The Full Council of Barking and Dagenham Council met on Wednesday 20 November 2024, adopting a new Local Plan for the borough and approving new licensing schemes for private rented properties. The council also adopted a revised policy on gifts, hospitality, and sponsorship for councillors.

Adoption of the Barking and Dagenham 2037 Local Plan

The Assembly resolved to adopt the Barking and Dagenham 2037 Local Plan. This plan sets out the spatial vision and framework for future development in the borough, aligning with national priorities for housing, the economy, infrastructure, and environmental protection. Amendments were made to the draft plan following public consultation and the Planning Inspector's report. The issue of development on grey belt land was noted as an emerging concern that was not included in the 2037 Local Plan due to the need for further consultation and consideration, which would delay implementation. Cabinet colleagues discussed the potential for certain green belt sites, such as at Barking and Dagenham College and the Wellgate Community Farm, to be considered for future grey belt proposals. Authority was delegated to the Strategic Director, Inclusive Growth and Place, to make any final minor edits or corrections to the plan prior to its publication.

Private Sector Housing Selective Licensing Scheme 2024-29

The council resolved to agree the licensing designations and proposal for a five-year Borough-wide Selective Licensing scheme, and to submit the application to the Secretary of State for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. This forms part of new licensing schemes for private rented properties and houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) across the borough. The aim of these schemes is to reduce anti-social behaviour associated with private rented accommodation and to provide greater protections for private tenants. Public consultation indicated strong support from local residents and stakeholder groups, although landlords and managing/letting agents were largely in disagreement. The schemes are intended to be self-financing through a fee structure. The Assembly also agreed the licence fee structure and delegated authority to the Operational Director, Enforcement and Regulatory Services, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety, to periodically review the fee structure. Furthermore, the Assembly agreed to proposed licence conditions for selective licences in Designations 1-3.

Adoption of the Planning Obligations Supplementary Planning Document

The Assembly adopted the Planning Obligations Supplementary Planning Document (SPD). The SPD aims to provide clarity to the community, developers, and planners regarding the Council's approach to negotiating Section 106 planning obligations alongside the Community Infrastructure Levy. The document outlines 10 key themes for which the Council will seek contributions, including affordable housing, carbon offsetting, air quality, employment and skills development, affordable workspace, education and healthcare infrastructure, public realm, sustainable transport, parks and open space, and nature and biodiversity. Authority was delegated to the Strategic Director, Inclusive Growth and Place, to make any final minor edits to the SPD before its publication.

Councillors Gifts, Hospitality and Sponsorship Policy

The Assembly was recommended to adopt the revised Councillors Gifts, Hospitality and Sponsorship Policy. This policy provides clear guidance to councillors and officers on the registration and acceptance of gifts, hospitality, and sponsorship. It reiterates the requirement for councillors and officers to register any gifts or hospitality received with a value exceeding £50, or cumulatively over £50 in a calendar year, within 28 days. The policy also addresses sponsorship arrangements, emphasising the need for ethical standards and avoiding any perception of undue influence. The Audit and Standards Committee had previously accepted the policy and recommended its adoption by the Assembly. A similar policy is already in place for council employees and council-controlled companies.

Local Safeguarding Adults Board Annual Report 2023/24

The Assembly noted the contents of the Barking and Dagenham Safeguarding Adults Board (SAB) Annual Report 2023/24. The report details the work and priorities of the SAB from April 2022 to March 2023, highlighting key achievements, partner contributions, and efforts to improve the protection of adults at risk of abuse and neglect. The report was agreed by the SAB in September 2024. Members were invited to add further comments to shape the future work and priorities of the Board. The report noted that safeguarding vulnerable adults is a key statutory duty, requiring collaboration with partners in the health sector and the Police. The SAB comprises the Local Authority, the Police, and the NHS Integrated Care Board, along with other key local partners. The report also detailed financial contributions from statutory partners to support the SAB's work.

Appointments

The Assembly resolved to agree the appointment of David Harley to the post of Strategic Director, Inclusive Growth and Place, at grade CO4 (£129,215). The Assembly also resolved to approve the appointment of Richard Harbord as the Council's Interim Strategic Director, Resources, effective from 3 September 2024, and his designation as the Council's statutory Chief Financial Officer.

Recognition of 50 Years Service

The Chief Executive announced that John Dawe, Senior Governance Officer, had achieved 50 years of service to the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham. Members thanked Mr. Dawe for his long service and presented him with a certificate and plaque.