The Council meeting on 8 December 2025 saw significant announcements regarding the borough's future, including Newham being chosen as the preferred new home for London's historic Billingate and Smithfield markets, and the designation of the Youth Empowerment Service as an exemplary national service. Key discussions also revolved around the upcoming council budget, the progress of the Just Transition Plan, and motions addressing immigration policies and support for unpaid carers.

Major Announcements and Future Developments

Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz OBE announced that Newham has been selected as the preferred new home for the historic Billingate and Smithfield markets by the City of London Corporation. This move, subject to parliamentary and planning approval, will see the markets relocate to Albert Island in the Royal Docks, bringing an estimated £750 million in local expenditure, over 2,200 jobs, and £130 million in added value to Newham's economy over 30 years. The Mayor also highlighted the ongoing preparations for the council's budget, with a draft budget plan to be published on 22 December, and celebrated the national designation of Newham's Youth Empowerment Service as exemplary following a review by the National Youth Agency.

Council Budget and Financial Planning

Mayor Fiaz outlined the council's ongoing preparations for setting the budget, which will be presented to full council in February 2026. She acknowledged the significant financial pressures faced by the council, including 14 years of government austerity, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the ongoing cost of living crisis. Despite these challenges, the council has consistently set balanced budgets and aims to protect vital services while operating within its means. The draft budget plan will be published on 22 December.

Climate Action and the Just Transition Plan

Councillor Dr John Whitworth, Cabinet Member for Air Quality, Climate Emergency and Environment, presented the two-year impact report for the Council's Just Transition Plan. The plan, adopted in December 2023, aims to reduce carbon emissions, build long-term resilience, and reduce inequity. Key initiatives highlighted include the Warm Homes Programme, community-owned energy projects, pocket forests, healthy school streets, sustainable transport schemes, and separate food waste collection. The council received recognition with the Local Government Chronicle Award for Progress Towards Net Zero and the Campaign for the Protection of Rural England's Award for London's Most Improved Borough for Creating Healthy Streets. Councillor Blossom Young, Cabinet Member for Council Housing Improvement, welcomed the report, specifically noting the impact on housing, with 359 social homes upgraded through retrofit, insulation, and solar panels, leading to warmer, safer homes and lower energy bills for residents. Councillor Nate Higgins, Green Group Leader, raised concerns about the pace of delivery, stating that only 359 homes out of 17,000 needing retrofitting have been addressed, and that London is not on track to meet its 2030 net-zero targets.

Motions Debated

Two motions were debated and carried. The first, proposed by Councillor Rita Chadha and seconded by Councillor Sabia Kamali, reaffirmed Newham's commitment to being a Borough of Sanctuary and advocated for responsible immigration policies. The motion called for safe and legal routes for asylum seekers, immigration policies grounded in human rights, proper investment in public services, and clear communication based on facts. The second motion, proposed by Councillor Sophia Naqvi and seconded by Councillor Mehmood Mirza, focused on supporting Newham's hidden carers. It called for an annual Carers Impact Report, a review of financial support for carers, the appointment of a 'Carer Champion' in each ward, closer working with health partners for early identification of carers, exploration of a Carers Respite Fund, and proper recognition during Carers Week. A third motion from the Green Group, Defending our borough of sanctuary, was withdrawn.

Member Questions and Council Business

Several questions were raised by members regarding community safety in East Ham, the Newham Pension Fund's investments, discretionary spending in the draft budget, the impact of council consultations, housing association accountability, parking and CCTV in Aviary Close, support for older residents to remain in their homes, and the council's approach to ageing well and community activity. The council also approved amendments to its constitution, noted the Treasury Management Strategy Statement Mid-Year Report, and agreed to the appointment of independent members to the Audit and Governance Committee. Councillor John Morris gave a statement reflecting on his time as a councillor for Plaistow West and Canning Town East, and Councillor Sabia Kamali delivered a powerful statement on Walking in fear: Muslim Women and the urgent need for safety. The council also noted the political proportionality report and approved a dispensation for councillors Stephanie Garfield and Winston Vaughan regarding meeting attendance due to ill health.

Civic Awards and Other Business

Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz OBE presented the recommendations for the 2025 Civic Awards, recognising individuals and organisations for their contributions to the borough. Awards included the Good Neighbour Award to Nicole Camille Morris, Outstanding Contribution Award to IMD Legion, and the Well Newham Award to Carpenters and Docklands Community Centre. The council also noted reports on the Overview and Scrutiny Work Programme, the Special Urgency Report, and the conclusion of business.