The Camden Council meeting on 12 October 2020 addressed significant issues including the impact of traffic schemes on disabled residents, concerns from businesses about proposed cycle lanes on Haverstock Hill, and the growing problem of food insecurity and poverty in the borough. Key decisions included opposing government reforms to the planning system and agreeing to consider a roadworks lane rental scheme.

Deputation on Traffic Restrictions and Accessibility

Mik Scarlett, a disabled resident of Camden, presented a deputation highlighting the negative impact of traffic schemes, implemented to promote walking and cycling, on disabled and older residents. He stated that these schemes were making it more difficult for people who rely on private cars, licensed taxis, or accessible private hire vehicles to travel door-to-door. Mr. Scarlett expressed concern that licensed taxis were being impeded from picking up and dropping off disabled passengers due to barriers demarcating cycle lanes and expanded pavements. He also noted that traffic restrictions were causing increased congestion and longer, more expensive journeys for taxi users, including Taxicard users. Mr. Scarlett urged the council to ensure that all schemes have appropriate arrangements for vehicular access for those with accessibility needs, suggesting that exemptions for disabled residents and taxis, similar to those in Healthy School Streets schemes, should be a model for all other schemes. He also called for the avoidance of fixed barriers where possible and for gaps in barriers to allow taxi access.

Councillor Simon Pearson, who declared an interest as a committee member of Camden Cyclists, questioned Mr. Scarlett about his preference for being picked up in a deserted low-traffic neighbourhood compared to a congested street, and whether being dropped off alongside a cycle lane would be more difficult than alongside parked cars. Councillor Paul Tomlinson asked for specific examples of difficulties faced by disabled people, and Councillor Geo Banana inquired about reconciling the needs of vulnerable residents with taxi access with the current design of barriers. Councillor Robinson raised concerns about the poor condition of pavements and streets, which he stated were dangerous for many residents.

In response, Mr. Scarlett agreed that improving pavements was important alongside installing cycle lanes and that streets needed to be clean. He explained that bollards and cycle lanes could make it difficult for taxis to access the kerb for disabled passengers and that bollards also made it harder to stop easily. He provided examples of his neighbour's difficulties with accessing their car and the longer journeys faced by wheelchair users in the new low-traffic neighbourhood.

Councillor Adam Harrison, Cabinet Member for a Sustainable Camden, responded to the deputation, emphasizing that the council's aim was for everyone to be able to get door-to-door by car if needed and that they were not creating entirely car-free zones. He stated that the council wanted to keep roads moving freely for a variety of reasons, including air quality and carbon reduction, and to prioritize those who genuinely needed to travel by car. Councillor Harrison assured that all experimental schemes were trials and could be changed, and that equalities impact assessments were being undertaken. He also noted that measures like bollards and low-traffic neighbourhoods were not new and had been in place for many years in various parts of the borough.

Petition Against Haverstock Hill Cycle Lane

David Levin, owner of Tish Restaurant on Haverstock Hill, presented a petition signed by 48 affected shops and cafes against the proposed cycle lanes on Haverstock Hill. He stated that Camden Council had not consulted with businesses about the impact of the scheme, and that a survey also showed resident opposition. Mr. Levin argued that removing car parking would lead to the closure of many businesses, destroying Belsize Park and Steele's Village, and resulting in job losses. He highlighted specific concerns from Perkins Dry Cleaners, Lisa Hawke Hair Salon, the London Centre for Cosmetic Dentistry, and his own restaurant, Tish, emphasizing the reliance of their customers on parking. He also pointed out the steepness of Haverstock Hill, making cycling difficult.

Councillor Oliver Cooper asked about the impact of the changes on businesses with outdoor seating and the potential for traffic build-up behind buses. Councillor Steve Adams asked Lisa Mayer, a fellow rider and owner of Lisa Hawke Hair Salon, for her views on the current cycling experience on Haverstock Hill and the option of using quieter back roads. Councillor Nayra Bello O'Shanahan inquired if the petitioners had discussed studies showing positive impacts of cycling and walking infrastructure on local businesses. Councillor Luisa Porritt asked if there was a version of the scheme that could work for the businesses and if the council could work with them to design something more appropriate. Councillor Peter Taheri asked for examples of similar changes elsewhere that had led to adverse economic impacts.

In response, Mr. Levin stated that traffic build-up would negatively impact outdoor dining and that he was upset by comments suggesting businesses would be fine or better with cycle lanes, as they knew their customers did not come by bicycle. He welcomed the opportunity to meet with Councillor Harrison to discuss a potential solution. Lisa Hauck, owner of Lisa Hauck Beauty, also spoke, emphasizing that clients who couldn't walk or cycle relied on parking and that convenience was key for customers. She also highlighted the difficulty of cycling up the steep hill.

Councillor Adam Harrison, Cabinet Member for a Sustainable Camden, responded to the petition, outlining that the plans included new zebra crossings and a push-button crossing, and that there was an anticipated extra disabled parking space. He reiterated that everyone would still be able to drive to the shops and businesses on Haverstock Hill. He also mentioned that the Royal Free Hospital had indicated their support for the cycle lanes, concerned about opening up safe travel options for their staff.

Themed Debate: Food Insecurity and Food Poverty in Camden

Councillor Patricia Callaghan, Cabinet Member for a Healthy and Caring Camden, introduced a report on food insecurity and food poverty in Camden, noting that the issue had worsened considerably since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. She highlighted that food insecurity had doubled in the first three weeks of lockdown, disproportionately affecting households with children, disabled people, low-wage earners, and older people. Councillor Callaghan praised the council's response, including the establishment of 24 food hubs and the delivery of nearly 33,000 food parcels. She stressed that food parcels were not a long-term solution and that the council was committed to eradicating poverty.

External speakers shared their experiences and insights:

• Rashida Graham of Urban Community Projects and Camden Mobile Food Bank reported a phenomenal increase in people needing food support, with 1,437 people helped in 18 weeks, a significant rise from the previous year. She noted that 403 of these had lost their jobs due to COVID-19, and 975 lived in homes with more than one child, underscoring the reality of food poverty. She thanked volunteers, the council, and local community support.
• Keith Morgan of the Young Camden Foundation spoke about the risk of holiday hunger for low-income families and the need for affordable childcare. He described the success of five holiday hubs that provided meals, activities, and nutritional education, benefiting 240 children. He advocated for the extension of free school meals to all holidays and a rethink of eligibility criteria.
• Foyezur Miah of the Queens Crescent Community Association detailed their response to the pandemic, which led to them becoming the second largest food bank in Camden, delivering an average of 100 hot meals a day and distributing 17,900 hot meals over four months. He highlighted the disproportionate impact on the BME community and the launch of a new programme to provide advice and guidance to help people out of poverty.
• Janet Grauberg of the NW6 Mutual Aid Group described the operation of the West Hampstead Community Food Hub, supporting around 90 families weekly. She emphasized the community-building aspect of volunteering and requested council support for drivers and better information sharing to help reach more neighbours in need.
• Jacob Forman of JW3 spoke about their pivot from leisure activities to food provision during lockdown, including a cooking programme that donated meals to a council-run shelter and a food bank that had delivered over 55,000 meals. He stressed that these projects would continue, as the issue of food poverty, once seen, could not be unseen.
• Kevin Noonan of Voluntary Action Camden highlighted that about a third of calls to their Community Links service related to food. He welcomed the report's recognition that food poverty was a long-term issue requiring a sustainable response that preserved dignity and built solidarity.
• Nikki Morris of Age UK Camden reported distributing 14,000 bags of food and noted that 280 clients were unable to ensure their own food supply independently. She emphasized the connection between food and mental wellbeing, the role of small food shops, and the crucial role of information and advice services.

Councillors then contributed to the debate, expressing gratitude for the community's efforts, acknowledging the endemic nature of food poverty predating COVID-19, and calling for long-term solutions that would eliminate the need for food banks. Concerns were raised about reaching all those in need, the strain on community centres, and the intersection of food poverty with fuel poverty. Councillor Rishi Madlani specifically asked Rashida Graham about the number of people still not being reached and the main target groups, and Nikki Morris about what more support Age UK Camden needed. Councillor Sian Berry raised concerns about readiness for winter and the intersection of food and fuel poverty. Councillor Nadia Shah attributed food poverty to inequality and government cuts, while Councillor Nayra Bello O'Shanahan highlighted the radical exposure of inequalities by COVID-19 due to austerity. Councillor Flick Rea emphasized the need for a bottom-up approach and an alliance between community organizations, the council, and the NHS. Councillor Tom Simon expressed concern about the long-term need for support and the strain on community centres. Councillor Oliver Cooper raised issues about the council's engagement with new voluntary groups and the quality of food provided.

Councillor Patricia Callaghan summed up, reiterating thanks to the voluntary and community sector, calling them the spine of Camden, and emphasizing the need for government to listen to the issue of food poverty.

Statement by the Leader of the Council and Questions to the Leader and Cabinet Members

Councillor Georgia Gould, Leader of the Council, made a statement acknowledging the amazing community heroes who had stepped up during the crisis and the growing need due to rising COVID-19 cases. She stressed the importance of community power and energy to address deep inequalities.

Councillor Oliver Cooper, Leader of the Conservative Group, criticized the council's handling of the Carlton School information and traffic and transport changes, alleging a culture of secrecy and lack of consultation. He also raised concerns about the rising costs of the town hall refurbishment and the lack of transparency.

Councillor Luisa Porritt, Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group, echoed concerns about the economic situation, highlighting the impact of job losses and inadequate government support. She criticized the government's handling of testing and its ill-thought-out planning reforms.

Councillor Gould responded to Councillor Cooper's criticisms, defending the council's record on participation and engagement and highlighting the government's own directives on rapid action for active travel schemes.

Questions were then taken from councillors:

• Councillor Sian Berry asked Councillor Georgia Gould about the timing of the second phase of the Chalcots review and the legal case against PFI contractors. Councillor Gould stated that legal advice indicated the review should not begin until litigation was complete, and that a huge effort was being made to gather information.
• Councillor Tom Simon asked Councillor Gould why elected members were not involved in the Climate Citizens Panel. Councillor Gould explained it was a recommendation of the Citizens' Assembly and would sit alongside scrutiny functions.
• Councillor Jenny Mulholland asked Councillor Danny Beales about the impact of working from home on the local economy and business support. Councillor Beales detailed the council's grant distribution and ongoing conversations with businesses, calling for extended support packages and business rate flexibilities.
• Councillor Steve Adams asked Councillor Richard Olszewski about the rising costs of the town hall refurbishment and the lack of scrutiny. Councillor Olszewski defended the council's openness, citing numerous cabinet reports and a member steering group, and highlighted the project's benefits.

Appointments to Formal Council Bodies

No nominations were proposed for appointments to formal council bodies.

Treasury Management Annual Report and Mid-Year Strategy

Councillor Richard Olszewski, Cabinet Member for Finance and Transformation, introduced the Treasury Management Annual Report and Mid-Year Strategy. The report detailed the council's borrowing and investment strategies, noting that external debt remained at £329 million and the council was under-borrowed by £252 million. The investment strategy remained cautious, prioritizing security and liquidity. A specific decision was required to delegate authority to the Executive Director for Corporate Services to make changes to the use of money market funds if negative interest rates occurred. Councillor Oliver Cooper praised the report's risk-averse approach. The recommendations were agreed by the council.

Remedies Policy and Procedure and Related Constitutional Changes

Councillor Abdul Quadir, Chair of the Audit and Corporate Governance Committee, introduced the report on the Remedies Policy and Procedure and related constitutional changes. The proposed changes aimed to update the terms of reference of the Audit and Corporate Governance Committee to agree the Council's Remedies Policy and Procedure, allowing officers to agree specific remedies on a case-by-case basis within that framework. This was seen as a necessary change to the constitution. The recommendations were agreed by the council.

Business from the Ordinary Council Meeting on 7th September 2020

The council noted a report from the Borough Solicitor concerning unconsidered motions and responses to written council questions from the previous meeting.

Motions

Motion 1: Opposition to Government Planning Reforms

Councillor Danny Beales moved a motion opposing the government's White Paper, 'Planning for the Future,' arguing it would undermine local democracy, weaken community say, and remove vital infrastructure payments. Councillors Flick Rea and Sian Berry seconded the motion. Councillor Andrew Parkinson spoke against the motion, stating it was a national issue outside the council's control and that the motion misrepresented the proposals. He argued that growth areas would still have local control over design and that the new levy could increase infrastructure revenue. Councillor Lazzaro Pietragnoli criticized the Conservative group's stance, emphasizing the importance of local councils shaping national policy and condemning the proposals as a theft of local democracy and a threat to social housing. Councillor Heather Johnson also spoke against the proposals, highlighting the work of officers in wrestling improvements from developers and the risk of dirty, quick and easy schemes.

The motion was put to a roll call vote and CARRIED with 49 votes for, 0 against, and 6 abstentions.

Motion 2: Roadworks Lane Rental Scheme

Councillor Oliver Cooper moved a motion calling for the Cabinet to consider a roadworks lane rental scheme to reduce congestion. Councillor Andrew Parkinson seconded the motion. An amendment proposed by Councillor Adam Harrison and seconded by Councillor Heather Johnson, to change develop and put to consultation a proposal for to consider, was accepted by the mover of the original motion. The amended motion was then put to a roll call vote and CARRIED.

Motion 3: COVID-19 Testing System

Due to time constraints, the second and third motions were not debated in full. An amendment to Motion 3, proposed by Councillor Samata Khatoon and seconded by Councillor Alison Kelly, was accepted, and the amended motion was then put to a vote and CARRIED. The amendment added a call for the provision of drive-in and walk-in facilities for residents and students to access testing.

Open Session

This item was not considered due to lack of time.

Any Other Business That the Mayor Considers Urgent

There was no urgent business.

The meeting concluded at 9:58 pm.