This week in Hackney:

Urgent Action Needed: Black Women Face Disproportionate Mental Health Challenges

This week, the Adults Health and Integration Scrutiny Commission met to confront a stark reality: Black women in Hackney are experiencing significantly worse outcomes in acute and community mental health services. Data presented reveals a deeply concerning overrepresentation of Black women in referrals, caseloads, and, most alarmingly, in restrictive interventions like physical restraint and seclusion.

The Stark Reality: Data Reveals Systemic Disparities

The figures are undeniable. While Black or Black British individuals make up around 21% of Hackney's population, they account for 35% of current admissions to female acute mental health wards. This disparity is even more pronounced in early intervention for psychosis services, where Black women are significantly overrepresented.

Perhaps most disturbingly, Black service users account for a staggering 63% of restraint episodes where ethnicity is recorded. This raises urgent questions about how care is being delivered and the disproportionate impact on Black individuals, particularly women, who are also three and a half times more likely to be subjected to seclusion.

These statistics paint a grim picture, suggesting that current approaches are failing to meet the needs of Black women, potentially exacerbating existing inequalities and leading to more traumatic experiences within the mental health system. The council's commitment to an anti-racist led approach, as stated by Sally Beaven, Executive Director of Healthwatch Hackney, must translate into immediate, tangible action to address these disparities.

Home Birth Services Resume After Review, But Communication Gaps Remain

Following a temporary pause, Homerton Healthcare's home birth services have fully recommenced operations as of October 9th, 2026. While Brenda McManus, Chief Nurse at Homerton Healthcare, apologised for the disruption caused to nine affected women, the incident highlighted a critical need for improved communication. The extensive resident and councillor outcry following the pause underscores the importance of transparent and timely information sharing, especially when essential services are temporarily suspended. The council must ensure robust communication protocols are in place to prevent similar anxieties and disruptions in the future.

Waste Services Under Pressure: A Call for Behaviour Change and Smarter Systems

The Skills, Place and Economy Scrutiny Commission and the Adults Health and Integration Scrutiny Commission both grappled with the complexities of waste management and mental health services, respectively. In waste services, the sheer volume of fly-tipped material and the challenges of urban living were starkly illustrated. Councillor Jacob Cable, Cabinet Member for Climate, Clean Air, Energy and Transport, highlighted that Hackney has already surpassed national residual waste targets for 2042, a testament to the operational pressures faced. While innovations like AI-fitted cameras and community skips are being explored, the core message remains: behaviour change from residents is paramount. The council's efforts to make reporting fly-tipping easier, while beneficial, also contribute to the perception of increased waste, underscoring the need for proactive education and enforcement.

This week in Hackney:

Licensing Sub-Committee C Approves Premises Licence for Gauchoworld Space Amidst Strong Resident Opposition

The Licensing Sub Committee C met on Wednesday, 7 October 2026, to consider a contentious application for a premises licence for Gauchoworld Space at 145 Goldsmiths Row, London E2 8QR. Despite significant opposition from local residents citing noise, public nuisance, and safety concerns, the committee deliberated on the application. While the committee heard extensive representations from the applicant, Dean George, and numerous local residents and responsible authorities, the decision on the licence application will be communicated to all relevant parties five clear working days after the meeting. The committee's decision will be based on its assessment of whether the proposed activities, given the premises' size and location, would undermine the licensing objectives.

Gauchoworld Space: A Cultural Hub or a Nuisance?

The application sought permission for films from 18:00 to 23:00 daily and for live and recorded music from 10:00 to 23:00 daily. The applicant, Dean George, described Gauchoworld Space as a cultural hub and creative space, not a nightclub, aiming to support young creatives and independent businesses. He proposed a reduced schedule for music-led events, limiting them to Fridays and Saturdays between 18:00 and 23:00, with a maximum of three such events per month. Mr. George also highlighted community initiatives such as workshops and industry leader talks.

However, the application was met with considerable opposition from local residents. Numerous representations detailed concerns about excessive noise, particularly from amplified music and bass, which residents claimed was audible in their homes even with windows closed, disrupting sleep and quality of life. Issues regarding crowds spilling onto the street, litter, public urination, and a general lack of regard for the residential nature of Goldsmiths Row were also raised. Residents expressed a lack of trust in Mr. George's ability to manage events responsibly, citing past incidents and a perceived lack of community engagement.

The Environmental Health Authority initially raised concerns about public nuisance due to noise complaints, recommending refusal. While they later withdrew their formal objection based on agreed conditions, their underlying concerns about the suitability of the location remained. The Licensing Authority also expressed reservations, noting the premises' location in a highly residential area and the difficulty in sufficiently conditioning the licence to prevent undermining the licensing objectives.

During the discussion, councillors questioned Mr. George about soundproofing, toilet facilities, crowd management, and his willingness to compromise on hours and engage with residents. Mr. George stated that there was a bathroom within the premises, though its suitability for public use was disputed by residents. He also agreed to consider earlier closing times and to engage with ward councillors.

Despite the applicant's proposed amendments and assurances, the overwhelming weight of resident objections, coupled with the concerns raised by responsible authorities, led the committee to deliberate on the application. The decision will be based on the belief that the proposed activities, given the premises' size, location, and the significant concerns raised by residents regarding noise, public nuisance, public safety, and the protection of children from harm, would undermine the licensing objectives.

Read the summary of the Licensing Sub Committee C meeting

Council Approves Land Appropriation for New Homes and Extends Smoke Control to Waterways

The Cabinet met on Tuesday, 6 October 2026, approving key decisions that will facilitate the development of new homes and improve air quality. The Cabinet agreed to the appropriation of land for planning purposes at three New Homes Programme (NHP) sites and approved the commencement of a statutory process to extend smoke control orders to moored vessels on the borough's waterways.

New Homes Programme Sites to be Appropriated for Development

The Cabinet agreed to the appropriation of land for planning purposes at three NHP sites: Orwell & Welshpool (NHP1.1), Regents Court (NHP1.2), and Selman and Wellday (NHP7). This appropriation, under the Local Government Act 1972, will enable the development of new homes in accordance with the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. The land will be transferred from the General Fund to the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) for housing purposes after development completion. This process aims to streamline regeneration projects and protect them from third-party injunctions. The NHP aims to deliver new social rented homes, with 90 of the 146 homes at these sites designated for council social rent, and the remaining 56 for outright sale, with proceeds reinvested into building more social homes. This initiative aligns with the council's commitment to increasing the supply of affordable housing for residents.

Smoke Control Orders to Extend to Waterways

The Cabinet approved the proposal to vary the borough's 2025 Smoke Control Order to include moored vessels on its waterways. This decision is driven by concerns about air quality and the health risks associated with particulate matter from solid fuel burning, as highlighted by the World Health Organisation. The Environment Act 2021 empowers local authorities to implement such controls. Hackney Council has secured £493,787.56 in funding from the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) to support this initiative. This funding includes a grant scheme to reimburse eligible boaters 70% of the costs for upgrading non-compliant heating appliances. For those not eligible for funding, the council will provide financial and benefits advice. The process will involve public engagement to gather comments on the new draft Smoke Control (Variation) Order. This measure is expected to significantly improve air quality for residents living near and using the borough's waterways.

Other Matters

The Cabinet also noted the completion of the Hackney SEND Reform Plan & Post-Inspection Action Plan, which is pending Department for Education approval. This plan integrates into the SEND and Inclusion 3-year Strategy (2026-2029) and aims to address areas for improvement identified in a joint Ofsted and Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection. The Cabinet also noted the overall financial position of the Council as at July 2026, which indicated a forecast overspend of £6.124 million on the General Fund, primarily due to cost pressures in children's services and adult social care. The Mayor's nominations for appointments to Outside Bodies for 2026/2027 were also noted.

Read the summary of the Cabinet meeting

Planning Sub-Committee Defers Decision on Wayman Court Car Park Redevelopment

The Planning Sub-Committee met on Wednesday, 7 October 2026, to consider three planning applications. While decisions were made on applications at 25 Amhurst Park and Sheraton House, the committee deferred a decision on the proposed redevelopment of Wayman Court Car Park, Eleanor Road, E8 1DN, pending further information.

Wayman Court Car Park Redevelopment Deferred

The application for Wayman Court Car Park proposed the demolition of existing garages and structures to construct 22 new residential dwellings, along with associated amenity space, landscaping, and public realm improvements. Several residents spoke in objection to the proposal, raising concerns about the impact on the local area. The committee decided to defer the decision to allow for further information to be gathered and presented at a future meeting. This deferral means that the potential impact of this development on local housing supply and community infrastructure remains under consideration.

Conditional Permission Granted for Synagogue at 25 Amhurst Park

Conditional planning permission was granted for the proposed development at 25 Amhurst Park. The application sought permission for the use of the ground and part-first floors as a synagogue (Use Class F1(f)), along with the erection of extensions and the installation of PV panels. While some councillors raised questions about replacing residential flats with a place of worship and potential noise impacts, the planning officer clarified that Policy LP24 permits the loss of housing for community use when a need is demonstrated. Noise assessments and insulation measures were part of the proposal, and the development was confirmed to be car-free, with only one disabled bay provided. Objections were raised by local residents, but the committee found the proposal acceptable subject to conditions.

Sheraton House Variation Approved to Extend Operating Hours

Conditional planning permission was granted for a variation at Sheraton House, 118 Curtain Road. The variation sought to amend the hours of operation for the temporary use of the building as an arts, event, and exhibition space (Sui Generis). The proposed change extends operating hours to 3:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays, aligning with the premises licence. The committee considered the impact on neighbouring residential amenity, pedestrian and highway safety, and waste management. Despite objections from individuals concerned about cumulative impact and noise, the committee determined that the extended hours, with conditions related to noise insulation and a Venue Management Plan, would not cause undue disturbance.

Read the summary of the Planning Sub-Committee meeting

Scrutiny Panel Reviews Council Performance and Transformation Programme

The Scrutiny Panel met on Thursday, 8 October 2026, to review the Council's performance monitoring dashboards and the Corporate Transformation Programme. The discussions focused on how key performance indicators (KPIs) are used to track progress, the effectiveness of transformation initiatives, and the governance structures in place.

Performance Monitoring Dashboards Under Scrutiny

The panel reviewed the Council's refreshed performance management framework, which includes business-critical and organisational health dashboards. Discussions centred on target setting, the measurement of qualitative outcomes for residents, and data quality. Councillors raised questions about the appropriateness of targets for all indicators and how genuine qualitative outcomes, such as long-term housing stability, are measured. Assurance was sought on the control systems and audit procedures for verifying data accuracy. The panel also explored the mechanisms for escalating underperformance and how risk management is integrated with performance monitoring. The alignment of new dashboards with the Borough Plan and Mayoral priorities was also a key theme.

Corporate Transformation Programme Update

An update on the Council's Corporate Transformation Programme, designed to address rising demand and constrained funding, was presented. The programme aims to ensure long-term financial sustainability and improve service delivery. Key aspects discussed included the programme's objectives, the target operating model, and its projected contribution to the Council's Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) savings target. A case study on the Finding My Future programme within Children's Social Care was presented, highlighting its success in improving needs assessments and reducing care escalations, with a projected cost reduction of £608,000 for 2026-27. Challenges such as mobilising resources and change fatigue within the organisation were acknowledged. The programme's resilience to changes in senior leadership and national policy reforms was also a point of discussion.

Read the summary of the Scrutiny Panel meeting

This week in Hackney:

Council Standards Committee Grants Dispensation to Councillor Jacob Cable Amidst LondonEnergy Ltd. Role

The Standards Committee met on Tuesday, 29 September 2026, and made a significant decision to grant Councillor Jacob Cable a dispensation. This allows him to participate in discussions and votes concerning LondonEnergy Limited (LEL), despite his proposed paid directorship with the company. This decision aims to ensure continued democratic oversight and engagement in waste management services that affect Hackney residents.

Councillor Cable's New Role and the Need for Dispensation

Councillor Cable is set to take on a paid directorship of LondonEnergy Limited, a company wholly owned by the North London Waste Authority (NLWA), of which Hackney Council is a member. LEL manages waste management services, including an energy-from-waste facility. Councillor Cable's proposed remuneration for this role is £17,682 annually.

Under the Localism Act 2011, holding such a position constitutes a disclosable pecuniary interest (DPI), which would typically prevent Councillor Cable from participating in any Council business related to LEL. However, the Standards Committee considered that granting a dispensation was in the best interests of the council's area. This means Councillor Cable can now contribute to discussions and decisions regarding LEL's operations, ensuring Hackney's representation is fully engaged.

The dispensation is effective from 1 October 2026 and will last for a maximum of four years, or until Councillor Cable ceases to be an elected member or his LEL appointment ends. It is specific to LEL business and does not waive common law principles regarding bias.

Committee Leadership and Terms of Reference

During the meeting, Councillor Rolf Dekker was confirmed as the Chair and Councillor Zoe Holman as the Vice-Chair of the Standards Committee for the Municipal Year 2026-27. These appointments had been previously agreed by Full Council.

The committee also formally noted its Terms of Reference for the Municipal Year 2026-27. These outline the committee's responsibilities, including upholding ethical standards, overseeing councillor conduct, and handling complaints under the Code of Conduct. The committee operates with two sub-committees: the Standards Assessment Sub-Committee and the Standards Hearing Sub-Committee.

Future Discussions and Declarations

The committee noted that future meetings will include updates on members' engagement in Code of Conduct training, Disclosure Barring Service checks, and Registers of Interests.

Councillor Florence Schechter, Cabinet Member for Finance, Resident Services and Digital, declared her appointment to the North London Waste Authority. Apologies were received from Councillor Anna Lynch.

Read the summary of the Standards Committee meeting

Licensing Sub-Committee D Meeting Cancelled, Postponing Key Decisions on Venues

The Licensing Sub Committee D meeting, scheduled for Thursday, 1 October 2026, was cancelled. This cancellation means that decisions on several important licensing applications, including those for a café in Shoreditch and a pub in Islington, have been postponed.

The committee was due to consider procedures for Temporary Event Notices and two significant premises licence applications. One application was for the Ground Floor at 74 Great Eastern Street, London EC2A 3JL, from Corgi UK Cafe Limited, for late-night refreshment. This application had faced objections from Other Persons on the grounds of public nuisance, with concerns raised about potential crime, drug issues, and the impact on residential areas. The applicant aimed to bring a positive cultural and economic impact to Shoreditch.

The second application was for a variation of a premises licence for The Stags Head at 55 Orsman Road, London, N1 5RA. This sought to extend terminal hours for alcohol sales and live music, and introduce late-night refreshment hours. The Environmental Health Authority and Licensing Authority had raised concerns about public nuisance in this heavily residential area. The applicant had proposed measures to manage noise and dispersal, but Environmental Health maintained a recommendation to refuse the variation.

The cancellation means these matters will be rescheduled, delaying the council's decision on whether to grant these licences and under what conditions.

Read the summary of the Licensing Sub Committee D meeting

Licensing Committee Notes Updates on Licensing Vision and Late Night Levy

The Licensing Committee met on Wednesday, 30 September 2026, receiving updates on the council's licensing vision and the performance of the Late Night Levy. The committee also noted the Licensing Service Annual Report for 2025/26.

Licensing Vision and Late Night Levy Performance

Councillor Rachel Nkiessu-Guifo, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy, Skills, High Streets and Markets (Dalston), provided an oral update on the council's vision for licensing. The Late Night Levy Manager also presented a report on the Levy's performance for the first three quarters of its ninth year. The committee resolved to note both updates, indicating a continued focus on managing the borough's night-time economy and its associated impacts.

Licensing Service Annual Report

The committee also noted the Licensing Service Annual Report for 2025/26, which provides an overview of the licensing activities undertaken by the council over the past year. This report serves as a key document for understanding the scope and impact of licensing decisions within Hackney.

Read the summary of the Licensing Committee meeting

This week in Hackney:

Council Invests Millions in Temporary Accommodation to Tackle Housing Crisis

Hackney Council's Cabinet met on Tuesday, September 22nd, making a significant decision to acquire 448 new units of temporary accommodation. This move is a direct response to the borough's escalating housing crisis and aims to provide better, more stable housing for residents experiencing homelessness, while also seeking to reduce the council's reliance on costly nightly-paid accommodation.

A Crucial Investment in Housing Stability

The Cabinet approved the acquisition of 319 temporary accommodation units and a further 58 units, funded from existing budgets. Additionally, a 10-year lease was agreed for 71 units specifically for single individuals. These acquisitions are vital for fulfilling the council's statutory duty to house those who are homeless. The current reliance on expensive, often lower-quality, nightly-paid annexes and out-of-borough placements is not only a financial drain but also fails to provide the stable environment needed for individuals and families to rebuild their lives.

By securing these new units, the council anticipates significant financial savings and, more importantly, an improvement in the living conditions for vulnerable residents. The report highlighted that these new accommodations are intended to be high-quality and self-contained, offering a much-needed sense of security and dignity.

Capital Programme Adjustments and Sustainability Focus

Alongside the temporary accommodation plans, the Cabinet also reviewed and approved the Quarter 1 Capital Monitoring for the year ending 31 July 2026. This involved carrying forward £188.2 million in expenditure plans and re-profiling budgets by hundreds of millions of pounds to align with project delivery schedules. These adjustments are essential for the effective management of the council's long-term capital investment programme.

The sustainability of these new housing units was also a key consideration. New build sites are expected to achieve an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of 'A', while existing properties will meet or exceed an EPC C rating, contributing to the council's climate goals.

These decisions are classified as Key Decisions and will come into effect after a five-day call-in period, unless challenged by at least five non-executive members.

Read the summary of the Cabinet meeting

Concerns Raised Over Homerton Healthcare's Digital Strategy and Palantir Involvement

The Adults Health and Integration Scrutiny Commission met on Tuesday, September 22nd, to scrutinise Homerton Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust's new digital strategy. A central point of discussion was the potential use of the Federated Data Platform (FDP), developed by Palantir Technologies, and the ethical implications associated with the company's track record.

Homerton Healthcare's Digital Vision and the Palantir Question

Homerton Healthcare presented its digital strategy, focusing on improving integrated care, delivering better value, and fostering innovation. Tom Nettle, Deputy Chief Executive of Homerton Healthcare, assured the Commission that the Trust currently has no plans to fully utilise the FDP, with their primary focus remaining on enhancing their existing electronic patient record system.

However, representatives from the Hackney Coalition Against Palantir voiced significant concerns. They highlighted Palantir's history, including its involvement with immigration enforcement and military operations, and questioned the ethical implications of the NHS contracting with such a company. Concerns were raised about the potential erosion of public trust, particularly among vulnerable migrant communities who might fear data sharing with immigration authorities. The coalition also pointed to a reported financial gap between the FDP's costs and its projected benefits.

Safeguarding Adults and Food Security Addressed

The Commission also reviewed the City and Hackney Safeguarding Adults Board Annual Report 2025-26. The report indicated a substantial increase in safeguarding concerns raised, from 1,780 to 2,798, with self-neglect remaining the most common form of abuse. The Commission discussed the challenges in addressing self-neglect and the potential for agencies to prematurely close cases.

Additionally, the Director of Public Health presented a report on access to healthy and affordable food, highlighting the impact of the cost of living crisis. The report advocated for a systemic approach to reshape the food environment and tackle diet-related health inequalities, showcasing numerous local initiatives aimed at improving food access and community knowledge.

The Commission also agreed to the terms of reference for a review into improving outcomes for Black women in NHS acute and community mental health services, a critical step towards addressing disparities in care.

Read the summary of the Adults Health and Integration Scrutiny Commission meeting

Council Approves Planning Committee Changes and Appoints Representatives to External Bodies

Hackney Council's Full Council convened on Wednesday, September 23rd, to approve significant changes to the Planning Committee's Terms of Reference and to make various appointments to external bodies.

Modernising Planning Procedures

The Council adopted new Planning Committee Terms of Reference, which will come into effect from October 31st, 2026. These changes are necessitated by new legislation, the Planning and Infrastructure Act 2025, which reforms how planning committees operate. The key change is the establishment of the Planning Sub-Committee as an independent committee, rather than a sub-committee of the Corporate Committee. This move aims to streamline decision-making processes and clarify which applications are determined by officers and which require committee review. A gateway test will be introduced to determine if applications raise significant economic, social, environmental, or planning matters warranting committee consideration.

Appointments to Outside Bodies and Scrutiny Commissions

The Council also agreed to a range of appointments for Councillors to various Outside Bodies. These appointments are crucial for ensuring the Council's representation and influence in a variety of organisations that serve the borough, from community law centres to sports foundations.

Furthermore, Madeline Levy was appointed as an Orthodox Jewish Representative (non-statutory co-optee) to the Children and Young People's Scrutiny Commission, enhancing the diversity of perspectives within the council's oversight functions.

The Council also noted the Annual Report of the Overview and Scrutiny Function for 2025/26, which details the work undertaken by scrutiny committees throughout the year.

Read the summary of the Council meeting

Pension Fund Shows Strong Financial Health and Approves New Policies

The Pensions Committee met on Tuesday, September 22nd, to review the Hackney Pension Fund's financial performance and approve new policies. The fund continues to demonstrate a strong surplus, and the committee noted progress on responsible investment and administration.

Robust Funding Position and Investment Performance

The actuarial valuation as of March 31, 2025, revealed a significant surplus of £0.58 billion, with assets of £2.12 billion against liabilities of £1.54 billion. This healthy position has led to a reduction in employer contribution rates. The estimated funding level at June 30, 2026, showed further improvement, with a surplus of £0.71 billion and a funding level of 140%. The required future investment return to achieve 100% funding has decreased to 3.9% per annum, indicating a robust and compliant funding plan.

While the overall fund return of 6.7% for the quarter ending June 30, 2026, slightly outperformed its benchmark, the committee noted underperformance in specific investment funds, such as the LCIV Global Alpha Growth Paris Aligned Fund and the LCIV Sustainable Equity Fund. The committee recommended further exploration of these underperformances with London CIV.

New Policies and Responsible Investment Focus

The committee approved a new Voluntary Scheme Pays Policy, which outlines the process for members to pay tax charges related to exceeding annual allowance limits. Updates on pension administration showed strong performance from Local Pensions Partnership Administration (LPPA), exceeding its Service Level Agreement target.

The fund's first Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) report was also noted, indicating a decrease in the fund's carbon footprint and a commitment to reaching net-zero emissions by 2040. The committee also approved the 2026 Stewardship Code report, demonstrating the fund's commitment to responsible ownership and engagement with companies on environmental, social, and governance issues.

Read the summary of the Pensions Committee meeting