The Cabinet of Havering Council met on Wednesday 16 September 2026, approving plans for a new nursery and expanded SEND unit at R J Mitchell Primary School, and endorsing the Housing Tenant Engagement Strategy 2026-2029. The meeting also noted the first quarter revenue and capital monitoring report, which indicated a forecast underspend for the General Fund, and considered the Havering 2040 Strategy.

Expansion of R J Mitchell Primary School Facilities Approved

The Cabinet approved the implementation of an 18-place school-based nursery and the expansion of the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) unit at R J Mitchell Primary School. The nursery proposal, already approved by the Department for Education, will be funded through a combination of grants, while the SEND unit expansion, increasing capacity from 21 to 50 places, will be funded by the Department for Education High Needs Capital Grant. A tendering process for the combined project, with an estimated value of £2.8 million, was also approved, with delegated authority to award the contract given to the Director of Starting Well or their deputy. Concerns raised during the meeting included the impact on local parking and the school street zone, the long-term viability of the school site, and how increased SEND provisions would deliver necessary Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) within regulated timeframes. Officers assured that the school street exemptions would continue and that the expansion would contribute to the school's sustainability.

Housing Tenant Engagement Strategy Approved

The Housing Tenant Engagement Strategy 2026-2029 was approved by the Cabinet. Councillor Robert Whitton, Cabinet Member for Housing and Regeneration, highlighted the importance of listening to tenants, stating, It is an old adage in politics that politicians are very good at talking to the public, but not very good at listening to them. The strategy aims to build trust, encourage participation, and ensure tenant feedback shapes housing services. New elements include the creation of north and south resident panels to provide more localised feedback, and a greater focus on responding to key tenant issues such as training and skills development. Concerns were raised about the effectiveness of contractor performance and ensuring that feedback leads to tangible improvements, with assurances given that Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for contractors are monitored and that a you said, we did approach would be implemented. The strategy also aims to improve IT solutions for repairs and tenant communication.

Local Plan Timetable and Notice of Plan Making Authorised

The Cabinet noted the contents of the report on the Local Plan timetable and the required submission of the Notice of Intention to Commence, acknowledging the new government guidelines and the strict 30-month timetable for plan preparation. Councillor Terry Brown, Cabinet Member for Planning and Public Protection, explained the new process, which includes a 'getting ready' stage, followed by a 23-month period for plan preparation and a seven-month period for examination. The Cabinet also authorised the procurement of consultancy support for the 'getting ready' stage, funded by £300,982 from earmarked reserves. Discussions touched upon the incorporation of the new NPPF and London Plan, lobbying efforts regarding housing targets and green belt protection, and the financial sufficiency of the allocated budget.

CQC Assessment Outcome and Improvement Plan Approved

The Cabinet noted the outcome of the Care Quality Commission (CQC) assessment of Havering's Adult Social Care services, which rated the overall judgment as 'Requires Improvement'. Councillor Graham Day, Cabinet Member for Adults and Health Care, expressed disappointment with the outcome but highlighted the strengths identified, including leadership, re-enablement, and safeguarding. The Cabinet approved the CQC Improvement Plan as the Council's programme of response to the assessment findings. Key areas for improvement identified by the CQC included assessment and review waiting times, support for unpaid carers, transitions between children's and adult services, and information accessibility. The Cabinet agreed that a CQC Delivery Board would provide monthly oversight, supported by themed working groups, with quarterly reporting to the Cabinet Member and bi-annual reporting to the People Overview & Scrutiny Sub Committee.

Havering 2040 Strategy - First Stage Considered

The Cabinet considered and approved the information within the first stage of the Havering 2040 Strategy, which outlines the vision to create London's Super Suburb. Councillor Keith Prince, Leader of the Council, described the strategy as a 14-year plan setting out the Council's values and ambitions, with a second stage to follow, detailing targets and a roadmap to 2040. The core theme is Havering First, aiming to provide residents with the homes, environment, and jobs they need. Key ambitions include making Romford Marketplace vibrant again, retaining Section 92 officers, and positioning Havering as a strategic gateway to South East England. Discussions addressed concerns about increased housing density, the impact on green belt land, and the delivery of necessary health infrastructure. The strategy's three core non-negotiables were identified as safety, economic success with job opportunities for young people, and ensuring residents have proper homes.

Quarter 1 Revenue and Capital Monitoring Report Noted

The Cabinet noted the Quarter 1 Revenue and Capital Monitoring Report 2026/27. Councillor Sue Benjamins, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, reported a forecast underspend of £22.8 million against the General Fund budget, with an expected use of Exceptional Financial Support of £54.2 million. An overspend of £45 million was noted for the Dedicated Schools Grant. The report also detailed an update on the savings programme and a forecast surplus of £0.1 million for the Housing Revenue Account. The capital monitoring position showed a forecast spend of £296.4 million against a budget of £423.1 million, indicating slippage into future years.

Forward Decision Plan Noted

The Cabinet noted the contents of the Forward Plan, which provides information on future decisions.

The meeting concluded with thanks to officers and members for their contributions.