The Council meeting on 17 July 2024 saw the adoption of key strategies concerning homelessness and housing, alongside discussions on the council's financial sustainability and the new government's agenda. Decisions were made regarding the Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy, the Council Housing Asset Management Strategy, and the Housing Resident Engagement Strategy.

Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy Adopted

The Council adopted the Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy 2024-2029, with amendments proposed by the Labour Group. These amendments aim to improve standards in temporary accommodation, particularly for families with children, and include a commitment to avoid splitting families for longer than 14 nights, with a new Key Performance Indicator (KPI) to monitor this. Councillor Lynne Hale, Deputy Executive Mayor and Cabinet Member for Housing, presented the strategy, highlighting its importance in meeting legal obligations and addressing homelessness in Croydon. Councillor Stuart King, Leader of the Opposition, welcomed the acceptance of Labour's amendments, particularly those concerning split families, and called for clear targets to reduce this practice. Mayor Jason Perry also expressed support for the strategy, aligning it with his Business Plan and acknowledging the concerns about split families.

Council Housing Asset Management Strategy Approved

The Council agreed and adopted the amended Council Housing Asset Management Strategy 2024-2029. Councillor Lynne Hale presented the strategy, emphasising its focus on maintaining and investing in housing stock, adapting to regulatory changes, and aligning with the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) business plan. The strategy aims to ensure council housing assets are well-designed, managed, and responsive to residents' needs through active engagement. The previous strategy from 2019 was noted as lacking flexibility, leading to underfunding and disrepair. The new strategy prioritises increasing housing supply and improving existing homes, including estate regeneration.

Housing Resident Engagement Strategy Adopted

The Housing Resident Engagement Strategy 2024-2029 was agreed and adopted. Councillor Lynne Hale explained that the strategy is designed to give residents significant influence over housing-related decisions, policies, and services. Developed with input from residents, staff, and external bodies, it aims to ensure residents have a meaningful voice. A new Customer Influence and Assurance Group will be established to hold housing services accountable and monitor the strategy's implementation. The strategy also provides a pathway for compliance with the Regulator of Social Housing's consumer standards.

Croydon Question Time

During the Croydon Question Time session, twelve questions were raised by residents. Several questions focused on local infrastructure and services. A question regarding the disrepair of footpaths around Selhurst shops and Gloucester Road received a response indicating that the issues had been shown to officers and that a system of regular safety inspections prioritised repairs based on need.

Concerns were raised about community energy projects, with the Council explaining its position on charging rent for projects discussed with Croydon Community Energy, citing issues with exclusivity, procurement, and potential financial exposure.

Regarding drug dealing and anti-social behaviour, the Council outlined plans to upgrade CCTV systems and highlighted the Love Clean Streets app for reporting issues. The Safer Croydon Partnership works with the police to tackle anti-social behaviour.

Changes to parking controls were explained, with the Council stating that the new Parking Policy 2024 aligns controls and tariffs with corporate priorities. The move to Pay-by-phone was explained as an efficiency measure, with alternative payment options available for those without smartphones. The Council also addressed concerns about potential discrimination against older and disabled people by offering PayPoint and phone options.

The future of libraries was a significant topic, with questions about potential government funding and the closure of Shirley Library. Councillor Andy Stranack stated that current legislation was considered sufficient for an effective library service and that proposals for the future of library services, including the development of community hubs, would be presented to the Council in September.

A petition was presented requesting a pedestrian crossing on Pampisford Road. Councillor Scott Roche acknowledged the safety concerns and stated that a traffic sensor would be installed to measure vehicle speeds, and the feasibility of a pedestrian crossing would be assessed.

Council Debate Motions

Conservative Group Motion: The Council debated and resolved to note that steps have been taken to fix the Borough's finances, including raising Council Tax and reducing spending. The motion emphasised that securing long-term financial sustainability requires government assistance and that the burden should not fall on residents alone. The Council agreed that the new Government must urgently agree a long-term deal without further burdening Croydon's residents. Councillor Jason Cummings, Cabinet Member for Finance, argued for the necessity of national government support, while Councillor Stuart King, Leader of the Opposition, criticised the motion for politicising financial difficulties but agreed to support it if a cross-party approach could be established.

Labour Group Motion: The Council debated and resolved to congratulate Sir Keir Starmer on his election as Prime Minister and welcome his new Government's mandate. The motion highlighted opportunities for change and welcomed the new government's manifesto pledges, including rebuilding Britain, strengthening the NHS, making streets safer, and ensuring dignity and respect in workplaces. Councillor Matt Griffiths moved the motion, expressing optimism for a government that prioritises competence and public service. Councillor Ola Kolade offered cautious optimism, while Councillor Patsy Cummings seconded the motion, detailing the new government's legislative plans. Mayor Jason Perry responded by congratulating the new Prime Minister and expressing a willingness to work collaboratively.

Other Reports and Announcements

The Council approved proposed changes to the Constitution relating to the Staff Employment Procedure Rules. The Health and Wellbeing Board Annual Report was considered, with Councillor Yvette Hopley highlighting the Board's collaboration with partners and its role in shaping the Southwest London Integrated Care Partnership. The use of Special Urgency for Key Decisions and Exemption from Call-in between December 2023 and June 2024 was noted, with Mayor Jason Perry acknowledging the co-operation of the Scrutiny and Overview Committee.

The Council also heard Maiden Speeches from newly elected members Councillor Andrew Parker and Councillor Jessica Hammersley-Rich.

Mayor Jason Perry announced that the Museum of Croydon had regained its accreditation from the Arts Council of England and provided updates on various council initiatives, including efforts to combat anti-social behaviour, support for nursery schools, improvements to temporary accommodation, and plans for playground refurbishments. He also confirmed the Council's support for universal breakfast clubs.

The Executive Mayor's Scheme of Delegation was noted.