The Barbican Estate Residents Consultation Committee meeting scheduled for Monday, 20 April 2026, was set to cover a wide range of operational and strategic matters concerning the Barbican Estate. Key discussions were expected to focus on the long-term major works programme, including a 30-year forecast for essential refurbishments and upgrades, as well as updates on specific projects like the tower lifts refurbishment. The committee was also scheduled to review and consider policies related to repairs and maintenance, building safety resident engagement, and the overall Barbican Resident Guide.

Major Works Programme Board

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the work of the Major Works Programme Board. This board has been focused on developing a long-term strategic approach to capital investment for the Barbican Estate, progressing key projects, and strengthening governance, procurement, and resident engagement. The report was expected to provide an overview of the work undertaken in recent months.

Barbican Estate - Major Works Delivery Forecast Years 1-30

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Barbican Estate's Major Works Delivery Forecast for the next 30 years. This report outlines proposed refurbishment and renewal projects, encompassing both building fabric works and mechanical and electrical services. The estimated total cost for this extensive programme is £275 million, with a substantial amount expected to be recovered from service charge payers. The forecast details specific projects such as the Barbican Podium, fire door replacement, and external envelope repairs, alongside numerous mechanical and electrical upgrades.

Barbican Estate - Tower Lifts Refurbishment Update

An update was scheduled regarding the ongoing tender process for the appointment of a Lift Consultant for the Tower Lift Refurbishment project. This project addresses the aging condition of the estate's lifts, the difficulty in sourcing replacement parts, and the need to comply with modern safety standards. The report was expected to detail the revised procurement programme, including a two-stage tender process, and the anticipated timeline for appointing a consultant, with a report seeking approval for the appointment to be presented to the Barbican Residential Committee in July 2026.

Report of the Reporting Committee

The committee was set to receive an overview of the work undertaken by the Reporting Committee. This work has focused on strengthening governance, improving transparency, enhancing resident communication, and ensuring compliance with evolving legislative and regulatory requirements, particularly in relation to the Building Safety Act 2022. Key areas of focus included the development of building safety documentation, the establishment of clear policies for estate services, and the creation of new resident-facing documentation.

Barbican Estate Redecoration Programme 2020-25

An update was scheduled on the redecoration works to the internal and external areas of the residential blocks between 2020 and 2025. Following the completion of the physical works, a review was undertaken to identify lessons learned for future cyclical redecoration projects. The report was expected to cover aspects such as project scope, tendering processes, site works, reporting, snagging, and close-out, as well as a full review of project finances. An outcome report was planned for consultation with the Resident Consultation Committee in June 2026.

Repairs and Maintenance Policy

The committee was asked to approve the Barbican Estate Repairs and Maintenance Policy. This policy has been developed to support the transition to an in-house repairs and maintenance service, aiming to improve responsiveness, strengthen oversight, provide better value for money, and enable a more proactive approach to maintenance. The policy sets out how services will be delivered, managed, and monitored, including clear service standards, responsibilities, governance arrangements, and financial controls.

Building Safety Resident Engagement Strategy

The committee was scheduled to consider the adoption of the Lauderdale Tower Resident Engagement Strategy. This strategy is a statutory requirement under the Building Safety Act 2022 and is a key component of the Accountable Person's duties. It outlines how residents will be informed, consulted, and involved in decisions relating to building safety. The report noted that the strategy had been developed, tested, and applied in draft form as part of the Building Safety Case submission for Lauderdale Tower, which successfully achieved its Building Assessment Certificate in February 2026.

Barbican Resident Guide

The committee was asked to approve the Barbican Resident Guide. This non-statutory document has been developed to provide clear, accessible, and practical information for new and existing residents and leaseholders. It consolidates key estate information, services, responsibilities, and contact details into a single, user-friendly resource, aiming to improve transparency and efficiency in how residents access services and understand estate regulations.

Working Party Updates

Updates were expected from several working parties:

• Gardens Advisory: This group would report on their quarterly inspections of the Barbican Gardens, noting the positive impact of the City Gardens team's work and discussing proposals for new planters and the restoration of the lake waterfall.
• Service Level Agreement Working Party (SLAWP): This group would provide an update on various matters, including progress on automating KPI data, the Repairs and Maintenance Policy, the Civica system, complaints handling, lift performance, resident involvement in block inspections, and the deployment of the Barbican App. They would also present a review of KPIs related to customer care, repairs timeliness, lift availability, and failed inspection jobs.
• Service Charge Working Party: No specific report was listed, but this group typically reviews financial matters related to service charges.

Outstanding Actions

The committee was scheduled to review a list of outstanding actions from previous meetings, noting which actions had been closed and which remained open for further progress. This would include updates on various ongoing projects and policy reviews.

Questions on Matters Relating to the Work of the Committee

This item provided an opportunity for members to ask questions regarding any matters within the remit of the committee.

Any Other Business That the Chairman Considers Urgent

This item allowed for the discussion of any urgent matters not previously included on the agenda.