Councillor Matthew Stanton

Place Overview & Scrutiny Sub Committee - Tuesday, 10th March, 2026 7.00 pm

The Place Overview and Scrutiny Subcommittee met to discuss the progress of the New Housing Allocation Scheme and the challenges of emergency temporary accommodation. Significant delays were reported in the implementation of the new housing allocation scheme due to contractor issues, leading to a surge in applications and the introduction of a working household contribution to address potential disadvantages for employed residents. The committee also heard about the ongoing pressures on temporary accommodation, driven by increased homelessness demand and a decline in the private rented sector, with the council exploring various initiatives to increase supply and reduce reliance on costly hotels.

Governance Committee - Tuesday, 10th March, 2026 7.00 pm

The Governance Committee of Havering Council was scheduled to discuss proposed updates to the Council's Contract Procedure Rules and a comprehensive review of various parts of the Council's Constitution. These discussions are part of an ongoing effort to ensure the Council's governance documents are up-to-date and effective.

Council Tax Setting, Council - Wednesday, 4th March, 2026 7.30 pm

The Council of Havering met on Wednesday, 4 March 2026, to discuss and approve the budget for the 2026/27 financial year, which included setting the Council Tax. After considerable debate, the administration's budget proposal was approved, with an amendment from the Labour Group being rejected.

Planning Committee - Thursday, 12th February, 2026 7.00 pm

The Planning Committee of Havering Council met on Thursday 12 February 2026 to discuss a retrospective planning application for alterations at 114 Diban Avenue, Hornchurch. The committee approved the application, subject to conditions, despite concerns raised by local residents and a ward councillor regarding potential misuse of the property and its impact on the neighbourhood.

Budget Scrutiny, Overview & Scrutiny Board - Wednesday, 4th February, 2026 6.30 pm

The Overview & Scrutiny Board meeting on 04 February 2026 addressed significant concerns regarding the Council's financial sustainability, the effectiveness of its contracts, and the proposed budget for 2026/27. Key decisions included noting the Council's ongoing reliance on Exceptional Financial Support to balance its budget, approving revised Contracts Procedure Rules, and scrutinising the draft budget with a view to making recommendations to Cabinet.