This week in Haringey:

Hornsey Arms Licence Under Review Following Noise and Violence Complaints

The Licensing Sub Committee convened to address an application for the review of the premises licence for Hornsey Arms Ltd, formerly known as Hornsey Tavern, located at 26 Hornsey High Street, London, N8. The application, submitted by Craig Bellringer, Noise and Nuisance Officer, cited concerns about crime, disorder, and public nuisance stemming from the establishment. The Licensing Sub Committee was presented with a range of options, including modifying the licence conditions, suspending the licence, or even revoking it entirely.

• Resident Impact: Since September 2022, the Noise and Nuisance team has received 82 reports related to music and noise emanating from the Hornsey Arms, impacting the quality of life for nearby residents.
• Abatement Notice Breached: In January 2024, officers confirmed excessively loud music at a resident's property and issued an abatement notice[^11], which was subsequently breached.
• Police Concerns: The Licensing police team raised concerns about fights and the management's ability to control patrons, with police data showing numerous calls related to violence at the premises.
• Councillor Representation: Councillor Adam Small, Hornsey Ward Councillor, submitted a representation on behalf of concerned residents, stating that the premises had failed to control the conduct of its patrons, attracted individuals who engage in threatening or violent behaviour, and created an unsafe night-time environment.

The report pack included police data which stated that since March 2024 there have been twenty six separate dates police have been called to the premises the majority coming from VERISURE Alarm Company. Out of forty of these calls twenty eight were in relation to violence at the premises. The Police call data suggests that there are no specific days incidents are happening and it is evenly spread across the week, with nearly all calls happening around 00.00 – 03.00 hours.

The report pack stated that approximately nineteen of these have been incidents where members of the travelling community have refused to leave and or started fighting inside the pub, and that a couple of these incidents have resulted in criminal damage.

The report pack also stated that a 16 year old has also been served up to appease him and this was at the hours of 02:55am, where no unaccompanied children are allowed on premises according to its licence conditions.

The report pack stated that over the last twelve months, there has been eleven crime reports generated by police in connection with violent incidents occurring at the premises, and that the premises is presenting as a Police hotspot for Violence against the person, Criminal damage and Public order offences.

The Licensing Sub Committee will now consider the evidence and representations before making a decision on the future of the Hornsey Arms' licence.

Link to meeting

Disrepair Contract Extensions Approved to Tackle Housing Backlog

Councillor Sarah Williams, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning (Deputy Leader), approved the extension of existing contracts with four suppliers to address the backlog of disrepair cases in council housing. The Cabinet Member Signing ensures that essential repairs can continue while the council procures longer-term contracts.

• The Contractors: The contracts with DCK Construction Limited, ICB General Build and Civil Eng Ltd, Foster Property Maintenance Ltd and Milestone South East Ltd will be extended to allow the service to put in place suitable medium to long term contracts, following a procurement exercise expected to be completed by Q4, to prevent service delivery and financial risks associated with failure to complete work at an adequate scale and frequency.
• The Goal: Maintaining continuity of repairs is essential to reduce legal costs associated with disrepair claims and to clear the historic works backlog.
• The Risk: Allowing the contracts to expire without replacement would leave ongoing legal cases without the necessary resources to complete repairs, potentially increasing costs and prolonging the backlog.

The report pack stated that it is essential to maintain continuity of high frequency repairs completions in disrepair cases, as this is the main action by which legal costs are reduced. It also noted that it is a strategic objective of the council to clear the historic works backlog and then maintain pace with newer cases, to achieve a lower cost per case.

The decision was made in a closed session, excluding the press and public, due to the commercially sensitive nature of the information being discussed.

Link to meeting

Other Matters

• A Cabinet Member Signing took place on August 7th, but no further information was provided. Link to meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• A Cabinet Member Signing is scheduled for August 13th. Link to meeting
• The Licensing Sub Committee will meet on August 14th. Link to meeting

This week in Haringey:

Licensing Policy Consultation and Massage Treatment Revisions on the Table

The Licensing Committee met to discuss significant changes to the borough's approach to licensing, including a public consultation on a new draft Licensing Policy and revisions to the licensing of massage and special treatments. The Licensing Committee meeting addressed key issues related to public safety, crime prevention, and business support.

New Licensing Policy Aims for Balance

The committee considered a report recommending a public consultation on the draft Haringey Statement of Licensing Policy 2026-2031. This policy, required by the Licensing Act 2003, aims to balance the control of nuisance and anti-social behaviour with the promotion of a vibrant evening and night-time economy.

• Key Objectives: The draft policy focuses on preventing crime and disorder, ensuring public safety, preventing public nuisance, and protecting children from harm.
• Updated Guidance: The policy incorporates recent changes to Section 182 Guidance¹ for licensing authorities, including updates on alcohol harm data, pavement licensing, and event safety in light of proposed Martyn's Law.
• Public Feedback: A survey revealed that most respondents are happy with the current situation, but some, including Public Health officials, believe there are too many off-licences in the borough.

Streamlining Massage and Special Treatment Licensing

The committee also discussed revisions to the licensing of massage and special treatments, aiming to simplify the process for applicants, update regulations, and support local businesses.

• Risk-Based Approach: The licensing service proposes categorizing activities into 'Class 1/2/3/4', with 'Class 1' activities carrying the highest risk to public safety.
• Practitioner Registration: Individuals performing these treatments will need to register, with minor changes to the requirements.
• Revised Conditions: Proposed standard licence conditions, based on best practices from the London Special Treatment Working Group, include requirements for regulated qualifications, public liability insurance, and temporary guest practitioner amendments.

These changes aim to ensure public safety while making it easier for businesses to operate in the borough.

Planning Sub Committee Reviews Tottenham Hale Station Changes and New Developments

The Planning Sub Committee convened to discuss several planning applications, pre-application briefings, and updates on major proposals. The Planning Sub Committee meeting addressed key issues related to transport infrastructure, industrial development, and housing.

Tottenham Hale Station Upgrade Faces Scrutiny

The committee considered a Section 73 application to modify conditions related to the Tottenham Hale Station upgrade. The proposal involves replacing a new station access point and footbridge from Hale Village with pedestrian and cycle network improvements on Ferry Lane and other works.

• Resident Concerns: Officers consulted 2,700 residents, receiving 46 objections and 5 letters of support.
• TfL Commitment: Transport for London (TfL) remains committed to delivering a link bridge if funding becomes available in the future.
• Councillor Support: Councillor Gordon, Cabinet Member for Placemaking and The Local Economy, attended the committee to support the application.

New Industrial Building Proposed for West Road

The committee discussed a planning application for the demolition of existing buildings at 37-39 West Road N17 0RN and the construction of a new building for industrial uses.

• Flexible Use: The proposed building would accommodate Class B2 general industrial, B8 storage and distribution, and E(g)(iii) light industrial uses.
• Sustainability Measures: The scheme includes sustainability measures delivering a reduction of 111% carbon dioxide emissions on site.

Mixed-Use Development Planned for Bedford Road

The committee discussed a planning application for 13 Bedford Road N22 7AU. The proposal involves demolishing the existing building and constructing a new mixed-use development with commercial space and 12 flats.

• Affordable Housing Contribution: The scheme includes a financial Payment in Lieu (PiL) contribution towards offsite affordable housing.
• Environmental Benefits: The development would achieve an 82% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions and provide Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) of 100%.

Emergency Accommodation Proposed for High Road

The committee received a briefing on a planning application for 312 High Road N15 4BN. The proposal includes refurbishing and extending the existing building to provide 52 units for short-term emergency accommodation.

• Housing Need: Haringey's Housing Strategy Team confirmed the need for this type of accommodation.

Pre-Application Briefing for Timber Yard Redevelopment

The committee received a pre-application briefing for the redevelopment of the Timber Yard, 289-295 High Road, Wood Green, London, N22 8HU. The proposal includes 36 residential units in two blocks.

• Affordable Housing: Affordable housing is not anticipated due to the scheme's viability.

Park View School Temporary Accommodation Extended Due to RAAC Concerns

Councillor Zena Brabazon, Cabinet Member for Children, Schools & Families, approved the extension of the rental period for temporary accommodation at Park View School due to the discovery of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) in the school's teaching block. The Cabinet Member Signing ensures that students can continue learning in a safe environment while permanent remediation is completed.

• RAAC Discovery: RAAC was found in the structural slab of the roof of teaching Block A, leading to the immediate evacuation of the top floor.
• Temporary Solution: Temporary accommodation, including 13 classrooms, a shared office, and toilets, was provided.
• DfE Funding: The Department for Education (DfE) has agreed to reimburse Haringey Council for the costs of the temporary accommodation.
• Permanent Remediation: The DfE has approved funding for the removal and replacement of all RAAC panels, with completion expected in July 2028.

Scrutiny Panel Reviews Anti-Social Behaviour Policy, Neighbourhood Management, and Climate Action

The Climate, Community Safety & Environment Scrutiny Panel met to discuss key policies and initiatives aimed at improving community safety, neighbourhood management, and environmental sustainability. The Climate, Community Safety & Environment Scrutiny Panel meeting addressed the draft Anti-Social Behaviour Policy, the draft Good Neighbourhood Management Policy, and the Climate Change Action Plan update.

Anti-Social Behaviour Policy Aims to Protect Residents

The panel considered the draft Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Policy, which sets out Haringey Council's approach to tackling ASB in public spaces and council-managed homes.

• Definition of ASB: The policy uses the definition in the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, focusing on conduct that causes harassment, alarm, or distress.
• Reporting and Responsibilities: The policy provides information on how to report ASB and outlines the roles and responsibilities of the council, landlords, and residents.
• Safeguarding: The policy includes information on safeguarding children, young people, and vulnerable adults, and commits to not mistaking domestic abuse as ASB.

Good Neighbourhood Management Policy Focuses on Tenant Wellbeing

The panel discussed the draft Good Neighbourhood Management Policy, which applies to all Haringey Council tenants and leaseholders and outlines the council's commitments to managing its housing and estates in cases that do not meet the threshold for ASB intervention.

• Quiet Enjoyment: The policy aims to ensure tenants and leaseholders have quiet enjoyment of their homes and a safe, clean, and secure environment.
• Neighbour Disputes: The policy addresses concerns that do not qualify as ASB, such as general living noise and boundary disputes, and suggests solutions like mediation and practical improvements.

Climate Change Action Plan Update Highlights Progress and Challenges

The panel considered the Climate Change Action Plan update, which sets out how the council will reduce its carbon emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change.

• Key Achievements: The update highlighted achievements such as the installation of solar panels on council buildings, the introduction of electric vehicles, and the creation of new green spaces.
• Challenges: The update identified challenges such as securing funding, engaging with residents and businesses, and adapting to climate change impacts like flooding and heatwaves.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Licensing Sub Committee will meet on August 5th to consider an application for the review of a premises licence for Hornsey Arms Ltd. Link to meeting
• A Cabinet Member Signing will take place on August 7th. Link to meeting
• A Cabinet Member Signing will take place on August 7th to discuss extending existing contracts for disrepair services. Link to meeting
• The Licensing Sub Committee will meet on August 14th. Link to meeting

This week in Haringey:

Council Faces Scrutiny Over Financial Management and Future Budget

Haringey Council's financial stability is under the microscope as the Overview and Scrutiny Committee met to dissect the 2024/25 provisional financial outturn and the draft 2026/27 budget. The Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting highlighted significant overspending, reliance on government support, and tough choices ahead.

• Overspending Crisis: The council overspent by £38 million on services in 2024/25, primarily due to higher-than-expected demand and prices for social care and temporary accommodation. This overspend required £10 million in additional financial support from the government.
• Reinstating Fees for Adult Learning: As part of efforts to balance the budget, the committee considered reinstating fees for the Haringey Learns adult learning service, which have been waived since the COVID-19 pandemic. This could impact access to education for vulnerable residents.
• Council Tax Hike Options: The council is grappling with how to address a significant funding gap. The report pack presented three scenarios for council tax increases: no increase, a 1.99% increase, and a 4.99% increase. Each 1% increase in council tax generates approximately £1.4 million in additional income.

The council's core grant funding from the government is around £143 million less in real terms than it was in 2010/11, putting immense pressure on local services.

External Audit Plan Raises Concerns About Financial Risks

The Audit Committee convened to review the council's financial health and risk management strategies. The Audit Committee meeting focused on the external audit plan, draft statement of accounts, and internal controls.

• Modified Audit Opinion Expected: External auditors KPMG anticipate issuing a modified audit opinion for the 2024/25 financial year due to ongoing issues with opening balances and comparatives from previous years. This signals persistent challenges in the council's financial reporting.
• Significant Risks Identified: The audit plan highlights significant risks related to the valuation of land and buildings, management override of controls, valuation of post-retirement benefit obligations, and fraud risk from expenditure recognition.
• Internal Control Weaknesses: The Annual Internal Audit Report revealed several audits that received limited or no assurance, including financial assessment of clients, governance over delivery of savings, and procurement processes.

These findings underscore the need for stronger financial oversight and risk management to protect public funds.

Latin American Community Recognition and Thames Water Motion Dominate Full Council

The Full Council meeting addressed key issues affecting Haringey residents, including a motion to formally recognize the Latin American community and a motion expressing no confidence in Thames Water. The Full Council meeting also included questions from councillors to cabinet members on various local issues.

• Recognizing the Latin American Community: Councillor Ruth Gordon, Cabinet Member for Placemaking, and Local Economy, proposed a motion to officially recognize the Latin American community in Haringey, which has the third-largest population in London. The motion calls for adding a Latin American category to council monitoring forms and working with London Councils and the GLA to implement a consistent Londonwide approach.
• No Confidence in Thames Water: Councillor Dawn Barnes proposed a motion expressing no confidence in Thames Water, citing its poor performance, environmental breaches, and high bills for residents. The motion calls for the government to put Thames Water into Special Administration and scrap the private ownership model for water companies.
• Council Home Refurbishment Questioned: Councillor George Dunstall, Chair of Pensions Committee, questioned Councillor Sarah Williams, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning (Deputy Leader), regarding the council's £570m investment in refurbishing council homes.

Third Party Technical Audit & Support Contract Approved

Councillor Sarah Williams, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning (Deputy Leader), approved the award of a contract to Bidder A for up to five years, for a value of up to £5,000,000.00, plus inflation. The Cabinet Member Signing was for technical audits and quality assurance of regulatory safety inspections, and to support in-house teams and contractors on repairs, maintenance, design and installation of mechanical and electrical services and safety systems within Haringey's Council Housing stock.

• Supplementing Expertise: The contract would help to supplement and cover peaks in demand due to the varied workload across the year and mitigates the risk of difficulties in recruiting and retaining permanent staff to specialised technical roles.
• Independent Assessment: The award of this contract provides technical assistance, support and flexibility to the in-house managers and technical inspectors and will provide assurance to senior management, Cabinet, Internal Audit and our Regulators that the work we undertake on compliance is being independently assessed, validated and evidenced.
• Section 20 Consultation: The approval would be provisional, subject to the outcome of a Section 20 consultation with leaseholders.

Pension Fund Faces Challenges Amid Government Reforms

The Pensions Committee and Board met to discuss the pension fund's performance and the implications of the government's consultation on the future of local government pension schemes. The Pensions Committee and Board meeting highlighted significant changes and challenges ahead.

• LGPS Consultation Outcome: The government's response to the consultation on the future of the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) includes a new pooling model that would reduce the number of LGPS pools from eight to six. Haringey's fund must proactively review and strengthen its oversight of the London CIV.
• Investment Performance: The Fund's investment portfolio on 31 March 2025 was £1.92 billion, representing a 0.5% decrease over the quarter, which was attributed to poor equity performance.
• McCloud Remedy: The committee agreed that the McCloud remedy should not be reflected in qualifying members' annual benefit statements for 2024/25, and that the McCloud implementation phase be extended to 31 August 2026 for all qualifying members.

Licensing Sub Committee Considers New Premises Applications

The Licensing Sub Committee convened to consider applications for new premises licences, including a boat on the River Lea, a lounge on Seven Sisters Road, and a dessert shop on West Green Road. The Licensing Sub Committee meeting addressed concerns about noise, public safety, and compliance with licensing objectives.

• Post Boat on the River Application: The committee considered an application for a new premises licence for the Post Boat on the River, but faced objections from the Canal & River Trust due to safety concerns and lack of permission for permanent mooring.
• Habesha Lounge Application: The committee considered an application for a new premises licence for Habesha Lounge, subject to conditions to address noise and public nuisance concerns.
• Baby Cakes Application: The committee considered an application for a new premises licence for Baby Cakes, facing objections from the Police, Noise RA, and local residents regarding noise, antisocial behaviour, and littering.

Director of Safeguarding and Social Care Appointment Discussed

The Appointments Panel met to discuss the appointment of a Director of Safeguarding and Social Care. The Appointments Panel meeting was scheduled to consider a proposal to appoint someone to the role on a fixed-term contract, without going through the standard recruitment process. Further information on this matter was discussed in an exempt session, excluding the press and public.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Climate, Community Safety & Environment Scrutiny Panel will meet on July 28th to discuss the draft Anti-Social Behaviour Policy, the Good Neighbourhood Management Policy, and the Climate Change Action Plan update. Link to meeting
• The Licensing Committee will meet on July 28th to discuss a consultation on a draft statement of licensing policy, and revisions to the functions, fees and conditions relating to massage and special treatment licences. Link to meeting
• The Planning Sub Committee will meet on July 29th to discuss planning applications and pre-application briefings. Link to meeting
• A Cabinet Member Signing will take place on July 30th to discuss the extension of a hire contract for temporary accommodation at Park View School. Link to meeting
• The Licensing Sub Committee will meet on August 5th. Link to meeting

This week in Haringey:

School Closures Approved Despite Equality Concerns

Councillor Zena Brabazon, Cabinet Member for Children, Schools & Families, has approved the closure of St Peter in Chains RC Infant School and St Gildas' Junior School, effective August 31, 2025. The Cabinet Member Signing took place on Monday, following a period of statutory representation.

• Falling Rolls: The decision comes amid a steady decline in pupil numbers across Haringey primary schools since 2014, leading to financial pressures. St Peter in Chains and St Gildas' have seen significant drops since 2019, with only 27 pupils on roll as of May 2025.
• Financial Strain: St Peter in Chains Infant school's budget forecast for 2024-25 anticipates a deficit of £121,440. The council stated that it has a duty to ensure children in its schools are able to receive a good education and access the full curriculum, and that a school with a declining roll will be challenged to do this effectively because of inevitable financial pressures from reduced funding.
• Limited Opposition: Only one objection was received during the 28-day representation period.

An Equality Impact Assessment (EqIA) acknowledged potential negative impacts on staff facing redundancy and the disruption caused to children transitioning to new schools. It also noted a disproportionate number of older staff members who could be negatively impacted by the closure. The EqIA stated that impacts on children and staff will be mitigated by ensuring support and assistance where required, and that a dedicated Admissions process will be undertaken to ensure as smooth a transition as possible for impacted pupils.

Alexandra Palace Budget Approved Amid Financial Challenges

The Alexandra Palace and Park Board met on Monday to discuss and approve the Alexandra Park and Palace Charitable Trust (APPCT) budget for 2025/26. The Alexandra Palace and Park Board noted that the APPCT, like many charities operating in the cultural, heritage, and hospitality sectors, is encountering significant challenges, including economic uncertainty, rising operational costs, and increasing pressures within the labour market.

• Sustainable Budget: Achieving a sustainable budget position for the Trust is a key performance indicator (KPI) in the Operational Business Plan, following multiple years of operating at a deficit. Current forecasts indicate that the Charity is on track to meet this target for the 2024/25 financial year.
• Financial Challenges: The report pack identified financial challenges including increases to insurance premiums, increased national insurance contributions, increased estate guarding costs, and general cost inflation.
• Mitigation Strategies: Mitigation strategies to offset these challenges include recognising the restoration levy collected on behalf of the Trust in year rather than in arrears, increasing car park charges, increased fundraising targets, and new leases and tenants.

The Trustee Board have approved increases to car parking charges to take effect on 1 April 2025. The restoration levy is charged on tickets at venues, museums and historic attractions to help fund restoration, maintenance and repairs. At Alexandra Palace, the restoration levy is typically between £1.50 to £2.10 depending on the event.

Selby Urban Village Construction to Proceed After Tendering Approved

The Cabinet has approved the commencement of a tendering process for a main contractor to construct Phase One and Phase Two of the Selby Urban Village (SUV) project. The decision was made at the Cabinet meeting on Tuesday.

• New Homes and Facilities: The SUV project involves the development of 202 new Council homes, a commercial unit, a community building, and improved park and sports facilities on the Selby Centre site and Bull Lane playing fields.
• Phased Approach: Phase One delivers a new community building, changing rooms, improved park and sports pitches. Phase Two delivers 202 new Council homes and a small commercial unit of 112 sqm.
• Football Foundation Grant: The Cabinet also approved receipt of a capital grant from the Football Foundation towards the scheme.

Other Matters

• North London Joint Waste Strategy: The Cabinet approved the draft North London Joint Waste Strategy 2025 - 2040, a collaborative effort between the North London Waste Authority (NLWA) and seven north London boroughs. The 15-year plan aims to shift north London towards a low-waste, circular economy.
• Kerbside and Electric Vehicle Strategies: The Cabinet approved the draft Kerbside Strategy and Electric Vehicle Strategy for public consultation. The Kerbside Strategy aims to transform kerbside spaces into multifunctional areas, while the Electric Vehicle Strategy aims to enhance the Council's electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
• Noel Park Project Budget Increase: The Cabinet approved a variation of the contract with Equans Regeneration Ltd by increasing the Noel Park project budget from £21.46m to £32.2m, an increase of £10.7m. The Noel Park Project involves essential Health & Safety and Decent Homes works to properties within Noel Park.
• London Borough of Culture 2027 Delivery: The Cabinet approved the implementation of a Charitable Company Limited by Guarantee for the delivery of the London Borough of Culture 2027 programme for Haringey.
• Direct Labour Organisation Review: The Cabinet approved an options appraisal on the Direct Labour Organisation (DLO) of Haringey's Repairs & Voids Service and consider alternative delivery model options.
• Street Lighting Contract Extension: The Cabinet approved the extension of the existing Street Lighting Term Maintenance Contract awarded to Marlborough Highways Ltd for the maintenance of the Council's Street lighting assets for a period from 1 October 2025 to 30 June 2027.
• Financial Outturn: The Cabinet noted the provisional revenue and capital outturn for 2024/25, approved capital carry forwards, approved transfers to/from reserves, approved budget transfers, and noted debt write-offs approved by officers.
• Budget and Financial Strategy: The Cabinet noted the Council's current financial position, the agreed pressures for 2026/27, the agreed revenue savings proposals, the risks and uncertainties, and the timetable for the 2026/27 budget process.
• Community Safety Review: The Cabinet considered the recommendations from the Overview and Scrutiny Committee on the One off Scrutiny Review of Community Safety, and agreed the responses to the recommendations.
• Alexandra Palace Vision and Goals: The Alexandra Palace and Park Consultative Committee and the Alexandra Park and Palace Statutory Advisory Committee met on Thursday to discuss the chief executive's vision and goals, and to formalise feedback to the Trustee Board. No transcript or minutes were provided.
• Hornsey Arms Licence Review: The Special Licensing Sub Committee was scheduled to convene to consider an application for the review of a premises licence for Hornsey Arms Ltd, formerly known as Hornsey Tavern. No transcript or minutes were provided.
• Children and Young People's Scrutiny Panel: The Children and Young People's Scrutiny Panel met on Monday to discuss children's social care performance, private fostering, and the panel's work programme. No transcript or minutes were provided.

Upcoming Meetings

• Full Council will meet on July 21st. Link to meeting
• The Audit Committee will meet on July 22nd. Link to meeting
• The Overview and Scrutiny Committee will meet on July 22nd. Link to meeting
• The Appointments Panel will meet on July 22nd. Link to meeting
• A Cabinet Member Signing will take place on July 24th. Link to meeting
• The Pensions Committee and Board will meet on July 24th. Link to meeting
• The Licensing Sub Committee will meet on July 24th. Link to meeting
• The Climate, Community Safety & Environment Scrutiny Panel will meet on July 28th. Link to meeting
• The Licensing Committee will meet on July 28th. Link to meeting
• The Planning Sub Committee will meet on July 29th. Link to meeting