The Cabinet Member Signing meeting was scheduled to discuss two key items: a direct award for voids works to Haringey Community Benefits Society (HCBS) and Private Sector Leased (PSL) properties, and the acquisition of 21 new council homes at 76 Mayes Road, Wood Green. The meeting's agenda also included provisions for the exclusion of the press and public for discussions involving exempt information.

Direct Award for Voids Works to HCBS and PSL Properties

The meeting was scheduled to consider a recommendation for the direct award of a voids contract for a period not exceeding 18 months to Contractor A. This contract would cover voids works to Haringey Community Benefits Society (HCBS) and Private Sector Leased (PSL) properties. The report indicated that this direct award from the LCP Framework MW24 Lot 2.2 was considered the most time and cost-efficient method for procuring a contractor. The rationale behind this proposed contract is to address the significant number of properties acquired by HCBS and the Council's commitment to PSL properties, both of which require works to be undertaken to return them to a lettable standard or meet tenancy obligations. The report highlighted that not undertaking these works would exacerbate pressures on temporary accommodation. It was also noted that the council is aiming to deliver 3,000 council homes by 2031, and this contract would contribute to bringing more properties into use for residents, thereby reducing expenditure on expensive private rented sector accommodation for homeless households. Furthermore, the contract was expected to include provisions for social value, such as the use of apprenticeships and local supply chain procurement.

Acquisition of Council Homes at 76 Mayes Road, Wood Green

The meeting was scheduled to consider the approval for the acquisition of 21 newly constructed council homes located at the Former Petrol Filling Station, 76 Mayes Road, Wood Green, N22 6SY. These homes form part of a larger redevelopment by Weston Homes, which created 83 homes and 6 commercial units. The acquisition is intended to help the Council meet its pledge to build 3,000 council homes by 2031, as outlined in its A New Housing Strategy for Haringey 2024-29 . The report stated that 13,000 households are currently on the Council's housing register, and these new homes would provide secure, affordable housing. The acquisition aligns with the Council's established programme to increase the supply of modern, sustainable homes, reduce reliance on temporary accommodation, and deliver General Fund cost savings. The homes are described as being completed to a high standard, exceeding the Council's usual specification for affordable homes, and are well-located within Wood Green. The report also noted that the development is car-free and has on-site cycle parking, with all homes designed to meet London Plan standards for space and private amenity. The acquisition would be part-funded by grant funding from the GLA's Council Housing Acquisition Programme 2021 to 2026 allocation (CHAP) and either Right to Buy (RtB) receipts or funding from the Council's General Fund.

The meeting was also scheduled to address the exclusion of the press and public for agenda items 9 and 10, which contained exempt information relating to the financial or business affairs of individuals or the authority. These items pertained to the direct award for voids works and the acquisition of council homes, respectively.