The Barking and Dagenham Council Assembly met on Wednesday 18 September 2024, electing Councillor Dominic Twomey as the new Leader of the Council. The meeting also saw the adoption of the Planning Obligations Supplementary Planning Document and the Barking and Dagenham 2037 Local Plan, which will guide future development in the borough.

Election of Leader of the Council

Councillor Dominic Twomey was elected as the new Leader of the Council, with his term set to expire at the Annual Assembly meeting in May 2026. Following his election, Councillor Twomey announced that there were no new Cabinet appointments at this time.

Death of Former Councillor Robin Dixon and Councillor Lee Waker

The Assembly noted with deep regret the passing of former Councillor Robin Dixon, who represented Longbridge Ward from 1990 to 1994. Members paid tribute to his commitment to the community. The Assembly also noted the death of serving Councillor Lee Waker, who represented Village Ward for over 22 years from 2002 until his passing. Tributes were paid to Councillor Waker's dedication to his constituents and his significant contributions to various council committees, particularly the Licensing and Regulatory Committee. A minute's applause was held in memory of both former councillors.

Leader's Statement

Councillor Dominic Twomey, the newly elected Leader, delivered his statement, thanking colleagues for their faith in him and expressing pride in the borough's achievements, including its schools, affordable housing, and green spaces. He acknowledged the challenges ahead, particularly concerning child poverty and employment, exacerbated by the cost of living crisis. He expressed optimism for the future with a new Labour government and Mayor, and highlighted the achievements of Holly Ridley, a local resident who has become the Labour Party General Secretary.

Councillor Twomey also addressed the devastating fire at the Spectrum Building on Freshwater Road, reassuring residents that the Council was providing support, including emergency accommodation. He thanked council staff for their efforts and stressed the importance of private landlords and managing agents taking responsibility for building safety. He also spoke about the borough's diversity and resilience, referencing the riots earlier in the summer and the positive community responses seen across the country. He congratulated young people on their A-level and GCSE results and acknowledged the prestigious Green Flag Awards received by several of the borough's parks. Finally, he paid tribute to the outgoing Leader, Councillor Darren Rodwell, for his decade of service and immense impact on the borough.

Councillor Darren Rodwell then addressed the Assembly, reflecting on his ten years as Leader and congratulating Councillor Twomey and Councillor Saima Ashraf on their new roles. He highlighted the transformation of the borough over the past decade, citing significant investment, the delivery of thousands of new homes, and improvements in education. He also spoke about the council's commitment to sustainability and its leading role in retrofitting homes. Councillor Rodwell expressed his pride in the borough's diversity and its ability to overcome challenges, including the pandemic. He concluded by thanking everyone for their trust, support, and partnership, stating that Barking and Dagenham would always be his home.

Several other members, including Councillor Emily Rodwell, Councillor Cameron Geddes, Councillor Maureen Worby, Councillor Jane Jones, Councillor Saima Ashraf, Councillor Elizabeth Kangethe, Councillor Princess Bright, Councillor Darren Rodwell, Councillor Mukhtar Yusuf, Councillor Kashif Haroon, and Councillor Dominic Twomey, delivered tributes to Councillor Rodwell, reflecting on his leadership, vision, and dedication to the borough.

Appointment of Strategic Director, Inclusive Growth and Place

The Assembly agreed to the appointment of David Harley as the Strategic Director, Inclusive Growth and Place.

Appointment of Interim Strategic Director, Resources, and Statutory Chief Financial Officer

The Assembly approved the appointment of Richard Harbord as the Interim Strategic Director, Resources, and statutory Chief Financial Officer, effective from 3 September 2024. Mr Harbord has extensive experience in local government finance, having previously served as Chief Executive and Director of Finance at the London Borough of Richmond.

Private Sector Housing Selective Licensing Scheme 2024-29

The Assembly agreed to the licensing designations and proposal for a five-year Borough-wide Selective Licensing scheme and an Additional Licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO's) scheme. These schemes aim to improve housing quality, address persistent issues in the private rented sector, and support vulnerable residents. The Borough-wide Selective Licensing Scheme will be submitted to the Secretary of State for confirmation.

Adoption of the Planning Obligations Supplementary Planning Document

The Assembly adopted the Planning Obligations Supplementary Planning Document (SPD). This document provides guidance to developers and officers on the Council's approach to Section 106 planning obligations and Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) payments, ensuring that new developments contribute to necessary infrastructure and mitigate their impacts.

Adoption of Barking and Dagenham 2037 Local Plan

The Assembly adopted the Barking and Dagenham 2037 Local Plan. This comprehensive plan sets out the spatial vision and framework for future development in the borough, addressing housing, the economy, infrastructure, and environmental protection. The plan has undergone extensive consultation and examination, with modifications made based on inspector recommendations to ensure its soundness.

John Dawe - Recognition of 50 years Service to LBBD

The Assembly recognised John Dawe, Senior Governance Officer, for his remarkable 50 years of service to Barking and Dagenham Council. Mr Dawe began his career as a clerical assistant and progressed to become the Democratic Services Group Manager. Members thanked him for his dedication and presented him with a certificate and plaque.

The meeting concluded at 9:10 pm.