The Executive of Islington Council met on Thursday 22 October 2026, approving an inclusive growth plan, agreeing to dispose of surplus council assets, and adopting an all-age autism strategy. Key decisions also included the introduction of fairer charging for assistive technology, approval of a procurement strategy for traffic, highways, and lighting maintenance, and the extension of public space protection orders for dog control and alcohol-related anti-social behaviour.

Islington Inclusive Growth Plan Approved

The Executive approved the Islington Inclusive Growth Plan¹, a ten-year framework designed to foster economic growth that benefits all residents. Councillor James Potts, Executive Member for Inclusive Economy & Planning, presented the plan, highlighting its aim to bridge the gap between the borough's strong economy and the opportunities available to its residents. The plan focuses on nine key shifts, including improving youth employment, fixing the workspace ladder, and hardwiring social impact into development. Councillor Una O'Halloran, Leader of the Council, expressed enthusiasm for the plan, noting its importance in ensuring young people have access to good quality jobs.

Surplus Council Assets Declared for Disposal

A report on Asset Rationalisation² was presented, detailing the review of 14 surplus council assets. Councillor Paul Convery, Executive Member for Finance, explained that these assets were no longer required for their original purpose and had been reviewed for alternative uses, with disposal deemed to provide the best value for the Council. The Executive agreed that these assets would be declared surplus and recommended for disposal. Capital receipts generated from these disposals will be used to make revenue savings to support financial pressures and, in the case of Housing Revenue Account (HRA) receipts, to support the acquisition of family-sized homes to address temporary accommodation pressures.

All-Age Autism Strategy Adopted

The All Age Autism Strategy 2026-2032³ was approved, aiming to improve the experiences of autistic children, young people, adults, and their families in Islington. Councillor Sheila Chapman, Executive Member for Children, Young People & Families, and Councillor Ruth Hayes, Executive Member for Health & Social Care, presented the strategy, which was developed with Experts by Experience (autistic individuals and their families). The strategy outlines six key priorities, including improving understanding of autism, supporting autistic individuals in education and employment, and making health, care, and community services more accessible and equitable. Councillor Hayes emphasised the strategy's commitment to a neuro-affirmative approach and strong partnership working.

Introduction of Fairer Charging for Assistive Technology

The Executive approved the introduction of means-tested charging for the Assistive Technology service⁴. Councillor Ruth Hayes, Executive Member for Health & Social Care, explained that this decision aligns with the Council's 2023/24 budget and existing charging policies. The new model will feature tiered charges based on service level (Monitoring Only or Monitoring and Response), a 28-day free trial, and no installation fee. Crucially, the charging will be means-tested, ensuring that residents unable to afford contributions will continue to receive the service free of charge. Consultation feedback influenced the adoption of the tiered model and the removal of an installation fee, with strengthened safeguards for affordability, financial assessment, and resident support.

Procurement Strategy for Traffic, Highways and Lighting Contract Approved

A Procurement Strategy for the Term Maintenance Contract for Traffic, Highways and Lighting 2028⁵ was approved. Councillor Rowena Champion, Executive Member for Climate, Environment & Transport, presented the strategy, which will establish a unified contract comprising two lots: Traffic and Highways, and Lighting. The contract will be for an initial seven-year term with an option to extend for up to three years, with an estimated value of £75 million over ten years. The strategy aims to improve asset performance, operational efficiency, reduce costs, and incorporate social value commitments, including local employment and carbon reduction targets. The Executive delegated authority to award the contract to the Corporate Director of Environment and Climate Change.

Extension of Public Space Protection Orders Approved

The Executive approved the extension of existing borough-wide Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs)⁶ for dog control and alcohol-related anti-social behaviour for a further three years until 31 October 2029. Councillor Heather Staff, Executive Member for Community Safety & Neighbourhoods, highlighted that the consultation demonstrated strong public support for the renewal and proposed variations. These variations include new requirements for dog owners to remove dog fouling and carry suitable means to do so. An updated enforcement framework was also approved, including a Fixed Penalty Notice tariff of £300, reduced to £150 for early payment, subject to legislative commencement.

Adoption of Housing Land at Wall Street as Public Highway

The Executive approved the adoption of a section of housing land at Wall Street as public highway⁷. Councillor Jason Jackson, Executive Member for Homes & Neighbourhoods, explained that this small section of land, following the redevelopment of the Dover Court Estate, now functions as an extension of the existing public highway. Adopting it as public highway will ensure consistent management, maintenance, and parking enforcement along the entire street, resolving current issues of split responsibility and confusion for residents. The transfer is at nil value and initial works will be funded from the residual HRA capital budget for the Dovercourt Estate scheme.