The Council meeting on Wednesday 22 July 2026 saw significant debate and decisions on environmental policy, the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), and the council's financial standing. Key outcomes included the rescinding of the Climate Emergency declaration, a call for greater transparency on ULEZ revenue and reinvestment in Havering, and the establishment of a Member Champion of Faith.

Climate Emergency Declaration Rescinded

The Council voted to rescind its previous declaration of a Climate Emergency. The motion, brought forward by the Reform UK Havering Group, argued that the declaration created a policy direction that was disproportionate, financially burdensome and insufficiently balanced against the Council's wider responsibilities. An amendment proposed by the Havering Aligned Residents' Association Group, which sought to review the Climate Emergency Strategy and explore grant opportunities, was not agreed. The substantive motion to rescind the declaration was passed by 32 votes to 13, with one abstention. The Council resolved to ensure future environmental activity is considered through a balanced framework of affordability, value for money, statutory responsibility, deliverability, resident impact, and local environmental benefit.

Calls for ULEZ Transparency and Investment

A motion calling for greater transparency regarding Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) revenue and reinvestment in Havering was agreed without division. The Reform UK Havering Group motion highlighted concerns about the lack of borough-by-borough financial breakdowns and the perceived insufficient reinvestment of ULEZ revenue into Havering. The Council resolved to call upon the Mayor of London and Transport for London to publish detailed breakdowns of ULEZ and Penalty Charge Notice revenue, scrappage funding, and transport and environmental reinvestment by borough. It also urged for a fairer share of ULEZ-related funding to be allocated directly into Havering to support local pollution reduction initiatives, transport improvements, electric vehicle infrastructure, cleaner buses, anti-idling measures, tree planting, and assistance for residents and businesses impacted by the scheme. An amendment by the Havering Aligned Residents' Association Group, which sought to include consideration of the M25 and A127's impact on Havering's air quality and to request borough-specific emissions data, was not agreed.

New Member Champion of Faith Appointed

The Council agreed to establish a Member Champion of Faith, a motion brought forward by the Reform UK Havering Group. Councillor Henry Williams was nominated and subsequently appointed to this role. The Havering Aligned Residents' Association Group stated they would not be putting forward a nomination, emphasizing the council's existing strong relationships with faith groups and the potential for additional officer burden.

Youth Justice Plan Approved

The Havering Youth Justice Plan 2026-27 was approved by the Council. The plan, presented by the Chief Executive, focuses on judging the service by the difference it makes to the lives of children, young people, families, and communities, rather than solely by the number of activities delivered. This approach aligns with the His Majesty's Inspectorate of Probation Youth Justice Inspection Framework and emphasizes evidence-based practice and partnership working.

Hornchurch Football Club Congratulated

A motion on behalf of the Labour Group congratulating Hornchurch Football Club on their promotion to the National League was unanimously agreed. The motion recognised the club's achievement, its vital role in the community, and requested the Mayor to write to the club to convey the Council's congratulations. The Council also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting grassroots and semi-professional football across Havering.

Other Business

• Petitions: Petitions were presented regarding the installation of CCTV at the junction of Maybank Avenue and Lancaster Drive, the introduction of a one-way system in Kilmartin Way, and traffic calming measures in Waldon Avenue and Queens Gardens.
• Members' Questions: Nine questions were asked and responded to, covering issues such as contaminated land at Launders Lane, planning applications for additional bedrooms, violence against women and girls, the Romford Master Plan, Gallows Corner delays, parcel theft, property purchases, council debt and overspend, and the reopening of closed libraries.
• Announcements: The Mayor announced her chosen charity as CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young). The Leader of the Council provided details on the published 100-day plan, and the Chief Executive thanked members for agreeing to the change of date for the meeting.

The meeting concluded with the singing of the National Anthem.