The Cabinet of Greenwich Council met on Wednesday 18 March 2026 to discuss a range of important issues, making key decisions on resident engagement, environmental policy, financial strategies, and property disposals. Notably, the Cabinet agreed to establish a new Tenant Influence and Oversight Panel to enhance resident engagement in housing matters and adopted the Climate Resilience Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) to guide sustainable development.

Resident Engagement for Council Home Residents: Introduction of Tenant Influence and Oversight Panel

The Cabinet agreed to the creation and operation of a Tenant Influence and Oversight Panel for housing tenants of the Royal Borough of Greenwich. This new panel aims to provide a formal mechanism for tenants to influence and scrutinise housing strategies, policies, and services, putting Greenwich at the forefront of tenant engagement. Authority has been delegated to the Director of Housing and Safer Communities to manage the panel's operations, including recruitment and tenant recognition. The Cabinet also agreed to review and implement estate-based engagement opportunities within one year to supplement these arrangements. Furthermore, the adoption of the new Resident Engagement Policy, which offers various opportunities for residents to engage with the council as their landlord, was noted. The Cabinet recommended to Full Council that Local Housing Panels be disbanded and replaced by the Tenant Influence and Oversight Panel, with consequential changes to the Council's Constitution.

Adoption of the Climate Resilience Supplementary Planning Document (SPD)

The Cabinet formally adopted the Climate Resilience Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) and agreed to revoke the existing Greener Greenwich SPD, which will be replaced by the new document. The Climate Resilience SPD provides guidance on climate resilience and sustainability for new developments, aiming to help the council achieve its commitment to being carbon neutral by 2030. It offers practical advice on measures such as urban planting, biodiversity enhancements, energy efficiency for existing and new buildings, and sustainable construction materials. The Cabinet also noted the content of the Consultation Statement, which details the feedback received during the public consultation period and the subsequent amendments made to the SPD.

Approval of the Procurement Strategy 2026-2031 and Social Value Framework Policy

The Cabinet approved the implementation of the Council's updated Procurement Strategy 2026–2031 and the accompanying Social Value Framework Policy (SVFP). These documents establish a strengthened, modernised, and legally compliant approach to procurement, aligning with the Procurement Act 2023. The strategy and framework aim to ensure that procurement and contract management activities deliver maximum public benefit, value for money, and measurable social value outcomes for residents. The Director of Resources, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Finance and Social Value, will finalise associated guidance, templates, and training resources. The Director of Resources will also report annually to the Overview and Scrutiny Committee on the delivery of the Strategy and SVFP.

Langton Way Disposal

The Cabinet agreed in principle to dispose of land and buildings at Langton Way to Anchor Hanover Group for the development of an Affordable Extra Care scheme. This disposal is based on the terms outlined in the draft Heads of Terms, which reflect a valuation supporting 100% affordable rent for the facility. The capital receipt will be credited to the Housing Revenue Account. Authority has been delegated to the Director of Place and Growth to negotiate the final disposal details and enter into the necessary legal agreements. Information contained within the exempt appendices, relating to financial and business affairs, will not be released to the public.

Approval to adopt the Woolwich Barracks Supplementary Planning Document (SPD)

The Cabinet adopted the Woolwich Barracks Supplementary Planning Document (SPD). This document provides detailed planning and design guidance for the redevelopment of the Woolwich Barracks site, aiming to ensure a sustainable approach that conserves and enhances the site's heritage and character. The SPD was developed following extensive public consultation and incorporates feedback to guide future development towards creating a vibrant neighbourhood with new homes, community facilities, and improved public spaces, while respecting the site's military history.

Registrar Future Fees

A policy to uplift Registrars Fees and Charges was agreed, allowing the Council to future-proof income against inflationary losses for services booked more than one year in advance. This measure aims to support local businesses, including wedding and civil partnership venues, and contribute to the financial sustainability of the Registrar service. Authority has been delegated to the Director of Communities, Environment and Central to approve future fees based on the agreed process.

Voluntary and Community Sector Funding 2027-31

The Cabinet agreed on a model for the Voluntary, Community, and Faith Sector (VCFS) support programme for 2027-2031, including a continued annual allocation of £3.655 million. This funding will be incorporated into the proposed Council budget. In principle, a process for awarding VCFS grants based on revised criteria will be developed, with the final process to be agreed by the Leader of the Council and the lead Cabinet member. Authority has been delegated to the Director of Health and Adults Services to oversee the assessment and award process for the VCFS grants programme.

GS Plus Ltd and GSS Ltd Annual Report 2024/25 and Interim Update 2025/26

The Cabinet noted the audited financial statements for 2024/25 and the interim update on provisional outturn and service performance for 2025/26 for two of the Council's wholly owned companies: GS Plus Ltd (GSP) and Greenwich Service Solutions Ltd (GSS). Both companies reported stable and positive financial performance, generating a combined pre-tax surplus. Interim forecasts indicate continued financial stability for 2025/26, with ongoing monitoring to manage emerging cost pressures.

Rethinking the Riverside - Response to Scrutiny Recommendations following the Review of the Thames Path

The Cabinet noted the officer responses to the recommendations from the Thames Path Connectivity and Upgrade Review. It was agreed to bring forward a new Thames Path and Riverfront Strategy, incorporating the review's findings and recommendations. A budget of up to £140,000 has been agreed to deliver this strategy, which aims to improve accessibility, safety, biodiversity, and community involvement along the riverfront.

The meeting was chaired by Councillor Anthony Okereke, Leader of the Council. Other attendees included Councillor Averil Lekau (Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member Climate Action, Sustainability and Transport), Councillor Sandra Bauer (Cabinet Member Equality, Culture and Communities), Councillor Denise Hyland (Cabinet Member Finance, Resources and Social Value), Councillor Adel Khaireh (Cabinet Member Children and Young People), Councillor Mariam Lolavar (Cabinet Member Health, Adult Social Care and Borough of Sanctuary), Councillor Calum O'Byrne Mulligan, Councillor Pat Slattery (Cabinet Member Housing Management, Neighbourhoods and Homelessness), Councillor Jackie Smith (Cabinet Member Inclusive Economy, Business, Greenwich Supports and Environmental Services), and Councillor Rachel Taggart-Ryan (Cabinet Member Community Safety and Enforcement). Senior officers from various directorates were also present.