The Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning (Deputy Leader), Councillor Sarah Williams, approved significant investment in structural repairs and hostel refurbishments. Key decisions included awarding a £3.6 million contract for major works to four hostels in Muswell Hill and a £2 million contract for a two-year structural programme across the borough.

Hostels - Major Works Programme

Councillor Sarah Williams, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning (Deputy Leader), approved the award of a £3,600,817.13 contract to Tenderer A for the refurbishment of four council-owned hostels located at 9, 32, and 39 Queens Avenue, and 19 Princess Avenue in Muswell Hill. The contract, which will run for 12 months from April 2026 to March 2027, includes structural repairs, roof and external fabric repairs, refurbishment of communal spaces, replacement of windows and doors, internal redecoration, grounds improvements, and decarbonisation measures such as air source heat pumps and solar panels. The aim is to improve the energy efficiency of the hostels, with an expected increase in their Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating from D/E to C. Fire safety upgrades, including the replacement of entrance doors with fire-rated components, will also be undertaken.

The decision to proceed with a standalone procurement route, rather than waiting for the appointment of Partnering Contractors, was made due to the urgent need to upgrade the properties to maximise income generation, as most rooms are currently vacant. Tenderer A was selected as they submitted the most advantageous tender, scoring 97.75% out of 100% for a balance of price and quality. The council also approved the issuance of a Letter of Intent for £360,000 to allow the contractor to begin ordering supplies before the formal contract is finalised. The works are expected to be financially completed by August 2027.

MTC - Structural Programme (2026-2028)

Councillor Sarah Williams also approved the award of a Measured Term Contract (MTC) to Tenderer A for £2,000,000 to carry out essential structural works to housing properties across the borough. This two-year contract, commencing in May 2026 and concluding in May 2028, aims to address an increasing volume of structural referrals driven by defects identified through inspections and resident reports. The MTC model is considered more efficient and cost-effective than procuring individual projects, reducing procurement overheads and ensuring specialist capability.

The council also approved the issuance of a Letter of Intent to Tenderer A for £200,000, and professional fees of £301,555, bringing the total project cost to £2,301,555. The properties included in the programme will generally comprise single dwellings, converted houses, and low to medium-rise blocks. The decision supports the Housing Asset Management Strategy¹ by ensuring Haringey's housing assets are safe and compliant with current Building Safety Regulations, and aligns with the Corporate Delivery Plan (2024–2026) objectives under the Homes for the Future and Place and Economy themes. Tenderer A was ranked first in the tender evaluation, achieving a total score of 88.5% based on 40% price, 50% quality, and 10% social value. The financial completion of this scheme is expected by December 2029.