This week in Waltham Forest:

Council Staffing Committee to Decide on Key Senior Officer Appointment

The Staffing Committee met on Tuesday, 28 April 2026, to consider the appointment of a new Strategic Director of Resources. This is a critical role, as the postholder acts as the Council's Chief Finance Officer, responsible for developing and implementing financial strategy and ensuring robust financial management and governance.

The Strategic Director of Resources is a statutory role, meaning it is legally required for the council to have someone in this position. They are responsible for overseeing the council's financial health, ensuring compliance with legislation like Section 151 of the Local Government Act 1972[^1], and advising senior leadership on financial matters. This role is integral to the council's ability to deliver services effectively and responsibly, particularly for vulnerable residents who rely on council support.

The committee was presented with candidates following a rigorous selection process. The appointment will directly impact the council's capacity to manage its budget, secure funding for essential services, and maintain financial stability, which is crucial for all residents, especially those most in need.

Link to the Staffing Committee meeting

Other Matters

Several other council meetings were scheduled but ultimately cancelled in the past week:

• The Audit and Governance Committee meeting on Wednesday, 29 April, was cancelled.
• The Scrutiny Coordinating Committee meeting on Tuesday, 28 April, was cancelled.
• The Waltham Forest Stop and Search Group meeting on Monday, 27 April, was cancelled.
• The Constitution meeting on Wednesday, 29 April, was cancelled.

This week in Waltham Forest:

Council Boards Convene to Tackle Long-Term Health Conditions and Mental Wellbeing

The Integrated Meeting of Waltham Forest Health & Wellbeing and Health & Care Partnership Boards met on Monday, 20 April, to address critical issues impacting residents' health. The agenda included the development of the Better Care Fund (BCF) Annual Plan, an update on the mental health of Black boys and young men, and the adoption of a new Long Term Conditions Strategy. These discussions are vital for ensuring equitable access to care and improving health outcomes across the borough.

Addressing Long-Term Health Challenges

A key focus was the Better Care Fund (BCF) Annual Plan for 2026/27. The BCF is a crucial mechanism for integrating health and social care services, pooling resources to improve the wellbeing of individuals. The development of this plan involves strategic planning and financial coordination, directly impacting the services available to residents with long-term health needs.

The Boards also reviewed the Waltham Forest Long Term Conditions (LTC) Strategy and the draft North East London (NEL) LTC Outcomes Framework. The LTC Strategy aims to prevent, detect, and manage long-term health conditions through four strategic priorities: prevention and early detection, improved treatment and management, pathway development and integration, and proactive care and self-management. The NEL framework seeks to standardise care across North East London, focusing on improving population health and reducing inequalities. The adoption of these strategies will shape how residents with chronic conditions are supported.

Prioritising Mental Health for Young Black Men

A significant item was the update on the programme dedicated to improving the mental health and wellbeing of Black boys and young men in Waltham Forest. This initiative directly addresses known inequalities in mental health outcomes for this demographic. The programme is developing community-centred approaches and was expected to detail the recruitment of a board and the launch of community chest funding for relevant projects. This focus is essential for providing targeted support and addressing systemic issues that affect young people's mental health.

Promoting Wellbeing Through Partnerships

The meeting also provided an update on the Promoting Wellbeing workstream, highlighting collaborative efforts between the council, NHS, and the voluntary and community sector. This included updates on partnerships with the voluntary and community sector, the Borough of Sanctuary initiative, and employment and health programmes. Discussions also covered the health impacts of housing, including preventing homelessness and addressing issues like damp and mould, in line with Awaab's Law. These initiatives are designed to create a healthier and more supportive environment for all residents.

Link to the Integrated Meeting of WF Health & Wellbeing and Health & Care Partnership Boards meeting

Council to Tender for Design and Print Services Amidst Shifting Needs

An Executive Decision meeting on Thursday, 23 April, considered the procurement of design and print services for Waltham Forest Council. This decision is important for ensuring the council can continue to produce professional, cost-efficient, and brand-consistent materials, even as the demand for print services evolves.

Streamlining Communication and Branding

The meeting focused on securing a new contract for design and print services, managed by Corporate Communications. The aim is to provide a streamlined process, maintain brand identity, and ensure consistent quality across all council communications. The proposed contract covers design and print services, as well as a fast-turnaround reprographics service for urgent document delivery.

The report noted that demand for print services has decreased, with further reductions anticipated as more information moves online. This trend highlights the need for a flexible and efficient contract that can adapt to changing communication needs. The council's reliance on external providers for these services, due to a lack of internal staff, underscores the importance of securing a robust and cost-effective partnership.

Evaluating Procurement Options

Three options were considered:

• Do nothing: This was not recommended as it would lead to a loss of managed services, increased costs, and inconsistent branding.
• Procure an open tender contract: This was the recommended option, aiming to test the market for the best pricing and quality, and create efficiencies.
• Reduce contract amount or service usage: This was not recommended due to the potential negative impact on essential services like adult and children's services, public health, and governance.

The estimated annual contract value is £502,804, with a projected total for a three-year contract (including a 10% saving target) of £1,357,571.80. The report also highlighted the importance of sustainability, with the chosen supplier expected to demonstrate climate action and promote eco-friendly materials.

Link to the Executive Decision meeting

Housing Repairs Service Undergoing Major Re-Procurement

The Housing and Inclusive Economy Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday, 22 April, to discuss the strategy for re-procuring the council's housing repairs service. This is a critical decision that will impact the quality and efficiency of repairs for thousands of council homes across the borough. The current partnering contracts are due to end on 31 March 2027, necessitating a new approach.

Enhancing Repairs and Resident Satisfaction

The proposed strategy includes significant changes to contract durations, performance Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and the pricing model. Contract lengths for both mechanical and electrical (M&E) repairs and general repairs are being adjusted, with extensions subject to performance. New KPIs will focus on tenant satisfaction, damp and mould compliance (aligning with Awaab's Law), aged Work In Progress cases, and legal disrepair cases.

A key change is the move away from the current inflexible and inefficient Price Per Property (PPP) model for general repairs. The strategy also introduces commercial incentives to reward good performance, with financial penalties and additional profit linked to high-priority KPIs and service risk areas like damp and mould and legal disrepair.

Direct Procurement and Resident Engagement

The strategy also proposes procuring some services directly from specialist consultants or contractors. This aims to reduce contractor overheads, increase competition, and provide opportunities for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). Crucially, the report highlighted ongoing resident engagement, including consultations and workshops, with plans to establish a resident steering group. This ensures that resident voices are central to shaping the future of housing repairs.

The committee was asked to consider the draft Cabinet report and make recommendations. The report noted that this was the last meeting of the municipal year for the committee.

Link to the Housing and Inclusive Economy Scrutiny Committee meeting

Other Matters

Council and Health Scrutiny Meetings Cancelled

The Council meeting scheduled for Thursday, 23 April, and the Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny meeting on Tuesday, 21 April, were both cancelled.

This week in Waltham Forest:

Council Gears Up to Appoint New Senior Leaders for Highways and Community Safety

Waltham Forest Council is set to make crucial appointments to two senior leadership roles: Corporate Director of Highways and Parking, and Corporate Director of Community Safety and Public Protection. These appointments, discussed by the Staffing Committee on 14 and 15 April respectively, will shape the delivery of essential services impacting the daily lives and safety of residents.

Filling Key Leadership Roles

The Staffing Committee met on Tuesday, 14 April, to consider candidates for the Corporate Director of Highways and Parking role. This position is vital for overseeing the borough's road infrastructure and parking services, managing a substantial budget of £56 million. The recruitment aims to bring stable leadership and strategic direction to these services, which are crucial for the smooth functioning of the borough. The report highlighted the need for a candidate with significant senior strategic management experience, capable of managing diverse activities and substantial budgets. The role also involves direct line management of four heads of service, leading a team of over 90 staff.

Just a day later, on Wednesday, 15 April, the Staffing Committee also convened to discuss the appointment of a new Corporate Director of Community Safety and Public Protection. This pivotal role will lead the council's efforts to ensure safe and green neighbourhoods, overseeing services such as community safety, emergency planning, licensing, food safety, and trading standards. The post holder will manage a budget of £19 million and is responsible for developing a new directorate and leading the borough's statutory Community Safety Partnership. The report emphasised the need for strong leadership to ensure robust community safety strategies and operational tasking.

These appointments are part of the council's ongoing efforts to ensure effective leadership and service delivery across critical areas. The recruitment processes are being conducted in accordance with the Council's Recruitment & Selection Policy and Procedure and relevant legislation, including the Local Government Act 1989.

Link to the Staffing Committee meeting on 14 April Link to the Staffing Committee meeting on 15 April

Council Cabinet Discusses Housing Delivery, Procurement, and Fellowship Square Homes

The Waltham Forest Cabinet met on Tuesday, 14 April, to address key strategic priorities, including the council's Annual Procurement Plan, a new Housing and Inclusive Growth Delivery Plan, and the acquisition of new homes at Fellowship Square. These decisions are central to the council's commitment to providing housing and ensuring value for money in its spending.

Driving Housing Growth and Affordability

A significant focus was placed on the Housing and Inclusive Growth Delivery Plan. This plan outlines the council's ambitious target to deliver 27,000 new homes by 2035, as set out in its Local Plan. The strategy involves a multi-pronged approach, utilising council-led projects, development agreements, and partnerships with private developers and registered providers. A key element is the council's intention to partner with the Greater London Authority (GLA) under its London Social and Affordable Homes Programme to maximise the delivery of affordable homes. The report also highlighted the council's success in securing £18.2 million in grant funding to acquire 77 homes for temporary accommodation and refugee resettlement, demonstrating a commitment to addressing immediate housing needs.

Boosting Social Rent Stock at Fellowship Square

The Cabinet was also set to consider the acquisition of up to 81 new build homes at Hepworth Place, within the Fellowship Square neighbourhood. These homes are intended to be let at social rent, a crucial step in increasing the availability of genuinely affordable housing. The acquisition would convert these homes from private to social rent tenure, increasing the overall affordable housing provision at Fellowship Square from 50% to 67%. This move is seen as a strategic opportunity to maximise the use of Right to Buy (RTB) receipts and GLA grant funding, while also allowing the council to influence the unit mix to better meet the demand for family-sized homes. The report indicated that this acquisition would contribute to a reduction in expenditure on temporary accommodation.

Transparency in Procurement

The Annual Procurement Plan for 2026/27 was also on the agenda. This plan details proposed procurement projects exceeding £172,000 for supplies and services, or £1,000,000 for works contracts. The plan aims to provide transparency for potential suppliers and ensure that all procurements align with the Council's Contract Procedure Rules and executive decision-making processes. The report stressed that all listed procurements would be scrutinised by the Strategic Commissioning Board to ensure value for money, sustainability, and legal compliance, supporting the council's strategic priorities.

Link to the Cabinet meeting

East London Brewing Company Seeks Premises Licence Amidst Resident Concerns

The Licensing Act 2003 Sub-Committee met on Thursday, 16 April, to consider an application for a premises licence for the East London Brewing Company, located at Unit 2, Lockwood Way, Walthamstow, E17 5RB. The application, which seeks to permit the supply of alcohol for both on and off-premises consumption and extend operating hours, has generated significant concern among local residents.

Extended Hours and Noise Worries

The application requests operating hours until midnight on Thursdays and Fridays, and until 10:00 pm on other days, with non-standard timings for specific holidays. Six representations were received from residents and other interested parties, primarily focusing on concerns related to the licensing objectives of preventing public nuisance and crime and disorder.

Objectors, including residents of the nearby Walthamstow Wetlands, have raised worries about potential noise pollution from outdoor music and its impact on the local environment and wildlife. Concerns were also voiced about the cumulative impact of multiple licensed premises in the Lockwood Way area. Some residents noted that the application notice was not prominently displayed, potentially limiting awareness among those affected.

The Sub-Committee was tasked with weighing these concerns against the applicant's proposals and deciding whether to grant the licence in full, in part, or refuse it. The decision will have a direct bearing on the local amenity and the quality of life for those living in the vicinity.

Link to the Licensing Act 2003 Sub-Committee meeting

Other Matters

Shareholder Committee Meets

The Shareholder Committee met on Tuesday, 14 April. The attendees included Councillor Grace Williams (Leader of the Council), Councillor Paul Douglas (Portfolio Lead Member - Finance and Resources), Councillor Ahsan Khan (Deputy Leader (Housing and Regeneration)), Councillor Clyde Loakes (Deputy Leader (Climate and Air Quality)), Mark Hynes, Rob Manning, and Joe Garrod. No summary of the meeting's discussions or decisions is currently available.

Link to the Shareholder Committee meeting

This week in Waltham Forest:

Council Moves to Acquire New Homes at Fellowship Square, Boosting Affordable Housing

The Housing and Inclusive Economy Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday, 08 April 2026, to discuss a significant proposal: the acquisition of up to 81 new build homes at Hepworth Place, within the Fellowship Square neighbourhood. This move, set to be considered by Cabinet on 14 April, aims to increase the council's stock of social rented housing and reduce reliance on costly temporary accommodation.

The homes, part of a development by Countryside Partnerships (CP), were originally intended to be part of a Build to Rent (BTR) scheme. However, due to market challenges and a lack of viable offers from Registered Providers (RPs), the council has the opportunity to acquire them. This acquisition is seen as a strategic move to maximise the use of Right to Buy (RTB) receipts and GLA grant funding, ensuring these homes are let at social rent.

The report highlighted several key benefits:

• Increased Affordable Housing: The acquisition would boost the affordable housing percentage at Fellowship Square from 50% to 67%.
• Reduced Temporary Accommodation Costs: An estimated £1 million per annum saving is projected by reducing the need for temporary accommodation.
• Improved Housing Stock: The council can influence the unit mix to better meet the demand for family-sized homes.
• Financial Viability: The acquisition is deemed financially viable within the Housing Revenue Account's (HRA) Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS).

The report also noted that the construction of these blocks has not yet commenced, allowing the council to set a detailed specification. An Equality Impact Assessment screening indicated no negative impacts on protected characteristic groups, with positive impacts noted for disability due to the inclusion of adaptable homes and disabled parking.

The committee also reviewed the council's scrutiny work programme, including updates on the Forward Plan and an Action Tracker. The Acquisition of Social Rent Homes at Fellowship Square was identified as a key decision for Cabinet.

Link to the Housing and Inclusive Economy Scrutiny Committee meeting

Council Faces Decisions on Pension Fund Strategy and Investment

The Waltham Forest Pension Fund's financial strategies and investment plans are under review as the Pension Committee prepares to examine key documents. While the specific outcomes of these discussions are not yet available, the documents themselves outline the critical decisions being made to ensure the long-term security of pensions for council employees and other eligible individuals.

The committee is set to review:

• Funding Strategy Statement: This document details how the fund will meet its future pension liabilities.
• Business Plan: This outlines the operational objectives and priorities for the fund over the next two years.
• Investment Strategy Statement: This dictates how the pension fund's assets will be invested to generate returns.

These documents are crucial for the financial health of the fund. The Fit for the Future report will assess the fund's structure and operations, while updates on the London Collective Investment Vehicle (CIV) will shed light on pooled investment strategies. The committee will also review performance reports, management expenses, and the draft budget for 2026-27.

The implications of these strategies are far-reaching, directly impacting the security of pensions for current and future retirees.

Link to the Pension Committee meeting

Other Matters

Cabinet to Consider Housing Delivery and Procurement Plans

The Cabinet is scheduled to meet on Tuesday, 14 April 2026, with a significant agenda focused on housing delivery and procurement. Key discussions will include the Housing and Inclusive Growth Delivery Plan, which aims to deliver 27,000 new homes by 2035. The Cabinet will also consider the acquisition of new build homes at Fellowship Square, as detailed in the Housing and Inclusive Economy Scrutiny Committee's recent discussions. Furthermore, the Annual Procurement Plan 2026/27 will be reviewed, outlining proposed procurement projects and ensuring transparency for potential suppliers. A new Section 75 Partnership Agreement for the Better Care Fund and discussions on Schools and Early Years Budgets for 2026/27 are also on the agenda.

Link to the Cabinet meeting