Agenda and minutes

Please note that this meeting may be filmed or recorded by the Council for live or subsequent broadcast via the Council’s internet site or by anyone attending the meeting using any communication method. Although we ask members of the public recording, filming or reporting on the meeting not to include the public seating areas, members of the public attending the meeting should be aware that we cannot guarantee that they will not be filmed or recorded by others attending the meeting. Members of the public participating in the meeting (e.g. making deputations, asking questions, making oral protests) should be aware that they are likely to be filmed, recorded or reported on. 

By entering the meeting room and using the public seating area, you are consenting to being filmed and to the possible use of those images and sound recordings.

The chair of the meeting has the discretion to terminate or suspend filming or recording, if in his or her opinion continuation of the filming, recording or reporting would disrupt or prejudice the proceedings, infringe the rights of any individual or may lead to the breach of a legal obligation by the Council.

The Chair referred to the filming at meetings notice and attendees noted this information.

To receive any apologies for absence.

There were apologies for lateness from Cllr Jogee and apologies for absence from Cllr Brabazon.

The Chair will consider the admission of any late items of Urgent Business. (Late items of Urgent Business will be considered under the agenda item where they appear. New items of Urgent Business will be dealt with under Item 22 below. New items of exempt business will be dealt with at Item 33 below).

The Chair advised that there  were no new items of urgent business but some additional scrutiny recommendations on the budget to consider following their meeting on the 1^st of February. The Chair agreed to accept this as late business for the reasons set out in the supplementary circulated earlier that afternoon.

A Member with a disclosable pecuniary interest or a prejudicial interest in a matter who attends a meeting of the authority at which the matter is considered:

(i) must disclose the interest at the start of the meeting or when the interest becomes apparent, and

(ii) may not participate in any discussion or vote on the matter and must withdraw from the meeting room.

A Member who discloses at a meeting a disclosable pecuniary interest which is not registered in the Register of Members’ Interests or the subject of a pending notification must notify the Monitoring Officer of the interest within 28 days of the disclosure.

Disclosable pecuniary interests, personal interests and prejudicial interests are defined at Paragraphs 5-7 and Appendix A of the Members’ Code of Conduct.

There were no declarations of interest put forward.

On occasions part of the Cabinet meeting will be held in private and will not be open to the public if an item is being considered that is likely to lead to the disclosure of exempt or confidential information. In accordance with the Local Authorities (Executive Arrangements) (Meetings and Access to Information) (England) Regulations 2012 (the “Regulations”), members of the public can make representations about why that part of the meeting should be open to the public.

This agenda contains exempt items as set out at Item 23: Exclusion of the Press and Public. No representations with regard to these have been received.

This is the formal five clear day notice under the Regulations to confirm that this Cabinet meeting will be partly held in private for the reasons set out in this Agenda.

There were no representations received at the agenda publication stage in relation to the exempt items on the agenda.

To confirm and sign the minutes of the meeting held on 16 January 2024 as a correct record.

RESOLVED

To approve the minutes of the Cabinet meeting held on the 16^th of January 2024 as a correct record of the meeting.

To consider any requests received in accordance with Standing Orders.

Deputation 1 – MTFS proposal of reduction in Library opening hours

Joanna Bornat introduced the deputation on behalf of all library friends’ groups in Haringey and expressed concerns about the 31% cut in library budgets. She emphasised that this cut, disproportionate to the 3% deficit, would cause irreparable harm to libraries in Haringey. Despite acknowledgement of the Council's difficult position, she stressed that libraries were a statutory service and vital free spaces for all residents. Key concerns were raised about the lack of comprehensive evidence for footfall measurement and potential declines in library usage due to varied opening hours. The loss of skilled staff and absence of an adequate equalities impact assessment were emphasised. Questions were raised about the proposed timeline and transparency regarding assessed cuts. Advocacy was made for a more transparent consultation process like those conducted by the London Borough of Enfield Council, and the need for improved co-production models based on experiences was stressed.

In response to questions from the Cabinet, the deputation party responded as follows:

-       There were concerns about the proposed transformation, and there was felt to be some ambiguity about them and potential negative impacts.

-       There was further consideration needed on the vital role of libraries in the community and they should not be used as experiments in co-production.

-       There was scepticism about the effectiveness of co -production initiatives suggested, based on past negative experiences.

-       The Stroud Green Haringey Friends Group, representative mentioned that he was from one of the friends’ groups that had been alienated by the current process.

-       A representative of Highgate Library Action Group commended Haringey for its successful maintenance of library services, and highlighted absence of library closures in the borough. On co- production, he expressed uncertainty and emphasised the need for further clarification. He further cited examples where other organisations assumed aspects of library management, which had resulted in undesirable outcomes. He continued to voice concern about the proposed 31% reduction in library funding whilst acknowledging the broader challenges faced by Haringey Council.

The Cabinet Member for Culture, Communities & Leisure, responded to the deputation. Libraries were acknowledged for their crucial role in the community, and provided essential services for literacy, social interaction, and mental well-being. Despite financial constraints, efforts had been made to protect and enhance Haringey's libraries. It was noted that since 2010, core government funding had decreased by £143 million in real terms. Haringey's libraries were protected from closures, with £4.9 million invested in upgrades for several branches. However, unsustainable hours of operation had necessitated a review.

Data and staff knowledge would be utilised to optimise library hours and peak times. The Cabinet Member confirmed that an individual equality impact assessment would be undertaken for each library. Appropriate action would follow this to mitigate impacts on vulnerable groups. The budget decision timeline was constrained by legal requirements, which limited the duration of consultations. The comparison with the London Borough of Enfield Council's consultation was noted as misleading, as their consultation focused on  ...  view the full minutes text for item 82.

The Scrutiny Budget Recommendations will be considered as part of Item 9.

There will be an addendum with additional  Scrutiny recommendations following the  meeting on the 1^st of February 2024.

The Scrutiny Budget recommendations would be considered as part of Item 9.

Report of the Director for Finance. To be introduced by the Cabinet Member for Finance and Local Investment.

Following public consultation and Scrutiny Review, this report will set out the details of the proposed budget for 2024/25 and MTFS through to 2028/29, including savings, growth and capital proposals. The report will also set out details of funding for 2024/25 and, if available, the remainder of the planning period and highlight areas of risk. The report also includes details of the proposed HRA budget for 2024/25 and MTFS to 2028/29 including proposed 5-year capital investment and funding. The report will be for onward approval by Full Council on the 04 of March when it will include the details of the council tax resolution.

The Cabinet Member for Finance and Local Investment introduced the report which set out details of the final proposed General Fund (GF) Budget for 2024/25; the Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) 2024/29; the HRA Budget 2024/25 and its Financial Plan, as well as the capital programmes for both funds. It also included proposed dedicated school’s budgets for 2024/25.

The Cabinet Member continued to outline the context for compiling the 2024/25 Budget and Medium-Term Financial Strategy which included: significantly reduced government funding over the last 14 years, increased demand for social care services, and rising inflation which was further increasing spend on statutory services.

The Cabinet Member expressed that setting a balanced budget meant being prudent about the affordability of borrowing and some Council projects would have to be delayed to a time when the cost of borrowing was lower. 

The budget further considered:

-       value for money through reducing use of agency staff,

-       the ambitions for the Council house building programme of 3000 new Council homes by 2031,

-       helping support families out of temporary accommodation and homelessness pursuing climate and air quality goals.

The Council would continue to resource libraries, children’s centres, parks, leisure facilities, affordable homes, and youth services.

The Leader invited the Chair of Overview and Scrutiny to introduce the scrutiny recommendations and apologies for absence were noted from Cllr Connor, Vice Chair of Overview and Scrutiny, and chair of the scrutiny review of the budget process.

The Chair of Overview and Scrutiny advised that scrutiny colleagues recognised the scale of the challenge in putting forward a balanced budget for consideration and they acknowledged that the budget proposals continued to protect vital frontline services. The Chair of Overview and Scrutiny welcomed the Cabinet responses to the scrutiny recommendations and noted that a vast majority had been agreed.

There were a few issues to address in the way the budget was presented to both the Cabinet and Overview and Scrutiny Committee and improvements to the process had been outlined to be taken forward in next year’s process.

The Chair of Overview and Scrutiny referred to scrutiny recommendation 17, outlining a couple of errors identified by scrutiny members in the savings calculations and presentational issues regarding the growth figures, which, although had not that led to any errors in the budget itself, had made the whole process of scrutinising the proposed areas of growth quite challenging.

Similarly, when amended savings proposals were considered post December 2023, when it came to the library service, it was not clear how this was being set out in financial terms. The Cabinet response provided confidence that a balanced budget was proposed, and Overview and Scrutiny would continue to scrutinise the budget compilation process, taking into consideration these experiences.

In response to questions from Cllr Hakata and Cllr Emery, the following information was provided:

-       The Council was not alone in setting a budget with difficulties, and it was reported that there were one in five local authorities in financial difficulties.However, the proposed  ...  view the full minutes text for item 84.

Report of the Director of Environment and Resident Experience. To be introduced by the Cabinet Member for Climate Action, Environment, and Transport and Deputy Leader of the Council.

To consider any objections made in response to the statutory consultation for 2022/23 School Streets and to decide whether to make the associated traffic orders and implement the projects.

The Cabinet Member for Climate Action, Environment, and Transport, introduced a report detailing Haringey Council's plan to implement School Streets at 8 schools to reduce air pollution, promote active travel, and enhance road safety for children. With 26 existing School Streets covering nearly 7km, over 11,000 pupils benefitting from cleaner air and reduced traffic risk.

The Cabinet Member highlighted that the success of School Streets was attributed to the dedicated sustainable travel team’s engagement with schools. Demand for School Streets was high, with schools eager to participate based on positive experiences. The initiative involved collaboration among various Council teams to create child-friendly streets, with 8 schools expressing interest and plans to expand to 13 schools, benefiting an additional 4,500 students.

There were questions from Councillor Chandwani, Cllr Carlin and Cllr Emery and the following information was noted in response:

-       The Parking Transformation Project Officer highlighted the extensive monitoring efforts already in place for the School Streets program. With 26 streets introduced, mostly under experimental orders, rigorous monitoring had shown an increase in walking and cycling along with a decrease in car usage. This monitoring was expected to continue for proposed permanent orders, including hands-up surveys with pupils and observations by officers to assess any necessary adjustments. Additionally, on-street monitoring would address parking issues, ensuring the program's effectiveness while providing ongoing feedback mechanisms.

-       In relation to the monitoring process for understanding any negative displacement of traffic on surrounding roads including when and how amendments are made to address such issues, there would be extensive monitoring conducted across School Street schemes to understand the issues. Additionally, the introduction of school street zones in the package aimed to mitigate such issues from the outset.

-       There was mixed consultation responses and adjustments were made based on objections though Councillor Hakata stressed that this should not be viewed as a referendum. He stressed the importance of understanding objections and prioritising children's safety. Councillor Hakata affirmed that minor inconveniences might arise, but prioritising children's safety was paramount, noting that most parents and staff were supportive of the initiative.

RESOLVED:

1. To consider all feedback, including objections to the proposed traffic management orders, as set out in Appendix A together with officer’s recommended response set out in Appendix G.

2. To agree that the Council shall exercise its discretion to not cause a public inquiry to be held (see paragraph 6.32).

3.   To approve that the following School Streets projects (as shown in Appendix B) are implemented:

1. Coleridge Primary (Crescent Road) School Street (SS46)

2. Lancasterian Primary School and The Vale Primary School (SS12)

3. Lea Valley Primary, Duke's Aldridge Academy and The Vale Secondary

School Street (SS37)

4. North Harringay School Street (SS34 and SS35)

5. South Harringay Primary School Street (SS40 and SS41)

6. St Mary's CofE School Street (SS43)

7. St Mary's Priory RC School Street (SS42)

8. Stroud Green School Street (SS39)

4. To authorise the Head of Highways and Parking to make all necessary traffic

management orders (TMOs) and install/undertake  ...  view the full minutes text for item 85.

Report of the Director of Children's Services. To be introduced by the Cabinet Member for Children, Schools, and Families.

Following public consultation, Cabinet approval is required to implement the new SEND Top Up and High Needs funding bandings for children and young people with SEND.

The Leader introduced the report, which sought approval to proposed changes to the banding descriptors used to allocate funding to children in Early Years and of statutory School age in Haringey.

The following was noted in the introduction of the report from the Leader of the Council:

-       That funding to support children with special educational needs and disabilities is part of the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) from central government was located within the High Needs Block (HNB). Ensuring these resources were allocated fairly and transparently to support all children with special needs was a critical task and had underpinned this report.

-       That in entering into the Safety Valve agreement with the DfE, and as a condition of participation, the Council committed to review the way in which resources for children with SEND were allocated. This had led to a review of the funding structure involving bandings and top-up allocations to ensure these are fair, open, and transparent.

-       The review has been extensive, detailed and wide ranging, and officers had worked with many vital and key stakeholders over a long period to develop new proposals with the aim of allocating funding more equitably. The working review group had included parents and carers, representatives from mainstream and special schools, specialist teaching staff, health colleagues and education psychology. The aim has been to develop two sets of banding descriptors, designed to meet the needs of children and young people with SEND more effectively and accurately than the current system.

-       The proposals had been consulted on.

In response to a question from Cllr Emery on whether recommending these changes to the banding would have come forward without the requirements of the Safety Valve programme, it was noted that the decision allowed for fairer, equitable banding funding arrangements for children and young people with SEND in the borough. This was also a transformation programme, which enabled the Council to expedite planned work for supporting children and young people with SEND.

In further response to a second question from Cllr Emery on learning from other boroughs that had already implemented the Safety Valve Programme and the positive impacts it has on outcomes for children, the meeting noted that the nationwide programme was still in its early stages and impact across the country not yet assessed. Assurance was given that the Council were learning from areas that have implemented the Safety Valve programmes successfully. The Council had been implementing this programme for 12 months and were starting to see more children supported at an earlier stage and less children requiring specialists and the high-cost statutory support.

RESOLVED:

To approve the proposed changes to the banding descriptors used to allocate funding to children in Early Years and of statutory School age in Haringey as outlined within section 4.12 of the report, Appendix Five: Proposed Early Years Inclusion Banding Descriptors and Appendix Six: Proposed SEND Bandings for School aged children and young people.

Reasons for decision

Haringey Council has a statutory duty to deliver  ...  view the full minutes text for item 86.

Report of the Report of the Director of Children's Services. To be introduced by the Cabinet Member for Children, Schools, and Families.

Following public consultation held between November 2023 and January 2024, Cabinet is asked to determine the admission arrangements for admission to community nursery, primary, junior and secondary schools and to St Aidan's Voluntary Controlled school and for sixth form admission for the year 2025/26.

The Leader of the Council introduced the report in Councillor Brabazon’s absence. Cabinet was asked to decide on the proposed admission arrangements for the 2025/26 school year for the borough's community and voluntary controlled (VC) schools. The recommendations also sought Cabinet approval for their publication on the Council's website by March 15, 2024, including information on the right to object to the Schools Adjudicator. This year's proposals involved reducing the published admission number (PAN) for several primary schools by one form of entry (1fE), affecting 30 Reception pupils each from September 2025/26. The Cabinet had agreed to conduct statutory consultation on the proposed arrangements between November 24, 2023, and January 5, 2024. The attached report provided details and analysis of the received representations regarding all admission arrangements and provided recommendations on the proposed arrangements.

In response to a question from Cllr Emery on consultation responses in favour of merging two Catholic schools instead of reducing the number of pupils at each, and clarification on decision making on this matter, the Head of Admissions, advised that collaboration with the diocese occurred regularly on educational matters. Consolidating schools into one entity would streamline operational costs, ensuring sustainability. The proposed reduction aimed to maintain the breadth of primary school offerings in Haringey and address risks associated with unused capacity. Schools required time for restructuring to align teacher numbers with class sizes. Collaboration with the diocese was integral to broader education strategies, including the establishment of an education strategy board. Pan reductions represented one solution among various approaches, such as mergers, amalgamations, and federations, which would be explored with input from the diocese and other stakeholders, including headteachers and governors.

RESOLVED

1. To consider and take into account the feedback from the consultation undertaken which is set out in appendix 8.

2. To consider and take into account the equalities impact assessment of the proposals on protected groups at appendix 7.

3. To agree the recommendation set out in this report to proceed with the proposal toreduce the published admission number (PAN) for the primary schools listed in table 1 below by one form of entry (1FE) – 30 Reception pupils each from September 2025.

4. To determine the Council’s admission arrangements for the academic year 2025/26 as set out in Appendices 1 – 4.

5. To agree Haringey’s fair access protocol as set out in Appendix 5 to come into force from 1 March 2024.

6. To agree that the determined arrangements for all maintained primary and secondary schools in the borough are published on the Council’s website by 15 March 2024 with an explanation of the right of any person or body, under the School Admissions (Admission Arrangements and Co-ordination of Admission Arrangements) Regulations 2012, to object to the Schools Adjudicator in specified circumstances1

Reasons for decision

In common with many London authorities, Haringey has experienced a decrease in demand for reception school places for several years. This is due, in part, to the turbulence brought about by Covid-19 and Brexit. However, the decrease in applications is likely  ...  view the full minutes text for item 87.

Report of the Director of Placemaking and Housing. To be introduced by Cabinet Member for Housing, Private Renters and Planning.

This report recommends accepting a grant from the GLA through the Single Homelessness Accommodation Programme (SHAP) Fund.

The Cabinet Member for Housing, Private Renters and Planning introduced the report which recommended accepting grant of capital allocation of £2,011,642 to acquire 10 homes during 2024/25 from the Mayor’s Single Homelessness Accommodation Programme (SHAP) and accepting revenue allocation for £1,007,468 to provide 3 years revenue funding to support 20 clients in a Housing First service.

The Cabinet Member continued to outline that acquiring the ten new homes for residents with experience of rough sleeping and who may have additional complex needs would further create a pathway for them towards independence and recovery.

In response to a question from Cllr Emery, the 10 new homes would be purchased with the funding, and these could be previous local authority homes brought under the right to buy scheme. These would not be a purpose-built scheme for homeless residents.

Following consideration of exempt information at item 24,

RESOLVED

1. That Cabinet: in accordance with Contract Standing Order 17.1 and Contract Standing Order 9.07.1(d), approves the acceptance of Capital (£2,011,642) and Revenue (£1,007,468) grant funding from the Mayor’s Single Homelessness Accommodation Programme (SHAP), the terms of which are summarised in part 6 of the report.

2. To delegate authority to agree the final grant documentation and contracts to the Director of Housing, Planning and Regeneration, after consultation with the Director of Finance and the Head of Legal and Corporate Governance (Monitoring Officer).

Reasons for decision

The Council is committed to providing housing and support for vulnerable residents in the Borough. This decision is an important step in achieving that aim.

Accepting this grant is an opportunity to lever more funding into our programme - which will mean overall the council will be able to deliver more homes for rent.

Alternative options considered

The only alternative is not to accept the grant. Choosing that option will directly impact on the council’s ability to purchase 10 homes and extend the service to 20 people, resulting in more people sleeping rough.

Report of the Assistant Director for Housing. To be introduce by Cabinet Member for Council Housebuilding, Placemaking, and Local Economy.

A report seeking approval to acquire 38 London Affordable Rent properties at pre-construction stage within Phase 1a of the residential scheme being delivered on land at the former St Ann’s General Hospital, St Ann’s Road, N15 3TH and to approve delegated authority to Director of Placemaking and Housing in consultation with others to acquire the London Affordable Rent accommodation within subsequent phases in the same scheme.

The Cabinet Member for Council House building, Placemaking, and Local Economy, introduced the report which provided an update on the proposed deal structure for purchasing new homes at the Peabody Group development on GLA-owned land at St. Ann’s General Hospital. It sought authority to acquire 38 homes in the first phase and to grant a pedestrian easement over Council land. It also proposed an Option Agreement for purchasing up to 116 additional homes in subsequent phases, pending Cabinet approval.

The Cabinet Member outlined that the St. Ann’s Hospital site was strategically important, with 154 affordable Council homes planned to contribute to the target of 3000 Council homes by 2031. The first phase would provide sheltered accommodation for Haringey residents over 55 years old. Subsequent phases would include larger family homes, with a total of 41 three-bedroom homes, 14 four-bedroom properties, and 34 two-bedroom properties. This diverse mix of homes supported the delivery of the housing programme.

In response to questions from Cllr Hakata and Cllr Emery, the following was noted:

-       The first phase of accommodation provision was specifically for elderly, these 38 units were due to be completed in mid-2026. In terms of the neighbourhood moves, scheme, this would apply for 250-metre radius from the site.

-       In relation to dealing with overcrowding on the Tiverton estate, the availability of the Remmington estate nearby which was almost ready for occupation was highlighted and there would be another 46 homes on this estate as well. The Interim Head of Development advised that if any part of the surrounding estates was within the 250 metres, then the whole estate was included within the neighbourhood moves scheme. However, the Interim Head of Development, committed to discussing this further with the Neighbourhood Moves Officer and providing a response after the meeting.

-       No retrofitting was expected soon due to high-quality standards already being in place, including landscaping and near passive House designs, promoting energy conservation and biodiversity. Overall, there was confidence in the value of this purchase.

Further to considering exempt information at item 25,

RESOLVED

1. To approve the long leasehold acquisition (for housing purposes) at preconstruction stage of 38 sheltered homes and ancillary communal spaces at block C1 within Phase 1 of Peabody Group scheme on GLA-owned land at St. Ann’s General Hospital, St Ann’s Road, N15 3TH for the purchase price set out in the Exempt Part B report and on the basis set out in the Heads of Terms in the Exempt Part B report.

2. To consider the representations made and set out in paragraphs 6.21 to 6.30 as a result of the consultation carried out under section 105 of the Housing Act 1985 and approve the granting of a Pedestrian Easement for public use across adjacent Council owned land (shown coloured blue on the first plan at Appendix 2) held in the Housing Revenue Account portfolio, for the value set out in the Exempt Part B report, netted off the purchase price;

3. To approve the Total Scheme Cost, including  ...  view the full minutes text for item 89.

Report of the Assistant Director for Housing. To be introduced by the Cabinet Member for Council Housebuilding, Placemaking, and Local Economy.

Approval of the decision to appoint a commercial property management provider to manage the Enterprise Hub at 40 Cumberland Road following a competitive open tender process.

The Cabinet Member for Council House building, Placemaking, and Local Economy introduced the report which sought approval of the appointment of a specialist commercial property management services supplier for 40 Cumberland Road (“Wood Green Enterprise Hub”) for a period of three years, with options to extend by a year, and a subsequent option to extend by a further year, as an interim measure which would enable the Council to develop its capacity to self-deliver workspace.

The Cabinet Member outlined the following:

-       Delivering the Wood Green Enterprise Hub project at 40 Cumberland Road presented a unique opportunity for the Council to support local businesses and enterprises through the creation of workspace.

-       There was increasing demand for workspace to support local SMEs, as well as a need to provide opportunities for growth. The Enterprise Hub would not only protect the existing 3^rd and 4^th floor occupiers in the building and provide space for new occupiers, but also transform an underutilised building into a hub for local people to access events, culture and networks.

-       The Enterprise Hub would enable the Council to demonstrate its commitment to the delivery of workspace for local businesses through its own property by leveraging external funding, and in doing so secure social value outcomes for the people and businesses of Wood Green, now and in the future. It would also enable the Council to develop an innovative self-delivery approach for future workspace across the borough.

In response to questions from Cllr Emery, the following was noted:

-       Regarding, the balance between the commercial and the affordable rent occupiers in terms of the rent collection, the first two floors were occupied by artists of varying degrees, and they would remain as tenants on those floors. Then the Council would be seeking to offer some commercial rentals and some subsidised rented space to allow the building needs to be met and for it to be able to maintain itself. There would be some grant funding and the management would be able to ensure that there is a fit out on the other floors, which would also provide some ground floor event space as well, which would be a useful addition to the area.

-       With regards to the expected spend in order to build up the capability to manage properties such as this one in the Council’s portfolio, this was part of the property recruitment and the resourcing plan which the Property service would need to build a full business case around. There was existing capability within the team, and this was a capacity issue at the moment and relied upon moving and shifting projects going forward.

Further to considering exempt information at item 26,

RESOLVED:

To approve the Authority entering into a services contract with a third-party supplier to provide commercial property management services for 40 Cumberland Road for an initial period of three years, with options for extension to a total duration of up to five years from the commencement of the  ...  view the full minutes text for item 90.

The report of the Director of Children's Services. To be introduced by the Cabinet Member for Children, Schools, and Families.

This paper is seeking approval from elected members for the creation of six separate resource provisions to create 118 places in borough for children and young people, with social emotional and mental health (SEMH), autism spectrum condition (ASC), and complex needs. The provisions will be delivered within the Safety Valve Programme funding envelope of £12.4m.

The Leader of the Council introduced a report stating that the Department for Education (DfE) had requested Haringey's application for the 2022/23 Safety Valve Programme, aimed at helping local authorities reduce overspending in the High Needs Block expenditure for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Haringey was projected to have a significant overspend in SEND by 2027/28, posing a risk to council finances. The government's offer to eliminate historic deficits hinged on LBH developing detailed plans for systemic change and service transformation.

This challenge aligned with the ongoing strategic transformation of SEND services in Haringey, supported by partnerships with schools, education, health, and care sectors, along with children, young people, and families. Capital projects, like the ones discussed, were crucial for fostering systemic changes and service transformation, facilitating bespoke provision for children with SEND. These initiatives aimed to prioritise early intervention and support and aligned SEND services with wider education strategies.

Councillor Emery inquired about how the creation of 118 places compared to the anticipated demand. In response, it was noted that it was difficult to accurately project future demand however the calculations suggested that creating 118 places would be beneficial moving forward.

Further to considering exempt information at item 27,

RESOLVED

To approve the creation of six new SEND resource provisions (see table one below), as agreed in the original cabinet paper for the bid to the Department for Education (DfE). These form the main part of the capital projects within Haringey’s Safety Valve Programme, each provision will be delivered within the financial funding envelope of £12.4m.

For further background information please refer to the Safety Valve Paper submitted to cabinet in in September 2022 (see Appendix C).

Alternative options considered

Do Nothing – This option was discounted, the cumulative DSG deficit as of 31st March 2023, was £23.83m, is continuing to increase and is unsustainable. If unmitigated, this is predicted to increase to £77.6m by 2027/28.

Report of the Director of Adults, Health, and Communities. To be introduced by the Cabinet Member for Health, Social Care, and Wellbeing.

Agreement of a full extension to the twelve block contracts for the provision of adult social care home support and reablement services, as allowed for in the original Cabinet decisions.

The Cabinet Member for Health, Social Care, and Wellbeing introduced the report which sought approval for the execution of an 18-month extension to twelve (12) Call-Off contracts for the provision of bundled hours home support and reablement services (listed in Appendix 1 of the attached report), as provided for in the original tenders.

The Cabinet Member outlined the following:

-       The purchase of care for residents requiring home support and reablement services was judged a success due to not having significant waiting lists that was seen see in other parts of London and in in the country.

-       The Council were not seeing the level of care packages being handed back to them and had seen less complaints since the Council had embarked on this journey due to developing close working relationship with providers. This allowed the Council to have a better control and support providers better and in turn meet key themes such as improving adult social care and also improving the financial side of social care.

-       The current high cost of care was recognised and was not something that could necessarily be influenced, but the way forward was to work with providers to ensure better care.

In response to questions from Cllr Hakata and Cllr Emery, the following was noted:

-       Having a set number of providers that the Council were working closely with and had regular contact with, enabled effectively managing standards and ensuring that the Council were getting the best service possible for residents. The Assistant Director added that the theme of quality of service and value for money was replicated across health services commissioned by the Council and with the integrated teams as well. There was a quality assurance framework that was worked to across the North Central London Group.

-       In Haringey the objective of these contracts was to increase the sustainability and the quality of provision. This was done through pricing at a sustainable level for providers to ensure that they could recruit retain a workforce of carers.

-       Having 12 contracts meant that the Council could really hone that resource and build those relationships. Also having on site visits enabled a good understanding on what was happening on the ground level and helping support providers to continue to develop.

-       Client satisfaction surveys were done on a contract-by-contract basis. There were a sample of clients chosen and the Council would call the client or speak to their families. There would also be consideration of any complaints that were coming through to both to the providers and to the Council. The Council team would then assess any themes emerging across providers together with any specific issues with contractors to deal with at contractual level.

Further to considering the exempt information at item 28,

RESOLVED:

1. To approve, pursuant to Contract Standing Order 10.02.1 (b) , the extension of twelve (12) contracts for the provision of bundled hours home support and reablement service, for an 18-month period, from 1 March 2024 to 31 August  ...  view the full minutes text for item 92.

Report of the Director of Adults, Health, and Communities. To be introduced by Cabinet Member for Housing Services, Private Renters, and Planning.

Approval will be sought for short-term meanwhile use of Osborne Grove Nursing Home to change from temporary accommodation to the Rough Sleeper Night Shelter and SWEP (severe weather emergency protocol) accommodation. There will be a further decision on Insourcing the Rough Sleeping Night Shelter support provision.

The Cabinet Member for Housing, Private Renters and Planning introduced the report, emphasising the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness and the borough's commitment to ending street homelessness. The report highlighted the need for high-quality supported accommodation to help vulnerable individuals rebuild their lives. A night shelter was seen as a crucial step towards achieving this goal, aligning with Haringey's ambition to provide quality services that meet the needs of residents facing street homelessness. The Cabinet Member stated that Haringey Council would now be delivering this service directly for the first time.

Councillor Emery asked if there was a long-term plan for the service to relocate if the Osborne Grove redevelopment proceeds. The Cabinet Member responded that there were existing commitments concerning the site and highlighted the opportunity for thorough evaluation within the two-year timeframe that this decision provided.

Further to considering exempt information at items 29,

RESOLVED

1. To approve the meanwhile use of Osborne Grove Nursing Home, 16 Upper Tollington Park, N4 3EL, as a night shelter to be delivered by Haringey Council, starting in April 2024 until March 2025, whilst options for the long-term use of the building and site are subject to further consideration.

2. To terminate the current DLUHC ring-fenced funded Thames Reach Ltd contract and to bring the night shelter service provision in-house.

Reasons for decision

The London Borough of Haringey is committed to utilising assets in a way that dynamically and flexibly responds to need. The use of Osborne Grove as supported housing commenced in 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the Government’s Everyone In directive to accommodate everyone at risk of rough sleeping. This was a valuable, positive and cost-effective use of the building, and the service was mobilised at pace to minimise any risk of transmission in this vulnerable cohort.

London Borough of Haringey was awarded £3,871,429 in the Rough Sleeping Initiative 2022 – 2025 (See Appendix 2). Of this £1,194,188 of this provision was awarded on the basis of the borough providing a night shelter. Thames Reach were identified as a partner organisation in the original report approved by Cabinet Member on 22/8/22 and due to them delivering the existing Haringey Street Outreach Team, it was felt that it made sense for them to also deliver the night shelter accommodation. An additional £230,000 was awarded to fund the fit out of a suitable building as a night shelter. The previously identified building at the Clarendon Recovery College did not become available within the required timeframe and the Council was then unable to meet this commitment. Due to the delay there was a significant risk that the Council would not be in a position to deliver a night shelter at all, which could have led to the council being asked to return the grant. Instead, approval was sought from DLUHC to deliver the service in another building and change from a commissioned provider model to self-delivery. Written confirmation was received from DLUHC on 22/01/24 to proceed on that basis. (See Appendix  ...  view the full minutes text for item 93.

Report of the Director of Placemaking and Housing. To be introduced by the Cabinet Member for Housing, Private Renters and Planning

This report recommends accepting grant from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities through the Local Authority Housing Fund – second funding round (‘LAHF R2’).

The Cabinet Member for Housing, Private Renters and Planning introduced the report which sought agreement to accepting grant of capital allocation of £7,644,000 from the DLUHC LAHF2 programme that has been awarded to support an acquisition programme of up to 30 homes.

The Cabinet Member continued to outline the benefits of the grant funding which would support delivery of up to 30 new homes for Afghan families which would help to give a new start to 30 families. These additional homes would free up temporary and emergency accommodation, helping ease wider homelessness pressures.

 Further to considering exempt information at item 30,

RESOLVED:

1. In accordance with Contract Standing Order 17.1 and Contract Standing Order 9.07.1(d), Cabinet approves the acceptance of capital grant from DLUHC LAHF2 funding, the terms of which are summarised below in part 6.
2. To delegate authority to agree the final grant documentation and contracts to the Director of Housing, Planning and Regeneration, after consultation with the Director of Finance and the Head of Legal and Corporate Governance (Monitoring Officer).
3. To delegate authority to agree further tranches of the grant funding to the Director of Housing, Planning and Regeneration, after consultation with the Director of Finance and the Head of Legal and Corporate Governance (Monitoring Officer).

Reasons for decision

To providing housing and support for vulnerable residents in the Borough. This decision is an important step in achieving that aim.

Accepting this grant is an opportunity to lever more funding into our programme - which will mean overall the council will be able to deliver more homes for rent.

Alternative options considered

To use Right to Buy receipts to fund the acquisitions programme. The grant associated with DLUHC funding represents lower acquisition and borrowing costs to the Council, so the Council would prioritise the use of the DLUHC grant funding in the first instance.

Report of the Director of Placemaking and Housing. To be introduced by the Cabinet Member for Council Housebuilding, Placemaking, and Local Economy.

This report sets out a delivery approach for the Gourley Triangle site in Seven Sisters and seeks approval to acquire a number of third party land interests within the site.

The Cabinet Member for Council House building, Placemaking, and Local Economy introduced the report which sought approval for the acquisition of a property located at 10 Gourley Street, N15 5NG (“the Property”) and was shown edged red on the Site Plan attached at Appendix 1.

The Cabinet Member outlined that the acquisition pertained to one property within the Gourley Triangle area, which was part of a larger land assembly strategy for future development. This aligned with a longer-term investment strategy for the site, with hopes of eventually bringing forward a viable whole scheme and development across the area. Due to construction costs and a focus on council-rented and affordable housing, development would be paused for 2-3 years. Despite the delay, acquisitions must continue for future masterplan implementation. The Council had invested over ten years in acquiring the site, now owning approximately 80% of the freehold interests. Funding from the Future High Street Fund would cover land assembly costs. Rental income from the building will cover holding costs until redevelopment resumes.

Councillor Emery inquired about the feasibility of the project proceeding after the initial three-year pause. The Cabinet Member stated that all schemes were constantly reassessed due to challenging economic conditions, including interest rate hikes and increased material costs. The Council remained open to acquisitions to avoid complications with private ownership during future development. The Cabinet Member also stated that the acquisition of property provided an income stream for the Council while safeguarding development opportunities for the future.

Councillor Emery inquired about the amount of the Council's own funds spent on acquisitions for the Gourley Triangle site to date. It was noted that this was the second acquisition as part of the Gourley Triangle. The first acquisition was 3 to 40 Ford Street, acquired in 2022, with details available in the Cabinet Minutes. The Council already held a significant existing holding in the area, making this the second acquisition.

Further to considering exempt recommendations and exemption information at item 31,

RESOLVED

1. That Cabinet agree to the acquisition for planning purposes of the freehold interest in the property known as 10 Gourley Street, N15 5NG for the price and based on the Heads of Terms detailed in the exempt part of this report;

2. To grant a lease back of 10 Gourley Street on completion of the acquisition to the seller for a term of six months;

3. To delegate authority to the Director of Placemaking and Housing, in consultation with the Director of Finance and the Cabinet Member for Council House Building, Placemaking and Local Economy, to agree the final contract terms for the acquisition of the Property on the basis noted in Recommendations 3.1(a) and (c) in the exempt part of this report.

Reasons for decision

The Property sits within the Gourley Triangle site. The Gourley Triangle site is a key redevelopment site close to Seven Sisters underground and overground stations. It is promoted through the Tottenham Area Action Plan (TAAP) as a site with the potential to deliver  ...  view the full minutes text for item 95.

To note the minutes of the following:

Cabinet Member Signing

17.01.2024

22.01.2024

Corporate parenting Advisory Committee  02.10.2023

RESOLVED

To note the minutes for the following meetings:

Cabinet Member Signings

17.01.2024

22.01.2024

Corporate Parenting Advisory Committee  02.10.2023

As per item 3.

None

Note from the Democratic Services and Scrutiny Manager

Items 24 to 31 allow for consideration of exempt information in relation to items 13 to 20 & 6.

TO RESOLVE

That the press and public be excluded from the remainder of the meeting as items 25 to 31 contain exempt information as defined under paragraphs 3 and 5, Part 1, Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972:

Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information).

Information in respect of which a claim to legal professional privilege could be maintained in legal proceedings.

RESOLVED

That the press and public be excluded from the remainder of the meeting as items 25 to 31 contain exempt information as defined under paragraphs 3 and 5, Part 1, Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972:

Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information).

Information in respect of which a claim to legal professional privilege could be maintained in legal proceedings.

To consider exempt information relating to item 13.

The Cabinet noted the exempt information and continued to approve the recommendations as set out in  agenda item 13.

To consider exempt information pertaining to item 14.

The Cabinet considered the exempt information and continued to agree the exempt recommendations and also agreed the recommendations set out at agenda item 14.

To consider exempt information pertaining to item 15.

The Cabinet considered the exempt information and continued to agree the exempt recommendations and also agreed the recommendations set out at agenda item 15.

To consider exempt information pertaining to item 16.

The Cabinet considered the exempt information and continued to agree the recommendations as set out at agenda item 16.

Exempt information pertaining to item 17.

The Cabinet considered the exempt information and continued to agree the recommendations as set out in agenda item 17.

Exempt information pertaining to item 18.

The Cabinet considered the exempt information and continued to  agree the recommendations as set out at agenda item 18.

As per item 19.

The Cabinet considered the exempt information and continued to agree the recommendations as set out at agenda item 19.

To consider exempt information pertaining to item 20.

The Committee considered the exempt information and  agreed the exempt recommendations and also agreed the recommendations set out at agenda item 20.

To confirm and sign the exempt minutes of the meeting held on 16 January 2024 as a correct record.

RESOLVED

To approve the exempt minutes of the Cabinet meeting held on the 16^th of January 2024.

As per item 3.

None