The Cabinet of Enfield Council met on Wednesday, 12 June 2024, to discuss several key issues, including the Council Housing Work Plan for 2024/25, the progression of the Bowes East and Edmonton Green Quieter Neighbourhoods, the award of a lease for the Millfield Complex, the delivery of a Mental Health Hub, and the disposal of surplus property assets. Decisions were made on all these topics to advance the council's objectives and improve services for residents.

Council Housing Work Plan 2024/25

Councillor George Savva MBE, Cabinet Member for Social Housing, introduced the report reviewing the progress of the Council Housing Service over the past year and outlining the proposed Work Plan for 2024/25. The plan includes actions to ensure Decent Homes compliance, particularly focusing on the regeneration of the Joyce and Snells estate. Despite a £43m shortfall over the next ten years, the council anticipates achieving an 83% level of decency by the end of the month. The Cabinet approved the Work Plan and noted the Tenant Satisfaction Measure scores to be submitted to the Regulator of Social Housing.

Approval of Council Capital and the Progression of Bowes East and Edmonton Green Quieter Neighbourhoods

Councillor Rick Jewell, Cabinet Member for Environment, presented the report on the Bowes East and Edmonton Green Quieter Neighbourhoods. The project aims to create safer environments for active and sustainable travel, improving air quality and public health. The Cabinet approved the addition of £1.6m to the capital programme, increasing the total budget to £2m for the design, consultation, and potential implementation of the schemes in FY 24/25. Further decisions will be made following statutory consultations.

The Award of Lease of Millfield Complex

Councillor Chinelo Anyanwu, Cabinet Member for Public Spaces, Culture and Local Economy, introduced the proposal to lease the Millfield House and Theatre site to Platinum Performing Arts. The lease includes a peppercorn rent for the first five years, with market rent reviews and break clauses at specified intervals. The library at Millfield will remain on-site, provided in partnership with the Council’s Library service. The Cabinet agreed to grant the lease and delegate authority to finalise the terms.

Delivery of a Mental Health Hub

Councillor Alev Cazimoglu, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, discussed the creation of a Mental Health Hub at Park Avenue, Enfield, fulfilling a manifesto commitment. The hub will be funded mainly from the Better Care Fund, with additional contributions from Section 106 and the Corporate Condition Programme. The Cabinet approved the overall budget of £3.387m and noted that the co-location of services will free up the 58-60 Silver Street building for disposal or repurposing.

Disposal of Surplus/Underperforming Property Assets

Councillor Nesil Caliskan, Leader of the Council, introduced the report on the disposal of surplus property assets. The properties will be marketed competitively to secure the best value. Receipts from the sale of caretakers’ houses will be ringfenced for developing special educational needs provision. The Cabinet agreed to proceed with the disposals and delegated authority to finalise the terms of sale.

For further details, you can refer to the Minutes of the Meeting.