The Cabinet of Havering Council met on Wednesday 17 September 2025 to discuss several key issues, approving new policies on asbestos control and conservation area management plans, while also noting updates on corporate performance and the ongoing situation at Launders Lane. The meeting also addressed the Housing Ombudsman's annual report and the Council's complaint policy.

Launders Lane (Arnold's Field) Update

The Cabinet received an update on the ongoing situation at Launders Lane, also known as Arnold's Field, an issue that has caused significant concern for local residents due to repeated fires and resulting smoke pollution. Councillor Ray Morgon, Leader of the Council, acknowledged the distress caused to residents, stating, We absolutely recognize the circumstances that local people are living in. The report detailed the history of the privately-owned site, which has been subject to illegal dumping and fires since around 2019. Despite extensive investigations, including air quality monitoring, soil analysis, and health impact studies, officers are still in the process of making a new determination on whether the land should be classified as Contaminated Land under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. Depending on this determination, the Council will either serve a Remediation Notice on the landowner or an Abatement Notice to stop the fires and smoke. The complexity of the situation was highlighted, with potential remediation works estimated to cost between £4 million and £10 million for a permanent solution, or £300,000 to £500,000 for a temporary one. The Council is exploring options for financial support from public authorities to facilitate a quicker resolution, acknowledging that the ultimate responsibility for resolving the issue lies with the landowner.

Asbestos Control Policy (2025)

The Cabinet approved the Property and Housing Services Asbestos Policy (2025). This policy aims to clarify the Council's commitment to protecting the health, safety, and well-being of its residents by addressing the presence of asbestos in its properties. Councillor Paul McGeary, Cabinet Member for Housing and Property, presented the policy, emphasizing its necessity. The policy establishes that all materials within Havering Council properties must be presumed to contain asbestos unless proven otherwise, except for properties built after 2001. It clearly outlines the duties and responsibilities of staff, management, and contractors involved in asbestos management and removal, ensuring compliance with legislative and regulatory obligations.

Adoption of Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plans

The Cabinet agreed to adopt and publish the Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plans (CAAMPs) for Romford, Rainham, and Gidea Park. Councillor Graham Williamson, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, highlighted that these plans update previous appraisals from 2008, which were considered out of date. The CAAMPs play a crucial role in informing planning decisions and assessing the impact of proposed developments on the character of these conservation areas. The plans include proposed boundary changes for Romford and Rainham, and an expansion to include a parade of shops in Gidea Park. Authority was also delegated to the Director of Planning and Public Protection for the adoption of future CAAMPs, provided there are no proposed boundary changes.

Housing Ombudsman Annual Report

The Cabinet noted the Housing Ombudsman Annual Report for 2024-2025. Councillor Paul McGeary, Cabinet Member for Housing and Property, presented the report, which details the Council's performance against the Housing Ombudsman's Complaints Handling Code. The report includes an analysis of complaint volumes, themes, and service improvements. The Cabinet agreed to publish the report and the accompanying self-assessment on the Council website by 30 September 2025. The report indicated a decrease in Stage 1 complaints and an improvement in response times, though areas like repairs and maintenance and heating remain leading themes for complaints.

Complaint Policy

The Cabinet noted the updated Complaint Policy, which has been revised to ensure compliance with the Housing Ombudsman's Code of Compliance and to prepare for the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman's (LGSCO) guidelines due in April 2026. Councillor Ray Morgon, Leader of the Council, confirmed that the August 2025 version of the policy would be published on the Council website by 30 September 2025. Key changes include updating the definition of a complaint, replacing vexatious behaviour with unacceptable behaviour, and adjusting response timescales to align with Ombudsman requirements. The revised policy also clarifies procedures for statutory social care and housing complaints.

Q1 Corporate Plan Performance Report

The Cabinet noted the Q1 Corporate Plan Performance Report for 2025/26. Councillor Ray Morgon highlighted that 124 Corporate Performance Indicators (KPIs) had been measured, with 57 being narrative-only or not applicable. Of the remaining 67 KPIs with a RAG status, 31 were Green, 11 Amber, and 25 Red. The report detailed specific areas of concern, including the number of households with children in temporary accommodation, apprenticeship levy spend, and customer contact centre waiting times. The Cabinet was asked to consider these indicators, particularly the red ones, and the performance levels outlined in the Power BI report.

Minutes of Previous Meeting

The minutes of the Cabinet meeting held on 13 August 2025 were agreed as a correct record and signed by the Chair.

The meeting also included announcements regarding fire arrangements and apologies for absence, with Councillor Oscar Ford absent due to a training course. No declarations of interest were made.