This week in Tower Hamlets:

• The Overview & Scrutiny Committee referred the decision to remove the 90-minute journey time limit for homeless families back to the Cabinet for reconsideration.
• The Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee welcomed the council's new Corporate Director of Health and Adult Social Care, and discussed preparations for the Care Quality Commission inspection of Adult Social Care.
• The Development Committee permitted the construction of an additional storey at Compass Point and the redevelopment of Empson Street Industrial Estate.

Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Monday 02 September 2024

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee considered a call-in of the Mayor in Cabinet's decision of 10 July 2024 to approve the revised Homeless Accommodation Placement Policy. The Call-in was proposed by Councillors Mark Francis, Sirajul Islam, Asma Begum, Shahaveer Hussain and Mohammed Chowdhury. The Committee voted to refer the decision back to the Cabinet for reconsideration.

Councillor Mark Francis, who proposed the Call-in, argued that the new policy had been implemented prematurely and that the Council had not sufficiently explored all of the options available to it to increase the supply of temporary accommodation in the borough. In particular, Councillor Francis argued that the removal of the 90 minute journey time restriction on placements was unnecessary in advance of the government's Comprehensive Spending Review, which may provide new funding sources to local councils.

Why then is the Mayor and officers rolling out this awful policy in advance of that decision?

Councillor Francis also highlighted the detrimental effect on vulnerable families of being placed far from the support networks of their family and friends and criticised the lack of consultation with homeless families about the new policy, urging the Mayor to commission a survey of homeless households to properly understand the impact of placements away from the borough.

Councillor Kabir Ahmed, the Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Inclusive Development and Housing Building, argued that the changes to the policy were necessary in the face of the unprecedented housing crisis.

This is the same struggle that was faced by administration after administration, not only in this local authority, but currently in every single local authority in the country.

Councillor Ahmed acknowledged that the cost of temporary accommodation is a significant burden on the Council's finances, explaining that Tower Hamlets currently faces a 'housing benefit subsidy loss'¹ of £12.7 million each year.

Local authorities like Newham are facing potential section 114 territory, which is essentially going into administration and bankruptcy as a result of the bill associated with temporary accommodation.

He argued that by expanding the areas in which the Council can procure temporary accommodation, the Council would be able to secure homes for residents at a cheaper rate. Councillor Ahmed also stated that no Tower Hamlets MP had been working with the Council to lobby the Government for additional funding for temporary accommodation, and invited the borough's three MPs to meet with him to discuss housing issues in the borough.

...I'd like to take this opportunity to invite all three MPs to specifically come and discuss housing issues and how central government can support this council in these challenging situations, particularly around finance, particularly around issues of good financial management, because on the one hand we do operate with the heart, and on the other hand we have a balanced budget that we must deliver.

Councillor Ahmed also stated that the Council would always endeavour to place households within Tower Hamlets, and that the revised placement policy simply made it clear where the Council would look for accommodation if this was not possible.

Our first priority will always be to locate people in Tower Hamlets.

Karen Swift, the Council's Director of Housing, added that the new placement policy uses zones to define the areas in which temporary accommodation can be procured. The new policy divides England into four zones, starting with Tower Hamlets (Zone A), then London (Zone B), then outside of London (Zone C) and finally the rest of England (Zone D). The policy states that only families with children in their final year of GCSEs or A levels will be placed in temporary accommodation in the borough. Families with children in other year groups will be placed anywhere in London, and those whose children are not yet at school could be placed anywhere in England. Ms Swift said that the Council is following best practice from other London boroughs in setting out these zones, citing Newham, Waltham Forest, Camden and Southwark councils as examples.

So the first zone is Tower Hamlets, and then it's London, then it's out of London, then it's further afield. A lot of other boroughs just say in or out of London. So we're taking the best practice from all of the other placement policies and putting it there so residents can see that we're transparent about where it is that we're going to look for accommodation.

Ms Swift also stated that the Council has a good track record of procuring temporary accommodation in areas that are suitable for the needs of residents, and cited Slough, Lewisham, Ilford and Romford as examples.

And Abel's, the rest of Abel's work is around Ilford and Romford. So we, we don't think that this policy is going to move us any, any further away than what we're already procuring. It's just making it much clearer and transparent because people tend to focus on the zones in the placement policy, but there's all sorts of other really good improvements.

The Committee debated the merits of the revised policy for over an hour. Several members of the Committee expressed concerns about the impact of the removal of the 90 minute limit, in particular they were concerned about the impact of being placed far away from support networks on vulnerable families, and families with children in exam years. Councillors also questioned whether the revised policy would actually save the Council money.

Following the debate, the Committee voted 6 to 2 to refer the decision back to the Cabinet for reconsideration, with a request for a written response to the Committee's concerns.

It is not known what action the Cabinet will take in response to the Committee's request. As you will recall from a previous email, the Overview and Scrutiny Committee voted to refer the Mayor in Cabinet's decision to reduce funding to the Tower Hamlets Arts and Music Education Service (THAMES) back to the Cabinet in February 2024. The Cabinet subsequently voted to overturn the Committee's decision and to proceed with the original funding cuts. However, in May 2024, the Council voted to use money from its reserves to restore funding to THAMES for the 2024/25 financial year.

Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee - Tuesday 03 September 2024

This week, the Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee received three presentations. The first of these was on preparations for the forthcoming Care Quality Commission (CQC)² inspection of adult social care services. The Committee then heard a presentation on the Council's Sexual and Reproductive Health Strategy and the services provided by the All East sexual health clinic. Finally, the committee received a presentation on the borough's smoking cessation services.

Adult Social Care, Care Quality Commission (CQC) Inspection Preparation

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is responsible for regulating and inspecting health and social care services in England. They will be inspecting all local authority adult social care services by December 2025.

The Sub-Committee heard from Emily Fieran-Reed, Adult Social Care Improvement, Transformation & Assurance Lead at the Council, who explained that the forthcoming inspection would use a new regime.

Ms Fieran-Reed explained that the new inspection regime would use a new assessment framework, consisting of four themes:

• Working with people
• Providing support
• Ensuring safety across the system
• Leadership

She also explained that the inspection process would consist of four parts:

• Review of published data and the Council’s self-assessment
• Inspection of 50 recent cases
• Meetings with senior management
• Site visit, involving interviews with stakeholders and inspection of facilities

She assured the Committee that the Council had made detailed preparations for the inspection.

The Sub-Committee also received an update on the findings of the London Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS) peer review of adult social care in Tower Hamlets.

Overall, the Peer Review went very well – many strengths were fed back to us with the passion and commitment of our workforce a stand-out feature.

Councillors raised a number of questions about the peer review findings, including:

• How the Council would address concerns about mixed views of service users and carers.
• How it would be ensured that discharged patients are safe in the community.
• What measures were in place to prevent service users with low support needs from becoming dependent on social care.
• How the Council gathers feedback from service users and how it uses the data to improve services.
• What steps the Council was taking to support care providers that had received poor CQC ratings.

Sexual and Reproductive Health Services

The Sub-Committee received a presentation on the Council's Sexual and Reproductive Health Strategy and an overview of the All East sexual health service.

Councillor Kibriya Choudhury, the Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Social Care, explained that the Council is committed to providing a range of sexual and reproductive health services.

This administration prides ourselves on our commitment to caring for adult residents who need support. We provide high quality care which meets our duties under the Care Act.

Liam Crosby, Associate Director of Public Health, said that Tower Hamlets has a young and sexually active population, and that this leads to high levels of sexual and reproductive health need. He said that, while the borough has seen a recent increase in sexually transmitted infections, the rate of HIV diagnosis has fallen since 2015. Mr Crosby also spoke about the Council's approach to providing services in a variety of settings, including GP surgeries, pharmacies and specialist centres, saying:

We really have a range of services that get these needs close to where people are, close to people's lives.

He explained that the council had made a huge amount of transformation to its sexual and reproductive health services, leading to a reduction in spending of around £2 million a year, saying:

I think that's one of the kind of big sort of transformational successes we can talk about in local government where it's one of the big successes

Dr Andy Williams, a Consultant in Sexual Health and HIV at Barts Health NHS Trust, gave an overview of the All East sexual health service, explaining that the service is based at the Ambrose King Centre in Whitechapel. He also spoke about the challenges that sexual health services face, including:

• Antibiotic resistant gonorrhoea
• Increasing rates of syphilis
• Rising rates of teenage pregnancies

Lynn Toji, project manager for the Door to Hope project, spoke about the work the charity does to support women selling sex in Tower Hamlets. She highlighted the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on sex work, saying:

The number of women who are coming back onto the streets has increased

Ms Toji also highlighted the importance of accessible information about sexual health services for both men and women, saying:

Some people may not even know what a sexually transmitted disease is.

Councillors asked a number of questions about the services provided, including:

• How the Council advertises its sexual health services and how much treatments cost.
• What steps the Council is taking to reach out to communities that are less likely to access sexual health services.
• What plans the Council has to address the increase in sexually transmitted infections.

Smoking Cessation Services at Tower Hamlets

Councillor Choudhury said that rates of smoking have reduced in Tower Hamlets, calling the report good news. Mr Crosby explained that the rate of smoking in Tower Hamlets has fallen sharply over the last decade, from 20% to 12%, but that we still have a long way to go. He confirmed that the Council was working towards being smoke-free by 2030. Mr Crosby then outlined some of the Council's approaches to reducing smoking rates, including working with Trading Standards to limit sales and providing a range of cessation services to residents. He highlighted the success of the services, explaining that we supported 1500 people to quit smoking ... last year.

Shamsia Begum-Foreman, Specialist Stop Smoking Service Manager for Quit Right Tower Hamlets (QRTH), spoke about the range of services provided by QRTH, explaining that the service was based on a prime supplier model and that it provides an eight-week programme of behavioural support and medication. Ms Begum-Foreman also highlighted the importance of providing a culturally-sensitive service, saying:

Our service is culturally sensitive.

Saeeda Begum, Community Tobacco Dependency Lead for the East London NHS Foundation Trust (ELFT), gave a presentation on ELFT's smoking cessation services, highlighting that they provide specialist support to people with severe mental illness (SMI), who are three times more likely to smoke than the general population. Ms Begum explained that ELFT operates two community clinics in Tower Hamlets, one on Old Montague Street in Whitechapel and one at Stainers Road, and also runs a virtual clinic for those who are unable to attend in person. She explained that ELFT's service offers 12-week behavioural support combined with the nicotine replacement therapies and/or vapes.

Councillors asked a number of questions about smoking cessation services, including:

• What steps the Council is taking to address the increase in the use of vapes.
• How QRTH reaches out to minority ethnic groups and whether it could use the Idea Store in Poplar to deliver some of its services.

Development Committee - Thursday 05 September 2024

The Development Committee considered two planning applications, voting to grant both.

Compass Point (PA/22/02363)

The Committee considered an application by GLO Properties for the construction of an additional storey at Compass Point, to create six new flats.

Three residents addressed the meeting to object to the application.

Ms Hanfri, a registered architect, criticised the lack of engagement with residents by the developer, raised concerns about the information provided in the submitted drawings, and asked the Committee to ensure that the development would not present a fire risk to residents. Ms Yao, an existing resident of Compass Point, asked the Committee to refuse the application, arguing that it would increase noise and dust pollution, exacerbate residents' health issues, put a strain on inadequate waste facilities and have a detrimental impact on the wellbeing of the community. She also questioned whether the development was needed, given the vacancy rate at a nearby development of affordable homes.

This indefinite timeline fails to comply with Tower Hamlet's plan policy DDHA, which mandates the minimising disruption.

Ms Yao also raised concerns about the affordability of the scheme, pointing out that it would provide no new affordable homes.

The £120,000 contribution [to] affordable housing is minimal. This is less than the price of a single flat according to current market prices.

A third resident said that the existing waste facilities were inadequate, and that the development would exacerbate existing problems.

Mr Brandicchu, the applicant's agent, argued that the design was in keeping with the surrounding area and that the construction would be well-managed. Ms Ariana, the applicant's representative, said that the car park was managed by allocating spaces to each flat in the development's leases.

Councillors raised a number of concerns about the scheme, including:

• Lack of engagement with residents.
• The car-free nature of the development and whether parking would be enforced.
• The affordability of the scheme.
• The impact on existing waste facilities.

The Committee's concerns about the low level of affordable housing contribution from the scheme echo concerns raised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee in their recent meeting about the revised Homeless Accommodation Placement Policy. You will recall from a previous email that the Council's finances are under significant pressure from the cost of temporary accommodation and that this is one of the factors in the Council's decision to lift the 90 minute limit on placements.

The Committee voted to grant the application, subject to a number of conditions and planning obligations, including an affordable housing contribution of £120,000.

Epson Street (PA/24/00568/A1)

The Committee considered an application by Fabrics for the demolition and redevelopment of Empson Street Industrial Estate in Bromley-by-Bow.

The applicant sought permission to demolish the existing industrial buildings and to construct two new industrial buildings. The application also sought permission to refurbish an existing MOT building³ to provide affordable workspace and a ‘circular economy hub’. The circular economy hub will provide space for businesses that are focused on repairing, re-using, recycling and re-producing waste from the local area. The applicant also proposed to make a number of contributions to improve the local area, including paying for improvements to the nearby underpass beneath the A12 and for maintenance and upgrades to the Limehouse Cut towpath.

Councillors praised the scheme for its innovative circular economy hub, the high level of affordable workspace and its significant biodiversity net gain⁴, which is predicted to be over 5000%.

The application before you is on a strategic industrial location… and I think it’s very much for this type of use. We’ve looked at the application quite carefully… I’m happy in terms of the impacts from traffic movements… That’s a good level of improvement benefits.

The Committee voted to grant planning permission subject to conditions and planning obligations.

This week in Tower Hamlets:

• The Transformation Advisory Board met but the discussoin was not made public.
• The Strategic Development Committee defered decisions on the redevelopment of 4 & 5 Harbour Exchange Square and a number of sites to the south of Whitechapel Road.

Transformation Advisory Board - Tuesday 27 August 2024

This meeting was scheduled to take place on Tuesday 27 August 2024. No transcript or minutes were available at the time of writing, so no information about what was actually discussed during the meeting is available.

Strategic Development Committee - Wednesday 28 August 2024

The Strategic Development Committee considered two applications for planning permission, voting to defer both.

Redevelopment of 4 & 5 Harbour Exchange Square (PA/22/00731)

This application was previously considered by the Strategic Development Committee at their meeting on 16 July 2024, which you will recall from a previous email. At that meeting, the Committee voted to defer a decision on the application in order to allow time for a site visit to take place. The application proposes the demolition of two office buildings (4 & 5 Harbour Exchange Square) and the construction of a mixed-use residential building containing 450 residential units, of which 120 would be classed as 'affordable' under the terms of the National Planning Policy Framework¹.

The Committee voted to defer the application for a second time after raising concerns that the scheme did not include enough family-sized affordable homes to offset the disruption to residents that the construction of the development would cause. The Committee resolved to ask the developer to reconfigure the development to provide more 3 and 4 bedroom affordable homes.

The Committee discussed at length the impact that the construction of the development would have on traffic on Marsh Wall. The applicant said that they would put in place a construction management plan to manage traffic flows but several members of the committee said that they felt that the negative impact on traffic would be too great.

Former West Ferry Printworks (PA/23/02375)

The Strategic Development Committee also voted to defer a decision on an application for the comprehensive and phased mixed-use redevelopment of the former West Ferry Printworks site.

The applicant, West Ferry Developments Limited, applied for planning permission for the demolition of all existing buildings on the site and the construction of 1,358 new homes in 13 blocks ranging in height from 4 to 31 storeys. The scheme also includes the provision of a new secondary school, business and service uses, community uses, a police base, car and cycle basement parking, landscaping, a new public realm, and enabling works.

The application attracted a number of objections from local residents and resident groups including the Isle of Dogs Neighbourhood Planning Forum.

We developed the Isle of Dogs Neighbourhood Plan to stop development outstripping infrastructure. Statutory planning policy, it says, large proposed residential developments are only to be permitted after all the infrastructure needed to support them and all the other developments nearby have been fully considered and allowed for. If the infrastructure is not there, the proposal should be phased for when the infrastructure can be delivered or the scheme rejected. Officers have only assessed infrastructure for the site's own needs and not assessed the cumulative impact of all the development on the wider area.

• Councillor Ruth Burberry, Isle of Dogs Ward.

Residents explained to the Committee that the development would have a significant impact on daylight and sunlight for a number of properties close to the development.

The development would cause Mount Terrace to lose a significant amount of daylight, and asked that the plans for the scheme be changed to mitigate this impact. Another resident, who lives at Gwyn House, said that the development would cause an unacceptable reduction in the amount of sunlight that enters Gwyn House and that this would have a detrimental impact on the health and wellbeing of the people who live there.

The Committee discussed the impact the development would have on local infrastructure, noting that Thames Water had stated that the existing water main may not be sufficient to meet the needs of the development.

Concerns were also raised about the delay to the delivery of the new secondary school which is part of the scheme, pointing out that planning permission for a new school on the site had already been granted in 2016 but that this school had not yet been built.

The developer this year told parents that they won't sign the lease now unless you grant planning permission tonight. So a commitment they made in 2016 to a new school by 2022, they're now saying they won't deliver unless you give planning permission for their third application.

• Andrew Wood, Isle of Dogs resident.

Responding to these concerns, the applicant said that an agreement for lease was already in place with the Department for Education and that it was ready to be signed.

The developer said that they were committed to building the school and that they had an agreement for lease in place with the Department for Education which was ready to be signed. They said that the only thing holding up the delivery of the school was the granting of planning permission.

Following this discussion, the Committee voted to defer the application to allow time for a site visit to take place.

The committee also discussed the Section 106² agreement associated with the development, which is likely to be in the region of £35 million. Of this £18 million is expected to be spent on the provision of public open space and £1.5 million on a community centre. The applicant is seeking to deliver these payments in-kind, by building and maintaining these facilities themselves. In-kind payments are relatively common for developments of this scale, but it is important for the council to ensure that these assets will be delivered to a high standard and maintained in the long term.

This week in Tower Hamlets:

• The Licensing Sub Committee considered a variation of the premises license for Perfetto Pizza, but no decision was made due to absent legal counsel.
• The Development Committee meeting was cancelled.

Licensing Sub Committee - Tuesday 06 August 2024

The Licensing Sub-Committee was scheduled to consider an application for the variation of a premises license for Perfetto Pizza, located at 391 Cambridge Heath Road. The application sought to vary the existing license to permit the sale of alcohol for consumption on and off the premises. However, the meeting was adjourned until 19 September 2024 due to the unavailability of legal counsel. This is not unusual, as the Licensing Sub-Committee is a legal committee and is required to have legal representation present at all of its meetings. The applicant expressed concern about the delay, as delays can be costly for businesses. In this case, the business will have to wait almost two months for a decision on its application.

The Sub-Committee also approved the deferral of eight other Premises Licence applications:

• Go Puff 89 Hemington Street, London E1 5BL
• The Widow's Sun, 75 Devens Road, London E3 3PJ
• Solid Floor, 7A Ezra Street, London E2
• Noisy Oyster, 2 Nichols Clark Yard, London E1
• Montgomery Square Canary Wharf, London E14 5JJ
• Sainsbury's, 120 Bow Common Lane, London E1
• The Quiz Room, 19-25 Bell Lane, London E1
• Cafe Island Gardens, London E14 3EA

The deferral extends the deadline by which the Council must make a decision on the applications to 30 October 2024. These deferrals are likely to have been requested by the applicants themselves, perhaps in order to allow more time to address concerns that have been raised by residents or other interested parties.

Licensing applications are often controversial, particularly in areas like Tower Hamlets which has a high density of licensed premises. Residents often raise concerns about the potential for noise, anti-social behaviour, and crime and disorder. You can find out more about the licensing process on the council's website, by searching for 'Licensing Act 2003' ¹.

The Appointments Sub Committee was scheduled to discuss the longlisting for the role of Director of Adult Social Care at Tower Hamlets Council.

Appointments Sub Committee - Tuesday 30 July 2024

This week, Tower Hamlets Council's Appointments Sub Committee was scheduled to meet to discuss applications for the post of Director, Adult Social Care. The meeting was not open to the public as the items discussed were considered confidential. This is not unusual. As you will recall from a previous email, this committee met on Tuesday 23 July 2024 to consider applications for the post of Corporate Director, Housing and Regeneration, and that meeting was also not open to the public. These committees are often required to consider commercially sensitive information, or information that could identify individuals, and for these reasons they are often held in private.

As always, The Open Council Network will continue to monitor the council's publications and will provide you with information about the outcome of this process as soon as it is made public.

The Overview & Scrutiny Committee reviewed recycling performance, agreed the Strategic Asset Management Plan 2024-29, and considered the new Target Operating Model. The Licensing Sub Committee considered three applications for premises licenses, granting two and adjourning one. The Appointments Sub Committee was scheduled to consider a report on applications for the post of Corporate Director, Housing and Regeneration. The Cabinet agreed to consult on the introduction of a Public Space Protection Order for dog control, and voted to proceed with Option A for the new Local Plan.

Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 23 July 2024

The Overview & Scrutiny Committee received updates on the council's performance and reviewed a number of significant strategy and policy documents. This is one of the council's most important committees as it provides non-executive councillors with the opportunity to hold the Mayor and Cabinet to account for the decisions they make. It also has the power to ‘call in’ decisions made by the Mayor or Cabinet if it believes that they have not been made properly, allowing for a full debate and a vote at a meeting of the full council. Scrutiny is also a vital part of the council's commitment to good governance and transparency, giving the public and the media an opportunity to see how decisions are made and to understand the rationale behind them.

Recycling Rates

The committee discussed the borough's recycling performance, which is currently the worst in London at just 16%. The committee heard a presentation from officers on the council's plan to increase this to 23% by March 2025, which has three strands: service improvements, infrastructure improvements, and communication and behaviour change. The committee welcomed the plan but raised concerns that operational issues, such as missed bin collections, were contributing to low recycling rates.

If we really want to deep dig and you want answers and you want solutions and you want to support the offices and vice versa, then we've got to start making sure in these meetings we're actually doing the right thing and making sure the right people are here to answer the questions that we need.

• Councillor Asma Islam

The committee also noted that the council will be reintroducing the distribution of recycling sacks to households in August.

Strategic Asset Management Plan 2024-29

The committee also reviewed the Strategic Asset Management Plan, which sets out how the Council will manage its property portfolio of over 1,100 non-residential properties over the next five years.

As a borough we're well off for corporate assets and it's important that we have a strategy to direct how we're going to use, develop and promote that portfolio.

• David Hughes, Divisional Director of Property and Asset Management

The committee heard that the Council is an asset rich authority, and that the new plan will provide a framework for a rolling programme to review non-residential assets. This will allow the Council to optimise revenue for income generating assets, release assets for other priorities such as new housing developments, and better utilise buildings currently occupied by community organisations.

The Committee raised a number of questions about the plan, including how the Council will assess the value of assets currently being used by community organisations, and how it will communicate with organisations about the future of their leases.

Target Operating Model

The committee considered the draft Target Operating Model, which is a blueprint for how the Council will operate and deliver its strategic priorities in the future.

So this update… relates to our target operating model, which I suppose in itself thinking about the language target operating model is not particularly accessible for our communities, residents, et cetera.

• Ayesha Hakim, Acting Head of Corporate Strategy and Transformation

The committee heard that the new model represents a significant shift from the council's previous model, which was heavily focused on internal processes and structures. The new model prioritises community needs and engagement, and will empower council directorates to innovate and work more collaboratively with partners. It is also intended to deliver a more transparent and accountable council that is better able to communicate its successes to the public.

The committee welcomed the new model but raised some questions about the engagement process, particularly around the involvement of organisations representing disabled people. The final Target Operating Model will be presented to Cabinet in October 2024.

Licensing Sub Committee - Tuesday 23 July 2024

The Licensing Sub-Committee of Tower Hamlets Council met on Tuesday 23 July 2024 and considered three applications for premises licenses. Licensing Sub-Committees are responsible for making decisions about the grant and variation of premises licenses. All applications for premises licenses must be made to the Licensing Authority, which is a committee of the council. The Licensing Authority is responsible for ensuring that all licensed premises operate in accordance with the four licensing objectives:

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

Boulebar at 7 Frying Pan Alley

The committee granted a new premises license to Boulebar for their premises at 7 Frying Pan Alley, London, E1 7HS.

The application was for a new premises license to operate a restaurant and bar with a focus on the game of pétanque. The bar would operate within the Brick Lane Cumulative Impact Zone. A Cumulative Impact Zone (CIZ) is an area in which the concentration of businesses selling alcohol is so great that it is likely to lead to an increase in crime and disorder. In these areas, there is a presumption against granting new premises licenses unless the applicant can demonstrate that their application is exceptional.

The Licensing Authority and Environmental Protection initially objected to the application, but both withdrew their objections after the applicant agreed to a number of conditions, including:

• The sale of alcohol for consumption off the premises would be restricted to 9 p.m.
• The licence would be tied to the individual company, minimizing the risk of a change of use.
• The number of people permitted in the external area after 9 p.m. to a maximum of fifteen at any one time.

The Licensing Sub-Committee granted the application for a new premises license, as amended by these conditions.

House of Music & Entertainment Limited at 20 Commercial Street

The committee also granted a new premises license to House of Music & Entertainment Limited for their premises at 20 Commercial Street, London, E1 6LP.

The applicant applied for a new premises license to sell alcohol at their premises, which operate as a co-working space during the day and an event space during the evening. This application also fell within the Brick Lane Cumulative Impact Zone and attracted objections from the Licensing Authority and Environmental Protection.

I'm asking this question because the title you put there, the license of House of Music and Entertainment, that seems that what you have to describe is something different.

• Councillor Ahmodur Khan.

After the applicant agreed to all of the conditions requested by Environmental Protection, the Licensing Sub-Committee granted the application for a new premises license.

GoPuff at 8 Hemming Street

The committee adjourned an application for the variation of a premises license for GoPuff at 8 Hemming Street, London, E1W 2BH to a future meeting.

GoPuff applied to vary their existing premises license to permit the sale of alcohol for delivery 24 hours a day. The application attracted 33 objections from local residents who raised a number of concerns about the application, including noise from delivery vehicles and anti-social behaviour. They also presented evidence that GoPuff was in breach of several conditions attached to its existing license. The applicant disputed the allegations and requested an adjournment to allow them time to investigate. The Licensing Sub-Committee adjourned its determination of the application to a future meeting to allow the applicant time to respond to the concerns raised.

Cabinet - Wednesday 24 July 2024

The Cabinet of Tower Hamlets Council made a number of decisions at their meeting, agreeing to consult on the introduction of a Public Space Protection Order for dog control, voting to proceed with Option A for the new Local Plan, ratifying a number of other decisions, and noting the contents of several reports.

The Cabinet is the executive decision-making body of Tower Hamlets Council. They are responsible for making most of the council’s decisions, and for implementing the council’s policies. The Cabinet consists of the Mayor and a number of other councillors who are appointed by the Mayor. The Cabinet meets in public and its meetings are webcast on the council’s website.

Dog Control Orders

The Cabinet agreed to begin a public consultation on plans to introduce a Public Space Protection Order covering dog control. The order would cover dog fouling, introduce areas where dogs are excluded, such as gated children's play areas, and require dogs to be kept on leads in specified locations. It would also limit the number of dogs that can be walked by one person at a time, and consider introducing a licensing scheme for professional dog walkers.

We know that the vast majority of dogs are peaceful and dog owners low abiding and respectful of feelings of others around them.

• Councillor Shafi Ahmad, Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Emergency

Councillor Shafi Ahmad, Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Emergency, explained that the proposed consultation would be comprehensive, engaging all communities in the borough, and that the Council would work to ensure that it was clear that the consultation was not intended to demonise dogs or penalise responsible dog owners.

Local Plan 2038

The Cabinet approved Option A of the Tower Hamlets Local Plan 2038, which will now proceed to the Regulation 19 stage of the process, meaning that it will be published for consultation.

A Local Plan is a document that sets out a local planning authority’s policies for the development and use of land in its area. It covers a wide range of issues, including housing, businesses, community facilities, transport and the environment. The Local Plan is prepared in consultation with local people and businesses. It is then submitted to the Secretary of State for examination. If the Secretary of State approves the Local Plan, it becomes part of the development plan for the area. The development plan is used by the local planning authority to make decisions about planning applications.

This stage of the Local Plan process is known as Regulation 19 because it is set out in Regulation 19 of the Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012. Regulation 19 requires the local planning authority to publish the proposed submission version of the Local Plan and to invite representations on it. The local planning authority must then consider any representations that it receives and to make any necessary changes to the Local Plan before it submits it to the Secretary of State for examination.

Overcrowding and the associated health, social, economic inequalities and education inequalities that are born out of such conditions remains one of the biggest challenges that our borough faces.

• Mayor Lutfur Rahman

The Mayor spoke passionately about the new Local Plan, and particularly the need to address the issue of overcrowding, highlighting the three main elements of the new strategy: an increase in the proportion of generally affordable housing; a commitment to ensuring that at least 85% of affordable housing is let at social rent; and the incorporation of community facilities into new developments.

Option A of the plan includes the removal of height restrictions at ten key sites in the borough in order to encourage the development of taller buildings that can accommodate more homes.

As a borough, our planners should be, and you are, we should be, and as a council, we should be much more challenging, much more robust, creative in designs, in height, and be enabling to [invert] investment in the borough.

• Councillor Kabir Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Planning.

Appointments Sub Committee - Tuesday 23 July 2024

This meeting of Tower Hamlets' Appointments Sub Committee was scheduled to consider applications for the post of Corporate Director, Housing and Regeneration. Because the meeting was not open to the public, no information about what was actually discussed during the meeting is available.

Since Saturday 13 July 2024, the council has held 4 meetings: the Strategic Development Committee on 16 July, the Council on 17 July, the Licensing Sub Committee on 18 July, and the Mayor's Executive Decision Making on 19 July. The Mayor's Executive Decision Making session did not produce a video. The Strategic Development Committee approved plans to redevelop the former London Chest Hospital, but voted to defer a decision on an application to redevelop 4 & 5 Harbour Exchange Square, requesting a site visit before making a decision. The Council unanimously agreed to a series of reports relating to market designations and charges, planning powers, the Corporate Parenting Board, and committee places. The Licensing Sub Committee granted a new license to a bar on Quaker Street, and considered an application from a business in Hackney Wick, for which a decision is pending.

Strategic Development Committee - Tuesday 16 July 2024

The Strategic Development Committee made two significant decisions at its meeting. Firstly, it approved the redevelopment of the former London Chest Hospital site[^1]. This decision was made despite some objections from local residents concerning the height of one of the buildings and the loss of trees. The Committee also voted to defer the application to redevelop 4 & 5 Harbour Exchange Square, requesting a site visit to further understand the scale of the project before making a decision.

Redevelopment of the former London Chest Hospital (PA/24/00184)

The Committee considered two linked applications: one for planning permission and one for Listed Building Consent. Both applications were approved subject to a number of conditions and planning obligations.

The planning application sought permission to demolish all of the buildings on site, except for the Grade II Listed main hospital building, South Wing and sanitation tower. The site would then be redeveloped to provide 274 new homes (Use Class C3)[^2] and a flexible commercial and community floor space (Use Class E(b) / F2(b))[^3] with landscaping and other associated works.

The Listed Building Consent application sought permission to undertake various works to the retained listed buildings including a new extension, internal alterations, and works to boundary features.

There were a number of objections to the scheme. The most significant of these objections related to the height of Building E, which will be the tallest element of the proposed scheme at 9 storeys in height. Objections were also raised in relation to the proposed loss of trees on site, impacts on neighbouring amenity (including daylight/sunlight impacts), parking and highways impacts, and concerns that the scheme provided too few genuinely “affordable” homes.

The applicant, Latimer by Clarion Housing Group, addressed the Committee and outlined the significant public benefits that the scheme would introduce:

Firstly, our proposals will create 270 for high quality homes helping to meet the growing demand for housing across the borough. 50% of these homes, by help to room 121 total, will be affordable with the significant proportion at social rent levels, the lowest cost of housing available.

The applicant confirmed that 50% of the homes would be affordable, calculated by habitable room, and that these homes would be offered at Social Rent levels. Social Rent is cheaper than the London Affordable Rent that the Council’s policies require, but are capped at nationally-set levels. The applicant also confirmed that 39 of those Social Rent homes would be family-sized homes of 3 or 4 bedrooms.

In response to a question about the level of rent that would be applied, Mr Paul Buckenham, Head of Development Management, Planning and Building Control, stated:

The social rent levels won't actually be 80% of market value. They will be social rent, which are set by central government agencies… The actual rent levels are worked out based on kind of local rent levels and local earnings, I believe. So, yeah, it is the cheapest possible level of social housing that can be provided, and all of the social affordable rent units will be this social rent level, which is nothing to do with kind of 80% of market rent or anything like that.

Clarifying this point, Mr Prudence, of the Latimer by Clarion Housing Group, stated:

So, that applies nationally, but what we're saying is that this product isn't just meeting the definition of affordable, it's going way beyond that. It's social rent, which is the most affordable product that we can deliver, essentially.

The applicant also confirmed that all of the social rented homes would be of the same high standard of design and use the same high-quality materials as the private sale homes, and that in fact:

the social homes are kind of weird, which say the best on the site.

The applicant also confirmed that the Grade II Listed hospital building, south wing and sanitation tower would be retained and sensitively refurbished and that a new community café facility would be located within the South Wing to be run as a community-led facility open to all, which would also be available for free to local community groups in the evening.

The applicant also made it clear that the Veteran Mulberry Tree would be retained in its current location and that it would benefit from a dedicated landscaped space, would be protected throughout construction and be made accessible to the public.

In response to a question about how the proposals seek to address potential construction and highways impacts, Mr Buckenham stated:

Obviously, in theory, any challenge, any decision could be subject to a challenge… In terms of the likelihood of a challenge, well, any decision the Council makes in theory could be challenged. Obviously, our role as officers is to give you advice that we believe would result in whatever decision you make being a robust decision and hopefully challenge-proof.

The applicant then confirmed that demolition was likely to commence early next year.

In terms of the loss of trees, the applicant confirmed that whilst 20 trees would be removed from the site, 51 new trees would be planted, and that larger species would be planted on the edge of the site to provide the same visual screening to the site.

Officers confirmed that the applicant’s daylight, sunlight and overshadowing report had been reviewed by an independent consultant and found to be acceptable.

The committee also questioned the applicant on the adequacy of ventilation to the flats and how the internal design and layout of the affordable homes would be delivered.

Officers confirmed to the Committee that the proposals complied with the development plan. The Committee ultimately accepted the Officers’ recommendations that the application be approved.

Redevelopment of 4 & 5 Harbour Exchange Square (PA/22/00731)

The Committee considered an application for planning permission to demolish the existing office buildings (4 & 5 Harbour Exchange Square) and to redevelop the site to provide a mixed-use building containing 450 residential units with flexible retail, community and creative uses at the podium levels as well as basement blue-badge parking, public realm, landscaping and other associated works. The proposal also included provision of additional public realm and play space underneath the adjacent Docklands Light Railway.

The applicant was not present at the meeting.

The most significant objection to the proposal was the scale of the proposed development with concern that, whilst the existing buildings were of a low scale and had minimal impact upon the street-scene, the proposed 52 storey tower would be out of keeping with its surroundings and create a significant increase in construction and highways traffic.

I think it is going to be useful for the committee to go and have a site visit and understand the scale of the project because I think this is actually quite big and for what we see on paper then what it actually is going to be for that particular site within marsh wall along that stretch of road.

Officers confirmed that the development could be controlled to some extent by the inclusion of a Construction Management Plan in the decision notice and that the Council now had a ‘more hands-on approach’ to development which would seek to limit some of those construction and highways impacts, but the Committee voted to defer the application and request a site visit in order to better understand the scale of the development in the context of surrounding buildings.

The committee also raised queries about the density of the development, the carbon offsetting payments and the waste management plan.

Strategic Development Committee Terms of Reference, Quorum, Membership and Dates of Meetings 2024/25

The Committee considered the Strategic Development Committee Terms of Reference, Quorum, Membership and Dates of Meetings 2024/25 report and resolved to adopt the proposed amendments to the terms of reference [^4] which were minor in nature and to note the schedule of meeting dates for the year. The Committee also confirmed that Councillor Iqbal Hossain would be the Vice Chair for the year.

Appointment of a vice chair for the committee

The committee appointed Councillor Iqbal Hossain as vice-chair.

Minutes of the previous meeting

The minutes of the previous Strategic Development Committee meeting, held on 14th May 2024 were approved.

Recommendations and procedure for hearing objections and meeting guidance

The Committee noted the procedure for hearing objections at meetings of the Strategic Development Committee. They also agreed that any changes made to recommendations would be formalized by the Corporate Director Housing and Regeneration.

Site at the former Bishopsgate Goods Yard, Braithwaite Street E1

The Committee noted the observations of the GLA regarding the Reserved Matters Application (RMA) for Plot 1 of the Bishopsgate Goodsyard development[^5].

They resolved that the report be referred to either the Strategic Development Committee or the Development Committee to formalise the borough’s response to the GLA.

Council - Wednesday 17 July 2024

The Council unanimously agreed to the recommendations made in five reports, on market designations, market fees and charges, a planning powers delegation scheme, the Corporate Parenting Board annual report and a report on proportionality and the allocation of places on the council's committees.

The Council also debated a petition to the council asking them to take steps to secure the long-term future of the Boundary Estate Community Launderette. The Council also debated two motions, one proposed by the Aspire administration, and one proposed by the Labour opposition.

The Boundary Estate Community Launderette petition

The petition was presented to the meeting by three petitioners, Jonathan Moberly, Lorraine Hart and Abdul. It asked the council to:

• Grant the Launderette a temporary tenancy at will, so they can continue to operate while a long-term solution is worked out.
• Add the Launderette to the council's community premises portfolio.
• Agree that the Launderette is eligible for a community benefit rent reduction.[^6]

The petitioners began by explaining that the Launderette had served the community for 30 years, and that it had unexpectedly been closed by the council in February 2024. They told the meeting that the closure had damaged the Launderette's business and that the 2,100 residents who had signed the petition were reliant on the services it provided.

The petitioners were asked by Councillor Asma Islam to describe the engagement they had with the council after the closure, and how the closure had affected the community.

At the point when it was closed down, we'd had no engagement at all. It was a complete surprise to everyone when bailiffs turned up, trained the locks, and it was our staff that first learned a bit.

The petitioners said that since the petition was submitted they had been able to get the keys back to the Launderette, but that a sustainable, long-term solution was needed.

Councillor Amy Lee asked what a sustainable future looked like, and Councillor Abdul Mannan asked why the Launderette had been moved from the council's community asset portfolio to their commercial asset portfolio.

A sustainable future is a long-term, affordable lease, which takes into account the social value that the lawn drets delivers.

The petitioners said that they had not been made aware of the move to the commercial asset portfolio. Councillor Mannan also asked whether the Launderette had been involved in the development of the criteria that determined whether an asset could be part of the community premises portfolio.

We've had no input into anything regarding Council policy ... we have no input at all. We've never been asked.

Finally, Councillor Ahmed responded to the petition, explaining that he had met the petitioners, that the Launderette was providing a vital service to the community and that it had been granted a 12-month tenancy at will to allow it to continue to operate while a long-term arrangement was made.

I can assure the public and the petitioners that I along with Councillor Kabya Ahmed, Mayor's office and the senior officers have already had an initial meeting and agreed a tenancy at will until a move to permanent solution is found.

He explained that while the Launderette did not currently meet the criteria to be part of the community premises portfolio, Mayor Lutfur Rahman had called for a review of the council's rents and leases policy for the corporate asset portfolio and that the council was committed to finding a long-term solution for the Launderette.

Celebrating the Bangladeshi Diaspora in Tower Hamlets motion

The motion noted the long history of Bangladeshi people in Tower Hamlets, starting with the arrival of Lascar seaman who crewed European vessels, continuing with the arrival of many more Bangladeshi people in the 1950s and 1960s, and culminating with today's borough, where Bangladeshi people make up more than a third of the population. The motion also noted the many achievements of the Bangladeshi community in Tower Hamlets.

That this community – just like all other immigrants who have made this borough their home alongside the working class Eastenders who accepted and coexisted alongside them – have together made a massive contribution to the cultural; social; and economic fabric – not only of Tower Hamlets and London – but the UK more broadly. They all represent what is best about Britain, and the benefits of diversity; multiculturalism; and bringing the best out each other.

Councillor Musthak Ahmed proposed the motion, calling Tower Hamlets a microcosm of the best of Britain and celebrating the contribution of more than £3 billion to the local economy made by Bangladeshi businesses in the previous financial year. He finished by saying:

Let us ensure the legacy of Bangladeshidiaspora is known and honored across Tower Hamlets, London, the United Kingdom and beyond the borders.

The motion was seconded by Councillor Abu Talha Chowdhury, who also celebrated the long history of Bangladeshi people in Tower Hamlets, making specific reference to the role they had played in rebuilding Britain after World War II, and in the face of continued racism and xenophobia.

They faced, they faced, and overcame the violent racism of the national front in the 1970s, the B&P in the 1990s, and the EDL in the 2000s and 2010s.

Councillor Shirajul Islam, the leader of the Labour group, also spoke in favour of the motion, pointing out that Tower Hamlets had a history of welcoming immigrants and celebrating diversity.

When there has been a ceiling to broken in this para, we have broken it.

Councillor Sabina Akhtar also supported the motion. While she was proud of the achievements made by the Bangladeshi community, she also asked why, despite these achievements, Bangladeshi's had the lowest average hourly pay, the highest rate of poverty, struggled to secure the best jobs, and were more likely to have died during the Covid-19 pandemic than any other ethnic group.

She asked the council to add an amendment to the motion asking them to better represent Bangladeshi's in research and statistics, to ensure that senior staff proportionately reflected the community, and to ask the BAME commission to report to the council on its work.

We must address the systemic barriers that hinder our process.

Councillor Saied Ahmed then spoke in favour of the motion, and celebrated the success of Brick Lane and the Bangladeshi community's success in establishing the curry industry.

Councillor Rebecca Sultana also spoke about the history of the Bangladeshi community, their efforts to rebuild Britain, the racism they had faced, and the efforts they had made to improve the borough, and Councillor Andrew Wood spoke about the way that the Bangladeshi community had grown on the Isle of Dogs, and the contributions they had made there.

Councillor Shaheveer Shubo Hussain said that he had seen Tower Hamlets at both its best and worst and was proud to represent people in the council chamber. He finished by saying:

I am proud of who I am. I am proud of my community. I am proud of my borough.

Councillor Ahmed Durhane also spoke in favour of the motion, and Councillor Jahed Choudhury spoke about the role that immigrants played in the success of the NHS, and celebrated the success of the Bangladeshi community in creating the curry industry. Councillor Musthak Ahmed then spoke again, reflecting on his arrival in the United Kingdom in 1983, the history of Bangladeshi people in the borough and the values they had brought with them. He thanked all members for supporting the motion, saying:

It's not every day that we agree on anything, but today, two items in a row we've agreed on, and it's a display of unity and how politicians should work together and can come together if the issues are right.

Councillor Abdal Ullah also spoke in favour of the motion, highlighting the work he had done to celebrate the contribution of Bangladeshi people to British society, and celebrating the visit of the King and Queen to Brick Lane. He highlighted a heritage lottery funded project documenting the history of the Bangladeshi community in the borough, and asked whether the council would be interested in hosting an exhibition of the work.

The motion was put to the vote and was passed unanimously.

Child Poverty opposition motion

Councillor Asma Islam proposed the motion, which noted the high levels of child poverty in Tower Hamlets, where 56% of children live in poverty, and said that ending child poverty should be the council's most important objective.

The reason of the motion isn't that we haven't helped tackle poverty in this council. The need of this motion comes from the fact that we now need to look at a long-term strategy, one that is not dependent on any local election or general election.

She noted the work that the council had done to tackle poverty, but called for a poverty commission to be established that could develop a strategy for the next 15 years.

The motion was seconded by Councillor Amy Lee, who said that the motion showed that the council was committed to tackling poverty.

We talk all the time about the poverty that we all see ... but I really do think that this motion will put us in such a better position to repair some of that damage.

Mayor Lutfur Rahman proposed an amendment to the motion, replacing the call for a poverty commission with a call for the Overview and Scrutiny Committee to establish an 'Ending Child Poverty' task and finish group to devise a 15 year plan to solve the problem. He called on opposition members to support this amendment, and also called on the government to lift the limit on child benefits.

And finally to my opposition colleagues, I call on you to have a word with the first customer and to ask him to lift the limit on child benefits.

Councillor Abdul Wahid then spoke in favour of the amendment, saying:

By creating opportunities for our young people, we would not only influence the trajectory of their lives, but we will invest in the future of childhood as a whole.

Councillor Muffida Bustin spoke in favour of the amended motion, noting the findings of the council's previous poverty review, and calling for more collaboration with partners like Canary Wharf to provide opportunities for young people. She finished by calling for the council to recognise the specific poverty issues faced by women, disabled people and the LGBTQI+ community.

Councillor Shafi Ahmed then spoke in support of the amended motion.

As the lead member for health well-being, I received a service manager's report in June of April from our Director of Public Health. This report presents an overview of health and quality of life in Tar Hamlets through data and highlights areas where more work is needed to support our resident to live well.

He said that one of the worst statistics for the borough was the high rate of child poverty, and that a 15 year plan was needed to address the issue.

Councillor John Pierce also spoke in favour of the motion, congratulating Councillor Rachel Blake on her election as MP for the Cities of London and Westminster.

So for the past 14 years, austerity and cuts have reversed the progress that was made under the last Labour government in terms of reducing child poverty and reducing pensioner poverty and raising living standards for all.

He said that the recent general election gave the country the chance to start again in terms of tackling poverty, and that the council needed to do more than rely on the government to deliver positive outcomes for residents.

We've been building the solid Social Security system that Gordon Brown created by the time that he left office, the Labour left office in 2010, which was systematically dismantled by George Osborne and Co.

He welcomed the proposal to establish a task and finish group, and was pleased to hear that Mayor Lutfur Rahman would support it.

Councillor Amina Ali also spoke in favour of the motion, describing the cost of living crisis and the need to combat child poverty.

It is unacceptable. This council has made it a priority to earn child poverty so that children of this borough are not kept at a disadvantage.

She spoke about the role that the council had played in tackling poverty, the work done to reduce carbon emissions, the creation of green jobs, and the need to ensure that green spaces were available to everyone.

Councillor Puru Miah spoke in favour of the motion, saying that poverty kills people's dreams, dignity and aspirations.

Poverty is dangerous if it isn't stopped.

Councillor Shaheera Chowdhury also spoke in favour of the motion, celebrating the launch of the council's free swimming initiative.

Councillor Asma Islam then exercised her right of reply, thanking members for supporting the motion and saying that child poverty was an issue close to her heart.

My own life experiences shaped my life, political views, it's my lived experiences of how socialist policies can change and impact people's lives is the very reason why I do what I do.

She then said that she was pleased to announce that the new Labour government had set up a task force to work on a child poverty strategy.

As my party branding goes, so if you want change, you've got to vote for it and so, Mr. Speaker, I'm happy for us to move to a vote.

The motion as amended was carried.

Market Designation: Columbia Road, Watney Market & Whitechapel Market report

Councillor Shafi Ahmed presented the report, which recommended that the council agree to a series of improvements to the three markets. These improvements related to the size of pitches and the layout of markets. He asked the council to agree to the following improvements:

• At Columbia Road Market, permanent adoption of measures introduced during the Covid-19 pandemic, namely increasing pitch sizes to 3 metres by 3 metres, and permanently adopting the existing layout.
• At Watney Market, to carry out engagement with traders about the use of gazebos, to delegate the decision on the adoption of a new pitch size of 3 metres by 3.81 metres to the Corporate Director, depending on the results of the engagement exercise, and to formally designate the area currently being used by traders.
• At Whitechapel Market, to formally designate the area currently being used by traders, and to make the existing pitch size of 2.57 metres by 4.5 metres official.

Councillor Kamrul Hussain seconded the motion, and a number of councillors spoke in favour of it. Councillor Abdal Ullah said:

What I want to convey a message from a lot of the traders in Columbia Road is that the three by three is welcome. However, as you know, it's a jewel in the crown of probably the best market in the country, the Columbia Road on a Sunday.

He welcomed the increase in pitch sizes, but asked whether the Corporate Director would consider allowing Columbia Road Market traders to extend the legs of their gazebos beyond the red line marking their pitches.

Councillor Nathalie Bienfait highlighted the findings of a review into market improvements carried out by the previous chair of the Environment and Climate Change Scrutiny Sub-Committee. She finished by saying:

So I wanted to bring this to the attention of everybody here. This is something that I'm hoping to look and look to bring forward over the next few months, and I've been working with officers, but this is, you know, this thing, this report is just one part in what I hope will be a significant improvement in the markets in Ta'amis.

Councillor Harun Miah asked the lead member to be mindful of charges to ensure that markets remain affordable. Councillor Abu Talha Chowdhury said:

We should do whatever it takes to help our market traders and support them, and I welcome this report. I hope everyone supports this as well.

Councillor Ahmedil Kabir also spoke in favour of the motion, and echoed Councillor Ullah's request that Columbia Road Market traders be given some leeway with the size of their gazebos.

Councillor Shaheera Chowdhury then asked whether the gazebos used in Hackney markets could be introduced in Tower Hamlets, and Councillor Kabir Ahmed welcomed the report.

Small businesses are the lifeline of the economy of our borough. I personally thank all the officers and the lead member for the hard work.

The motion was put to the vote and passed unanimously.

Market & Street Trading Fees & Charges 2024/25 report

Councillor Shafi Ahmed then presented the report, which recommended that street trading fees and market fees be increased by 3.1%. Councillor Ohid Ahmed seconded the motion.

Councillor Marc Francis said that the Labour group would not be supporting the report. He said that the council was not doing enough to support market traders, and that the case for increasing fees had not been made.

On this side of the chamber, we will not be supporting the proposed increase in pitch fees from September ... We also think the case has not been made that there is sufficient requirement for this money to be raised from traders and essentially from shoppers as well.

He also questioned the value for money being offered by the council, and said that there was no breakdown of income and expenditure for market services in the report. He asked the council to vote on an option not to raise the fees.

Councillor Shafi Shell also said that Labour would not be supporting the report.

I note the increase of traders market fees by 3.1% from September. My graph 3.7 of the report acknowledges the decline in number of market traders in the past 20 years. And I'm not sure if the proposed increase would help the situation.

Councillor Saied Ahmed then responded to the debate, reminding the Labour councillors that they had increased fees by the same amount when they were in administration, and saying:

This Labor percentage increase is now funny how members' opposite are now not agreeing to their own percentage, because this is a convenient for them to disagree with at the moment. And I believe, Mr Speaker, this is playing politics with our residents.

Councillor Asma Begum then spoke against the motion, saying:

I've read the report even in Christian market where the street market trader was clearly said that it's too expensive to live under the report. It says it's too difficult to pay current fees.

The amendment proposed by Councillor Francis was put to the vote and fell. The motion was then put to the vote and carried.

London Legacy Development Corporation interim delegations schemes report

Councillor Kabir Ahmed presented the report, which asked the council to approve two interim schemes to delegate planning powers back to the council from the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC). The first scheme would delegate some planning powers back to the council, namely the right to process new planning applications, starting on 1 September 2024.

In preparation for the transfer of LLDC's planning powers on 1st December 2024, the first interim delegation scheme would enable London borough of town hamlets to take on limited planning functions, mainly the receipt and determination of new planning applications received between 1st September 2024 and 30th November 2024, three months prior to the transition date.

The second scheme would transfer all planning powers back to the council, starting on 1 December 2024.

The second interim delegation scheme would delegate all planning functions from the LLDC to town hamlets as part of the growth boroughs from 1st December 2024 and it could only be required in the event that the legislation required for transfer of all planning powers does not receive parliamentary approval prior to the transition date.

Councillor Amin Rahman seconded the motion. Councillor Marc Francis said:

Goodness. Alleluia. Praise the Lord. Finally, after nearly 20 years, we get planning powers for part of the ward I represent back into some form of democratic process.

He welcomed the delegation of powers back to the council, but cautioned against tearing up the LLDC's local plan, in particular the restriction on the height of buildings in the area.

Councillor Peter Golds also welcomed the report, but asked whether the proposals might be overtaken by the proposals contained in the new government's King's Speech.

I just wonder if the proposals here before us this evening and indeed what are being talked about might just be overtaken by the proposals in the King's speech of the new planning regulations and the new planning bill and further transferring more powers into regional mayors as opposed to local authorities.

Councillor Jahed Choudhury welcomed the return of planning powers to the council and said:

Like Councillor Martin says, the planning should be subject to democratic process.

The motion was then put to the vote and passed unanimously.

Corporate Parenting Board annual report

Councillor Maium Talukdar presented the report and asked the council to note its contents.

I therefore asked the council to note the content of the corporate parenting board, annual report, and continue to support the work we do to look after the children and young people in the area.

Councillor Bodrul Choudhury seconded the motion. Councillor Abdul Wahid welcomed the report, saying that it was a sad and tragic reality that children who have spent time in the foster system are more likely to become involved in criminality or to become addicted to drugs. He finished by saying:

It is for this reason that I'm truly impressed by this Council's corporate parenting board, annual report, and in particular, the emphasis it puts on the rights and autonomy of our looked after children.

Councillor Saied Ahmed praised the work of staff, saying:

The report outlines some good news. We have increased the percentage of children in care who receive annual health and dental checks, increased the percentage of people who are expected to progress, and increased the percentage of people who develop personal education and pathway plans.

Councillor Amina Ali also welcomed the report, saying:

As you see, this report, notable progress has already been done.

Councillor Muffida Bustin also welcomed the report, saying that it was clear that members of the council took their responsibilities to looked after children seriously, but highlighted a statistic on page 93 of the report.

Because whilst the number of looked after children, the numbers of looked after children have dropped, the percentage of repeat children looked after has actually doubled.

She asked the members of the corporate parenting board to investigate this trend and report back to the council. Councillor Shaheera Chowdhury offered to mentor any care leavers who were looking for support.

Councillor Amy Lee praised the report, but asked for more detail about the mental health support offered to care leavers.

The report was noted unanimously.

Proportionality and Allocation of Places on Committees of the Council 2024/25 report

Councillor Maium Talukdar introduced the report, which set out the number of councillors from each party who would sit on the council's various committees. Councillor Bodrul Choudhury seconded the motion. The motion was passed unanimously, including the nominations of Councillor Sabina Akhtar to the Licensing Committee and the Strategic Development Committee.

Member Questions

Councillor Amin Rahman asked the Lead Member for Resources and the Cost of Living, Councillor Saied Ahmed, for an update on the council's outstanding accounts, which were left unsigned for six years by the previous administration.

Could the lead member provide an update on the council's outstanding accounts regarding the sign off? The accounts were left unsigned for the last six years under the previous administration.

Councillor Ahmed responded, saying:

Yes, the accounts were left unsigned for a very, very long time, which was unheard of in this council. So all previous outstanding accounts from 2016-17 to 2019-20 have been prepared, published, inspected as required, and signed off by the external auditors.

He said that the accounts for the 2020/21 and 2021/22 financial years were awaiting opinions from the external auditor, and that for the first time in several years, the 2023/24 accounts were published on time.

Councillor Rahman then asked a supplementary question, asking Councillor Ahmed to provide an example of how long the delay was in publishing accounts, and to describe the measures that had been put in place to ensure that accounts were produced on time.

Can the lead member please provide us an example of how long were the delays in publishing their accounts previously and what is the mitigation in place now?

Councillor Ahmed replied, saying that in 2020/21 the draft accounts were published seven months late.

To pick up an example, in the year 2020-21, the submission date was 31st of July 2021. But the publication date of the draft report was done on the 27th of February 2022. That is seven months delay.

He said that the council now had a permanent section 151 officer, a capable finance team, and that it was working tirelessly to make sure that accounts were produced on time.

Councillor Muffida Bustin then asked Councillor Saied Ahmed about targets for income generation from parks and open spaces on the Isle of Dogs. Councillor Ahmed responded, saying that an income target of £522,000 had been set, and that the council generated income from sports facilities, pitches and other spaces in the area.

So there is an income target of £522,000 for arts, parks and events team for £2,424,25 ... The arts, parks and events team managed the parks and open spaces across the borough, including the spaces on the island.

Councillor Bustin asked a supplementary question about specific references in the budget to a market in Millwall Park and to concession stands on the island, asking what progress had been made in implementing these proposals. Councillor Ahmed responded, saying that the plans were subject to funding, and that if funding was confirmed, the council's events and parks teams would follow appropriate procedures.

So in the island gardens, the plans at this stage is around the funding. So when the funding is confirmed, the residents will be consulted, and the events parks teams would have different processes to follow.

He also said that licensing processes would be followed, and that residents would be consulted.

Licensing Sub Committee - Thursday 18 July 2024

The Licensing Sub-Committee met to consider two applications for new premises licenses. They granted a new license to Carwash, 1 Quaker Street, for the sale of alcohol, on the condition that the business only sell alcohol during pre-booked events and restrict the number of events taking place each month. The second application for a new license, by Fabwick, Unit 4A Queens Yard, was considered in the absence of the applicant. Having heard a report from the licensing officer, the committee

The council held 8 meetings in the last week, including discussions of the council's accounts, performance, and the progress being made on delivering its youth services strategy.

Transformation Advisory Board

On Monday 08 July 2024, the Transformation Advisory Board met, but no transcript or video was provided.

Audit Committee

On Monday 08 July 2024, the Audit Committee received an update from its external auditors, Deloitte and Ernst & Young on the progress of their audits of the council's accounts. The auditors are expected to complete their audits by the government's backstop date of 30 September, but the committee heard that this may be subject to change depending on government policy.

Based on discussions in the sector to date, we understand that we should continue with our planned approach, assuming that the government will implement a backstop.

• Jonathon Gooding, Deloitte.

The committee also received updates on the progress of various internal and external audits being carried out at the council. Councillors noted four reports on School Audits, Risk Management, Insurance and Internal Audit. The committee also discussed its work plan for 2024/25. Finally, the committee moved into private session to discuss a confidential matter.

Licensing Sub Committee

On Tuesday 09 July 2024, the Licensing Sub-Committee met to consider two licensing applications: an application for a new premises license for the Borough of Bethnal Green Working Men's Club and an application for a variation of a premises license for the Victoria Park Market. The committee adjourned to make their decisions in private, and the applicants were to be notified within five working days.

Borough of Bethnal Green Working Men's Club

The Borough of Bethnal Green Working Men's Club, on Pollard Row, applied for a new premises license to permit the sale of alcohol, the provision of regulated entertainment, and the provision of late-night refreshments. The application related to the basement and ground floor of the building. There were multiple objectors to this application, including local residents, the Licensing Authority, and, unusually, the holder of two existing premises licenses for the same property: Warren Dent of Working Men's Club Ltd.

The Licensing Authority noted that if granted, the new license would cover the same area and times as one of the existing licenses, meaning that the same premises would be subject to two different licenses. This, it was argued, would make it difficult to determine which license holder was responsible for any breaches of licensing objectives, especially as both licenses would permit the sale of alcohol. This meant that the new application would fall foul of Tower Hamlets' Cumulative Impact Assessment policy, which restricts the number of licenses granted in areas where there is a high density of existing licenses in order to prevent crime and disorder and public nuisance¹.

Victoria Park Market

Victoria Park Market, operated by The Good Market Company Ltd in Victoria Park, sought to vary their existing license to add a Saturday market day with the sale of alcohol from 11:00 to 17:00. The market had been operating every Sunday since 2017, and already had a license permitting the sale of alcohol on Sundays.

A number of local residents and a Councillor from the neighbouring London Borough of Hackney, Councillor Penny Root, objected to the application on the grounds that it would cause public nuisance and potentially impact public safety. Concerns were raised about the additional traffic and parking that the market would generate, especially as access was only possible through the narrow Gore Road, which is designated as a Low Traffic Neighbourhood.

Overview & Scrutiny Committee

On Tuesday 09 July 2024, the Overview & Scrutiny Committee met to discuss the Council's budget outturn, its annual strategic delivery and performance report and progress against its Women's Safety Action Plan. The meeting also reviewed proposals for the next phase of the Council's corporate restructure and discussed a new draft work programme for Overview & Scrutiny.

The committee heard that the Council's general fund underspent by £300,000 in the 2023/24 financial year. This is a favourable movement from the forecast position of a £100,000 underspend that was reported in quarter 3. This positive outturn was delivered despite the Council spending £11.5 million over budget on homelessness, special educational needs and adult social care. This reflected national pressures on these service areas.

In the current climate for any authority [a £300,000 underspend] is a significant achievement

said Ms Julie Lorraine, the Council's Deputy Chief Executive and Corporate Director of Resources¹, adding that every other local authority, particularly [in] London, would be in a similar, if not slightly worse, overspending position.

There was a £2.7 million overspend in the Dedicated Schools Grant, with most of this relating to individual high needs arrangements for children with special needs, educational needs and disabilities. The Housing Revenue Account also overspent, by £5.2 million. This was mostly due to higher than anticipated expenditure on repairs and maintenance.

Pension Board

On Monday 08 July 2024, the Pension Board meeting was postponed.

Cabinet

On Wednesday 10 July 2024, the Cabinet noted the council's provisional financial outturn for 2023-24, reviewed the Quarter 4 performance report, and approved the revised Homelessness Accommodation Placement Policy.

The Budget

The Cabinet noted the provisional budget monitoring 2023-24 outturn which identified an underspend of £300,000 on the General Fund and overspends of £2.7 million on the Dedicated Schools Grant and £5.2 million on the Housing Revenue Account.

Speaking about the budget, Chief Executive Ms Julia Lorraine said:

I joined halfway through this financial year, but was presented with a series of significant budget pressures that you all faced at the beginning of the year when the budget was set. And to do that, and throughout the year continue to face the pressures that most London boroughs face around homelessness, send an adult social care, and still end up in the position that we did, is a real reflection of prudent, proactive budget management.

The Mayor praised the efforts made to control the budget, highlighting the council's commitment to fiscal responsibility whilst also continuing to fund and reinvest in public services.

Procurement Transformation

The Cabinet approved a procurement transformation programme that is intended to address 'significant procurement failures' and ensure that the council is in compliance with the Public Procurement Act 2023. The new Act comes into force in October 2024, so the programme is intended to achieve compliance ahead of that date. The Act itself aims to reduce bureaucracy in public procurement and to open it up to small businesses and social enterprises.

The Mayor referred to the programme as 'well overdue', alluding to historic governance failures in the council's procurement practices.

The Local Plan 2038

The Mayor announced that he had asked for discussion of the proposed submission version of the Tower Hamlets Local Plan 2038 to be postponed. He said that he wanted to investigate the possibility of removing maximum heights from building site allocations in order to explore the delivery of more family homes and affordable homes. The plan is now to be discussed at the next Cabinet meeting, scheduled for the 24th July 2024.

Homelessness Accommodation and Placement

The Cabinet approved a revised Homelessness Accommodation Placement Policy which will guide the way that the council allocates accommodation to homeless households, including where it secures accommodation for them.

Former Shapla School Site Interim Use

The Cabinet approved the interim use of the former Shapla School site as a decant location for a number of services that currently occupy the Professional Development Centre site and the Commercial Road site. The move will make way for two other projects: the development of an Institute of Academic Excellence at the Professional Development Centre site, and the development of housing at the Commercial Road site. The interim use will be in place until 2027, after which it is anticipated that the Shapla School site will be incorporated into a larger scheme for the redevelopment of the Ocean Estate.

Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee

On Thursday 11 July 2024, the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee met to discuss the progress that has been made in delivering the council's youth services, including plans to open a youth club in each of the borough's wards.

Youth Services

The Children's Services Directorate presented plans to expand youth services provision in the borough as part of the new Young Tower Hamlets strategy. Councillor Maium Talukdar, Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Education, Youth and Lifelong Learning, highlighted the strategic aims of the new strategy which include providing A safe space in every ward and A workforce that reflects the community.[1] The Sub-Committee heard that there are currently eight universal youth clubs operating in the borough, and that plans are in place to identify a suitable building for youth work in each ward by 2025.

The Sub-Committee also heard about the need for increased investment in youth services. Steve Reddy, Corporate Director for Children’s Services, said:

A significant reduction in funding to youth services at a local and national level over the past decade has led to an increase in crime and anti-social behaviour and lack of safe spaces for young people to go outside of school hours or during holiday periods.[2]

Appointments Sub Committee

On Tuesday 09 July 2024, the Appointments Sub Committee met to interview candidates for the position of Director of Legal and Monitoring Officer. The meeting was not open to the public.

Employee Appeals Sub Committee

On Monday 08 July 2024, the Employee Appeals Sub Committee met to consider an appeal against dismissal by an employee of Tower Hamlets Council. The meeting was held in private and its outcome has not been made public.

Tower Hamlets Council held one meeting this week, which discussed the council's pension fund accounts, policies, and training strategy.

Pensions Committee

On Monday, the Pensions Committee met to discuss several key aspects of the Tower Hamlets Pension Fund, including the draft statement of accounts for 2023/24, governance and compliance, the admissions policy, training strategy, and arrangements for issuing annual benefit statements. The meeting was chaired by Councillor Ananya.

Pension Fund Accounts 2023/24

Paul Aoude, Interim Head of Pensions and Treasury, presented the draft statement of accounts for the 2023/24 financial year. He highlighted that the accounts were prepared following the Code of Practice on Local Authority Accounting in the United Kingdom 2023/24. Mr. Aoude mentioned that the accounts were being reviewed by the council’s auditors, EY, and would be presented again after the audit’s completion.

Councillor Asma Islam raised concerns about “contentious issues” previously raised by the council’s previous auditors. Mr. Aoude assured the committee that they were working closely with EY and addressing any queries raised.

“Offices are currently working with EY to do the pre-audit walkthroughs ahead of the main audit, commencing later this month and possibly next month, and then with a sign-off due in the very near future.” — Paul Aoude

Pension Fund Governance and Compliance

Mr. Aoude presented a report on the Pension Fund’s governance and compliance. He explained that the existing policy needed updating to align with Regulation 55 of the Local Government Pension Scheme Regulations 2013, the Pensions Regulator General Code of Practice, and the Scheme Advisory Board guidance.

Councillor Rabina Khan enquired about the outdated status of the statement and measures to ensure future compliance.

“Out-dated simply means that it requires updating, but it shouldn’t be seen as overly controversial. I think it was the clauses in [the] document, relevant as they can be, but of course, in an environment like the LGPS where small changes just need to be picked up and refined, and to the extent that we need to ensure that the document is always bang up to date.” — Paul Aoude

Admissions Policy

The committee reviewed the Pension Fund’s admissions policy, outlining how employers are admitted to the fund. Councillor Khan raised concerns about ten outstanding legacy cases of unfinished employer admission, questioning the council’s awareness of potential risks to the fund.

Mr. Aoude clarified that these cases came to light through employer contact and internal investigations. He emphasized that employers are only admitted after thorough checks by lawyers and actuaries to mitigate risks.

Training Strategy

The committee discussed the scope of the draft training strategy for the Pension Board and Committee.

Councillor Mohammed Ahbab Hossain inquired about the training provided to committee members, specifically site visits to investment managers.

Mr. Aoude explained the various training options available, including inductions, online resources, seminars, and conferences. He confirmed that site visits to fund managers, including London CIV, would be arranged.

Annual Benefit Statements

Mr. Aoude updated the committee on issuing annual benefit statements to Pension Fund members. The council aims to issue around 8,000 statements to active members and 8,400 to deferred members by 31 August 2024.

Councillor Khan raised concerns about anomalies in pension payments identified in a December 2023 meeting and sought an update on the data cleansing exercise. Mr. Aoude stated that the exercise was ongoing and would inform the 2025 actuarial valuation. He assured the committee that overpayments would be recovered, and underpayments rectified.

Forward Work Programme

The Pensions Committee noted its forward work programme, outlining the schedule and key focus areas for future meetings.

This meeting highlighted the Pensions Committee’s commitment to ensuring the financial stability and transparency of the Tower Hamlets Pension Fund.

This week, Tower Hamlets Council held several important meetings, addressing a wide range of issues from education to housing and community grants. Here’s a detailed summary of the key discussions and decisions.

Mayor's Executive Decision Making

On Friday, the Mayor's Executive Decision Making session saw two significant decisions made by the Mayor:

Wood Wharf School Funding

The Mayor approved a proposal to provide £30 million in funding to the Education & Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) for the construction of a new free school at Wood Wharf in Canary Wharf. The school, to be run by the Canary Wharf College Trust, will offer 1,150 school places, including 200 secondary school places.

The new school is being built to address the increasing demand for both primary and secondary school places in Tower Hamlets. The government’s preferred approach to meeting this demand is through the construction of new free schools, which are funded directly by the government and operate independently of local authority oversight.

Pupil forecasts for Tower Hamlets predict a significant increase in the demand for both primary and secondary school places in the coming years.

Free schools have been a topic of debate since their introduction in 2010. Critics argue that they undermine local democracy and create a two-tier education system, while proponents believe they increase parental choice and drive up standards.

Weavers Fields Playground Refurbishment

The Mayor also agreed to allocate £1.6 million for the refurbishment of a playground in Weavers Fields. A public consultation revealed strong support for the refurbishment, with 93% of respondents in favor of a larger play area with equipment for a wider age range.

The current playground is nearing the end of its life and is not fully accessible to disabled children. It also suffers from anti-social behavior, including drug dealing and rough sleeping.

The existing playground is not fully accessible to disabled children and suffers from anti-social behavior, including drug dealing and rough sleeping.

Housing & Regeneration Scrutiny Sub Committee

On Monday, the Housing & Regeneration Scrutiny Sub Committee met to discuss the council’s housebuilding targets and the state of its refurbishment program. Key points included:

Housebuilding Targets

The council is unlikely to meet its target of starting work on 1,000 new affordable homes per year between 2022 and 2026. Only 459 affordable homes were completed in 2023/24, down from 549 the previous year. Concerns were raised about the reliance on joint ventures with private developers and the need for additional funding to meet viability deficits.

A harsh critic would really, really lay into this performance, especially given that this performance is predominantly based on shared ownership and intermediate rent.

Major Works Programme

The committee received an update on the major works program, which has faced challenges due to market conditions and new regulations. Delays have impacted residents, particularly in terms of addressing damp and mould issues and removing combustible cladding.

In my ward, there is a serious problem with damp and mould. It's better now because it's summer, but throughout the winter, there were so many complaints.

The council is taking a “fabric first” approach to tackling damp and mould, addressing the underlying causes rather than just treating the symptoms.

Licensing Sub Committee

On Tuesday, the Licensing Sub Committee discussed three licensing applications:

Sainsbury's, Mile End Road

The committee considered an application for a new premises license for the sale of alcohol by Sainsbury's at their new store on Mile End Road. Local residents and a Councillor raised concerns about potential anti-social behavior, noise, and traffic. Sainsbury's argued that their stores are well-managed and do not sell high-strength beers or ciders.

We don't sell the high strength ciders, the white ciders. We don't sell the high strength beers that tend to be attractive to those who are harmful drinkers and those that want to drink on the street.

The committee reserved its decision on the application.

Vittoria Wharf Studio, Hackney Wick

An application for a new premises license for Vittoria Wharf Studio was considered. The Metropolitan Police and Environmental Health raised concerns about noise and public safety. The applicant offered to work with authorities to address these concerns, including installing a sound limiter and implementing a noise management plan.

We're happy to have the limiter condition added, no problem, and we're happy to have a condition that the works recommended in the noise management plan are completed and signed off with the environmental health team.

The committee reserved its decision on the application.

Temporary Event Notice: Colour Factory, Hackney Wick

The committee granted a temporary event notice for Colour Factory, subject to an earlier closing time on Sunday. Environmental Health had raised concerns about potential noise nuisance from the new mezzanine area at the venue.

We are a pretty experienced venue. We operate until 4 AM most Fridays and Saturday evenings. We have had no evidence of any statutory noise complaints that have been proven against the venue in the four years that we've been open.

Audit Committee

On Thursday, the Audit Committee reviewed the Council's performance in relation to its finances, risk management, and a recent review of homecare services.

Performance and Accounts 2023/24

The Council successfully delivered a balanced budget for the 2023/24 financial year without using reserves. The level of earmarked reserves was reduced by £77.218 million from the previous year.

The Director of Finance explained that the Council had delivered a balanced budget position, and this had been achieved without the need to use any reserves to fund the budget.

Risk Management

The Council updated its risk management strategy to reflect changes in best practice guidelines from the Institute of Risk Management (IRM). A new risk management system is being implemented in 2024/25.

The revised IRM guidance has resulted in the need to further strengthen the Council's arrangements and a new Risk Management System is being implemented in 2024/25.

Review of Homecare Services

A review of the Council's homecare services found that while generally well-run, there were areas for improvement, particularly in communication with residents and ensuring that residents receive the right care at the right time.

In 40% of cases reviewed, needs assessments lacked sufficient detail in capturing residents' desired outcomes, preferences, and risks, impacting the quality and person-centredness of care.

An action plan is being developed to address the recommendations in the report.

Appointments Sub Committee

On Wednesday, the Appointments Sub Committee discussed two items:

Independent Person for Governance

The committee decided by a majority vote not to appoint an Independent Person for Governance at this time.

Independent Remuneration Panel

The committee interviewed and unanimously appointed a candidate to the Independent Remuneration Panel, which advises the council on the salaries and expenses of Councillors.

Standards Advisory Committee

On Wednesday, the Standards Advisory Committee reviewed its procedures and discussed the handling of complaints made against Councillors.

Procedure Rules

The committee agreed to a minor change to its procedure rules, clarifying the structure of its subcommittees.

Register of Interests

The committee received an update on the register of interests and gifts and hospitality declarations, noting that eight declarations had been made since November 2023.

Complaints

The committee discussed the handling of complaints, raising concerns about the length of time it takes to investigate some complaints and the need for more mediation options.

I've run businesses in my commercial life and if I had senior employees taking two months to come back to me about a complaint that had been raised by a member of staff or a different department, I'd have them out the door following proper employment practice, of course.

The committee also discussed whether Councillors should be subject to the Code of Conduct at all times, even when not acting in their capacity as Councillors.

LGA Best Practice Guidance

The committee agreed to review and provide feedback on draft best practice guidance for standards committees being developed by the Local Government Association (LGA).

Annual Report

The committee reviewed its draft annual report, which will be presented to the Council on 17 July 2024.

Member Attendance

The committee noted the attendance of Councillors at its meetings and agreed to write to those with poor attendance to remind them of their obligations.

These meetings reflect Tower Hamlets Council's ongoing efforts to address both immediate and long-term community needs through thoughtful and inclusive governance.

Tower Hamlets Council held three meetings this week, including a significant Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting that questioned whether the council should be allowed to continue hosting as many commercial events in Victoria Park as it does, and two licensing discussions - one approving a shadow license for the Yard Theatre and one considering but eventually postponing a decision on extended hours for Studio Spaces in Wapping.

Excessive number of major commercial events in Victoria Park

On Tuesday, the Overview & Scrutiny Committee met to discuss several issues, including whether the Council should allow AEG Presents to continue to host commercial events in Victoria Park without seeking public feedback.

This meeting was called in objection to the result of a prior meeting on the 16th of May, in which the Mayor considered a report on the Victoria Park Licence to Occupy and decided to allow AEG Presents Limited to hold commercial events on Victoria park until 2027.

The objection described the decision as [enabling] the Mayor to extend the excessive number of major commercial events in Victoria Park for an additional year (2027).

It went on to note that:

In keeping with its refusal to listen to the views of residents living around Victoria Park, this change has not been notified to residents or even the Friends Group

and that

This change commits an incoming Executive Mayor following the May 2026 local elections to a programme of events for half their term of office.

The previous events held by AEG in Victoria Park, including All Points East, are much loved, but there have been objections from some of the residents to the disturbance they cause.

We do not currently have a transcript of the Overview and Scrutiny meeting so it is as yet unclear whether the decision was overturned.

Review of Housing Strategy

The committee also reviewed the council's housing strategy, focusing on the need for affordable housing and the improvement of existing housing stock. The discussion centred on the council's commitment to increasing the number of affordable homes and ensuring that current housing meets safety and quality standards.

Scrutiny of Local Health Services

The committee scrutinised local health services, particularly the performance of Barts Health NHS Trust. The discussion included an evaluation of patient care, waiting times, and resource allocation. Councillors expressed concerns about the long waiting times for certain treatments and the impact of staff shortages on service delivery.

Licensing Sub Committee

On Tuesday, the Licensing Sub Committee convened to discuss several licensing applications, including a new premises license for Unit 2A, Queen's Yard, and a variation of premises license for Studio Spaces Limited.

New Premises License for Unit 2A, Queen's Yard

The committee reviewed an application for a new premises license for Unit 2A, Queen's Yard, 43 Whitepost Lane, London E8 5EN which houses the Yard Theatre. This application was for a shadow license, a duplicate license held by the landlord to protect against the existing license lapsing due to unforeseen circumstances such as insolvency or surrender. The applicant, Hatton Garden Properties Limited, emphasized that this license would not result in additional use or extended hours but would serve as a safety net.

The committee heard from both the applicant and the licensing officer, who explained the purpose and necessity of a shadow license. The committee also noted that there were no objections from responsible authorities or residents, indicating that the application was uncontroversial. The decision on this application will be communicated within five working days.

Variation of Premises License for Studio Spaces Limited

The committee also considered an application for a variation of the premises license for Studio Spaces Limited, located at 110 Pennington Street, London E1W 2BB. The variation sought to extend the operating hours on Sunday nights into Monday mornings and make minor amendments to the current plan.

The applicant argued that the extension was necessary to accommodate specific events and had been trialed successfully through temporary event notices and existing permissions for bank holidays. They highlighted the absence of objections from the police and the comprehensive management plans in place to ensure public safety and minimize nuisance.

However, objections were raised by the Environmental Health Officer and the Licensing Authority, citing concerns about the potential impact on residents, particularly with new residential developments planned nearby. The committee discussed the agent of change principle, which places the onus on new developments to mitigate noise from existing venues.

The decision on this application will also be communicated within five working days.

Women's Commission

On Wednesday, the Women's Commission convened, but no video or transcript was provided for this meeting.

This week was a busy week for Tower Hamlets Council. Discussions included the borough's high STI rates, particularly among your people and men who have sex with men; a significant increase in the support provided for children with special educational needs and disabilities; a decline in life expectancy across Tower Hamlets; regulation of late-night premises including drinking spots and sexual entertainment venues; and the construction of 407 new residential units on a site in Stepney Green.

Tower Hamlets Health and Wellbeing Board

On Monday, the Tower Hamlets Health and Wellbeing Board convened to discuss key health initiatives and strategies for the borough. The meeting focused on the Sexual and Reproductive Health Strategy 2024-2029, the SEND Improvement Update, and the Serious Violence and Exploitation Strategy.

Sexual and Reproductive Health Strategy 2024-2029

The Board received a presentation on the Sexual and Reproductive Health Strategy 2024-2029. The strategy aims to address high rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and low contraception uptake in Tower Hamlets. Key points included:

• High STI rates, particularly among young people and men who have sex with men.
• Low uptake of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) among women.
• The need for a collaborative approach across North East London to improve sexual health outcomes.
• The strategy's focus on reducing stigma, improving service accessibility, and enhancing community engagement.

The Board agreed to publish the draft strategy for consultation during May and June 2024, with formal approval expected in late summer 2024.

SEND Improvement Update

Steve Reddy, Corporate Director of Children's Services, presented an update on the SEND Improvement. Key points included:

• A significant increase in Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCPs) from 2000 to nearly 4000.
• The need for self-assessment readiness for upcoming re-inspections.
• Priorities for timely support, user-friendly services, and creating an inclusive environment for young people with SEND.
• The importance of engaging young people in shaping priorities through forums like the Young People's Forum.

The Board discussed enhancing support for individuals over 18 with learning disabilities, addressing low COVID booster uptake among the SEND cohort, and improving leisure and well-being opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Serious Violence and Exploitation Strategy

Leo Hutchinson, Strategy and Policy Manager, introduced the Serious Violence and Exploitation Strategy. The strategy, developed in response to the Police Crime Sentencing Courts Act 2022, includes six strategic themes:

• Prevention and early intervention.
• Safer spaces.
• Disrupting, pursuing, and managing offenders.
• Supporting victims of violence.
• Safeguarding those at risk of exploitation.
• Tackling violence against women and girls.

The Board emphasized the importance of involving schools, housing providers, and the voluntary and community sector in the strategy's implementation. The strategy will be presented to the Cabinet on 24 September 2024.

Public Health Report

Suman Banerjee, Acting Corporate Director of Adult Social Care, presented the Annual Public Health Report. Key findings included:

• A decline in life expectancy in Tower Hamlets, mirroring national trends.
• Significant population growth among older age groups, impacting health and care services.
• High levels of population churn and language proficiency issues.
• High levels of childhood poverty and deprivation among older people.
• Environmental factors such as overcrowding and poor air quality affecting health.
• High rates of diabetes, low birth weight, and dental decay among children.
• Variations in long-term conditions and mental health issues by ethnicity.

The Board discussed the need for improved data collection and analysis to address health inequalities and ensure services meet the needs of the diverse population in Tower Hamlets.

Licensing Committee

On Thursday, the Licensing Committee met to discuss various issues related to licensing enforcement, including the outcomes of late-night inspections and the coordination between Tower Hamlets and Hackney Councils. The Committee resolved to note the activities undertaken by the Environmental Health and Trading Standards Service in regulating late-night licensed premises.

Licensing Enforcement

David Tolley, Head of Environmental Health and Trading Standards, introduced a report reviewing the outcomes of late-night inspections and enforcement activities related to licensed premises. These inspections are conducted based on intelligence alleging contraventions of the Licensing Act 2003, which governs the sale and supply of alcohol, regulated entertainment, and late-night refreshment in England and Wales.

Tom Lewis, Licensing Team Leader, provided additional details on the enforcement activities. Key points discussed included:

• Decrease in Licensing Visits: The Committee inquired about the reasons for the decrease in the number of licensing visits between 2022 and 2023. David Tolley and Tom Lewis explained that this was due to a combination of factors, including changes in enforcement priorities and resource allocation.
• Use of Park Guards: The rationale behind employing Park Guards in enforcement activities was discussed. Park Guards assist in maintaining public order and ensuring compliance with licensing conditions during late-night operations.
• Coordination with Hackney Council: An overview of the coordination between Tower Hamlets Council and Hackney Council in licensing enforcement was provided. This collaboration aims to enhance the effectiveness of enforcement activities across borough boundaries.
• Sexual Entertainment Venues (SEVs): Information was provided on the status of SEVs in the borough, including the number of active venues and the regulatory framework governing them.
• Test Purchases: The process of commissioning test purchases, particularly for age-restricted products, was detailed. The Committee was informed about the circumstances under which formal legal action or prosecution would be pursued following test purchases.
• Licensing Requirements for New Businesses: The Committee discussed the processes in place to alert new businesses about licensing requirements, such as the need for a license for food sales after 11pm. Infractions could be raised by the food team or through complaints from residents.
• Complaint Investigations: Information was provided on the team's timescales and targets for investigating complaints related to licensing infractions.

Further to questions, the Committee made several observations:

• Comparative Data: The Committee suggested that having comparative data from neighbouring local authorities would assist in assessing the Council’s licensing enforcement performance.
• Proactive Communication: A process to proactively identify and communicate licensing requirements to new businesses was deemed beneficial. Councillors noted that they sometimes receive complaints that no advance warning of licensing requirements is provided.

The Committee resolved to note the activities undertaken by the Environmental Health and Trading Standards Service in regulating late-night licensed premises.

Development Committee

On Wednesday, the Development Committee met to discuss several significant planning applications and procedural matters. Key decisions included the approval of a major redevelopment project and the confirmation of a Tree Preservation Order (TPO).

Land Comprising Harriet, Apsley, and Pattison House, and Red Court Community Centre

The committee approved the redevelopment of land comprising Harriet, Apsley, and Pattison House, and the Red Court Community Centre in Stepney Green, London E1. The project involves the demolition of existing buildings and the construction of 407 residential units and a new community centre. The development will include buildings ranging from four to eight stories, with 53% of the housing designated as affordable. The committee noted that the project aligns with the council's housing policies and will provide significant benefits, including new green spaces and improved community facilities.

8 White's Row, London E1

The committee also approved an application for a two-storey roof extension at 8 White's Row, London E1. The extension will create a four-bedroom duplex unit. Despite objections from local residents concerning fire safety and refuse collection, the committee determined that the application met all planning requirements. The decision was influenced by the fact that a similar application had been approved in 2021. The new plan includes internal refuse storage and a strategy for waste collection.

Tree Preservation Order (TPO) for the Dinmont Estate

The committee confirmed a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) for two trees on the Dinmont Estate. The TPO aims to protect a whitebeam and a London plane tree, both of which provide significant amenity value to the area. The decision followed concerns from residents about potential threats to the trees due to proposed development plans by Tower Hamlets Community Housing (THCH). The TPO will ensure that any future development proposals will have to consider the preservation of these trees.

Procedural Matters

The committee reviewed and approved the terms of reference for the Development Committee, including minor updates to referral criteria and terminology. The committee also discussed the dates for future meetings and addressed potential scheduling conflicts.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to confirm the TPO and a majority vote in favour of the planning applications discussed.

This week, Tower Hamlets Council held three meetings. Discussions included an action plan to address a shortage of doctors and nurses in the borough, and solutions were proposed including providing housing incentives and council tax support for NHS workers.

Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee

On Tuesday, the Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee met to address several key issues related to health and adult services. This meeting, chaired by Councillor Muhammad Bella-Ludin, focussed on the shortage of workers in the health and care sector.

Workforce Shortages and Action Plan

Garrett Noble, Deputy Director of Workforce Programme at NHS North East London, presented an update on the action plan to address workforce shortages across the health and care sector. Key initiatives include promoting career ambassador programs and developing a workforce strategy for North East London.

Our workforce strategy for North East London was signed off in January 2024. In the next two quarters, we'll be looking at a delivery plan specifically for how we attract, retain, lead, and innovate to deliver the workforce across North East London. — Garrett Noble

The committee discussed the importance of local recruitment and the need for housing allocations for key workers, reflecting ongoing challenges in attracting and retaining healthcare professionals.

Annual JOSIC Update

The committee received an update on the Inner North East London Joint Overview and Scrutiny Committee (JOSIC), with representatives from Tower Hamlets participating in discussions on health and care sector workforce issues.

Addressing Workforce Shortages

The committee explored various strategies to address workforce shortages, including housing incentives and council tax support for NHS workers. The discussion highlighted the complexity of these issues and the need for multi-agency collaboration.

One of the interesting conversations that we've had with some of our people directors is about who that [key worker housing] would be accessible for, and we talk very much about our shortage professions both across health and care. — Garrett Noble

Appointments Sub Committee

On Wednesday, the Appointments Sub Committee convened, but no transcript is available for this meeting.

General Purposes Committee

On Tuesday, the General Purposes Committee convened to discuss various administrative and governance matters. The meeting was chaired by Councillor Ahmodul Kabir. Unfortunately, we were not able to get a full transcript of the meeting.

This week, Tower Hamlets Council held several meetings, each addressing important issues that impact the community. Here’s a summary of the most significant discussions and decisions.

King George's Field Charity Board

On Wednesday, the King George's Field Charity Board convened to discuss various administrative and financial matters concerning the King George's Field Trust. The meeting covered several key points:

Financial Position and Audit Accounts

The board reviewed the audit accounts for 2021-2022 and discussed the current financial position for 2023-2024. A notable point was the in-year deficit due to backdated rent and additional pressures on repairs and maintenance. The board plans to address this deficit with a strategy to reduce it by £40,000 in the 2024-2025 financial year.

We are hoping to reduce that by £40,000 deficit in 24-25. — Board Member

Governance and Activity Updates

The board received updates on governance-related matters and ongoing work by legal services. There was also a discussion on the allocation of grant funds for the Fields in Trust, which aims to support various projects within the trust's remit.

Community Safety and Maintenance

The board discussed the need for increased CCTV coverage at Wellington Green to address antisocial behavior. This decision was based on feedback from community safety meetings and neighborhood police teams.

It came out of a wider review of parks and looking at whether there are areas we've identified could benefit from increased CCTV. — Board Member

Development Committee

On Thursday, the Development Committee met to discuss planning applications and procedural matters. Unfortunately, no transcript is available for this meeting.

Appointments Sub Committee

On Tuesday, the Appointments Sub Committee convened, but no transcript is available for this meeting.

This week, Tower Hamlets Council held several important meetings, each addressing key issues that impact the community. Here’s a summary of the most significant discussions and decisions.

Tower Hamlets Health and Wellbeing Board

On Monday, the Tower Hamlets Health and Wellbeing Board met to discuss ongoing health initiatives. Unfortunately, no video broadcast of this meeting is available.

Pension Board

The Pension Board also convened on Monday. However, the notes from this meeting have not yet been summarised.

Overview & Scrutiny Committee

The Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting on Tuesday was particularly impactful, focusing on several administrative and operational issues within the council.

Mayor's Spotlight

Mayor Lutfur Rahman provided an overview of the council's achievements and challenges over the past year. Key initiatives included:

• Education Maintenance Allowance and University Bursary Schemes: Supporting students in higher education.
• Free School Meals: Tower Hamlets is the only borough offering free school meals to all students up to age 16.
• Cost of Living Support: A £10 million investment to support residents.
• Council Tax Freeze: Universal freeze for all residents, with continued freezes for the poorest.
• Youth Services: Nearly £14 million invested.
• Community Safety: Recruitment of 42 additional enforcement officers and new CCTV infrastructure.
• Resident Hubs: Reopening of five hubs.
• Environmental Initiatives: Planting thousands of trees, retrofitting buildings with green technology, and installing over a thousand EV charging points.
• Waste Services: A £14 million investment, including greening the fleet and bringing Tower Hamlets Homes in-house.

The Mayor also discussed challenges such as housing, financial stability, homelessness, and customer services.

Committee Appointments and Subcommittees

The committee confirmed various appointments and the establishment of subcommittees:

• Scrutiny Lead for Adults and Health Services: Councillor Baledin
• Scrutiny Lead for Children and Education: Councillor Abdulman
• Scrutiny Lead for Housing and Regeneration: Councillor Baledin
• Scrutiny Lead for Resources: Councillor Abdulman
• Scrutiny Lead for Community Safety: Councillor Pseudogovernment
• Environment and Climate Emergency: Councillor Nathadi Beyond Free

Governance and Restructuring

Chief Executive Stephen Halsey discussed restructuring to improve service delivery and support for the scrutiny function, emphasizing the need for additional resources.

Questions from Committee Members

Committee members raised questions on topics such as:

• Governance of Tower Hamlets Homes
• Free School Meals
• Customer Services
• Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)
• Homelessness
• Crime and Community Safety
• Maternity Services

Statutory Guidance for Scrutiny

The committee reviewed statutory guidance, emphasizing the importance of a strong culture, adequate resources, and effective planning.

Co-opted Member Attendance

The committee discussed co-opted member attendance and decided to provide additional support, with a review in six months.

Cabinet

The Cabinet met on Wednesday, but no video broadcast is available.

Licensing Sub Committee

The Licensing Sub Committee met on Thursday. No video broadcast is available for this meeting.

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee on Thursday focused on key administrative and governance issues.

Appointment of Vice Chair

Councillor Amina Rahman was appointed as vice chair for 2024/2025.

Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes

Minutes from the April 23, 2024, meeting were approved.

Audit Committee Terms of Reference

The committee agreed on the terms of reference, membership, and meeting dates for 2024/2025.

Annual Governance Statement (AGS) 2023/2024

David Dobbs presented the AGS, with committee members requesting more balanced and detailed information. A revised AGS will be presented at the next meeting.

External Audit Update

Steven Reed from EY provided an update on the external audit process, assuring no concerns in the handover from Deloitte.

Audit Committee Work Plan

The committee reviewed and noted the work plan for 2024/2025, suggesting additional items for inclusion.

Exclusion of Press and Public

The committee moved to exclude the press and public for the remaining items on the agenda.

Key Implications

• Community Support: Initiatives like free school meals and cost of living support are crucial for residents.
• Environmental and Safety Investments: Investments in green technology and community safety will have long-term benefits.
• Governance and Oversight: The restructuring and scrutiny efforts aim to improve council operations and transparency.

These meetings reflect Tower Hamlets Council's ongoing efforts to address both immediate and long-term community needs through thoughtful and inclusive governance.

This week, Tower Hamlets Council addressed several key issues across multiple meetings, reflecting its ongoing commitment to community development and effective governance.

Strategic Development Committee

On Tuesday, the Strategic Development Committee convened to discuss significant planning applications and procedural matters.

The first major topic was the planning application for a new pedestrian and cycle bridge across the River Lea at Ailsa Wharf. This bridge aims to connect Tower Hamlets and Newham, facilitating better pedestrian and cyclist movement between the two boroughs. Key concerns included the head height clearance under the bridge, the demarcation between pedestrian and cyclist areas, and the potential for anti-social behavior. The committee voted unanimously to grant planning permission with additional conditions for a drainage strategy and a secure by design review of the seating area.

We need to ensure that this bridge not only connects communities but also addresses safety and usability concerns. — Committee Member

The second major topic was the redevelopment of Caxton Hall Community Centre and adjoining land. The proposal included a part seven, part nine-story building with 36 affordable housing units and a replacement community centre. Concerns were raised about the height of the building, its impact on daylight and sunlight for neighboring properties, and the adequacy of consultation with local residents. Despite these concerns, the committee voted to grant planning permission with a majority of six in favor, one against, and two abstentions.

The committee also agreed on procedural matters, including dealing with future reserve matters applications for the Bishopsgate Goods Yard site and an interim delegation scheme for planning applications within the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC) area. These decisions will ensure that Tower Hamlets can effectively manage planning powers as they transition back from the LLDC.

Council Meeting

On Wednesday, the Council meeting focused on the election of new leadership and the establishment of committees for the upcoming year.

Councillor Saifuddin Khaled was elected as the new speaker, and Councillor Suluk Ahmed as the deputy speaker. The outgoing speaker, Councillor Jahed Choudhury, was praised for his service, particularly his work with St. Joseph's Hospice and Eden Care UK. Councillor Khaled emphasized his commitment to fairness and integrity, announcing his support for the Sick Children's Trust and Osmani Trust.

I am committed to ensuring that our council operates with fairness and integrity, supporting our residents through these challenging times. — Councillor Saifuddin Khaled

The council also discussed the proportionality and establishment of committees. A proposal to increase the size of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee from nine to eleven members was debated, with some skepticism about whether this would address the real issue of executive engagement with the committee.

Housing & Regeneration Scrutiny Sub Committee

On Monday, the Housing & Regeneration Scrutiny Sub Committee addressed severe complaints and systemic failures of Tower Hamlets Community Housing (THCH). Residents voiced frustrations about poor service, lack of repairs, and overall mismanagement by THCH. The council outlined steps taken, including meetings with THCH management and letters to the regulator, emphasizing the need for a localized solution.

The issues with THCH are unacceptable, and we are committed to finding a solution that prioritizes our residents' needs. — Councillor Kabir Ahmed

The committee also reviewed the performance of other Registered Providers (RPs) and discussed efforts to improve the customer journey for housing needs, focusing on reducing complexity and improving efficiency.

Licensing Sub Committee

The Licensing Sub Committee on Tuesday focused on various licensing applications and objections. Key discussions included applications for new premises licenses and temporary event notices, with concerns about public safety, potential public nuisance, and land access issues. Decisions on these applications are pending further review.

This week, Tower Hamlets Council has been actively addressing key issues through various meetings, reflecting its dedication to community welfare and effective governance.

Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee

On Thursday, the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee convened to discuss several important topics, with a particular focus on increasing access to sports and physical activities for women and girls. This meeting highlighted the council's commitment to inclusivity and health.

The committee reviewed the progress of recommendations from a previous scrutiny session on this topic. The recent insourcing of leisure services under the new Be Well brand was a significant point of discussion. The aim is to provide more women-only sessions and activities, addressing the gender gap in physical activity participation. Councillor Iqbal Hussain, the cabinet member for culture and recreation, emphasized the importance of creating a supportive and inclusive environment for women and girls.

Supporting women and girls' access to sports and physical activities remains an important priority because women continue to be less likely to be active than men. — Councillor Iqbal Hussain

The committee also discussed the need for appropriate lighting and safety measures around sports facilities to ensure women feel safe and confident when participating in activities.

Council Meeting

On Wednesday, the Council meeting covered a wide range of topics, from public safety to community engagement. The meeting began with a report from the Chief Executive on new security measures to ensure the safety of council members and the public during meetings. This follows an incident in February that raised concerns about safety.

The council also received a petition opposing the Prevent program, which some community members feel unfairly targets Muslims. The petition called for a series of community meetings to discuss the impact of Prevent and to gather feedback from residents.

We need to make sure that Tower Hamlets Council sets a national example of how a local authority can defend the rights of its community. — Petition Presenter

Additionally, the council debated a motion celebrating the borough's diversity and rejecting recent claims that Tower Hamlets is a no-go area. The motion emphasized the borough's history of welcoming refugees and standing against racism and xenophobia.

This week, Tower Hamlets Council tackled a variety of significant issues across multiple meetings, reflecting its ongoing commitment to enhancing community services and addressing local needs.

Overview & Scrutiny Committee

On Monday, the Overview & Scrutiny Committee convened to discuss several critical community issues. The committee's discussion on the insourcing of leisure provision was particularly noteworthy. Transitioning these services from Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL) to in-house management is a strategic move aimed at improving service quality and addressing health inequalities. The council's proactive approach here is evident in its recruitment drive and infrastructure investments, with a goal of achieving operational surplus by the fourth year. Concerns about ensuring adequate female-only sessions and staff were also raised, highlighting the council's attention to inclusivity.

This transition to in-house management of leisure services is not just about financial performance; it's fundamentally about enhancing the quality of service and ensuring it aligns with our community's needs. — Council Member during the meeting

Licensing Sub Committee

The Licensing Sub Committee on Tuesday debated a new premises license application for a venue intended to operate as a cultural hub and nightclub. The discussion was intense, focusing on community concerns about noise and public nuisance. The applicant's amendments to reduce operating hours and the introduction of a traffic management plan were central to the debate. This meeting underscores the council's careful balancing act between fostering cultural development and maintaining community peace.

Cabinet

Significant decisions were made during Wednesday's Cabinet meeting, including the adoption of a new community engagement strategy. This strategy is designed to enhance how the council listens to and involves the community in decision-making. The adoption of recommendations from the Women's Safety Oversight and Scrutiny Committee to enhance women's safety was another critical point, reflecting the council's commitment to creating safer public spaces for women.

By adopting these recommendations, we are taking a strong stand against violence and improving safety across our public spaces, making them more accessible and secure for everyone, especially women. — Council Member during the meeting

Development Committee

On Thursday, the Development Committee approved a planning application for 82 Columbia Road, which includes a single-story rear extension and a new garden entrance. This decision supports local planning policies and the vitality of the Columbia Road neighbourhood centre. Additionally, the committee supported the interim delegation scheme related to the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC), ensuring a smooth transition of planning powers.

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee focused on addressing the backlog of local audits and updating risk management strategies. The approval of an updated anti-bribery policy and the internal audit plan for 2024/2025 were key outcomes, aimed at enhancing the council's governance processes and ethical standards.

This week in Tower Hamlets, the council's focus on health and community welfare was prominently displayed during the Tower Hamlets Health and Wellbeing Board meeting on Tuesday, 16 April 2024. The board tackled several critical issues, from mental health to combating loneliness, reflecting a comprehensive approach to enhancing public services and community well-being.

Mental Health Prevention Concordat

The council has decided to join the Mental Health Prevention Concordat, a significant step towards unifying efforts to improve mental health through prevention. This decision is expected to not only streamline existing initiatives but also attract future resources and funding, enhancing the community's overall mental health landscape.

Be Well Program

In a move to align various health prevention efforts, the council supported the development of the Be Well program. This initiative aims to coordinate actions to tackle prevalent health issues such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes, potentially improving public health outcomes through a unified prevention strategy.

Just Say Hello Campaign

The endorsement and continuation of the Just Say Hello campaign highlight the council's commitment to combating loneliness, a growing concern post-pandemic. This campaign has been instrumental in fostering community connections and alleviating feelings of isolation among residents.

COVID-19 Booster Update

The council reviewed the status of COVID-19 booster vaccinations, noting a concerning lower uptake among certain demographics, particularly in minority and vulnerable groups. This has prompted plans for targeted communication and outreach efforts to increase vaccination rates and protect public health.

SEND Strategy

The Draft Special Education Needs, Disabilities, and Inclusion Strategy for 2024 to 2029 received approval for further consultation. This strategy represents a comprehensive approach to improving educational outcomes for students with disabilities, emphasizing better coordination and resource allocation.