The Council meeting on Wednesday 26 November 2025 saw the approval of the Future Shoreditch Area Action Plan, a significant step towards guiding future development in the area. Councillors also voted to carry a Labour motion calling for rent controls, and approved recommendations for the Annual Report of the Pensions Committee and a dispensation for Councillor Michael Levy due to ill health.

Future Shoreditch Area Action Plan Approved

The Council approved the proposed submission version of the Future Shoreditch Area Action Plan (AAP) for publication and subsequent submission to the Government for an independent examination in public. This plan sets out a mixed-use vision for Shoreditch up to 2040, aiming to balance inward investment and economic growth with the support of existing communities and the enhancement of the area's character. The AAP identifies 15 opportunity sites and includes policies on delivering growth, tackling affordability, supporting the day, evening, and night-time economy, ensuring high-quality buildings and places, and promoting sustainable public spaces. Delegated authority was granted to the Group Director, Housing, Climate and Economy to approve administrative alterations to the plan before its submission.

Council Calls for Rent Controls

A Labour motion, proposed by Councillor Sam Pallis and seconded by Councillor Jasmine Martins, calling for rent controls was carried by the Council. The motion noted the high rental costs in Hackney, the impact on residents, and the Council's existing work on private rented sector strategy and social housing. It resolved that the Council would continue to build council homes, work with the Mayor of London to introduce rent-controlled housing, and write to the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government to request that the Government enable local authorities to introduce rent controls. The Council also committed to campaigning for rent controls and opposing an unregulated private rental market. Joint amendments to the motion, submitted by the Green Group and Hackney Independent Socialist Group, were not accepted by the proposers of the original motion.

Annual Report of the Pensions Committee Noted

Full Council noted the contents of the Annual Report of the Pensions Committee for 2024/25. The report, introduced by Councillor Kam Adams, Chair of the Pensions Committee, detailed the committee's activities, including finalising investment strategy changes, investing in the National Homelessness Property Fund II and the London CIV UK Housing fund, and signing the UK Stewardship Code. It also highlighted progress on pension administration migration and the triennial valuation process.

Dispensation for Councillor Michael Levy Approved

A resolution to extend a six-month rule dispensation for Councillor Michael Levy was approved due to his ill health. This allows Councillor Levy to remain a member of the Council until 10 May 2026, without the requirement to attend meetings during this period. This decision impacts attendance at the Planning Sub-Committee and Corporate Committee.

Appointments to Committees and Outside Bodies

The Council agreed to a change in the membership of the Planning Sub-Committee, with Councillor Ian Sharer replacing Councillor Michael Levy. Additionally, Councillor Faruk Tinaz was appointed to the West Hackney Parochial Charity for one appointment, with his term ending in 2026.

Gender and Ethnicity Pay Gap Report Noted

Full Council noted the contents of the Gender and Ethnicity Pay Gap 2025 report. The report indicated positive trends with a reduction in the mean and median gender pay gap, and a slight decrease in the mean and median ethnicity pay gap compared to the previous year. The report also highlighted ongoing work to improve data collection for disability pay gap analysis and reaffirmed the Council's commitment to anti-racism and equality.

Other Business

The Council also noted the use of special urgency provisions in Executive decision-making and approved the Members' Allowances Scheme for 2025/26, which included an update to align with officer pay awards. Minutes of the previous meetings held on 17 September and 23 October 2025 were also approved.