This week in Newham:

Council Grapples with Budget Stability Amidst Rising Costs and Fair Funding Push

Newham Council's Cabinet met this week to tackle the critical task of setting the draft budget for 2026-27, a process described as challenging, complex, difficult, painful. The core of the discussion revolved around achieving financial sustainability in the face of growing demand for services, particularly temporary accommodation for the homeless, and the ongoing need for fair funding from central government.

• Why it matters: The decisions made now directly impact the services residents rely on, from housing support to social care. A balanced budget is essential to prevent insolvency and ensure the council can continue to serve the borough effectively, especially for vulnerable groups facing economic hardship.
• The Budget Challenge: The council has been grappling with significant financial pressures, largely driven by the rising costs of temporary accommodation, which currently houses a substantial number of households. The draft budget aims to address a projected gap and move towards a more stable financial footing.
• A Shift Towards Stability: A key achievement highlighted was the move away from needing exceptional financial support from the government. The draft budget projects a balanced position for 2026-27, with anticipated surpluses in the following two years. This is a significant turnaround from previous forecasts and is attributed to both internal savings and a more favourable provisional local government financial settlement.
• Fair Funding for Newham: Councillors emphasised the long-standing argument that Newham has been unfairly funded by central government for years, failing to account for its growing population and deep levels of deprivation. The recent provisional settlement, influenced by a new Labour government's Fair Funding review, is seen as a step towards rectifying this imbalance, finally recognising the borough's needs.
• Savings and Investment: The budget proposals include significant savings, building on previous efforts, and a proposed 4.99% council tax increase, which includes the adult social care levy. Despite these measures, the council is also investing in frontline services, including adult social care and early health support, demonstrating a commitment to protecting essential services for residents.
• Resident Engagement: The council stressed that resident feedback has shaped the budget, and further engagement will take place before the final budget is set in February.

The council's ability to present a balanced budget, free from the need for exceptional financial support, is a testament to its diligent financial management and creative problem-solving. However, the focus remains on delivering these savings effectively and ensuring long-term financial resilience.

Review of Off-Licence Licence for Stratford News and Wines Postponed

A crucial review of the premises licence for Stratford News and Wines was postponed this week. The Licensing (2003 Act) Sub-Committee met on Tuesday, but the hearing had to be rearranged due to the chair's illness.

• Why it matters: Licence reviews are vital for ensuring that businesses selling alcohol operate responsibly and do not contribute to crime, disorder, or public nuisance. For residents living near such premises, these reviews can directly impact their quality of life and safety.
• Concerns Raised: The review application, submitted by the Council's Licensing team, cited concerns across all four licensing objectives. These included issues such as sales to street drinkers and vulnerable individuals, leading to public nuisance through litter and urination, and the premises' proximity to schools. Local residents had also submitted supporting letters and emails detailing their concerns.
• Proposed Conditions: The Licensing Authority had proposed a series of conditions to be added to the licence if revocation was not deemed necessary. These included restrictions on the sale of certain alcohol sizes, mandatory screening of alcohol displays, and specific training for staff on welfare, vulnerability, and violence against women and girls.
• Licence Holder's Stance: The licence holder had argued that imposing restrictions would not address issues like homelessness and alcoholism and would negatively impact the business.
• Next Steps: The meeting was closed, and all parties will be informed of the new hearing date at least 10 working days in advance.

Review of Premises Licence for 107 Leytonstone Road, Stratford

The Licensing (2003 Act) Sub-Committee convened on Wednesday to consider a review of the premises licence for 107 Leytonstone Road, Stratford, London E15 1JA. The review application was brought by the Trading Standards Team, citing concerns related to the prevention of crime and disorder.

• Why it matters: This review highlights the ongoing efforts to combat the sale of illicit goods, which can be linked to organised crime and pose health risks to consumers. For local communities, it's about ensuring businesses operate legally and ethically.
• Illicit Cigarette Sales: The Trading Standards Team presented evidence of repeated test purchases of illicit cigarettes from the premises over an extended period. Despite warnings and interventions, including the seizure of thousands of illicit cigarettes, the sales continued.
• Lack of Engagement: A significant concern raised was the lack of engagement from the premises licence holder and Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) with Trading Standards, even after repeated attempts to contact them.
• Decision: The sub-committee decided to suspend the licence for three months and imposed specific conditions. These conditions include a commitment to stop selling tobacco products entirely, which aims to remove the temptation for illicit sales and prevent recurrence. The new licence holder, Iveta Kleinoviene, will be closely monitored.

Other Matters

• The Cabinet also received an update on the CQC assessment of Newham Council's adult social care services, which was rated as requires improvement. Councillor Rita Chadha, Cabinet Member for Health & Adult Social Care, acknowledged the findings and highlighted that the report contained no surprises, with plans already in place to address the identified areas for development. The council is committed to working with the regulator to improve services. Link to meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• The Licensing (2003 Act) Sub-Committee is scheduled for Monday 12 January 2026 to consider a new premises licence application for Impressions events at 14 Milner Road, E15 3AD. Link to meeting
• The Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee is scheduled for Monday 12 January 2026 to appoint a new Director of Highways, Parking and Transportation. Link to meeting
• An Officer Key Decision meeting is scheduled for Tuesday 13 January 2026 to consider accepting grant funding for the restoration of Forest Lane Park. Link to meeting
• The Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Commission is scheduled for Tuesday 13 January 2026 to discuss adult safeguarding and the CQC assurance of adult social care. Link to meeting
• The Strategic Development Committee is scheduled for Tuesday 13 January 2026 to discuss a major mixed-use development at the Thames Road Industrial Estate. Link to meeting
• The Audit Committee is scheduled for Wednesday 14 January 2026 to review the Treasury Management Strategy Statement and Annual Investment Strategy. Link to meeting
• The Inner North East London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled for Wednesday 14 January 2026 to discuss the future of Richard House Children's Hospice and receive a health update. Link to meeting
• The Licensing (2003 Act) Sub-Committee is scheduled for Wednesday 14 January 2026 to review the premises licence for Roman Express at 347 Barking Road. Link to meeting
• The Health and Wellbeing Board is scheduled for Wednesday 21 January 2026. Link to meeting

This week in Newham:

Newham to Accept £882,280 Grant to Tackle Economic Inactivity

The Officer Key Decision meeting considered a report recommending that the council accept £882,280 in grant funding to deliver the Economically Inactive Trailblazer programme, part of the UK Government's Get Britain Working initiative. The Corporate Director of Inclusive Economy and Housing is expected to agree to accept the funding.

• Why it matters: Economic inactivity affects a significant portion of Newham's working-age residents (26% compared to the national average of 21%), leading to financial hardship and social isolation. This program aims to address the barriers preventing these residents from entering or returning to the workforce.
• Target Groups: The program will focus on supporting single parents, individuals with long-term health conditions, and residents aged 50+, groups disproportionately affected by economic inactivity.
• Program Strands: The funding will support three main areas: an Economic Inactivity Support Programme, Business Start-Up and Self-Employment Support, and a Childcare Support Fund.
• Digital Platform: A new digital platform will be created to provide personalized support through AI-powered job matching, career guidance, and barrier reduction.
• Outcomes: The program aims to engage 116 economically inactive people with local support services, help 34 people find employment, and support the creation of 7 new business start-ups.
• Alignment with Council Goals: The report states that this approach aligns with the Newham Growth Plan for Jobs, Skills and good work, as well as national priorities outlined in the Get Britain Working White Paper.

This funding could provide a much-needed boost to Newham's efforts to tackle economic inactivity and support residents in finding sustainable employment.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Licensing (2003 Act) Sub-Committee is scheduled for Tuesday 30 December 2025 to discuss a new premises licence for Dessertz, 344C Romford Road. Link to meeting
• The Cabinet is scheduled for Thursday 01 January 2026 to discuss the Sex Work Strategy and the Draft Budget 2025-26. Link to meeting

This week in Newham:

School Closure on the Horizon: Calverton Primary Faces the Axe

Newham Council's Cabinet met on Tuesday to discuss the proposed closure of Calverton Primary School, a move that has sparked significant community concern. The decision follows a statutory consultation period, and the cabinet was tasked with considering the representations received before making a final call.

• Why it matters: School closures are deeply disruptive, impacting not only students and staff but also the wider community. The potential loss of a local school raises questions about the council's commitment to accessible education and the future of the area.
• Consultation Concerns: The consultation process likely surfaced anxieties about the impact on vulnerable students, particularly those with special educational needs, and the potential strain on other local schools.
• Equality Impact: The Equality Impact Assessment (EqIA) played a crucial role in the cabinet's deliberations, assessing the potential disproportionate effects of the closure on different groups.
• Decision: The cabinet decided to proceed with the closure of the school on 31 August 2026.

The decision to close Calverton Primary School will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the community, raising questions about the future of education in the area.

Housing in Focus: From Improvement Plans to a £9 Million Refurbishment

The Cabinet meeting on Tuesday also featured extensive discussions on housing, covering everything from service improvements to major investment projects. Key items included updates on the Housing Services Improvement Programme, the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Business Plan, the Populo Living Business Plan, and the Hamara Ghar refurbishment.

Housing Service Improvement Programme

The cabinet received a quarterly update on the Housing Services Improvement Programme, launched in response to a C4 grading from the Regulator of Social Housing. The report highlighted progress in areas like resident satisfaction and repairs performance, and the cabinet considered entering into a Voluntary Undertaking with the Regulator of Social Housing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Business Plan

The cabinet discussed the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Business Plan update, outlining the council's financial strategy for its social housing stock over the next 30 years. A key decision was the approval of a 4.8% rent increase on all council-owned rented accommodation and tenant service charges, effective from 1 April 2026.

Populo Living Business Plan

The cabinet considered the Populo Living Group Business Plan for 2026/27, outlining the company's strategic objectives and financial plan. The plan reflects a continuation of the strategy approved in March 2025 and has undergone tests to validate its assumptions and ensure long-term sustainability. The cabinet approved the business plan and several financial decisions, including adjustments to existing investment loan facilities and the allocation of funding to Populo Homes for the purchase of affordable rented homes.

Hamara Ghar Refurbishment

The cabinet discussed the Hamara Ghar Refurbishment Modernisation and Retrofit Project, including a revised scope and cost. Hamara Ghar is a 10-storey sheltered housing block that has not had extensive refurbishment for many years and is in need of investment. The proposed works include fabric repairs, kitchen and bathroom modernisation, external wall insulation, window replacement, fire door replacement and electrical upgrades. The cabinet approved awarding the contract to Mulalley & Co Ltd and a total budget provision of £9 million for the project.

Black Boys in Newham: Scrutiny Committee Calls for Action

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday to consider the updated Phase II report of the Relationship Between Black Boys and the Borough Scrutiny Commission. The report paints a concerning picture of the experiences and outcomes of Black boys and young men in Newham, finding that little progress has been made in addressing systemic inequalities.

• Why it matters: The report highlights the urgent need to address the complex set of disadvantages faced by Black boys in Newham, including racial profiling, low school expectations, housing instability, and mental health stigma.
• Key Findings: The report identifies a range of systemic and structural inequalities that contribute to the challenges faced by Black boys, including issues within the education system, the criminal justice system, and the housing sector.
• Recommendations: The report makes a number of recommendations, including that the council should ensure that all data captured by educational systems and services is disaggregated for Black boys in LB Newham aged 11 to 18, using free school meals and CAMHS data to capture and understand key points of intersectionality.

The committee's consideration of this report underscores the importance of addressing systemic inequalities and ensuring that all young people in Newham have the opportunity to thrive.

Other Matters

• The Newham Schools Forum met on Monday. No video was provided.
• The Education Children and Young People Scrutiny Commission met on Thursday to discuss safeguarding, post-16 education, and performance data. No video was provided.
• An Officer Key Decision meeting took place on Friday to discuss the evaluation of the People Friendly Streets initiative in Area 8, specifically the West Ham Park area.

Upcoming Meetings

• An Officer Key Decision meeting is scheduled for Monday 22 December 2025. Link to meeting

This week in Newham:

Council to Decide on Primary School Closure Amidst Community Concerns

Newham Council's Cabinet is set to decide on the proposed closure of Calverton Primary School at their meeting on Tuesday. The decision follows a statutory consultation period and comes amidst concerns from parents and the community about the impact on pupils and staff.

• Why it matters: School closures are highly sensitive issues that can disrupt children's education, impact staff employment, and affect the wider community. This decision could set a precedent for how the council approaches school closures in the future.
• Consultation Feedback: The cabinet will consider representations received during the consultation period, which likely include concerns about the impact on pupils with special educational needs, the loss of a local school, and the potential for overcrowding in other schools.
• Equality Impact Assessment: The Equality Impact Assessment (EqIA) report will be a key factor in the cabinet's decision, as it will assess the potential impact of the closure on different groups of pupils and staff.
• Potential Outcomes: The cabinet could decide to proceed with the closure of the school on 31 August 2026, delay the closure, or abandon the proposal altogether.

The final decision will have significant implications for the pupils, staff, and community served by Calverton Primary School. Link to meeting

£9 Million Investment to Modernise Sheltered Housing Scheme

Newham Council's Cabinet is also set to discuss the Hamara Ghar Refurbishment Modernisation and Retrofit Project, including a revised scope and cost. Hamara Ghar is a 10-storey sheltered housing block that has not had extensive refurbishment for many years and is in need of investment. The proposed works include fabric repairs, kitchen and bathroom modernisation, external wall insulation, window replacement, fire door replacement and electrical upgrades. The report seeks approval to award the contract to Mulalley & Co Ltd and to make a total budget provision of £9m for the project.

• Why it matters: Sheltered housing provides a vital lifeline for older and vulnerable residents, offering a safe and supportive environment that enables them to maintain their independence. This investment will improve the quality of life for residents and ensure that the building is fit for the future.
• Scope of Works: The refurbishment will address a range of issues, including fabric repairs, kitchen and bathroom modernisation, external wall insulation, window replacement, fire door replacement and electrical upgrades.
• Impact on Residents: The improvements will create warmer, safer, and more comfortable homes for residents, as well as reducing energy bills and improving the building's environmental performance.
• Financial Implications: The cabinet will need to approve the revised budget of £9 million for the project, ensuring that the council has sufficient resources to deliver the works.

The cabinet's decision will determine the future of Hamara Ghar and the quality of life for its residents. Link to meeting

Council to Decide on New Corporate Director of Adults and Health

The Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee met on Friday to interview candidates for the position of Corporate Director of Adults and Health, and to make a recommendation for appointment. This recommendation will then be subject to consultation with Cabinet members.

• Why it matters: The Corporate Director of Adults and Health is responsible for overseeing a wide range of services that support vulnerable adults in Newham, including social care, mental health services, and public health initiatives. The appointment of a new director will have a significant impact on the quality and effectiveness of these services.
• Recruitment Process: The council used an executive search firm to assist in the recruitment process, and shortlisted candidates participated in an Assessment Centre prior to the Sub-Committee meeting.
• Cabinet Consultation: Any recommendation made by the Sub-Committee will be subject to consultation with all members of the Cabinet for two working days, during which time Cabinet members can raise objections based on reasonable, well-founded and based on material fact .
• Impact on Services: The new director will be responsible for addressing a range of challenges, including rising demand for social care services, increasing rates of mental health problems, and health inequalities.

The appointment of a new Corporate Director of Adults and Health is a crucial decision that will shape the future of adult social care and public health in Newham. Link to meeting

Other Matters

• The Strategic Development Committee was scheduled to meet on Tuesday. No video was provided.
• The Crime, Environment and Transport Scrutiny Commission was scheduled to meet on Tuesday to discuss a range of topics, including the council's response to climate change, the Mayor's transport priorities, and community safety. No video was provided.
• An Officer Key Decision meeting took place on Friday concerning the award of a contract for care and support services at Amber Court.
• The Newham Schools Forum is scheduled for Monday.
• The Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled for Tuesday to discuss the council's transformation programme, review the implementation of scrutiny recommendations, and receive the Phase II report of the Relationship Between Black Boys and the Borough Scrutiny Commission.
• The Education Children and Young People Scrutiny Commission is scheduled for Thursday.
• An Officer Key Decision meeting is scheduled for Monday 22 December 2025 concerning the acceptance of grant funding to deliver on the Economically Inactive Trailblazer programme.