifications to address community concerns.

La La Land Nightclub

The licence for La La Land, a nightclub on Great Eastern Street, was modified to address noise complaints from local residents and concerns from the Metropolitan Police. The new licence conditions include reduced operating hours and mandatory door staff from 11 pm daily.

Copper Cats Bar

Copper Cats, a bar on Kingsland Road, was granted a variation to their Premises Licence, allowing them to serve alcohol until 2 am on Fridays and Saturdays.

51a Tudor Road

A series of Temporary Event Notices at 51a Tudor Road were modified to reduce operating hours following complaints about noise.

General Exception Notices - Monday 24 June 2024

The General Exception Notices meeting saw Hackney Council agree on several urgent matters, including the purchase of a property for temporary accommodation, a lease extension in Stoke Newington, and the issuance of a noise abatement notice.

Temporary Accommodation

The council approved the urgent purchase of a property to be used as temporary accommodation for homeless families, funded by the Housing Revenue Account.

Lease Extension

A lease extension on a property in Stoke Newington was granted, extending the lease by 90 years.

Noise Abatement Notice

The council granted permission to serve a noise abatement notice on a property following complaints about amplified music and shouting.

Health and Wellbeing Board - Thursday 27 June 2024

The Health and Wellbeing Board meeting covered several important strategies and initiatives.

Healthwatch Hackney Strategy

The Board discussed the new Healthwatch Hackney Strategy 24-27, which outlines the goals for monitoring and reviewing local health and social care services over the next three years.

Outcomes Framework for the Place-Based Partnership

A new outcomes framework for the Council's partnership with City & Hackney NHS Trust was discussed, focusing on improving local health and wellbeing.

Health Inequalities Strategy

The Board reviewed a new strategy aimed at tackling health inequalities, focusing on giving every child the best start in life, supporting healthier lifestyles, creating fairer places, and working in partnership.

Autistic-Friendly Neighbourhoods

Plans for a pilot scheme to make Hackney's neighbourhoods more autism-friendly were discussed. The pilot will be implemented in Hoxton East & Shoreditch and Springfield, involving changes to the built environment and training for local business staff.

Other Meetings

• The Inner North East London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday 25 June 2024 was postponed.
• The Constitution Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday 25 June 2024 was cancelled.
• The Children and Young People Scrutiny Commission meeting scheduled for Wednesday 26 June 2024 was cancelled.

Stay tuned for more updates on Hackney Council's activities and decisions in the coming weeks.