This week in Haringey:

Council Approves Additional £163k for Community Equipment Services Amidst Provider Issues

Haringey Council's Cabinet Member for Health & Social Care, Councillor Tehseen Khan, approved an additional £163,179.94 in expenditure for community equipment services provided by Accora Limited. This decision regularises expenditure that exceeded the original approved maximum of £499,999, bringing the total paid to Accora Limited to £663,178.94.

The increased spending was necessary due to the urgent intervention required after the previous provider, NRS Healthcare, went into receivership in August 2025. Accora Limited stepped in to ensure continuity of essential short-term community equipment services, which are vital for supporting hospital discharges, preventing admissions, and enabling residents to live independently at home. These services facilitate over 36,000 equipment deliveries annually. The higher costs arose from the significant volume of services delivered during this emergency period, with reconciliation of invoices complicated by the multi-borough nature of the situation.

Failing to settle this outstanding payment could have led to legal action, additional costs, and reputational damage for the Council. The decision ensures that sums properly due for services already delivered are settled. The report noted that the additional expenditure was permissible under the Procurement Act 2023 as the circumstances were not reasonably foreseeable and the increase did not exceed 50% of the original contract value. The outstanding liability will be met via the Disabled Facilities Grant.

The meeting also noted information regarding filming at council meetings.

• Key Decision: Approval of additional expenditure for community equipment services.
• Impact: Ensures continued provision of essential equipment for residents needing support at home, preventing potential legal action and reputational damage for the Council.
• Link to Meeting: Cabinet Member Signing, 20 October 2026

Haringey Council Secures £60 Million for New Homes and £10 Million for Bus Infrastructure

Haringey Council's Cabinet met on Tuesday 20 October 2026 and approved the acceptance of significant funding to acquire new homes and improve bus infrastructure across the borough.

£60 Million Boost for Housing Acquisition

The Council will accept capital and revenue funding from the Local Authority Housing Fund (LAHF) to purchase 236 homes. This includes 84 homes under LAHF Round 3, funded by £21,771,000 in capital and £124,575 in revenue, and 152 homes under LAHF Round 4, with £38,448,000 in capital and £259,604 in revenue. Authority has been delegated to the Director of Capital Projects and Property to finalise grant documentation and contracts.

This initiative aims to provide much-needed affordable housing, reduce pressure on the Temporary Accommodation budget, and enable the use of Right to Buy receipts for stock replacement.

£10 Million for Better Bus Services

The Cabinet also approved the acceptance of £10 million in funding from Transport for London (TfL) for the Better Bus Partnership Programme. This investment is set to enhance bus journey times and reliability, making public transport a more attractive option. The programme will particularly benefit young people, older residents, disabled people, and lower-income households who rely heavily on bus services, thereby promoting inclusive growth and reducing transport inequalities. Authority has been delegated to the Director of Built Environment and Highways for project approvals and procurement.

Other Key Decisions:

• Enforcement Agency Services: Contracts were awarded to six suppliers for enforcement agency services to collect Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) related debt. This moves the Council to a competitive model with four active providers and two reserves, with an estimated aggregate contract value of £4 million over two years.
• Residential and Nursing Care Contracts: Two contracts were directly awarded to Ourris Properties Limited and Ourris Residential Homes Limited for 39 block-purchased residential and nursing care beds. These contracts, valued at an estimated £19.67 million, are for culturally specific support for Greek, Cypriot, and Turkish communities, addressing a gap in local provision.
• Out of Hours Emergency Service: A competitive procurement exercise will commence for an Out of Hours (OOH) Emergency Contact Handling Service from June 2027, with a proposed three-year term extendable by two years.
• Selby Urban Village Heat Supply: Contracts for heat supply arrangements at the Selby Urban Village development were approved for 40 years with Energetik, aligning with the development's energy strategy.

• Annual Feedback Report: Cabinet noted the 2025/26 Annual Feedback and Resolutions Report, which outlines complaints, compliments, and service improvements, alongside plans to address ongoing challenges in complaint handling.

• Key Decisions: Acceptance of significant grant funding for housing acquisition and investment in bus infrastructure.

• Impact: These decisions will directly address housing needs, improve transport accessibility, and enhance the quality of care services for vulnerable residents.

• Link to Meeting: Cabinet, 20 October 2026

This week in Haringey:

Council Approves Red Route on High Road, Wood Green, Amidst Parking Concerns

Haringey Council has approved the implementation of a Red Route along a busy stretch of the A105 High Road in Wood Green. The decision, made by Councillor Gio Iozzi, Cabinet Member for Climate Action and Transport, will see restrictions put in place between Turnpike Lane and Bounds Green Road. The aim is to ensure clear access for traffic, public transport, and emergency services by preventing illegal or poor parking practices that currently cause congestion and safety issues.

Red Routes are a traffic management tool designed to reduce congestion and improve bus reliability. While the council states this aligns with sustainable transport objectives, some residents and businesses raised objections during the consultation. Concerns included the perceived minimal traffic benefit, negative community impact, and fears for the accessibility for businesses reliant on deliveries. Businesses, in particular, worried about the availability of loading bays.

The council responded by noting that existing loading bays would not be removed and that options for additional bays would be reviewed. They also emphasised that Red Routes are designed to reduce unsafe stopping through clear rules and consistent enforcement. The implementation is expected to cost £197,000, funded by the Council's Capital Programme and a Transport for London (TfL) bid.

• Key Decision: Approval of a Red Route along A105 High Road, Wood Green.
• Impact: Aims to improve traffic flow and bus reliability, but raises concerns for businesses regarding deliveries and parking.
• Link to Meeting: Cabinet Member Signing, 13 October 2026

Cleopatra Restaurant Licence Under Review Amidst Repeated Breaches

The Licensing Sub Committee met on Tuesday 13 October 2026 to consider a review of the premises licence for Cleopatra Restaurant and Lounge, located at 21 Turnpike Lane, Wood Green. The review was initiated by the council's noise and nuisance and licensing enforcement team due to alleged repeated breaches of operating hours and public nuisance.

Evidence presented detailed multiple complaints received by the noise and nuisance service since October 2024. Officers reported witnessing the premises operating beyond its permitted hours on several occasions, including late-night incidents involving customers consuming alcohol and smoking shisha after authorised hours. The report highlighted a persistent pattern of non-compliance, even after the review application was served.

The premises' representative argued that noise complaints were not always substantiated by council officers and suggested that noise might be generated by neighbouring premises. They also contended that on some occasions, individuals present were staff or guests rather than customers operating under the licence. The manager stated plans to implement sound checkers and enforce strict closing hours.

The subcommittee heard that the council had lost confidence in the management's ability to uphold the licence. The decision on the review, which could range from modifying licence conditions to revoking the licence entirely, will be communicated in writing within five working days.

• Key Issue: Review of a premises licence due to alleged repeated breaches of operating hours and public nuisance.
• Impact: The outcome could lead to significant changes in the operation of Cleopatra Restaurant and Lounge, affecting local amenity and residents' peace.
• Link to Meeting: Licensing Sub Committee, 13 October 2026

Housing Services Face Scrutiny Over Finance, Empty Homes, and Resident Engagement

The Housing, Planning and Development Scrutiny Panel was scheduled to meet on Tuesday 13 October 2026 to examine several critical areas of the council's housing services. The agenda included a review of the council's financial position at the first quarter of the 2026/27 financial year, an overview of empty homes management, and a report from the Resident Advisory Panel on their scrutiny of resident engagement.

The financial update indicated a challenging situation for the council, with a forecast overspend on the General Fund and a deficit projected for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA), partly due to higher-than-budgeted void properties. The panel was also set to discuss the Voids Management Performance and Improvement Programme, highlighting the importance of effectively managing empty homes to reduce rental income loss and utilise housing assets.

Furthermore, the panel was scheduled to receive a report detailing the Resident Advisory Panel's findings on resident engagement. This review examined the practical application of the Tenant and Leaseholder Engagement Strategy and identified a gap between the strategy's aspirations and residents' experiences, with recommendations for improvement. A standing update on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Housing Services was also on the agenda, covering areas such as repairs, void completion times, and tenant satisfaction.

• Key Topics: Financial performance of Housing Services, management of empty homes, and resident engagement strategies.
• Impact: These discussions are crucial for ensuring efficient use of council resources, addressing housing needs, and improving resident satisfaction with housing services.
• Link to Meeting: Housing, Planning and Development Scrutiny Panel, 13 October 2026

Other Matters

Full Council to Consider Youth Voting Rights and Planning Reforms

The Full Council was scheduled to meet on Monday 12 October 2026 to discuss significant policy matters. A key item was a motion to support the Representation of the People Bill 2026, which proposes lowering the voting age to 16 for UK Parliamentary, local, and Police and Crime Commissioner elections. The council was also scheduled to consider proposed constitutional changes to reform planning committees, implementing a national scheme of delegation that would shift the presumption towards officers determining applications, with committees considering cases only by exception.

• Key Topics: Lowering the voting age to 16 and reforms to planning committee procedures.
• Impact: These discussions could influence democratic participation and the process of planning application decisions.
• Link to Meeting: Full Council, 12 October 2026

Cabinet Member Approves Funding for North London Music Hub

Councillor Georgia Twigg, Cabinet Member for Children and Schools, approved the acceptance of £1,702,986 in grant funding from Arts Council England for the North London Music Hub. This funding will enable Haringey Council to continue its role as the Hub Lead Organisation, delivering music education to young people across Haringey, Barnet, Camden, Enfield, and Islington. The decision ensures the continuation of vital music education opportunities and supports the council's cultural strategy.

• Key Decision: Acceptance of grant funding for the North London Music Hub.
• Impact: Secures continued music education opportunities for young people across five boroughs.
• Link to Meeting: Cabinet Member Signing, 16 October 2026

Pensions Committee and Board Scheduled to Review Audit, Risk, and Investments

The Pensions Committee and Board was scheduled to meet on Thursday 15 October 2026. The agenda included updates on the Pension Fund's external audit for the year ending 31 March 2026, a review of the fund's risk register, and an update on investment performance for the quarter ending 30 June 2026. The meeting was also set to cover pension fund administration, a draft annual report, and the fund's training strategy.

• Key Topics: Pension Fund audit, risk management, investment performance, and administration updates.
• Impact: These discussions are crucial for the sound financial management and governance of the Haringey Pension Fund.
• Link to Meeting: Pensions Committee and Board, 15 October 2026

Culture, Community Safety & Environment Scrutiny Panel Scheduled to Meet

The Culture, Community Safety & Environment Scrutiny Panel was scheduled to meet on Tuesday 13 October 2026. The agenda included a review of cycling safety and the panel's work programme.

• Key Topics: Cycling safety and the panel's work programme.
• Impact: Discussions on cycling safety are important for improving active travel and resident well-being.
• Link to Meeting: Culture, Community Safety & Environment Scrutiny Panel, 13 October 2026

This week in Haringey:

Council Approves New Employment Hub Amidst Planning Decisions

The Planning Sub Committee met on Monday 05 October 2026 and granted planning permission for a significant new employment development on Broad Lane, Tottenham. This decision is set to boost local employment opportunities by creating 2,944 sqm of new commercial and employment floorspace. The development, a 3 to 9 storey building, will also include cycle and refuse storage, Blue Badge parking, and landscaping.

The approval was made subject to a Section 106 legal agreement, which will secure various contributions from the developer. These include carbon offset contributions, a Demolition and Construction Logistics and Management Plan, a Business Car-Free Agreement, a Commercial Travel Plan, sustainable and active travel contributions, employment initiatives, and contributions towards street tree planting. These measures aim to ensure the development benefits the local community and environment.

The committee also noted a report on planning applications decided under delegated powers between August and September 2026. While no decisions were made on the applications for Highgate School, North Road, London N6 4AY, pre-application briefings were held. During these briefings, ward Councillor Eva Bell raised concerns on behalf of residents regarding the scale, massing, and design of some proposed elements, fearing they might not strike the right balance with Highgate's historic character. Residents also expressed a recurring concern that their feedback had not materially influenced the final proposals despite extensive consultation. The applicant team presented their proposals, explaining revisions made in response to community consultation.

• Key Decision: Planning permission granted for a new employment development on Broad Lane, Tottenham.
• Impact: This development is expected to create new jobs and contribute to the regeneration of Tottenham Hale.
• Link to Meeting: Planning Sub Committee, 05 October 2026

Community Safety Partnership to Develop New Strategy

The Community Safety Partnership was scheduled to meet on Thursday 08 October 2026 to review its priorities and develop its strategy for 2027-2031. The partnership was set to examine progress in tackling anti-social behaviour, serious violence, hate crime, and violence against women and girls (VAWG).

Updates were expected on initiatives to improve multi-agency working for anti-social behaviour, the development of a new ASB Case Management system, and the Violence and Vulnerability Reduction Action Plan. For hate crime, progress on Haringey's No Place for Hate strategy was to be reviewed, alongside efforts to increase reporting and improve victim support. The VAWG update was to cover progress on tackling violence against women and girls, with a focus on MARAC (Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference) and exploring the circumstances of sex workers through the lens of domestic abuse.

The partnership was also scheduled to review its statutory responsibilities, including updates on Prevent, Reduction of Re-offending, and Substance Misuse. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the development of the Haringey Community Safety Strategy 2027–2031, with a proposed programme for public consultation and community engagement. This included the launch of a Crime and Disorder Survey to ensure the new strategy is informed by residents' experiences and priorities.

• Key Topics: Updates on community safety priorities and the development of the new Community Safety Strategy for 2027-2031.
• Impact: These discussions are crucial for shaping the strategic direction of community safety initiatives and ensuring a safer borough for all residents.
• Link to Meeting: Community Safety Partnership, 08 October 2026

Other Matters

This week in Haringey:

Council Approves New Homes Amidst Land Use Changes

Haringey Council is moving forward with plans to build 37 new homes at Woodridings Court N22. Councillor Tammy Hymas, Cabinet Member for Housing and Co Deputy Leader, approved the appointment of a contractor to undertake the construction. This decision is a significant step in the Council's Housing Delivery Programme, aiming to provide much-needed affordable housing.

The development will transform a disused undercroft car park and podium area, which has been redundant for approximately 30 years and has been subject to anti-social behaviour. The project will also enhance the public realm with landscaped communal gardens, play space, and improved refuse and recycling facilities.

To facilitate the development, the land is being appropriated from housing purposes to planning purposes. This legal step allows the Council to override any third-party rights that might be infringed by the development, with a commitment to compensation where necessary. Following completion, the land will be re-appropriated back to the Housing Revenue Account for housing purposes, ensuring the homes remain council stock.

The project aligns with the Council's Corporate Delivery Plan, contributing to Homes for the future and Responding to the climate emergency by incorporating sustainable technologies like air source heat pumps and solar panels. Planning permission for the development was initially granted in March 2023 for 33 apartments, with a subsequent approval to increase this to 37 homes.

• Key Decision: Approval of a contractor for the construction of 37 new homes at Woodridings Court N22.
• Impact: This will provide much-needed affordable housing, including three wheelchair-accessible homes, and revitalise an underused area.
• Link to Meeting: Cabinet Member Signing, 28 September 2026

Financial Pressures and Gambling Harms on the Agenda for Adults & Health Scrutiny

The Adults & Health Scrutiny Panel met on Thursday 01 October 2026 to examine the council's financial position, its approach to gambling harms, and an update on the Adult Social Care Improvement Plan.

Q1 Finance Update Reveals Significant Overspend

The panel reviewed the council's financial position at the end of the first quarter of the 2026/27 financial year. A concerning report detailed a forecast £21.7 million overspend on day-to-day services. This is partly due to the non-delivery of agreed savings, a concern previously highlighted by the council's external auditors. Pressures within Children's Social Care and temporary accommodation, along with an £8.4 million overspend in the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) for special educational needs, are also contributing factors. The Housing Revenue Account (HRA) is forecasting a £3.478 million deficit, largely due to a higher-than-budgeted number of void properties.

This financial strain could lead to difficult decisions regarding service provision, potentially impacting vulnerable residents who rely on council support.

Tackling Gambling Harms in Haringey

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the council's public health approach to gambling harms. The report highlighted that Haringey ranks fourth in London for the prevalence of gambling harms, with an estimated 7,642 residents affected. A key concern is the high density of gambling premises in the borough, particularly in areas of deprivation.

The council is advocating for changes to the Gambling Act 2005 to gain greater influence over the location and concentration of gambling venues. Their Health in all Policies strategy aims to embed harm reduction across various council functions. Initiatives include resident engagement, youth awareness programmes, and collaboration with the North London Tackling Gambling Harms Coalition.

Adult Social Care Improvement Plan Progress

The panel received an update on the Adult Social Care Improvement Plan, developed after a Requires Improvement rating from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in February 2025. Progress has been reported in reducing waiting lists for assessments and improving services for unpaid carers. The redesign of the Adult Social Care Front Door aims for a more responsive service, and co-production with residents and carers is being strengthened.

While improvements are noted, waiting times for occupational therapy, equipment, and adaptations remain a significant challenge. The council is investing in workforce capacity and strengthening integration with health partners to improve care delivery.

• Key Issues: Significant financial overspend, the public health impact of gambling harms, and progress on improving adult social care services.
• Impact: These issues directly affect the council's ability to deliver essential services, particularly for vulnerable residents, and highlight the need for robust financial management and effective public health strategies.
• Link to Meeting: Adults & Health Scrutiny Panel, 01 October 2026

Children and Young People's Scrutiny Panel Reviews Finances and Youth Justice

The Children and Young People's Scrutiny Panel also met on Thursday 01 October 2026 to discuss the council's financial position, the Haringey Youth Justice Plan, and feedback on the SEND and Alternative Provision Strategy.

Financial Update Highlights Pressures in Children's Services

The panel reviewed the council's financial performance for the first quarter of 2026/27. The report indicated a challenging financial situation, with a projected overspend of £374.8m against a budget of £353.02m. A significant factor is the failure to achieve planned savings. The Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) faces an £8.4 million overspend, primarily due to increased demand for children with special educational needs. The Housing Revenue Account (HRA) is also forecasting an overspend of £3.478 million, largely due to increased spending on temporary accommodation. These financial pressures could impact the resources available for children's services.

Youth Justice Plan Shows Progress and Persistent Challenges

The second annual review of the Haringey Youth Justice Plan (2024-2027) was presented. The report detailed a decrease in the proportion of Black children in the offending population and a reduction in serious youth violence. However, there was a rise in the risk of safety and wellbeing concerns among the caseload. Key priorities for the plan include a child-first approach, restorative justice, and addressing disproportionality.

SEND and Alternative Provision Strategy Consultation Feedback

The panel was informed of the outcomes of the public consultation on the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and Alternative Provision (AP) Strategy for 2026-2029. The strategy prioritises early intervention and local provision, with strong support from stakeholders. Feedback highlighted the importance of inclusion, leading to the strategy being strengthened with an explicit principle on inclusion and a commitment to developing an Inclusion Charter. Concerns regarding training, access to information, and therapy waiting times are being addressed.

• Key Issues: Financial pressures impacting children's services, progress and challenges in the Youth Justice Plan, and consultation feedback on SEND and Alternative Provision.
• Impact: These discussions are crucial for ensuring adequate resources for children's services, improving outcomes for young people involved in the justice system, and enhancing support for children with SEND.
• Link to Meeting: Children and Young People's Scrutiny Panel, 01 October 2026

Other Matters

Planning Sub Committee to Consider Major Development Proposals

The Planning Sub Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday 05 October 2026. Key items include a major application for a new employment building at the former car wash site on Broad Lane, London N15 4DE, which aims to create new jobs and contribute to the regeneration of Tottenham Hale. The committee will also receive a pre-application briefing on proposals for Highgate School, North Road, London N6 4AY, addressing concerns about scale, massing, and heritage impact. An update on other major proposals in the pipeline will also be provided.

• Key Topics: Major planning applications for employment and educational facilities, and updates on significant development projects.
• Impact: These decisions will shape the borough's economic landscape and built environment, influencing job creation and community facilities.
• Link to Meeting: Planning Sub Committee, 05 October 2026

Community Safety Partnership to Focus on Strategy Development

The Community Safety Partnership is set to meet on Thursday 08 October 2026. The agenda includes quarterly updates on priorities such as Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB), Serious Violence, Hate Crime, and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG). A significant focus will be on the development of the Haringey Community Safety Strategy for 2027-2031, with a public consultation underway. Updates on statutory responsibilities, including Integrated Offender Management and the Prevent agenda, will also be discussed.

• Key Topics: Community safety priorities, statutory responsibilities, and the development of the new Community Safety Strategy.
• Impact: These discussions are vital for ensuring a safer borough for all residents and for shaping the strategic direction of community safety initiatives.
• Link to Meeting: Community Safety Partnership, 08 October 2026