Agenda, decisions and draft 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.

RESOLVED:

The filming at meetings notice was noted.

To receive any apologies for absence.

Apologies were received from Councillor Twigg.

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 18 below. New items of exempt business will be dealt with at Item 24 below).

There was none.

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.

Cllr Beckford noted that they were appointed by the Council to the membership of the North London Waste Authority in May 2026 by virtue of my Cabinet responsibilities. The North London Waste Authority have a working relationship with the Lee Valley Heat Network referred to in the report and recommendations. It was noted that Councillor Beckford was granted dispensation to vote on matters relating to North London Waste Authority by the Standards Committee in June.

Councillor Kuper noted that they were appointed by the Council to the membership of the North London Waste Authority the North London Waste Authority agreed by full Council in July. The North London Waste Authority have a working relationship with the Lee Valley Heat Network .Due to Committee meeting scheduling, the Standards Committee are due to consider a dispensation in relation to my council membership role of North London Waste Association at their November meeting and therefore recused themselves from the meeting at items 15 and 23.

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 x: 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 was none.

To confirm and sign the minutes of the meeting held on 15 September 2026 as a correct record.

The minutes of the meeting held on 15 September 2026 were discussed.

RESOLVED:

The minutes of the meeting held on 15 September 2026 were agreed as a true and accurate record of proceedings.

To consider any requests received in accordance with Standing Orders.

A question was received from a resident, questioning: What is the number of Council tenants who were assessed as requiring an adaptation to their home to support their disabled child, and what is the current longest waiting time to receive this adaptation?

The Cabinet Member for Housing provided a response. It was stressed that there was a need to assess need of residents. It was explained that different services worked together in the interests of residents.

It was also noted that the Council was working to improve Council housing building to meet the need of communities.

For Cabinet to note (if any).

There were none.

Report of the Corporate Director of Finance and Resources (S151 Officer). To be presented by the Cabinet Member for Housing

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST MADE FOR THIS ITEM:

None

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet:

1.    In accordance with Contract Standing Order CSO 21.01 and Contract Standing Order 9.07.1(d), approved the acceptance of capital funding (£21,771,000) and revenue funding (£124,575) from the Local Authority Housing Fund, third funding round (LAHF R3), to enable the Council to acquire 84 homes in the borough.

2.    In accordance with Contract Standing Order CSO 21.01 and Contract Standing Order 9.07.1(d), approved the acceptance of capital funding (£38,448,000) and revenue funding (£259,604) from the Local Authority Housing Fund, fourth funding round (LAHF R4), to enable the Council to acquire 152 homes in the borough.

3.    Delegated authority to the Director of Capital Projects and Property, following consultation with the Corporate Director of Finance and Resources and the Director of Legal and Corporate Governance (Monitoring Officer), to agree and enter into the final grant documentation and contracts, including the LAHF R4 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and any other necessary documentation.

4.    Delegated authority to the Director of Capital Projects and Property, following consultation with the Corporate Director of Finance and Resources and the Director of Legal and Corporate Governance (Monitoring Officer), to accept subsequent rounds of LAHF funding from MHCLG.

Reasons for the Decision

The Council was committed to providing good-quality housing for residents of the borough. This decision represented an important step towards achieving that aim.

Acceptance of the grant provided an opportunity to leverage additional funding into the programme, enabling the Council to deliver a greater number of homes for rent overall.

The purchase of these homes also helped to meet housing needs in Haringey, reduced pressure on the Temporary Accommodation budget, and enabled the Council to use Right to Buy receipts to fund other stock replacement projects.

Alternative Options Considered

The alternative option was not to accept the grant funding. This would have meant that additional homes were not purchased in the borough, resulting in more people remaining in temporary accommodation at greater cost to Haringey.

The Cabinet Member for Housing introduced the report.

The Cabinet Member explained that secure, affordable and well-maintained housing was recognised as a key factor in supporting the health, wellbeing and stability of individuals and families. At the time of the report, Haringey had more than 2,758 families living in temporary accommodation, representing a total of 8,288 people, or approximately 3% of the borough's population.

It was explained that the report noted that reductions in the availability of council housing, combined with insufficient replacement provision, had contributed to increased pressure on housing services. As a result, local authorities had become increasingly reliant on temporary accommodation to meet their statutory homelessness duties. The Council was seeking opportunities to build and acquire homes to reduce reliance on temporary accommodation and provide more stable housing options for residents.

It was explained that, during the year, funding had been secured from several sources, including the Greater London Authority (GLA), developer contributions, Right to Buy receipts and the Local Authority Housing Fund (LAHF), to support the acquisition of additional homes.

GLA funding was expected to assist 362 residents in moving out of temporary accommodation. Funding from developer contributions was expected to support around 100 additional residents, while the Local Authority Housing Fund was anticipated to assist a further 600 residents. Collectively, the funding secured during the year was expected to help just over 1,000 people move from temporary accommodation into longer-term housing.

The Cabinet Member highlighted that the homes acquired through these programmes were intended to be provided at affordable rent levels for local residents. The report also highlighted the continuing financial pressures associated with temporary accommodation, with the Council spending close to £60 million per year on accommodation provided by private landlords for homeless households. The Council continued to pursue a programme of housing improvement, repair, acquisition and development across the borough, with the aim of increasing the supply and quality of housing available to residents.

Following questions from Councillors Powell the following information was shared:

• It was asked why the previous allocation of grant funding was sought unlawfully through delegated approval. The Cabinet Member explained that they would provide an answer to the question in writing following the meeting.
  
  
• It was explained that the Council was seeking good value for money through the grant funding, noting that the purchase of homes, rather than utilising temporary accommodation, would provide long term sustainability.

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet:

1.    In accordance with Contract Standing Order CSO 21.01 and Contract Standing Order 9.07.1(d), approved the acceptance of capital funding (£21,771,000) and revenue funding (£124,575) from the Local Authority Housing Fund, third funding round (LAHF R3), to enable the Council to acquire 84 homes in the borough.

2.    In accordance with Contract Standing Order CSO 21.01 and Contract Standing Order 9.07.1(d), approved the acceptance of capital funding (£38,448,000) and revenue funding (£259,604) from the Local Authority Housing Fund, fourth funding round (LAHF R4), to enable the Council to acquire 152 homes in the borough.

3.    Delegated authority to the  ...  view the full minutes text for item 49.

Report of the Corporate Director of Culture, Strategy and Communities. To be presented by the Cabinet Member for Resident Services and Tackling Inequality

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST MADE FOR THIS ITEM:

None

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet:

1.    Delegated authority to the Member Responsible for Complaints (MRC) to finalise a Governing Body Statement for submission to the Housing Ombudsman Service, reflecting and taking account of Cabinet’s consideration and discussion of the report and its appendices.

2.    Noted the 2025/26 Annual Feedback and Resolutions Report.

3.    Noted the Housing Ombudsman Service Annual Self-Assessment at Appendix F and the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman Self-Assessment.

4.    Noted the Complaints Improvement Plan at Appendix D and the Housing Service Sub-Improvement Plan, which set out the Council’s approach to addressing the issues identified in the Annual Report and the self-assessments.

Reasons for the Decision

In line with the statutory requirements set out in the Housing Ombudsman’s Complaint Handling Code, it was essential that the governing body maintained oversight of complaint performance. Presenting the report to Cabinet ensured transparency, accountability and strategic governance in relation to complaint handling processes. It enabled Cabinet to assess organisational responsiveness, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that service delivery remained resident-focused and compliant with regulatory expectations.

In addition, the Council was required to submit annual self-assessments to the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman and the Housing Ombudsman Service, demonstrating how these had been reviewed and how the identified risks and issues would be addressed.

Alternative Options Considered

Publishing an Annual Feedback and Resolutions Review was a requirement. As a result, no alternative options were considered.

The Cabinet Member for Resident Services and Tackling Inequality introduced the report.

The Cabinet Member explained that the Council had faced a significant challenge in relation to complaints. For the third consecutive year, it had the highest rate of Local Government Ombudsman upheld complaints per resident of any council in England. Across all services, nearly two-thirds of Stage 1 complaints and more than half of Stage 2 complaints were upheld. This indicated that the Council had not consistently met residents' expectations in the delivery of services and support. It was explained that the issue was not the number of complaints itself; an increase in complaints could also indicate that residents felt more able to raise concerns with the Council. The key concern was that too many residents experienced delays or received responses that did not fully address their issues, and that complaints were not consistently leading to service improvements.

It was stressed by the Cabinet Member that housing remained a particular area of concern, with more than half (53%) of complaints in 2025/26 relating to services within that directorate. The Housing Ombudsman Service upheld 86% of complaints during the previous year. Although this represented an improvement from 95% in the preceding year, the figure remained high. Efforts were underway to address these issues through the Housing Complaints Improvement Sub-Plan.

It was explained that the report also included the Council's annual self-assessment submissions to the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman and the Housing Ombudsman Service. These documents set out how the Council's policies aligned with the standards required by the respective codes of practice. The assessments also acknowledged areas where performance had not yet met the objectives set out in those policies.

Inclusion of the assessments within the report provided a further opportunity for scrutiny and challenge by Cabinet. Any feedback received from Cabinet was to be reflected in the final submissions.

The Cabinet Member highlighted that the resident experience, including the management of complaints, remained a Council priority and was reflected in the Corporate Delivery Plan. It was recognised that improvements to complaint handling needed to be considered alongside broader areas where service standards had not consistently met residents' expectations.

Work was also being undertaken to address historic underinvestment in Customer Services, with the aim of improving residents' access to information and support in a timely and effective manner. While improvements were expected to take time, it was anticipated that strengthened front-line services and a focus on resolving issues correctly at the earliest opportunity would help reduce frustration for residents and Members.

Cabinet stressed that progress against the Complaints Improvement Plan was being monitored closely to ensure transparency and accountability. The Council aimed to demonstrate measurable improvement in the Feedback and Resolutions Report for 2026/27.

Following questions from Councillors Blake, Hymas and Powell, the following information was shared:

• It was explained that the Council recognised the issues from poor communication with residents and the negative impact that this had on residents utilising services. It was identified that improving and  ...  view the full minutes text for item 50.

Report of the Corporate Director of Environment and Resident Experience. To be presented by the Cabinet Member for Climate Action and Transport

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST MADE FOR THIS ITEM:

None

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet:

1.    Approved the acceptance of £10 million from Transport for London as part of its Better Bus Partnership Programme, subject to the terms and conditions of the funding agreement.

2.    Delegated authority, in accordance with the Council’s Constitution and Contract Standing Orders, to the Director of Built Environment and Highways, in written consultation with the Lead Cabinet Member, for all project changes, approvals and procurement activities required for programme delivery.

3.    Noted the high-level programme of projects set out in Tables 1, 2 and 3, recognising that individual projects would be subject to further feasibility work, design development, stakeholder engagement, statutory processes, funding availability and detailed approval processes, as required.

Reasons for the Decision

The £10 million Better Bus Partnership investment represented a significant opportunity to improve Haringey’s transport network and public realm, delivering benefits for residents, businesses and visitors across the borough. The programme supported a wide range of users, including bus passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, and those accessing town centres, community facilities, employment areas and cultural destinations.

The benefits of the programme were particularly significant for groups most reliant on bus travel, including young people, older residents, disabled people and lower-income households. By improving access to employment, education, healthcare, leisure and cultural opportunities, the programme supported inclusive growth and helped to reduce transport inequalities across the borough.

The Council sought to leverage investment into the Tottenham area for the benefit of businesses and residents, recognising that the UEFA European Championship in 2028 would bring an influx of visitors to the borough, many of whom would use public transport and the connecting footways and public realm leading to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The opportunity to provide an enhanced public realm and gateway into the borough, together with a lasting legacy for local communities, represented a significant opportunity for Haringey.

There was a funding delivery deadline of the 2029/30 financial year, which was further emphasised by the UEFA European Championship taking place in June 2028.

Detailed engagement and consultation were to be undertaken on the various workstreams as they developed, involving key stakeholders, internal teams and the wider public. At that stage, the programme represented a high-level summary of potential projects, with detailed proposals to be developed by design teams and informed by engagement activities once projects had commenced.

The projects set out in Table 3 were to use Better Bus Partnership funding for design development only. Alternative funding sources, including Section 106 developer contributions, Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding and Transport for London Local Implementation Plan (LIP) funding, had been identified for delivery of these schemes. This approach maximised the outcomes achievable through the Better Bus Partnership Programme.

Alternative Options Considered

The alternative option was not to accept the funding and not to proceed with the programme. This would have resulted in the Council foregoing the £10 million investment in highway assets, and the associated benefits of improved bus journey times, enhanced walking and cycling infrastructure, and improvements to the  ...  view the full decision text for item 51.

The Cabinet Member for Climate Action and Transport introduced the report. The rationale for the report was outlined.

The Cabinet Member explained that the impacts of climate change were already being felt across Haringey and were affecting residents in a range of ways. Increasingly frequent heatwaves, flooding, rising living costs and growing public health pressures had created challenges across the borough. Air pollution also continued to affect the health of local communities and contributed to existing health inequalities. It was estimated that around 100 residents died each year from causes associated with poor air quality.

It was explained that, for many residents, particularly those living in the east of the borough, access to a private car was not available, and car ownership rates were below 50%. These residents relied on bus services to access employment, education, healthcare, shopping and social networks. Many of these communities also experienced higher levels of deprivation, poorer air quality and greater transport inequalities. Investment in public transport was therefore seen as an important mechanism for addressing environmental, public health and accessibility challenges. Bus services played a particularly important role for older people, disabled residents, young people and lower-income households.

The Cabinet Member noted that the Better Bus Partnership represented a significant investment in Haringey's public transport network. The programme aimed to improve bus reliability and reduce journey times on some of the borough's busiest routes. It was anticipated that these improvements would encourage greater use of public transport, reduce reliance on private vehicles, ease congestion, reduce emissions and improve air quality. The scheme was therefore expected to deliver benefits extending beyond transport, including positive impacts on public health, environmental objectives and residents' quality of life.

It was explained that the Better Bus Partnership was intended to support the development of a cleaner, healthier and better-connected borough, while also facilitating economic activity and improving everyday journeys for residents. Improved bus services were expected to contribute to better air quality, lower carbon emissions and increased accessibility across the borough. The programme was therefore presented not only as an investment in transport infrastructure, but also as an investment in the health, opportunities and long-term wellbeing of Haringey residents.

Following questions from Councillors Ali and Powell, the following information was shared:

• It was explained that the Council was engaging with businesses on the Green Lanes and West Green Road. It was stressed that the Council was working co-productively with residents as much as possible. It was explained that there was some expected opposition to the scheme but noted that there was understandable trepidation to the loss of parking, but stressed that there was no expected economic impact on business from the proposals. It was additionally noted that there were other members of the community who were on board with the programme.
  
  
• Officers explained that there had been engagement with businesses and that they would have the opportunity to help work to shape the proposals contained within the programme.
  
  
• It was explained that the Council was seeking to accept £10  ...  view the full minutes text for item 51.

Report of the Corporate Director of Environment and Resident Experience. To be presented by the Cabinet Member for Climate Action and Transport

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST MADE FOR THIS ITEM:

None

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet:

1.    Pursuant to Contract Standing Order 7.02 (use of a compliant framework) and 2.01(c), approved the award of a contract for the provision of Enforcement Agency Services to six suppliers set out in the exempt appendix (Part B) (active and reserve), for a period of two years from 16 November 2026 to 15 November 2028, with no option to extend. The estimated aggregate contract value was £4 million over the two-year term, representing statutory enforcement fees anticipated to be recovered directly by the appointed providers from debtors, rather than expenditure payable by the Council.

2.    Approved four bidders becoming active providers from contract award, with the remaining two bidders designated as reserve providers. Active suppliers could be moved to the reserve list, and reserve suppliers could become active providers, in accordance with the Enforcement Agency Specification and Code of Practice.

3.    Noted that the number of Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) registered at the Traffic Enforcement Centre (TEC) over the term of the contract was estimated at 120,000. The registration cost was £11.00 per PCN, resulting in a total cost of £1.32 million. Although some PCNs remained unpaid, the overall costs were expected to be recovered through income generated from the contract from the overall number of PCNs that were paid.

Reasons for the Decision

This report followed the successful completion of a further competition conducted in accordance with the rules of the Yorkshire Purchasing Organisation (YPO) Procurement Framework No. 1200 for Enforcement Agency Services. The framework was already being used for other debt types within Haringey and by other councils, including Council Tax, Business Rates and Business Improvement District (BID) Levy collection.

The Council had statutory duties relating to the effective management of parking and moving traffic. Enforcement was necessary to improve compliance and effectively manage limited kerbside space. The use of enforcement agents was always a measure of last resort. The new multi-provider model was intended to strengthen service resilience, improve recovery performance through competition, provide clearer performance management arrangements, and maintain safeguards for vulnerable residents and those experiencing financial hardship.

Enforcement Agencies recovered their statutory enforcement fees directly from debtors in accordance with legislation and did not charge the Council for core enforcement activities. However, the Council incurred the Traffic Enforcement Centre registration fee for cases progressed to debt registration, which was £11 per PCN. Where recovery was successful, the registration fee formed part of the balance owed by the debtor. The service model also included pre-TEC activity designed to identify cases where escalation might be inappropriate or unlikely to result in recovery, helping to avoid unnecessary registration costs. The fees that Enforcement Agencies could charge in recovering debt were prescribed by legislation.

The contract award moved the Council from reliance on a single Enforcement Agency to a competitive model consisting of four active providers and two reserve providers. This provided greater operational resilience and enabled the Council to adjust allocations and active or reserve status in  ...  view the full decision text for item 52.

The Cabinet Member for Climate Action and Transport introduced the report.

It was explained that the Council had stated its aim of creating a fairer and more equitable borough, with a focus on supporting vulnerable residents and ensuring that interactions between the Council and local communities were conducted in a supportive and considerate manner. This approach was intended to apply equally in circumstances where a debt was owed. The decision increased the number of parking enforcement providers from a single provider to a panel of four providers, with a further two providers held in reserve. This approach aligned the Council's arrangements more closely with those adopted by many other London boroughs.

It was noted that four new requirements had been introduced for enforcement providers: Performance measures relating to the recovery of foreign vehicle debt; Performance measures to support enforcement involving vehicles with no registered keeper recorded by the DVLA; A robust approach to addressing persistent evasion of parking enforcement; Enhanced data analysis and earlier identification of vulnerability and financial hardship, together with increased social value delivery.

The Cabinet Member explained that the revised arrangements were intended to improve the Council's ability to address non-compliance with parking regulations, including cases involving individuals who did not reside within the borough, while also strengthening support and protections for vulnerable people and delivering wider community benefits. Providers were required to deliver community benefit and investment valued at more than £500,000, together with approximately £70,000 in skills and training initiatives and more than £20,000 in environmental commitments. Additional requirements included supporting local employment, apprenticeships and work-experience opportunities. The arrangements were designed to operate in accordance with the Council's Ethical Debt Reduction Policy. Vulnerability assessments were incorporated throughout the enforcement process, and access to specialist welfare support was to be provided where concerns regarding vulnerability or hardship were identified.

Following questions from Councillors Wolson and Powell the following information was shared:

• It was stressed that there was a statutory requirement to enforce, but that the Council would seek to protect vulnerable residents through its enhanced protections in the contract, which included protected characteristics. It was also stressed that the Council would include the need to identify vulnerable residents as part of the contract and provide support.
  
  
• It was stressed that the proposed contract was primarily aimed to collect Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) which had been issued to persistent offenders.
  
  
• It was explained by officers that the proposed model was the most efficient model available, and that this was common across other comparable authorities.
  
  
• Officers explained that there would be robust monitoring undertaken by officers on the quality of the delivery of the contract, and how the contract was managed, to ensure no undue distress for residents.

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet:

1.    Pursuant to Contract Standing Order 7.02 (use of a compliant framework) and 2.01(c), approved the award of a contract for the provision of Enforcement Agency Services to six suppliers set out in the exempt appendix (Part B) (active and reserve), for a period of two years  ...  view the full minutes text for item 52.

Report of the Corporate Director of Adults, Housing and Health. To be presented by the Cabinet Member for Health, Social Care and Wellbeing

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST MADE FOR THIS ITEM:

None

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet:

1.    In accordance with Contract Standing Orders 2.01(a) (approval to commence a procurement exercise) and 2.01(d), approved the direct award of two contracts for a total of 39 block-purchased residential and nursing care beds:

a.    To Ourris Properties Limited for 28 beds at Autumn Gardens; and

b.    To Ourris Residential Homes Limited for 11 beds at Anastasia Lodge.

2.    Approved the award of contracts for a period of eight years commencing on 22 November 2026, with a break clause exercisable after four years, at an estimated maximum aggregate contract value of £19.67 million over the full contract term.

3.    Noted that the proposed award was supported by the evidence contained within the Needs and Gaps Analysis and was compliant with the Council’s obligations under the Procurement Act 2023 in relation to user choice services.

4.    Delegated authority to the Corporate Director of Adults, Housing and Health, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Health, Social Care and Wellbeing, the Director of Finance, and the Head of Legal and Governance, to finalise and enter into all contractual arrangements necessary to implement the decision.

Reasons for the Decision

Across the two care homes, Ourris provided a service that was difficult to replace. It represented Haringey’s only block-purchased residential and nursing care arrangement and offered culturally responsive support for Greek, Cypriot and Turkish communities. Residents were supported in environments that reflected their language, culture, faith and community connections.

Demand for the service remained strong. Occupancy levels were consistently high, and both homes continued to perform well. Contract monitoring demonstrated high levels of resident and family satisfaction, stable staffing arrangements, low levels of complaints and safeguarding concerns, and continued compliance with the Council’s quality expectations.

The Council’s Needs and Gaps Analysis found no equivalent provider within approximately 75 miles that was capable of delivering the same combination of residential care, nursing care and culturally specific support. A direct award was therefore considered the most proportionate and least disruptive option available. It protected resident choice, maintained continuity of care, and supported the Council in meeting its duties under the Care Act 2014.

The proposed contract also provided stability for residents, families and the provider.

Alternative Options Considered

Option 1: Do Nothing

This option was rejected.

Without these contracts in place, the Council would have lost guaranteed access to 39 culturally specific residential and nursing care beds and would have been required to rely on spot-purchasing arrangements. Residents could have experienced reduced choice, and there would have been no assurance that culturally appropriate alternatives could be sourced when placements were required. The Council would also have lost the ability to agree longer-term pricing and performance expectations through a contractual arrangement.

Option 2: Competitive Procurement

This option was considered but rejected.

Market intelligence indicated that there were no providers capable of delivering the same culturally responsive model of residential and nursing care at this scale. A procurement exercise was therefore unlikely to attract equivalent providers and  ...  view the full decision text for item 53.

The Corporate Director of Adults, Housing and Health introduced the report.

The Cabinet Member explained that the Council sought to directly award contracts for the continued provision of 39 residential and nursing care beds at Autumn Gardens and Anastasia Lodge. It was explained that these services provided care for older residents, including individuals living with dementia, frailty, nursing needs and complex health conditions. The services also offered culturally responsive support for Greek, Cypriot and Turkish communities, helping residents maintain connections with their language, culture, traditions, families and wider community networks. The proposed arrangements were intended to maintain continuity of care, preserve resident choice and ensure the ongoing availability of specialist provision that met an identified need within the borough.

The Cabinet Member noted that the recommendations were supported by evidence demonstrating sustained demand for the service, strong provider performance and the absence of an equivalent alternative provider capable of delivering the same combination of residential care, nursing care and culturally responsive support. The approval of the recommendations were expected to provide stability for residents and their families while reducing the risk of service disruption or limitations in choice. It also supported the Council's commitment to delivering high-quality, person-centred adult social care that responded to individuals' care, cultural and social needs

Following questions from Councillors Powell the following information was shared:

• It was explained that the Council had a longstanding positive relationship with the proposed provider.
  
  
• It was highlighted by officers that, if the Council had any issues with the quality of the provider’s services, there was a mechanism to ensure compliance and terminate the contract if required.

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet:

1.    In accordance with Contract Standing Orders 2.01(a) (approval to commence a procurement exercise) and 2.01(d), approved the direct award of two contracts for a total of 39 block-purchased residential and nursing care beds:

a.    To Ourris Properties Limited for 28 beds at Autumn Gardens; and

b.    To Ourris Residential Homes Limited for 11 beds at Anastasia Lodge.

2.    Approved the award of contracts for a period of eight years commencing on 22 November 2026, with a break clause exercisable after four years, at an estimated maximum aggregate contract value of £19.67 million over the full contract term.

3.    Noted that the proposed award was supported by the evidence contained within the Needs and Gaps Analysis and was compliant with the Council’s obligations under the Procurement Act 2023 in relation to user choice services.

4.    Delegated authority to the Corporate Director of Adults, Housing and Health, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Health, Social Care and Wellbeing, the Director of Finance, and the Head of Legal and Governance, to finalise and enter into all contractual arrangements necessary to implement the decision.

Reasons for the Decision

Across the two care homes, Ourris provided a service that was difficult to replace. It represented Haringey’s only block-purchased residential and nursing care arrangement and offered culturally responsive support for Greek, Cypriot and Turkish communities. Residents were supported in environments that reflected their language,  ...  view the full minutes text for item 53.

Report of the Corporate Director of Environment and Resident Experience. To be presented by the Cabinet Member for Resident Services and Tackling Inequality

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST MADE FOR THIS ITEM:

None

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet:

1.    Approved the commencement of a competitive procurement exercise for the provision of an Out of Hours (OOH) Emergency Contact Handling Service from 1 June 2027.

2.    Approved a proposed contract term of three years, with an option to extend for up to a further two years, subject to satisfactory performance, continued business need and the availability of budget provision.

3.    Noted the estimated annual value of the contract as set out in the Exempt Appendix.

Reasons for the Decision

The Out of Hours service was a business-critical, resident-facing service that enabled the Council to receive, triage and assign all urgent and emergency contacts made outside normal working hours to the relevant on-duty team or contractor. This included evenings, overnight periods, weekends and bank holidays. The service helped to protect resident safety by ensuring urgent issues were routed appropriately, while protecting on-duty staff from receiving out-of-hours calls that did not meet the emergency criteria. The procured provider also formed part of the Council’s wider business continuity arrangements by providing additional contact-handling resilience for daytime services where required, including where the Council’s telephone lines were disrupted or during periods of exceptional demand, emergency incidents or other circumstances affecting normal daytime contact routes.

The service also enabled the Council to meet statutory responsibilities arising outside normal office hours, including duties under homelessness legislation to respond to households that might be homeless, eligible for assistance and in priority need, together with wider responsibilities relating to safeguarding, emergency accommodation, adult social care, children’s services and civil contingency responses. Maintaining an effective Out of Hours contact-handling service was therefore necessary to ensure that residents could access urgent Council support when needed and that statutory functions could be discharged without avoidable delay.

A competitive procurement was required to secure a compliant, sustainable and value-for-money long-term service from June 2027, when the current contract with Capita was due to expire.

Through the procurement process, the Council would review and, where appropriate, strengthen the service specification, reconfirm operational pathways with service areas, establish a commercial performance management framework, ensure that future service provision reflected current and emerging resident needs, and ensure that the contract allowed for reductions in contract costs in line with any reductions in demand. Such reductions were expected to be supported by the Council’s introduction of a voice-based digital triage tool.

The recommended approach enabled the Council to test the market, benchmark quality and pricing, secure best value, and promote service stability through a longer-term contract.

Although the procurement process was led by Customer Services, and the Out of Hours supplier would continue to be contract-managed by Customer Services, the cost of the contract would be met through the budgets of the three principal service areas that used the provision. These were Customer Services (General Fund), Homelessness (General Fund), and the Housing Repairs Service (Housing Revenue Account).

Alternative Options Considered

The following options were considered before recommending a competitive procurement for a new outsourced  ...  view the full decision text for item 54.

The Cabinet Member for Resident Services and Tackling Inequality introduced the report.

This report sought approval to procure an Out of Hours (OOH) Emergency Contact Handling Service. The service was considered essential to ensuring that residents could access support outside normal operating hours, including overnight, at weekends and during public holidays. Support was provided for a range of emergency situations, including urgent housing repairs, emergency homelessness placements, flooding incidents and other emergencies.

The Council operated a number of services outside standard opening hours to help maintain the safety and wellbeing of residents and the wider community. An effective out-of-hours service was recognised as an important component of this provision, ensuring that residents could access assistance when urgent situations arose.

As the existing contract was nearing its end, the report sought approval to undertake a competitive procurement process for a replacement Out of Hours Emergency Contact Handling Service. The objective was to identify a provider offering an appropriate balance of quality, cost and social value, while ensuring residents continued to receive effective support outside standard operating hours.

It was considered that the proposed contract term would provide service stability and support value for money. The contract also included flexibility for extension or termination following the initial three-year period, for up to a further two years.

Alternative delivery models had been considered, including in-house provision, shared services with other local authorities and contracts with different types of providers. However, the volume of calls associated with the service was not considered sufficient to make in-house delivery financially viable. A shared service arrangement with another council was identified as a potential option, but no suitable opportunity had been identified at the time of the report.

The Council intended to continue exploring opportunities for shared service arrangements in the future. However, given the importance of maintaining a reliable and effective service for residents, the report concluded that undertaking a competitive procurement exercise represented the most appropriate approach. The procurement process was intended to be conducted in an open and transparent manner.

Following questions from Councillors Powell the following information was shared:

• It was explained that the Council believed that it had enough time to undertake a competitive procurement exercise. It was explained that officers had already undertaken significant amounts of market testing, and that, while the timetable would be a challenge, that the Council expected to be able to achieve this within the timeframe in the report.
  
  
• It was explained that the Council was explained that a three plus two contact length would be optimal to be more flexible and had been informed through market testing of providers. It was explained that the Council would be undertaking market testing to identify best practice and best value for money from the market. It was additionally stressed that options had been sought to seek alternative options, such as insourcing or delivering with other partners, but that no options had been available.

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet:

1.    Approved the commencement of a competitive procurement exercise for the provision of  ...  view the full minutes text for item 54.

Report of the Corporate Director of Culture, Strategy and Communities. To be presented by the Cabinet Member for Placemaking & Local Economy

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST MADE FOR THIS ITEM:

Cllr Beckford noted that they were appointed by the Council to the membership of the North London Waste Authority in May 2026 by virtue of my Cabinet responsibilities. The North London Waste Authority have a working relationship with the Lee Valley Heat Network referred to in the report and recommendations. It was noted that Councillor Beckford was granted dispensation to vote on matters relating to North London Waste Authority by the Standards Committee in June.

Councillor Kuper noted that they were appointed by the Council to the membership of the North London Waste Authority the North London Waste Authority agreed by full Council in July. The North London Waste Authority have a working relationship with the Lee Valley Heat Network .Due to Committee meeting scheduling, the Standards Committee are due to consider a dispensation in relation to my council membership role of North London Waste Association at their November meeting and therefore recused themselves from the meeting at items 15 and 23.

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet:

1.    Approved the award of Heat Connection Agreements, for a term of 40 years, to Lee Valley Heat Network Operating Company Limited (Company No. 09763702) for: Selby Village (residential); Commercial Unit Space within the residential development; Commercial Connection – Selby Centre; and Commercial Connection – Sports Pavilion. The total contract value was as set out in the exempt recommendations.

2.    Approved the award of the Selby Urban Village Framework Supply Agreement, for a term of 40 years, to Lee Valley Heat Network Operating Company Limited (Company No. 09763702). This committed the Council to the relevant supply costs contained within the subsidiary supply agreements over the 40-year contract term, including those identified within the exempt recommendations.

3.    Noted that, through the subsidiary Construction Supply Agreement, the Council would meet the cost of heat supply during the construction period, including commissioning activities, with these costs already accounted for within the project's capital budget.

4.    Noted that, through the subsidiary Residential Customer Supply Agreements, the Council would contribute the landlord’s availability charge applied by Energetik for the residential heat network at Selby Urban Village. The proportion of the total availability charge and the estimated cost to the Council over the 40-year contract term were set out in the exempt recommendations.

5.    Noted that, through the subsidiary Residential Customer Supply Agreements, social housing tenants would contribute the tenant availability charge applied by Energetik for residential heat supply at Selby Urban Village. The proportion of the total availability charge was set out in the exempt recommendations.

6.    Noted that, through the subsidiary Residential Customer Supply Agreements, social housing tenants would be responsible for their variable heat usage charges during their tenancy.

7.    Noted that, through the subsidiary Commercial Customer Supply Agreements, commercial tenants occupying the Community Centre, Sports Pavilion and Commercial Unit would be responsible for their availability charges and variable usage charges during their occupation.

8.    Noted that, through the subsidiary Void Supply Agreements, the Council would be responsible for the availability  ...  view the full decision text for item 55.

Councillor Kuper recused herself from the meeting for this item, following her declaration noted in item 4.

The Cabinet Member for Placemaking & Local Economy introduced the report.

It was explained that the Selby Urban Village development was being delivered to provide 202 new council-rent homes, alongside a community hub incorporating workspace, community facilities, parkland, sporting facilities, play areas, biodiverse spaces and a local shop. The Council continued to work in partnership with the Selby Trust to deliver a development intended to support the wellbeing and quality of life of residents.

The Cabinet member noted that the reduction of the housing waiting list and providing high-quality community infrastructure were identified as key objectives of the Council. The Selby Urban Village development was intended to contribute towards these objectives. To support delivery of the scheme, contracts for heating and hot water supply were to be awarded to ensure that the new homes and associated community and sports facilities would be ready for occupation upon completion. The development's energy and heat strategy had been established earlier in the project's delivery and included a requirement for the scheme to connect to the Energetik District Heat Network. This requirement arose from the Greater London Authority Energy Hierarchy and the planning obligations applying to the development.

It was stressed that the Council had undertaken due diligence to review the requirement for connection to the heat network, consider alternative options, assess the proposed heat supply arrangements and seek value for future residents and community facility operators. Safeguards had been secured to ensure that the network would not remain dependent on higher-carbon energy sources over the long term and would be capable of meeting Future Homes Standards. In addition, the planned introduction of Ofgem regulation of heat networks from January 2027 was expected to provide greater oversight of pricing and consumer protections.

The Cabinet member explained that the Selby Urban Village development was intended to deliver new housing, community facilities and infrastructure within an area identified as having significant levels of deprivation. The scheme aimed to provide a sustainable, long-term development that would deliver benefits for local residents and the wider community.

Following questions from Councillors Iozzi, Wolson, Hymas, Powell and Ali the following information was shared:

• It was explained that the SUV would be delivered to ensure that residents had low energy costs, which would be energy efficient. It was additionally noted that there would be heat retention and carbon reduction built into the site, as well as environmental improvements as part of the development, including new trees, sustainable drainage and biodiverse habitats. It was also noted that the site would include methods for active travel.
  
  
• It was stressed that value for money was crucial to the development of contracts for the project and that officers had worked to undertake benchmarking and independent reviews for the project. It was additionally noted that the Council sought further price protections and welcomed regulatory support to protect these.
  
  
• It was explained that the Council had undertaken due diligence on the  ...  view the full minutes text for item 55.

To note the minutes of the following:

Cabinet Member Signing

28 September 2026 12.30 pm - Woodridings Court N22 Award of Construction Contract

15 September 2026 3.00 pm – (NON-KEY) Appointment of Membership for the Corporate Parenting Committee and Community Safety Partnership 2026/27 AND Arrangements for Job Share of Cabinet Member portfolio role for Health and Social Care

7 September 2026 12.00 pm - Approval to Award Contract, Kings Road Car Park, N17

7 September 2026 11.30 am - Provision of Internal Audit Services (Contract for the supply of Internal Audit Services)

The minutes of other bodies were discussed.

RESOLVED:

The minutes of other bodies were noted.

To note the delegated decisions taken by Directors.

The Significant and Delegated Actions were discussed.

RESOLVED:

The Significant and Delegated Actions were noted.

As per item 3.

There were none.

Note from the Committees Manager

Items 20-23 allow for consideration of exempt information in relation to item 9, 12, 14, 15.

TO RESOLVE

That the press and public be excluded from the remainder of the meeting as items 20-25 contain exempt information as defined under paragraph 3, 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).

RESOLVED:

That the press and public be excluded from the remainder of the meeting as items 20-25 contain exempt information as defined under paragraph 3, 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).

Relating to item 9.

The exempt report was discussed.

RESOLVED:

The exempt report was noted and any exempt recommendations were agreed.

Relating to item 12.

The exempt report was discussed.

RESOLVED:

The exempt report was noted and any exempt recommendations were agreed.

Relating to item 14

The exempt report was discussed.

RESOLVED:

The exempt report was noted and any exempt recommendations were agreed.

Related to item 15

The exempt report was discussed.

RESOLVED:

The exempt report was noted and any exempt recommendations were agreed.

To note the exempt minutes of the Cabinet Member Signing on 28 September 2026

The exempt minutes of the Cabinet member Signing were discussed.

RESOLVED:

The exempt minutes of the Cabinet Member Signing were noted.

As per item 3.

There was none.