This week in Tower Hamlets:

Young People Demand Action on Mental Health and Opportunities as Council Committee Hears Their Voices

The Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee met on Tuesday, 3 February 2026, to hear directly from the Young Mayors team, whose powerful presentations highlighted urgent concerns about mental health support, online safety, and access to opportunities for young people in Tower Hamlets. The committee also received updates on the Healthy Weight programme, child exploitation, serious youth violence, and corporate parenting accountability.

Young Mayors Champion Urgent Needs

The Young Mayors team, led by Young Mayor Moussa, presented a compelling manifesto outlining their priorities. Leticia Ojo, Deputy Young Mayor for Health and Well-being, spoke passionately about the mental health crisis facing young people, stating, Between 2022 and 2023, over 40,000 children and young people waited more than two years before receiving mental health support. Two years. That is not a short delay in a young person's life. She called for the implementation of trained counsellors in all Tower Hamlets schools, emphasizing that early intervention saves lives.

Nicole Rahman, Cabinet for Environment, stressed the importance of practical environmental literacy and called for structured volunteering programmes to combat the perception that environmental action is a burden. Aaliyah, Cabinet for Social and Economic Development, highlighted the stark inequalities within the borough, stating, In Tower Hamlets, Canary Wharf and Whitechapel stand only minutes apart, yet for young people they represent worlds apart. She advocated for improved access to work experience and targeted crime prevention programmes, arguing that investing in young people early doesn't just save money, it saves lives.

Selina Mia, Cabinet for Community, addressed issues of radicalism and a lack of community cohesion, proposing improved outreach for safe spaces and opportunities. Amaira Katyal, Cabinet for Education, echoed the need for better access to work opportunities and mental health support within schools, particularly for those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Young Mayor Moussa reiterated the importance of strengthening youth voice and making it easier for young people to find work, suggesting incentives for local businesses to employ more young people.

The committee engaged in a detailed discussion with the Young Mayors, with councillors asking probing questions about their experiences and priorities. Concerns were raised about the perceived underestimation of young people and the need for better communication of existing opportunities. The discussion underscored the vital role of youth participation in shaping council decisions and services that directly affect young residents.

• Learn more about the discussions at the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting.

Healthy Weight Programme Shows Progress, but Challenges Remain

The committee received an update on the Child Healthy Weight programme, detailing actions taken to address recommendations from a previous report. Progress includes improvements to school meals, the development of a health and wellbeing offer in Young Tower Hamlets, and training for professionals. Draft proposals for the Local Plan aim to enhance play, exercise, and green spaces.

However, data presented showed a concerning trend: while the number of children with a healthy weight is improving in reception, the proportion of overweight and obese children in year six is significantly higher than in reception, and continues to be above the national average. This highlights the critical need for sustained focus and intervention during the primary school years. The report acknowledged that the issue of weight is complex, influenced by factors beyond individual choice, including the availability of affordable healthy food and safe spaces for physical activity.

The programme is evolving to focus on Eat Well and Move Well initiatives, with a commitment to a whole-family approach. This shift aims to address the root causes of excess weight and promote sustainable healthy lifestyles.

• Explore the Healthy Weight update at the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting.

Addressing Child Exploitation and Serious Youth Violence

The Sub-Committee was briefed on multi-agency responses to child exploitation and serious youth violence. This included local data on young victims and perpetrators, and details of the Local Missing Hub (LMH) and integrated gang unit. The report highlighted robust information sharing and strong relationships with partner agencies, alongside a focus on developing partnerships with Adult Social Care and improving responses to disproportionality and anti-racism. These efforts are crucial for protecting vulnerable young people from harm and preventing them from being drawn into dangerous situations.

Corporate Parenting Accountability Praised

The report on Corporate Parenting Accountability highlighted that Children's Services has been rated 'Outstanding' by Ofsted. This commendation reflects strong progress in education, housing, and health for care-experienced young people. Initiatives such as a Council Tax exemption until age 25 and priority housing are in place. The report also noted the adoption of Care Experience as a protected characteristic and the refurbishment of the Kit Kat Terrace Hub. However, challenges remain, including reducing CAMHS¹ referral waiting times and addressing national placement pressures.

Strategic Development Committee Considers Major Redevelopment at Iceland Wharf

The Strategic Development Committee met on Wednesday, 4 February 2026, to consider a significant planning application for the redevelopment of Iceland Wharf. The proposal, which includes a substantial number of new homes and employment space, aims to contribute to the regeneration of the area.

Iceland Wharf Redevelopment Plan

The committee reviewed a planning application for the redevelopment of Iceland Wharf, located at Iceland Road, London, E3 2JP. The proposal includes the construction of 165 residential dwellings, with a commitment to 55% affordable housing, and approximately 3,527 square metres of flexible employment space. The development is planned across four building plots, with heights ranging from 4 to 12 storeys.

The report recommended granting planning permission, subject to conditions and planning obligations. Key considerations included the impact on daylight and sunlight to neighbouring properties, which, while acknowledged as material, were deemed acceptable in light of the project's broader public benefits. The development is expected to deliver high-quality architecture, enhance the public realm, and contribute to biodiversity net gain.

Extensive consultations were held with various external bodies, including Active Travel England, the Canal & River Trust, and the Greater London Authority (GLA), as well as internal council departments. Points raised covered land use, impact on local services, design, transport, and environmental considerations. The proposal aims to maintain the existing quantum of employment provision, avoiding a net loss of floorspace, and contribute to the delivery of much-needed homes in the borough.

• Find out more about the discussions at the Strategic Development Committee meeting.

Licensing Sub Committee Reviews New Premises Licence Applications

The Licensing Sub Committee met on Thursday, 5 February 2026, to consider three applications for new premises licences. These applications relate to a cafeteria at Istituto Marangoni, an adult gaming centre, and a venue on Brick Lane. The committee's decisions will impact local amenity and public safety.

The committee reviewed applications for:

• A new premise licence for a cafeteria at Istituto Marangoni, 30 Fashion Street, London, E1 6PX.
• A new premises licence for Jackpot Slots Adult Gaming Centre, 403 Bethnal Green Road, London E2 0AF. This application falls under the Gambling Act 2005.
• A new premise licence for a venue at the Basement & Ground Floor, 49 Brick Lane, London, E1 6PU.

The Licensing Sub Committee plays a crucial role in balancing the needs of businesses with the concerns of residents, ensuring that licensed premises operate responsibly and do not cause undue public nuisance or harm.

• Details of the Licensing Sub Committee meeting can be found online.

Other Matters

• The Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting scheduled for Monday, 2 February 2026, was cancelled.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• Housing Management (Cabinet) Sub-Committee - 11 February 2026 - Discussion on housing management matters.
• Grants Determination (Cabinet) Sub-Committee - 11 February 2026 - CANCELLED
• Tower Hamlets Health and Wellbeing Board - 10 February 2026 - Review of health and wellbeing strategies, including the Connection Coalition, Safeguarding Adults Board Strategy, Better Care Fund, and Mental Health Strategy.
• Human Resources Committee - 12 February 2026 - Review of HR matters and workforce data.
• Overview & Scrutiny Committee - 16 February 2026 - Further scrutiny of council plans and strategies.
• Cabinet - 18 February 2026 - Various council decisions.
• Grants Determination (Cabinet) Sub-Committee - 18 February 2026 - Consideration of grant applications.

This week in Tower Hamlets:

Council Faces Tough Choices on Budget and Housing Amidst Growing Pressures

Tower Hamlets Council is navigating a complex financial landscape, with significant decisions on the budget and housing services taking centre stage. The Overview & Scrutiny Committee met on Monday, 26 January 2026, to scrutinise amendments to the Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) approach, review the progress of the Be Well leisure service, and examine the council's communications strategy. Meanwhile, the Development Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday, 29 January 2026, was cancelled. The Cabinet met on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, to discuss the council's budget and financial strategy, alongside significant housing development projects. The Audit Committee also met on Thursday, 29 January 2026, to review financial management and risk.

Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) Amendments Spark Debate

A contentious issue at the Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting on Monday, 26 January 2026, was the proposed amendments to the Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) approach. This decision, originally made by the Mayor in Cabinet, was called in by several councillors due to concerns about its impact on local infrastructure funding.

The proposed amendments aim to introduce more flexibility by allowing NCIL funds to be used for revenue projects, not just capital projects. Supporters argue this will speed up the delivery of local improvements. However, critics, including Councillor Marc Francis, who presented the call-in, voiced strong opposition. He argued that this change represents a raid on NSIL funding and diverts money intended for public realm improvements and infrastructure into propping up revenue services.

Councillor Francis highlighted that the council's previous decision in June 2023 to scrap 61 similar projects and redirect £17 million of NCIL funds was already a significant cut. He expressed concern that this latest decision kicks any prospects of funding for those projects into the long grass. Residents in areas like Fish Island have repeatedly been told there's no money for essential traffic calming measures, despite significant development in the area.

Concerns were also raised about the process of consultation, with critics arguing that the annual residents' survey lacks the nuance needed for local decision-making and that statutory consultees, such as neighbourhood forums, have not been adequately engaged.

Councillor Kabir Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Inclusive Development and Housebuilding, defended the amendments, stating they were minor, lawful, and operational, designed to increase flexibility, reduce delays, accelerate delivery of neighbourhood improvements, and ensure NCIL continues to meet local people's priorities. He pointed out that previous administrations also used similar funding for revenue spend and that all future allocations would still be subject to legal review.

The committee ultimately voted to refer the decision back to Cabinet for reconsideration, with a tied vote of five in favour of referring back and five in favour of confirming the original decision. The Chair used their casting vote to confirm the original Cabinet decision, meaning the amendments to the NCIL approach will proceed. This decision could mean that funds originally earmarked for local park improvements, street enhancements, or community facilities might be redirected, potentially impacting the quality of life in neighbourhoods that have seen significant development.

• Read more about the discussions at the Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting.

Council Approves Budget and Ambitious Housing Plans Amidst Financial Strain

The Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, saw the approval of the council's Budget for 2026-27 and the Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for 2026-29. This crucial financial plan outlines how the council will manage its resources over the coming years, facing what is described as unprecedented challenges for local government.

The budget includes a significant investment in new social rented homes, with proposals to procure and deliver 148 homes across five schemes: Albert Jacob House, Brunton Wharf, Caxton Grove, Copenhagen Place, and Rushmead. This is part of the council's self-delivery programme, aiming to address the borough's severe housing shortage. With over 30,000 households on the housing waiting list, many living in overcrowded conditions or temporary accommodation, these new homes are vital for providing secure and affordable housing.

Furthermore, the Cabinet approved a programme to acquire new build residential blocks, potentially securing up to 329 homes. This initiative aims to convert existing affordable housing and market-sale units into social rent properties, a move that could significantly increase the supply of larger family homes and alleviate pressure on those in urgent need. Councillor Kabir Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Inclusive Development and Housebuilding, highlighted the critical need for these homes, stating that the council is responding to the real needs of working people and combating gentrification.

The budget also includes a report on the Reduction and Recycling Plan (RRP), showing a promising increase in the household recycling rate to 19.92%. This progress, attributed to infrastructure upgrades and community engagement, is crucial for meeting environmental targets and creating a healthier borough for all residents.

However, the financial strategy acknowledges significant pressures. The council is increasing its risk reserve and contingency provisions to prepare for economic uncertainties. The proposed 4.8% rent increase for council tenants, while intended to fund essential repairs and upgrades to the housing stock, will place an additional burden on residents, particularly those on lower incomes. A £400,000 hardship fund is being established to support those most affected.

• Find out more about the Cabinet meeting.

Be Well Leisure Service Faces Scrutiny Amidst Transition Challenges

The Overview & Scrutiny Committee also received an update on the Be Well leisure service, which transitioned from an outsourced model to an in-house service in May 2024. While the transition is described as broadly successful, the report detailed significant challenges encountered, including issues with data access, cultural change, and operational stability.

The report highlighted that frontline staff now have contracts with the council, with some seeing an increase in their hourly rate. However, industrial relations with the Unite union remain a concern, with ongoing discussions about terms and conditions for certain staff cohorts. The report also acknowledged that the service has faced staffing gaps due to the withdrawal of agency workers, though recruitment efforts are underway.

The committee heard that despite these challenges, the service has introduced initiatives like free swimming, which has seen higher-than-budgeted uptake, demonstrating a positive impact on residents' access to leisure facilities. However, the ongoing work to embed the service and achieve a stable business-as-usual position indicates that residents may still experience some disruption. The focus on improving customer experience and ensuring financial sustainability is key to the service's future success.

• Explore the details of the Be Well progress update at the Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting.

Audit Committee Reviews Financial Controls and Risk Management

The Audit Committee met on Thursday, 29 January 2026, to review the council's financial controls and risk management strategies. Key agenda items included an update on the mobilisation of an action plan in response to external recommendations, progress reports on internal audit and anti-fraud initiatives, and a review of the corporate risk register.

The committee received an update on the action plan designed to address recommendations from external auditors. This plan focuses on improving financial management, audit assurance, and procurement processes. The committee also reviewed the progress of internal audit and anti-fraud activities, which are crucial for ensuring the integrity of council operations and protecting public funds.

A significant part of the meeting involved a review of the Corporate Risk Register. This register identifies and assesses the key risks facing the council, including those related to Children's Services. The committee's scrutiny of these risks is vital for ensuring that the council is prepared to manage potential challenges and protect vulnerable residents.

The committee was also scheduled to consider the Treasury Management Strategy, MRP Policy Statement, and Annual Investment Strategy for 2026/27. These documents outline the council's approach to borrowing, investing, and managing its financial assets, which directly impacts the council's ability to fund essential services.

• Learn more about the discussions at the Audit Committee meeting.

Other Matters

• The Development Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday, 29 January 2026, was cancelled.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• Overview & Scrutiny Committee - 02 February 2026 - Further scrutiny of council plans and strategies.
• Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee - 03 February 2026 - Discussion on education and children's services, including the Young Mayors team and the Healthy Weight programme.
• Strategic Development Committee - 04 February 2026 - Planning application for the redevelopment of Iceland Wharf.
• Licensing Sub Committee - 05 February 2026 - Applications for new premises licences, including for an adult gaming centre and a venue on Brick Lane.
• Tower Hamlets Health and Wellbeing Board - 10 February 2026 - Discussion on health and wellbeing strategies for the borough.
• Grants Determination (Cabinet) Sub-Committee - 11 February 2026 - Consideration of grant applications.
• Human Resources Committee - 12 February 2026 - Review of HR matters, including workforce data and recruitment.

This week in Tower Hamlets:

Council Faces Scrutiny Over Housing Repairs and Licensing Decisions

Tower Hamlets Council's recent meetings reveal a focus on improving housing services and navigating complex licensing decisions, with significant implications for residents' quality of life and safety. The Council meeting on Wednesday, 21 January 2026, saw a motion highlighting concerns about the council's housing repairs service, while the Licensing Sub Committee convened on Thursday, 22 January 2026, to consider applications that could impact local amenity and public safety.

Housing Repairs Under Fire: Residents Demand Better Service

A motion presented to the Council meeting on 21 January 2026, on behalf of the Labour Group, highlighted a perceived deterioration in the council's housing service since 2022. The motion cited a downgrade in the housing service's rating by the Regulator of Social Housing to C3, indicating serious failings in safety and quality standards. Performance data presented showed low call answer rates, missed repair appointments, and low tenant satisfaction with repairs and complaint handling.

Councillor Marc Francis, proposing the motion, stated that the council's housing service had seen a deterioration in the council's housing service since 2022. The motion called for increased scrutiny of performance data, the co-production of a Repairs Improvement Charter with tenants, and a prioritisation of eliminating damp and mould. An amendment concerning parking and mobility services was carried, and the amended motion was subsequently passed. This indicates a clear mandate from the council to address the concerns raised by residents and improve the housing repair service.

The impact of these failings can be severe for residents, potentially leading to prolonged periods of living in substandard conditions, with issues like damp and mould posing serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable individuals and families. The low satisfaction rates suggest a disconnect between the council's service provision and residents' expectations and needs.

• Read more about the discussions at the Council meeting.

Licensing Sub Committee Weighs Business Needs Against Resident Concerns

The Licensing Sub Committee met on Thursday, 22 January 2026, to consider three applications for the variation of premises licences. These applications, which involved extending operating hours and, in one case, incorporating an outdoor seating area, highlighted the delicate balance the council must strike between supporting local businesses and protecting residents from potential public nuisance.

Key applications considered:

• The Widow's Son: An application to extend operating hours and include an outdoor seating area faced objections from residents, Environmental Protection, and the Licensing Authority. Concerns centred on noise, litter, and potential anti-social behaviour. Residents voiced worries about the impact of late-night operations on their peace and quiet.
• Milano Express Pizza and Peri Peri: This application sought to extend late-night refreshment hours significantly. Environmental Protection raised concerns about noise breakout and the impact on nearby residential properties. The applicant clarified that the premises operates solely as a takeaway and delivery service.
• Mario's Pizza: An application to extend late-night refreshment hours also attracted objections from residents and Environmental Protection due to concerns about noise from extractor fans, odours, and potential anti-social behaviour. The Licensing Authority noted a history of failed test purchases for operating beyond licensable hours, raising doubts about the applicant's ability to adhere to licence conditions.

The committee's decisions on these applications will directly affect the local environment and the quality of life for residents living near these establishments. The detailed discussions, including resident representations and the applicant's responses, underscore the council's role in mediating these often-conflicting interests.

• Explore the details of the Licensing Sub Committee meeting.

Council Meeting Addresses Chinese Embassy Development and Housing Targets

The Council meeting on Wednesday, 21 January 2026, saw robust debate on significant issues, including the controversial decision to grant planning permission for the Chinese Embassy development and the impact of government changes to affordable housing targets. Tributes were also paid to the late Dobiru Islam Choudhury and Simon Baxter.

Opposition to Chinese Embassy Development

An urgent motion was unanimously approved concerning the Secretary of State's decision to grant planning permission for the redevelopment of the Royal Mint Court for use as the Chinese Embassy. Councillors expressed strong opposition, citing concerns about public safety, policing capacity, the impact on heritage sites like the Tower of London, and increased congestion. Councillor Kabir Ahmed, proposing the motion, stated that the decision undermines the role of locally elected representatives, ignores the clear voice of residents and councillors who know the area best. The council resolved to write to the Secretary of State to express dissatisfaction with this undemocratic decision. This decision highlights the tension between national planning policy and local democratic control, with potential implications for community safety and the character of the borough.

Affordable Housing Targets Under Threat

A significant debate took place regarding the government's proposed reduction in affordable housing targets from 35% to 20% for fast-tracked planning applications. Councillor Kabir Ahmed argued that these measures favour the profits of developers over responding to the real needs of working people and would lead to increased gentrification. An amendment, proposed by Councillor Asma Islam, argued these were temporary measures to stimulate the housing market, but it was defeated. The main motion, urging the government to reverse the decision and proposing that Tower Hamlets offer its expertise in achieving higher affordable housing levels, was carried. This decision reflects the council's commitment to ensuring new developments contribute meaningfully to addressing the housing crisis, particularly for lower-income residents.

Other Key Discussions

The Council also approved the Youth Justice Strategic Plan 2025-2028, noted reports on the council's continuous improvement journey and its response to the Grenfell Tower tragedy, and agreed amendments to the Code of Conduct for Members. Petitions were heard on the Right to Grow in Tower Hamlets, Extension of Bus Route 15/115/D6 to London City Island, and Petition to Remove Tower Hamlets LTNs.

• Discover more about the Council meeting.

Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee Examines Dental Health and Wellbeing Strategy

The Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee met on Tuesday, 20 January 2026, to discuss critical issues affecting residents' health, including adult oral health and the development of the new Tower Hamlets Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2026-2030.

Improving Adult Oral and Dental Health

A report presented to the committee highlighted challenges in NHS dental care access in Tower Hamlets. While additional funds have been commissioned to increase access, with £447,000 spent and 13,360 additional Units of Dental Activity (UDAs) commissioned, concerns remain about patient experiences and the equity of services for vulnerable groups. The report noted that practices are returning to pre-pandemic activity levels, but the historical funding model for dental contracts means Tower Hamlets receives less funding per capita compared to some other London boroughs. The committee expressed a desire for the council to advocate for increased funding for dental services, particularly in areas of high need.

Developing the Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2026-2030

The committee considered the proposed approach for developing the new Health and Wellbeing Strategy. This strategy will be shaped by resident feedback, which highlighted the importance of housing, crime and safety, economic security, and accessible mental health support. Key themes for the new strategy include a focus on Housing and Integrated Neighbourhood Teams, Measurable Priorities, ensuring a Seamless Experience of Services, promoting Prevention and Early Intervention, and fostering Community Engagement and Inspiration. The development process aims to align with the Our Tower Hamlets Vision 2025-2035 and address health inequalities.

ASC Performance Dashboard Review

The sub-committee reviewed the Adult Social Care (ASC) Performance Dashboard. While performance in areas like safeguarding referrals and hospital discharge rates was noted positively, concerns were raised about the completion rates for safeguarding concerns within five working days and inquiries within twenty working days. The committee requested further information on the trajectory of improvement in these areas and the plans for addressing any bottlenecks.

• Learn more about the Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• Overview & Scrutiny Committee - 26 January 2026 - Review of Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) amendments, Be Well leisure service progress, and the Communications Strategy.
• Cabinet - 28 January 2026 - Budget report, new build housing projects, retail rent support scheme, and child and youth participation.
• Audit Committee - 29 January 2026 - Risk management, internal audit reports, treasury management strategy, and action plan progress.
• Development Committee - 29 January 2026 - CANCELLED
• Overview & Scrutiny Committee - 02 February 2026 - Further scrutiny of council plans and strategies.
• Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee - 03 February 2026 - Discussion on education and children's services.
• Strategic Development Committee - 04 February 2026 - Planning applications and development projects.
• Licensing Sub Committee - 05 February 2026 - Further licensing applications.

This week in Tower Hamlets:

Council Faces Tough Choices on Budget and Housing Amidst Growing Pressures

Tower Hamlets Council is navigating a complex financial landscape, with significant decisions on the budget and housing services taking centre stage. The Overview & Scrutiny Committee met on Monday, 12 January 2026, to scrutinise the provisional budget for 2026-27 and the Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for 2026-29. Meanwhile, the Housing & Regeneration Scrutiny Sub Committee met on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, to review the performance of social housing landlords and the council's preparedness for new renters' rights legislation.

Budget Battles: Balancing Act for Tower Hamlets

The provisional budget and MTFS presented to the Overview & Scrutiny Committee paint a picture of a council determined to maintain services despite unprecedented challenges. The provisional local government finance settlement for 2026-27, announced in December, represents a significant shift in funding distribution, and while the council's core spending power is projected to increase in cash terms, real-terms per-resident spending remains below historic highs.

The council is proposing a net General Fund budget requirement of £482.151 million for 2026-27. This includes a substantial £22.5 million boost for Adult Social Care, a critical service facing rising demand and inflationary pressures. Councillor Gulam Kibria Choudhury questioned how this growth would address long-term structural pressures, with officers detailing a breakdown of £10 million for structural deficit, £7.5 million for inflation, and £5 million for demographic growth.

Councillor James King raised concerns about the council's confidence in delivering £26 million in savings and efficiencies, noting that past failures have led to funds being diverted from other areas. Officers assured the committee that new savings proposals have minimal impact on frontline services and that robust governance, including a Budget and Transformation Board, is in place to monitor delivery.

A significant point of discussion was the proposed 4.8% rent increase for council tenants. Councillor Natalie Abdi questioned the justification for such an increase, particularly for working residents who may not benefit from other support schemes. Councillor Saied Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Resources and the Cost of Living, acknowledged the difficulty but stressed the need to balance the budget and reinvest in housing stock, including essential repairs and upgrades to meet decent homes standards. A £400,000 hardship fund is being established to support those facing rent increases but not eligible for other benefits.

The council is also strengthening its financial resilience by increasing its risk reserve to £54.5 million and boosting contingency provisions. This move is intended to prepare for potential economic downturns and unforeseen pressures.

• Learn more about the Budget Report 2026-27 and MTFS 2026-29.

Housing Landlords Under the Microscope

The Housing & Regeneration Scrutiny Sub Committee reviewed the performance of social housing landlords in Tower Hamlets for Q2 2025/26. The findings reveal a mixed picture, with significant concerns about the council's own housing stock.

Key findings from the Landlord Performance Report:

• Decent Homes: Tower Hamlets Council has the highest percentage of non-decent homes at 26.4%, with over 3,000 properties requiring intervention. While the council aims to reduce this figure, other providers like Poplar HARCA and Spitalfields Housing Association reported 0% non-decency.
• Repairs and Safety: While many landlords achieved high completion rates for repairs and safety checks, EastEndHomes and Clarion Housing Association showed lower performance in non-emergency repairs. Tower Hamlets Council reported lower compliance rates for asbestos safety, with a programme in place to reach 100%.
• Anti-social Behaviour (ASB): Tower Hamlets Council reported the highest percentage of stock affected by ASB cases.
• Re-let Times: Notting Hill Genesis and Sanctuary reported the longest standard re-let times.

The committee also discussed the Your Voice, Our Action programme, aimed at improving housing management services and resident engagement. While progress has been made, with 78 out of 128 deliverables completed, concerns remain about the pace of change.

Renters' Rights Act 2025: Preparing for Change

The committee received an update on the council's preparedness for the Renters' Rights Act 2025, which will introduce significant changes, including the abolition of 'no-fault' evictions and the extension of the Decent Homes Standard to the private rental sector. A cross-departmental working group is in place to ensure compliance, with communications planned for landlords and tenants.

• Explore the Housing & Regeneration Scrutiny Sub Committee meeting.

Employee Appeals Sub Committee Meets on Confidential Matters

The Employee Appeals Sub Committee convened on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, to hear appeals against employee dismissals and review HR policy documents. Due to the confidential nature of the substantive business, the press and public were excluded from most of the proceedings.

• Details of the Employee Appeals Sub Committee meeting can be found online.

Other Matters

• The King George's Field Charity Board meeting, scheduled for Wednesday, 14 January 2026, was cancelled.
• The Licensing Committee meeting, scheduled for Thursday, 15 January 2026, was also cancelled.
• The Transformation and Assurance Board met on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, to discuss the People Survey results and the Continuous Improvement Plan (CIP). The report indicated that the Culture & Workforce programme was rated Red, with the Workforce Strategy pending. A deep-dive assurance session on the One Corporate Team mobilisation plan is scheduled for February 2026.
  • Find out more about the Transformation and Assurance Board meeting.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee - 20 January 2026 - Improving adult oral and dental health, and the proposed Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2026-2030.
• Council - 21 January 2026 - Youth Justice Strategy, amendments to the Code of Conduct, and the council's response to the Grenfell Tower tragedy recommendations.
• Licensing Sub Committee - 22 January 2026 - Applications for variation of premises licences, including extensions to operating hours and outdoor seating.
• Audit Committee - 29 January 2026 - Audit arrangements, financial performance, and governance.
• Development Committee - 29 January 2026 - Planning applications and development projects.
• Overview & Scrutiny Committee - 26 January 2026 - Amendments to the Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy approach, Be Well leisure service progress, and the Communications Strategy.
• Cabinet - 28 January 2026 - Various council decisions.