The Council meeting on 18 March 2026 saw a significant debate and vote on the future of three libraries: Harold Wood, Gidea Park, and South Hornchurch. Ultimately, all proposals to halt their closure or disposal failed to pass. The council also approved changes to its Contract Procedure Rules and Constitution, and adopted the Pay Policy Statement for 2026/27.

Libraries Debate

A major focus of the meeting was a motion proposed by Councillors Keith Prince and Michael White, calling for a halt to plans to sell or demolish Harold Wood, Gidea Park, and South Hornchurch libraries. Amendments were put forward by the Conservative and Labour groups, all aiming to preserve the libraries in some form.

Councillor Prince argued that libraries are vital community hubs and that closing them would be detrimental to residents of all ages. He suggested exploring alternative funding and redevelopment options. Councillor David Taylor, speaking for the Conservative amendment, agreed that libraries were worth saving but stressed the need for immediate action on alternative business plans rather than a delay until after the upcoming elections. Councillor Nisha Patel, speaking for the Labour amendment, highlighted the importance of exploring all viable options for community use and partnerships.

Despite impassioned pleas from various councillors, including Councillor Jane Keane who spoke about the loss of community identity when libraries close, and Councillor Martin Goode who described libraries as the heartbeat of a community, all proposals to halt the closures or sell-offs failed. The original motion and both amendments were defeated, with the Mayor casting the deciding vote against the Conservative and Labour amendments. The original motion was then also defeated.

Tax Rises Motion

A motion by the Conservative Group condemning recent government tax changes that increased costs for pubs and small businesses was amended by the Labour Group. The amended motion, which was agreed, acknowledged the essential contribution of these businesses and called on the government to ensure future tax changes are proportionate, balancing public revenue needs with the viability of small businesses.

SEND Provision and Community Assets

The Council agreed to a cross-party commitment to strengthen Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision. This motion, proposed by the Labour Group, aims to ensure continuity across administrations by delivering planned SEND expansion, safeguarding funding and capacity, and committing to a multi-year plan with targets for reducing out-of-borough placements and improving EHCP timeliness.

However, a Labour Group motion to adopt a cross-party Community Assets Protection Charter, which would have required full public consultation before the disposal or change of use of community buildings and spaces, was not agreed.

Local Plan - List of Sites

A motion by Councillors John Tyler and Laurance Garrard, requesting that the list of sites submitted during the 2023 Call for Sites be made available to Members as a confidential document, was agreed. An amendment by the Labour Group, which sought to expedite the Local Plan update, was not agreed.

Other Business

The Council also agreed to adopt revised Contract Procedure Rules and made changes to the Constitution, including updates to the Access to Information Procedure Rules and Committee Procedure Rules. The Pay Policy Statement for 2026/27 was approved, and the dates for Council meetings in the 2026/27 municipal year were fixed. A report on exceptions to the Overview and Scrutiny call-in procedure was also noted.

During the Members' Questions session, Councillor Michael White asked about the implications of Havering withdrawing from the Greater London Authority, with the Leader of the Council, Councillor Ray Morgon, outlining potential service losses and financial impacts. Councillor Natasha Summers, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Housing Need, provided information on how residents would be informed about changes under the Renters' Rights Act. Councillor Barry Mugglestone, Cabinet Member for Environment and Deputy Mayor, addressed questions on parking enforcement, speed limits, legacy landfill reports, penalty charge notices, litter bin emptying, tree cover, and funding for parks. Councillor Graham Williamson, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, provided an update on planning enforcement at a car dealership on North Street, Romford. Councillor David Taylor raised concerns about financial support for road maintenance due to the Gallows Corner works.

The meeting concluded with the singing of the National Anthem.