This week in Kingston upon Hull:

Protecting Vulnerable Children: Council Faces Scrutiny on Children's Homes and Care Leaver Support

The well-being of Hull's most vulnerable children was a central focus this week, with the Corporate Parenting Panel meeting on Wednesday 23 September 2026 to address critical issues surrounding children's homes inspections and the support provided to care leavers. The discussions highlighted both areas of progress and significant challenges that require urgent attention.

Children's Homes: Inadequate Standards and Unregulated Provision

A stark report on Ofsted inspections of Hull City Council's children's homes revealed that Wansbeck Road was judged as inadequate in key areas, including the overall experiences and progress of children, and how well they are helped and protected. A compliance notice regarding the protection of children remains in place. The panel also heard that during the period of June to August 2026, four unregulated children's homes were overseen, with two having closed and two remaining open. This raises serious concerns about the safety and quality of care provided to children in these settings, particularly for those who are already in a vulnerable position.

Care Leavers: Gaps in Education, Employment, and Training

The panel also grappled with the performance of services for care leavers, with a significant proportion of young people aged 17 to 21 recorded as not in education, employment, or training (NEET). For those aged 22 to 25, the NEET figure remained high at over 50%. Feedback from care leavers indicated concerns about the sufficiency of opportunities generated through the council's Family Business approach. A pilot scheme for financial support for apprenticeships had not yet seen any beneficiaries due to eligibility criteria and delays. These figures underscore the critical need for improved pathways and support to ensure care-experienced young people can build stable and fulfilling futures.

Campaigning for Change: Corporate Parenting Week and Care Leavers Month

In a positive move, the panel was asked to approve a proposal for a whole-council Corporate Parenting Week and Care Leavers Month campaign. Themed 'Trust Matters: Building Trust. Keeping Promises. Creating Opportunities', this initiative aims to raise awareness of the Corporate Parenting Strategy and Local Offers, amplify the voices of children in care and care leavers, and promote fostering and Independent Visitor recruitment. The campaign also seeks to encourage directorate pledges and practical actions to increase employment, apprenticeship, and work experience opportunities for care-experienced young people.

The panel also received updates on the work of Young Voices in Care (YVIC), the Care Leavers Forums, and the support provided by Room 42, a key engagement and participation hub for care leavers.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Corporate Parenting Panel meeting.

Hull's Green Future: Energy Plans and Transport Priorities Under Review

The Economy and Environment Overview and Scrutiny Commission met on Thursday 24 September 2026 to discuss crucial plans for Hull's environmental future, including the Local Area Energy Plan and priorities for transport and infrastructure.

Local Area Energy Plan: Charting a Course to Net-Zero

The commission undertook pre-decision scrutiny of the final Hull and East Riding Local Area Energy Plan (HERLAEP). This comprehensive plan outlines how the energy system must adapt to meet net-zero targets, projecting the needs for electric vehicles, low and zero-carbon heating, and renewable energy generation. Developed by City Science for Hull City Council and East Riding of Yorkshire Council, the HERLAEP identifies fourteen action areas and eleven priority projects. This plan is vital for ensuring Hull is well-positioned to address climate change and secure a sustainable energy future for its residents.

Transport and Infrastructure: Improving Connectivity and Safety

Councillor Ieronimo, Portfolio Holder for Transportation and Highways, outlined his priorities for the year ahead. These include protecting and improving Hull's highway and transport assets, such as road resurfacing and bridge refurbishments, and enhancing safety and traffic flow through programmes like the Kingswood Roundabout improvement. Plans to improve travel choice and regional connectivity through the Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan were also discussed. These initiatives are key to ensuring residents can move around the city safely and efficiently.

The commission also received an update on major projects and infrastructure, including the successful reopening of the Hull Maritime Museum, which has seen significant visitor numbers, and progress on the relocation of the Arctic Corsair.

You can read the full details of these discussions in the Economy and Environment Overview and Scrutiny Commission meeting.

Tackling Violence and Ensuring Food Safety: Community Concerns Addressed

The Communities and Neighbourhoods Overview and Scrutiny Commission met on Thursday 24 September 2026 to discuss the council's response to violence against women and girls (VAWG) and the Food Service Plan for 2026-27.

Violence Against Women and Girls: A Partnership Approach

The commission received an update on Hull's partnership response to VAWG, highlighting national and local strategic alignment, prevention efforts, and support for victims and survivors. Hull City Council's reaccreditation by White Ribbon UK and initiatives to improve perceptions of safety in parks and public spaces were noted. The partnership's approach aims to focus on prevention, safeguarding, accountability for perpetrators, and long-term cultural change. Challenges such as data gaps and under-reporting were acknowledged, with proposed mitigations. This work is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents.

Food Service Plan: Safeguarding Public Health

The commission considered the Food Service Plan for 2026-27, which outlines the service's scope, resources, and planned interventions to ensure food safety. The plan addresses challenges such as high business turnover and a substantial number of new businesses. Priorities for 2026-27 include protecting high-risk work, recovering inspection programmes, and maintaining officer competence. This plan is essential for protecting public health and ensuring that food businesses in Hull operate to the highest standards.

The commission also received an update from the Executive Director for Housing and Communities and reviewed its work programme.

You can find more information about these discussions in the Communities and Neighbourhoods Overview and Scrutiny Commission meeting.

Other Matters

Recruitment for Key Digital Role

The Appointments Committee met on Wednesday 23 September 2026. A key item on the agenda was a proposal for the recruitment of an Assistant Director Digital & ICT. This role is vital for overseeing the council's digital and information and communication technology services. The discussion regarding this recruitment proposal was listed as an exempt item, meaning the press and public may have been excluded from this part of the meeting.

You can find more details about this meeting in the Appointments Committee meeting.

Corporate Policies and Strategies Under Review

The Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee met on Friday 25 September 2026. The committee reviewed corporate policies and strategies, considered its work programme, and addressed outstanding actions. An update was also received from the Executive Director of Corporate Resources on service, policy, or strategy developments. This scrutiny process is fundamental to ensuring the council's operations are effective and aligned with its strategic objectives.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee meeting.

This week in Kingston upon Hull:

Housing Crisis Deepens: Council Tackles Fleecehold Charges and Awaab's Law

The council is facing increasing pressure to address the growing housing crisis, with a particular focus on the affordability and quality of homes for residents. The Housing Overview and Scrutiny Commission met on Wednesday 16 September 2026 to discuss critical issues including the rising problem of private estate management charges, often dubbed fleecehold charges, and the vital implementation of Awaab's Law.

The Fleecehold Nightmare: Residents Face Uncontrollable Charges

Many residents are struggling with escalating charges for the upkeep of communal areas on private housing estates. These charges, levied by private management companies, can be difficult to challenge and lack transparency, leaving homeowners and renters feeling trapped and financially burdened. The Commission was briefed on the current landscape of these arrangements, with a report highlighting that substantive changes to the council's ability to intervene are dependent on national legislative reform. The upcoming Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Bill is expected to bring some much-needed changes, but for now, residents continue to face these unpredictable costs.

Awaab's Law: Ensuring Safe and Healthy Homes

In response to the tragic death of Awaab Ishak, Awaab's Law has been introduced to mandate landlords to address hazards, damp, and mould within strict timeframes. The Housing Overview and Scrutiny Commission received an update on how Hull City Council is implementing this crucial legislation. The council has taken steps to improve response times, establish a dedicated Awaab's team, and provide staff training. However, the report acknowledged the challenges posed by shortened response times and the sheer volume of repairs needed, particularly as Phase 2 of Awaab's Law, which extends to more hazards, is on the horizon. This means continued vigilance is needed to ensure all residents have access to safe and healthy living environments.

The Commission also discussed the progress and impact of implementing a 5-day urgent repair category and a 60-day planned repair system, aiming to improve tenant experience and resource allocation. Furthermore, a proposed one-year extension to a contract with CLC Contractors Limited, valued at £3,500,000, was put forward to ensure the continued delivery of essential property maintenance and improvement works, especially in light of increased demand and regulatory changes.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Housing Overview and Scrutiny Commission meeting.

Hull's Cultural Heartbeat: Investing in Music and Heritage

The Leisure and Culture Overview and Scrutiny Commission met on Wednesday 16 September 2026 to discuss vital investments in the city's cultural infrastructure and future. Key discussions revolved around the refurbishment of the Albemarle Music Centre and the ongoing progress of Hull's ambitious Music Plan.

Albemarle Music Centre: A £1.4 Million Boost for Music Education

A significant investment of approximately £1.4 million is planned for the refurbishment of the Albemarle Music Centre, the home of the Hull Music Service. The building, described as a flagship cultural asset and the physical embodiment of Hull's Music Hub, requires urgent works including a new roof, rendering, and updated heating and ventilation systems. These improvements are crucial not only for health and safety but also to ensure the centre can continue to foster music education and contribute to Hull's ambition of becoming a UNESCO Creative City of Music.

Hull's Music Plan: A Symphony of Progress

The Commission received an update on the Hull Music Plan, a strategic initiative aiming to position Hull as a global leader in music creation and experience. The plan, developed through extensive consultation, focuses on inclusion, local stories, music infrastructure, and strong relationships. Progress highlighted includes efforts towards the UNESCO Creative City of Music application, the development of digital platforms, and Hull's inclusion in the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities. The launch of the New City Youth Choir and support for various music events underscore the city's commitment to its vibrant music scene.

The Commission also reviewed performance reporting for Culture, Place and City Centre, examining metrics such as tourism value, cultural participation, and library visits. An update on Hull Culture and Leisure (HCAL) performance indicators was also provided, covering financial sustainability, participation rates, and customer satisfaction across its diverse service areas.

More information can be found in the Leisure and Culture Overview and Scrutiny Commission meeting.

Debating Hull's Future: HMOs, Buses, and Local Democracy

The Full Council convened on Thursday 17 September 2026 for a packed agenda that included crucial debates on Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), the future of bus services, and the protection of local democracy in planning decisions.

Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs): Balancing Needs and Neighbourhoods

Two motions brought before the council highlighted growing concerns about Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). Councillor McMurray's motion raised issues of waste disposal, parking, and anti-social behaviour associated with HMOs, particularly noting concerns about their suitability for individuals with complex needs. The motion called for stronger government powers to regulate HMOs and a report on their impact in Hull. Councillor D. Graham's motion focused on the existing 50% threshold for HMOs in certain streets and the limited scope of Article 4 Directions, proposing a lower threshold and wider Article 4 controls. These discussions reflect a complex challenge for the council: ensuring adequate housing while mitigating the impact on established neighbourhoods.

Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP): Franchising for a Better Commute?

Councillor Thompson moved a motion advocating for the franchising of bus services in Hull. Citing public dissatisfaction with current private operators, including delays, cancellations, and unreliability, the motion pointed to the success of bus franchising in areas like Greater Manchester. The motion welcomed recent government announcements on fare caps and free August travel for under-16s, and urged the Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority to begin the legal process for franchising. This debate signals a potential shift towards greater local control over public transport, aiming for improved cost, reliability, and coverage for all residents.

Protecting Local Democracy in Planning

Councillor Ross introduced a motion expressing concern over national planning reforms that, it was argued, centralise decision-making and reduce the role of local councillors. The motion emphasised Hull's unique challenges, particularly flood risk, which requires detailed local assessment. It called for a review of planning reforms to ensure councillors retain a meaningful role and for the Economy and Environment Overview and Scrutiny Commission to examine the impact of these changes on Hull.

The Full Council also addressed a range of other important issues during the Leader's Statement and Questions session, including the use of the Royal Hotel for asylum seekers, support for Pride in Hull, measures to tackle anti-LGBTQ+ hate crime, and improvements to East Park.

You can read the full details of these discussions in the Full Council meeting.

Other Matters

Safeguarding and Licensing Under Scrutiny

The Licensing Committee met on Monday 14 September 2026 to review guidance notes and consider several private hire driver's licence reviews. A key focus of the discussions was safeguarding issues, underscoring the council's commitment to public safety within the licensed transport sector. The committee also noted the Licensing Committee Guidance Notes, which emphasize that decisions must focus on protecting the public and that personal circumstances of drivers cannot be taken into account when determining if a driver is a fit and proper person to hold a licence. More information is available in the Licensing Committee meeting.

Preserving Hull's Heritage: Buildings at Risk and Conservation Areas

The Planning Committee met on Tuesday 15 September 2026 to discuss the Buildings at Risk Review and the Georgian New Town Conservation Area. The committee was recommended to remove the Hennebique Building from the Buildings at Risk Register and add Rockliffe House on Beverley Road. Furthermore, a new Character Appraisal and Management Plan (CAMP) was recommended for the Georgian New Town Conservation Area, along with the introduction of an Article 4 Direction to manage changes to external joinery. This aims to protect the unique architectural heritage of the area, requiring planning permission for changes to doors and windows. Details can be found in the Planning Committee meeting.

Health and Social Care: Better Care and Alcohol/Drug Strategies

The Health and Social Well-Being Overview and Scrutiny Commission met on Friday 18 September 2026 to review the end-of-year report for the Better Care Fund and Section 75 agreement. This fund aims to integrate health and social care budgets to support more person-centred care. The commission also discussed the Adult Social Care Annual Report for 2025/26, highlighting that over 5,600 people received care and support. A refresh of the Hull Alcohol and Drugs Partnership Strategy for 2026–2029 was also considered, aiming to reduce alcohol- and drug-related harm through prevention, early intervention, and improved system integration. Further details are available in the Health and Social Well-Being Overview and Scrutiny Commission meeting.

Civic Honours and Awards

The Civic Committee met on Monday 14 September 2026 to consider applications for blue plaques and nominations for honorary awards, including Honorary Alderman and Honorary Burgess. These discussions are part of the council's process for recognising individuals who have made significant contributions to the city. The committee also discussed procedural matters, including the potential exclusion of the press and public from discussions involving exempt information. More information can be found in the Civic Committee meeting.