This week in Haringey:

Council to Increase Rents for Supported Accommodation Residents

Haringey Council is set to formalise and increase licence fees and service charges for residents living in council-owned supported accommodation. Councillor Sarah Williams, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning, approved changes that will see fees for General Fund properties updated to align with the Housing Revenue Account and the Rent Standard. This decision, made on Monday 23 February 2026, will affect residents in schemes like Scheme O and Scheme B, with new personal charges being introduced.

What's Changing and Why?

The council manages five short-term supported housing schemes. While three are within the Housing Revenue Account (HRA), two – Scheme O and Scheme B – are in the General Fund (GF). These schemes provide temporary housing for up to two years, helping residents develop independent living skills.

Previously, GF schemes had not seen their charges updated since 2020 and 2021, creating a disparity with HRA schemes. The new policy aims to rectify this by setting licence fees (rents) at Formula Rent + 10% as per the Rent Standard[^1]. Additionally, residents will now be recharged the full cost of services not included in the licence fee.

For Scheme B, this means new weekly personal charges of £8.98, and for Scheme O, £13.66. While the report acknowledges this may present a short-term challenge for some, it's intended to better prepare individuals for future tenancies. The council has pledged to provide targeted support for those struggling to meet these new charges.

Financial Impact and Resident Protections

These changes are projected to generate an additional £190,000 in income for the General Fund in 2026/27, contributing to the council's budget. For existing residents, licence fee increases will be capped at 4.8% (CPI + 1%), adhering to the Rent Standard's limitations on annual increases for current tenancies.

The decision was made to ensure clarity, a common charging methodology, and a standardised approach to fees. Alternative options, such as not formalising charges, were rejected due to a lack of transparency.

• Key Decision: Approval of a new charging policy for council-owned supported accommodation, including updated licence fees and service charges for General Fund properties.
• Potential Outcome: Increased costs for some residents in supported accommodation, alongside a more consistent and transparent charging system.
• Link to Meeting: Cabinet Member Signing, 23 February 2026

Council to Appoint Multiple Agencies for Parking Debt Collection

Haringey Council is moving to appoint several enforcement agencies to collect outstanding Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) related debt. Councillor Seema Chandwani, Cabinet Member for Resident Services & Tackling Inequality, approved the initiation of a procurement process on Wednesday 25 February 2026. This move aims to reduce the risk associated with relying on a single agency and to foster competition, which is expected to improve debt recovery rates.

Why the Change?

Currently, CDER Group handles approximately 70,000 PCNs annually. Appointing multiple providers will mitigate the risk of service disruption if the current provider becomes unavailable. Furthermore, the introduction of competition is anticipated to enhance collection performance.

Key benefits of this decision include:

• Risk Mitigation: Diversifying to multiple agencies reduces reliance on a single provider.
• Improved Collection: Competition is expected to boost debt recovery.
• Cost Savings: Enforcement agencies will cover the Traffic Enforcement Centre (TEC) registration fee of £10.00 per PCN, leading to an estimated saving of £600,000.
• Ethical Debt Collection: The revised contract specification includes enhanced provisions to protect vulnerable individuals, balancing firmness with compassion.

Protecting Vulnerable Debtors

The council has emphasised its commitment to ethical debt collection. The new arrangements will incorporate detailed provisions to identify and support vulnerable individuals, ensuring that debt recovery is conducted with sensitivity. This is crucial, as the council acknowledges the increasing financial pressures on both PCN recipients and the council itself.

• Key Decision: Approval to initiate a procurement process for multiple enforcement agencies to collect PCN-related debt.
• Potential Outcome: More efficient and ethical collection of parking debt, potentially leading to cost savings for the council and improved support for vulnerable debtors.
• Link to Meeting: Cabinet Member Signing, 25 February 2026

Children and Young People's Panel Reviews Autism Strategy and Healthy Weight Initiatives

The Children and Young People's Scrutiny Panel met on Thursday 26 February 2026 to discuss crucial updates on the Haringey Autism Strategy and progress in tackling unhealthy weight in childhood. The panel also received an update on the SEND and Alternative Provision Strategy.

Progress on the Haringey Autism Strategy

The panel received an update on Haringey's 10-year, all-age strategy to improve outcomes for autistic people, which runs until 2031. The strategy has focused on diagnostic pathways, mental health services, and general care and support. Initiatives have included efforts to reduce waiting times for diagnoses, enhance parent/carer workshops, and develop a new sleep pathway. Improvements in mental health services include embedding Learning Disability and Autism (LDA) Practitioners in assertive outreach teams.

The strategy also aims to improve care and support through commissioned services, and to enhance educational and employment opportunities for autistic young people. Efforts to empower autistic young people through the Elevated Youth panel and the Haringey Youth Council were also highlighted. Data collection for autistic children and young people is being improved across North Central London (NCL) to inform commissioning decisions.

Tackling Unhealthy Weight in Childhood

The panel reviewed the progress of the Haringey Healthy Weight Strategy (2022-25), which adopts a whole systems / life course approach. Data from the National Child Measurement Programme (NCMP) shows Haringey's results are broadly in line with national averages, though ward-level data highlights variations. The strategy involves a multi-sector partnership and aligns with national policies. Initiatives include the Healthy Schools Programme, Child Weight Management Service, and the Healthier Catering Commitment. The Healthy Place aspect focuses on public health input into planning and improving the food environment. The strategy is being refreshed for 2026-29, with a focus on equity and impact assessment.

• Key Topics Discussed: Implementation of the Haringey Autism Strategy, progress on tackling unhealthy weight in childhood, and updates on the SEND and Alternative Provision Strategy.
• Potential Outcome: Insights into the effectiveness of services for autistic children and young people, and strategies for promoting healthy lifestyles among children.
• Link to Meeting: Children and Young People's Scrutiny Panel, 26 February 2026

Health and Wellbeing Board Addresses Dementia and Better Care Fund

The Health and Wellbeing Board met on Thursday 26 February 2026 to discuss the growing prevalence of dementia in Haringey and the performance of the Better Care Fund. The board also received updates on the transition of the Integrated Care Board (ICB) and local neighbourhood initiatives.

Dementia Prevalence and Support

An estimated 2,206 people aged 65 and over were living with dementia in Haringey in December 2025, a figure projected to rise by 61% to 3,156 by 2045. The discussion highlighted that 65% of those aged 65 and over with dementia had a formal diagnosis, consistent with national averages. The board reviewed the Dementia Friendly Haringey initiative, which aims to create a more supportive environment for those affected by dementia. Discussions also covered current challenges in care, including those faced by carers in hospital and care home settings.

Better Care Fund Performance

The board received an update on the Better Care Fund (BCF) for 2025/26, which integrates health and social care services. Key metrics reviewed included emergency admissions for those aged 65 and over, discharge delays, and admissions to long-term residential care. The report detailed performance against targets for the first three quarters, noting factors such as seasonal illness and increased patient acuity as contributing to variations. Issues affecting performance, including data quality and staff shortages, were also outlined.

• Key Topics Discussed: Dementia prevalence and support in Haringey, and the performance of the Better Care Fund.
• Potential Outcome: A clearer understanding of the challenges posed by dementia and the effectiveness of integrated health and social care services, informing future planning and resource allocation.
• Link to Meeting: Health and Wellbeing Board, 26 February 2026

Council Considers Housing Revenue Account Rent Increases

Councillor Sarah Williams, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning, met on Thursday 26 February 2026 to consider proposed increases to Housing Revenue Account (HRA) rents and service charges for the 2026/27 financial year. This decision impacts the management of the council's housing stock and the affordability for tenants.

Rent and Service Charge Adjustments

The proposals included an average weekly rent increase of £6.64 for existing tenancies, bringing the average weekly rent to £145.02. This 4.8% increase is based on the September Consumer Price Index (CPI) of 3.8% plus 1%. For new tenancies, rents will continue to be set according to a 'formula rent' with a 5% flexibility applied.

Proposed average weekly service charges for 2026/27 were also detailed, aiming to recover the full cost of services provided to tenants. For example, the concierge service charge was proposed to increase by £0.45 to £27.84 per week.

Impact on Tenants and Council Finances

These adjustments are part of the HRA business plan, which guides investment in homes and services. The council aims to ensure its housing stock is well-maintained and that new homes can be built. While the report notes that there is no statutory requirement for tenant consultation on rent increases, the council did present plans and seek feedback at the Resident Voice Board. The proposed changes are expected to contribute to the council's financial stability and its ability to invest in its housing stock.

• Key Decision: Consideration of proposed increases to Housing Revenue Account rents and service charges for 2026/27.
• Potential Outcome: Increased housing costs for council tenants, alongside continued investment in the council's housing stock.
• Link to Meeting: Cabinet Member Signing, 26 February 2026

Other Matters

The Cabinet Member Signing meeting on Monday 23 February 2026 approved changes to licence fees and service charges for council-owned supported accommodation. Link to meeting

The Culture, Community Safety & Environment Scrutiny Panel met on Monday 23 February 2026. The panel was scheduled to discuss an update from the Metropolitan Police, a review of cycling safety, and the draft library strategy. Link to meeting

The Licensing Sub Committee meeting scheduled for Monday 23 February 2026 was cancelled.

The Strategic Planning Committee met on Monday 23 February 2026 to review an update on Planning and Building Control services and national planning reforms. Link to meeting

The Cabinet Member Signing meeting on Wednesday 25 February 2026 approved the initiation of a procurement process for enforcement agency services for the collection of Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) related debt. Link to meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• The Standards Committee will meet on Monday 09 March 2026 to consider updates to the council's constitution and the Members' Special Responsibility Allowances Scheme. Link to meeting
• The Alexandra Palace and Park Consultative Committee will meet on Monday 09 March 2026. Link to meeting
• The Alexandra Park and Palace Statutory Advisory Committee will meet on Monday 09 March 2026. Link to meeting
• The Housing, Planning and Development Scrutiny Panel will meet on Monday 09 March 2026. Link to meeting
• The North Central London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee will meet on Monday 09 March 2026. Link to meeting
• The Cabinet Member Signing will meet on Monday 09 March 2026 to consider proposals for structural works to housing properties and a refurbishment programme for council-owned hostels. Link to meeting
• The Cabinet will meet on Tuesday 10 March 2026. Link to meeting
• The Cabinet Member Signing will meet on Tuesday 10 March 2026. Link to meeting
• The Overview and Scrutiny Committee will meet on Wednesday 11 March 2026. Link to meeting
• The General Purposes Committee will meet on Thursday 05 March 2026. Link to meeting
• The Licensing Sub Committee will meet on Thursday 05 March 2026 to consider new premises licence applications. Link to meeting
• The Cabinet Member Signing will meet on Thursday 05 March 2026 to consider grant funding for the Family Hubs Programme. Link to meeting
• The Planning Sub Committee will meet on Thursday 05 March 2026 to consider several planning applications, including new council homes and self-storage facilities. Link to meeting
• The Audit Committee will meet on Thursday 12 March 2026. Link to meeting
• The Alexandra Palace and Park Board will meet on Thursday 12 March 2026. Link to meeting
• The Full Council will meet on Monday 02 March 2026 to approve the council's budget and Council Tax. Link to meeting

This week in Haringey:

Council to Award Major Contract for Selby Urban Village Development

Haringey Council is poised to make a significant decision regarding the future of the Selby Centre site and Bull Lane Playing Fields in North Tottenham. A Cabinet Member Signing meeting on Thursday, 19 February 2026, will consider awarding the main works contract for the ambitious Selby Urban Village (SUV) project. This development promises to deliver much-needed council homes, community facilities, and sports amenities, but the contract award is a crucial step with substantial implications.

Transforming North Tottenham

The Selby Urban Village project, a partnership between Haringey Council and the Selby Trust, aims to create a sustainable and inclusive neighbourhood. The development, which has already secured planning permission from both Haringey and Enfield councils, is planned in two phases. Phase One will focus on a new community building, sports pavilion with changing rooms, and improved park and sports facilities. Phase Two will deliver 202 new council homes and a small commercial unit.

The council intends to appropriate land for planning purposes under Section 122 of the Local Government Act 1972. This will allow them to use powers under Section 203 of the Housing and Planning Act 2016 to override third-party rights during construction, with compensation provided where legally established. Land will also be appropriated back to the General Fund for community and sports facilities, and for housing purposes within the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) upon completion.

A key aspect of the proposal involves a lease agreement for the new community centre with the Selby Trust. This lease is subject to Secretary of State consent and Subsidy Advice Unit reporting due to a proposed rental subsidy, which aligns with the Council's Community Assets Social Value Policy.

The Contract Award and its Impact

The report details a competitive tender process through the London Construction Programme framework, identifying Contractor A as the preferred bidder. The project is also supported by grant funding from sources including the MHCLG Levelling Up Fund and the Football Foundation.

This contract award is vital for delivering on the council's strategic objectives, including the creation of new council homes and responding to the climate emergency through sustainable building practices. It also aims to foster economic revitalisation in North Tottenham. The report confirms that statutory comments from Legal, Procurement, Finance, and Equalities departments have been received, with no legal reasons identified to prevent the approval of the recommendations.

• Key Decision: Award of the main works contract for the Selby Urban Village construction.
• Potential Outcome: The commencement of a major development that will provide new homes, community spaces, and sports facilities, contributing to the regeneration of North Tottenham.
• Link to Meeting: Cabinet Member Signing, 19 February 2026

Upcoming Meetings

• The Cabinet Member Signing will meet on Monday 23 February 2026 to consider proposals regarding licence fees and service charges for council-owned supported accommodation. Link to meeting
• The Culture, Community Safety & Environment Scrutiny Panel will meet on Monday 23 February 2026 to discuss an update from the Metropolitan Police, cycling safety, and transport. Link to meeting
• The Licensing Sub Committee will meet on Monday 23 February 2026. Link to meeting
• The Strategic Planning Committee will meet on Monday 23 February 2026 to receive an update on Planning and Building Control services. Link to meeting
• The Children and Young People's Scrutiny Panel will meet on Thursday 26 February 2026 to consider updates on the Haringey Autism Strategy and tackling unhealthy weight in childhood. Link to meeting
• The Health and Wellbeing Board will meet on Thursday 26 February 2026 to discuss dementia prevalence and support, and the Better Care Fund. Link to meeting
• The Cabinet Member Signing will meet on Thursday 26 February 2026 to consider Housing Revenue Account rents and service charges for the upcoming financial year. Link to meeting
• The Full Council will meet on Monday 02 March 2026. Link to meeting
• The General Purposes Committee will meet on Thursday 05 March 2026. Link to meeting
• The Licensing Sub Committee will meet on Thursday 05 March 2026. Link to meeting
• The Planning Sub Committee will meet on Thursday 05 March 2026. Link to meeting
• The Cabinet Member Signing will meet on Wednesday 25 February 2026 to discuss the procurement of enforcement agency services for the collection of Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) related debt. Link to meeting

This week in Haringey:

Council Faces Homelessness Crisis with New Prevention Hub Plans

Haringey Council is taking a significant step to address the growing homelessness crisis by proposing the creation of a dedicated Homelessness Prevention Hub. A Cabinet Member Signing meeting on Monday, 9 February 2026, considered repurposing customer service space at the Tottenham Green Leisure Centre to provide vital in-person support for residents at risk of or experiencing homelessness.

A Lifeline for Vulnerable Residents

The proposed hub will offer appointment-based assessments, a crucial service mandated by the Homelessness Code of Guidance. This move is designed to provide a more accessible and supportive environment for individuals facing the trauma of homelessness. By consolidating customer services at the Wood Green Customer Service Centre, the council aims to streamline operations and ensure a more resilient service.

However, this consolidation raises concerns for residents in the eastern part of the borough who relied on the Marcus Garvey site. The council states that enhanced telephone and digital services will be implemented to mitigate this.

• Key Decision: To approve the repurposing of customer service space for a Homelessness Prevention Hub and the consolidation of customer services.
• Potential Outcome: Improved in-person support for those at risk of homelessness, alongside a more efficient, though potentially less accessible for some, customer service operation.
• Link to Meeting: Cabinet Member Signing, 9 February 2026

Urgent Structural Repairs Planned for Henrietta House and Carlton Lodge

Residents of Henrietta House and Carlton Lodge can expect essential structural repairs to their homes. A Cabinet Member Signing meeting on Monday, 9 February 2026, was set to approve the procurement process for these critical works, which are necessary due to significant deterioration, including falling concrete from balconies and walkways.

Ensuring Resident Safety

The estimated cost for these urgent repairs is £1.2 million. The works aim to stabilise the buildings and prevent further safety hazards. In parallel, the council is moving forward with awarding four long-term housing asset management contracts. These contracts, spanning over a decade, will focus on maintaining and improving the council's housing stock, ensuring homes meet the Decent Homes Standard and achieve higher energy efficiency ratings by 2035.

• Key Decisions: Approval to procure contractors for structural repairs at Henrietta House and Carlton Lodge; Award of long-term housing asset management partnering contracts.
• Potential Outcome: Enhanced safety and improved living conditions for residents, alongside a more robust and sustainable approach to managing the council's housing stock.
• Link to Meeting: Cabinet Member Signing, 9 February 2026

New Council Homes Approved for Dawlish and Scales Road

Haringey Council is set to deliver two new council homes at Dawlish and Scales Road, N17 9HP. A Cabinet Member Signing meeting on Monday, 9 February 2026, was scheduled to approve the construction contract for this development, which is part of the council's commitment to building 3,000 new council homes by 2031.

Sustainable and Accessible Housing

The development will feature one three-bedroom and one two-bedroom house, designed with sustainability at their core. These homes will be car-free, promoting active travel, and will incorporate low energy consumption and zero carbon emissions, aligning with Haringey's Climate Change Action Plan 2041. This project directly supports the council's pledge to provide safe and affordable housing and will benefit vulnerable residents, including women, young people, and those from minority ethnic backgrounds.

• Key Decision: Approval of the appointment of a contractor for the construction of new council homes at Dawlish and Scales Road.
• Potential Outcome: The delivery of much-needed, sustainable council housing that benefits vulnerable residents and contributes to the council's climate targets.
• Link to Meeting: Cabinet Member Signing, 9 February 2026

Cabinet to Tackle Budget, Housing, and Community Initiatives

Haringey Council's Cabinet convened on Tuesday, 10 February 2026, to address a wide range of critical issues, including the upcoming budget, housing strategies, and community development plans.

Financial Planning and Housing Strategy

The meeting featured discussions on the Budget 2026/2027 and Medium Term Financial Strategy 2030/2031, outlining the council's financial roadmap. Alongside this, the Adoption of the Capital Strategy 2026-2036 and the Housing Revenue Account Business Plan 2026/27 were presented, detailing investment plans and the management of council housing stock.

Education and Community Development

Updates on Admission to Schools for 2027/28 and the Policy Update on Schools in Financial Difficulty were presented. Community initiatives included the Approval of Next Steps for Wood Green Station Road Sites and High Road West - Next Steps, alongside the Approval of the Voluntary and Community Sector Action Plan. The development of a Community Hub at Down Lane Park was also discussed.

Public Services and Environment

The Toilet Strategy and Action Plan, 2025-30 was presented, alongside plans for Pride in Place Funding.

• Key Decisions: Approval of the council's budget and financial strategy, housing plans, school admissions, and community development initiatives.
• Potential Outcome: Decisions made will shape the council's financial future, housing provision, educational opportunities, and community support across Haringey.
• Link to Meeting: Cabinet, 10 February 2026

Adults & Health Scrutiny Panel Examines Safeguarding and Finances

The Adults & Health Scrutiny Panel met on Monday, 9 February 2026, to delve into crucial issues of safeguarding, service quality, and the council's financial health.

Safeguarding and Service Quality

The panel received an analysis report from the Metropolitan Police on group-based child sexual abuse offending in Haringey. They also reviewed recent quality assurance activities and received an overview of the Haringey Safeguarding Adults Board (HSAB) Annual Report 2024-25.

Financial Overview

A significant focus was on the council's financial position at the end of the second quarter of the 2025/26 financial year. The report indicated a projected General Fund overspend of £23.4m, with ongoing pressures in Adult Social Care and Temporary Accommodation. The Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) also showed an overspend, primarily in the High Needs Block.

• Key Decisions: Review of safeguarding data, quality assurance activities, and the council's financial position.
• Potential Outcome: Insights into the effectiveness of safeguarding measures and the council's financial management, with potential recommendations for improvement.
• Link to Meeting: Adults & Health Scrutiny Panel, 9 February 2026

Overview and Scrutiny Committee Reviews Council's Work

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday, 12 February 2026, to review council performance and strategic decisions. While the agenda details were limited, the committee's role is to scrutinise the work of the council's Cabinet and its various departments, ensuring accountability and driving improvements in services.

• Key Decision: To review council performance and strategic decisions.
• Potential Outcome: Recommendations to Cabinet and council departments to enhance service delivery and governance.
• Link to Meeting: Overview and Scrutiny Committee, 12 February 2026

Upcoming Meetings

• The Cabinet Member Signing will meet on Monday 23 February 2026. Link to meeting
• The Culture, Community Safety & Environment Scrutiny Panel will meet on Monday 23 February 2026. Link to meeting
• The Licensing Sub Committee will meet on Monday 23 February 2026. Link to meeting
• The Strategic Planning Committee will meet on Monday 23 February 2026. Link to meeting
• The Cabinet Member Signing will meet on Thursday 19 February 2026 to consider the award of a construction contract for the Selby Urban Village. Link to meeting
• The Children and Young People's Scrutiny Panel will meet on Thursday 26 February 2026. Link to meeting
• The Health and Wellbeing Board will meet on Thursday 26 February 2026. Link to meeting

This week in Haringey:

Council Pushes Forward with Homelessness Prevention Hub and Customer Service Consolidation

Haringey Council is taking steps to improve its support for residents facing homelessness and to streamline its customer service operations. A Cabinet Member Signing meeting on Monday, 9 February 2026, will consider repurposing customer service space to create a dedicated Homelessness Prevention Hub and consolidating customer service operations.

A New Hub for Homelessness Prevention

The proposal centres on transforming the Customer Services space within Tottenham Green Leisure Centre into a Homelessness Prevention Hub. This hub will offer in-person, appointment-based assessments for individuals at risk of or experiencing homelessness. This move is crucial for ensuring the council meets its legal obligation under the Homelessness Code of Guidance to conduct face-to-face interviews for homelessness assessments.

The report highlights that this location was chosen after an options analysis, citing its proximity to many users of the Housing Needs service and the minimal capital works required. The hub will also co-locate a voluntary sector advice and advocacy service, providing a more comprehensive support system.

Streamlining Customer Services

Alongside the new hub, the council plans to consolidate its customer service operations at the Wood Green Customer Services Centre. This consolidation aims to create a more resilient service model, particularly during challenging financial times, by achieving economies of scale and ensuring more consistent service delivery. The Wood Green site historically sees significantly higher footfall than the Marcus Garvey Library/Tottenham Green Customer Services site.

Impact on Residents

This initiative directly addresses the council's commitment to getting the basics right and ensuring safe and affordable housing as outlined in its Corporate Delivery Plan and Borough Vision. For residents facing housing insecurity, the new hub promises a more accessible and supportive environment for assessments. However, the consolidation of customer services may present challenges for residents in the eastern part of the borough who relied on the Marcus Garvey site for face-to-face support. The council states that mitigating actions, including enhancing telephone and digital services, will be implemented.

• Key Decision: To approve the repurposing of customer service space for a Homelessness Prevention Hub and the consolidation of customer services.
• Potential Outcome: Improved in-person support for those at risk of homelessness, alongside a more efficient, though potentially less accessible for some, customer service operation.
• Link to Meeting: Cabinet Member Signing, 9 February 2026

Essential Structural Repairs Planned for Henrietta House and Carlton Lodge

Residents of Henrietta House and Carlton Lodge can expect significant structural repairs to their buildings. A Cabinet Member Signing meeting on Monday, 9 February 2026, will consider approving the procurement process for these essential works, which are vital for resident safety.

Urgent Safety Measures

Both Henrietta House and Carlton Lodge have experienced severe structural deterioration, with concrete falling from balconies and walkways. Temporary safety measures, including scaffolding and netting, are currently in place. The estimated cost for these urgent repairs is £1.2 million. The proposed works aim to stabilise the structures and prevent further degradation, which could lead to collapse or falling debris.

Long-Term Housing Asset Management Contracts

In parallel, the council is moving forward with awarding four long-term partnering contracts for housing asset management. These contracts, each covering a different area of the borough, will oversee investment and maintenance for the council's housing stock over 10.5 years, with an option for a further five-year extension. The goal is to ensure all council homes meet the Decent Homes Standard[^3] and achieve an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) B rating by 2035, contributing to the council's climate goals. These contracts will also focus on delivering social value, such as creating jobs and training opportunities.

Why This Matters for Residents

These decisions are critical for the safety and long-term quality of life for residents in these buildings. The structural repairs will address immediate safety concerns, while the new asset management contracts signal a commitment to maintaining and improving the council's housing stock, making homes warmer, safer, and more energy-efficient. The focus on social value within the asset management contracts also presents opportunities for local employment and skills development.

• Key Decisions: Approval to procure contractors for structural repairs at Henrietta House and Carlton Lodge; Award of long-term housing asset management partnering contracts.
• Potential Outcome: Enhanced safety and improved living conditions for residents, alongside a more robust and sustainable approach to managing the council's housing stock.
• Link to Meeting: Cabinet Member Signing, 9 February 2026

Council to Decide on New Homes at Dawlish and Scales Road

Haringey Council is set to approve the construction of two new council homes at Dawlish and Scales Road, N17 9HP. A Cabinet Member Signing meeting on Monday, 9 February 2026, will consider appointing a contractor for this development, which forms part of the council's commitment to building 3,000 new council homes by 2031.

Sustainable New Homes

The proposed development includes one three-bedroom house and one two-bedroom house, designed to be environmentally sustainable. These homes will feature low energy consumption, zero carbon emissions, and will be car-free, with secure cycle storage provided. This aligns with Haringey's Climate Change Action Plan 2041.

Community Engagement and Procurement

The project has undergone community engagement and received planning permission. The procurement process for the build contract has been completed, with a recommendation to appoint Contractor A, who submitted the Most Economically Advantageous Tender. The report also outlines the council's intention to use its powers to override easements and third-party rights, with compensation to be paid.

Impact on Vulnerable Groups

The development is expected to positively impact groups often overrepresented in council tenancies and homeless households, including women, young people, BAME communities, individuals with disabilities, and those who identify as LGBT+.

• Key Decision: Approval of the appointment of a contractor for the construction of new council homes at Dawlish and Scales Road.
• Potential Outcome: The delivery of much-needed, sustainable council housing that benefits vulnerable residents and contributes to the council's climate targets.
• Link to Meeting: Cabinet Member Signing, 9 February 2026

Cabinet to Tackle Budget, Housing, and Community Initiatives

Haringey Council's Cabinet will convene on Tuesday, 10 February 2026, to address a wide range of critical issues, including the upcoming budget, housing strategies, and community development plans.

Financial Planning and Housing Strategy

The meeting will feature discussions on the Budget 2026/2027 and Medium Term Financial Strategy 2030/2031, outlining the council's financial roadmap. Alongside this, the Adoption of the Capital Strategy 2026-2036 and the Housing Revenue Account Business Plan 2026/27 will be presented, detailing investment plans and the management of council housing stock. Plans for 100 Woodside Avenue, N10 will also be reviewed.

Education and Community Development

Councillor Zena Brabazon will present updates on Admission to Schools for 2027/28 and the Policy Update on Schools in Financial Difficulty. Community initiatives include the Approval of Next Steps for Wood Green Station Road Sites and High Road West - Next Steps, alongside the Approval of the Voluntary and Community Sector Action Plan. The development of a Community Hub at Down Lane Park will also be discussed.

Public Services and Environment

The Toilet Strategy and Action Plan, 2025-30 will be presented, alongside plans for Pride in Place Funding.

• Key Decisions: Approval of the council's budget and financial strategy, housing plans, school admissions, and community development initiatives.
• Potential Outcome: Decisions made will shape the council's financial future, housing provision, educational opportunities, and community support across Haringey.
• Link to Meeting: Cabinet, 10 February 2026

Adults & Health Scrutiny Panel to Examine Safeguarding and Finances

The Adults & Health Scrutiny Panel will meet on Monday, 9 February 2026, to delve into crucial issues of safeguarding, service quality, and the council's financial health.

Safeguarding and Service Quality

The panel will receive an analysis report from the Metropolitan Police on group-based child sexual abuse offending in Haringey. They will also review recent quality assurance activities and receive an overview of the Haringey Safeguarding Adults Board (HSAB) Annual Report 2024-25.

Financial Overview

A significant focus will be on the council's financial position at the end of the second quarter of the 2025/26 financial year. The report indicates a projected General Fund overspend of £23.4m, with ongoing pressures in Adult Social Care and Temporary Accommodation. The Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) also shows an overspend, primarily in the High Needs Block.

• Key Decisions: Review of safeguarding data, quality assurance activities, and the council's financial position.
• Potential Outcome: Insights into the effectiveness of safeguarding measures and the council's financial management, with potential recommendations for improvement.
• Link to Meeting: Adults & Health Scrutiny Panel, 9 February 2026

Overview and Scrutiny Committee to Review Council's Work

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday, 12 February 2026. While the agenda details are limited at this stage, the committee's role is to scrutinise the work of the council's Cabinet and its various departments, ensuring accountability and driving improvements in services.

• Key Decision: To review council performance and strategic decisions.
• Potential Outcome: Recommendations to Cabinet and council departments to enhance service delivery and governance.
• Link to Meeting: Overview and Scrutiny Committee, 12 February 2026

Other Matters

The Alexandra Park and Palace Statutory Advisory Committee and the Alexandra Palace and Park Consultative Committee both met on Monday, 2 February 2026. These committees received updates on the progress of the Alexandra Park and Palace Charitable Trust, covering a wide range of activities from entertainment and culture to climate resilience and heritage asset conservation.

The Cabinet Member Signing meeting on Tuesday, 3 February 2026, approved a one-year extension to the environmental enforcement services contract with Kingdom Services Group Limited. This ensures the continuation of services tackling littering and fly-tipping, with the contract remaining cost-neutral due to income from Fixed Penalty Notices.

The Standards Committee met on Tuesday, 3 February 2026, to consider its annual report on code of conduct complaints and to review the proposed Members' Allowances Scheme for 2026-2027.

The Planning Sub Committee met on Thursday, 5 February 2026, to consider a significant planning application for 150 new council homes at Mallard Place, Wood Green, and a proposal to vary planning permission at the Berol Quarter to change affordable homes to market sale units. An update on other major development proposals was also provided.

The Licensing Sub Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday, 5 February 2026, was cancelled.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Cabinet Member Signing will meet on Monday 09 February 2026 to consider repurposing customer services space for a Homelessness Prevention Hub and consolidating customer services. Link to meeting
• The Adults & Health Scrutiny Panel will meet on Monday 09 February 2026 to examine safeguarding, service quality, and the council's financial position. Link to meeting
• The Cabinet Member Signing will meet on Monday 09 February 2026 to consider structural repairs at Henrietta House and Carlton Lodge, and the award of housing asset management contracts. Link to meeting
• The Cabinet Member Signing will meet on Monday 09 February 2026 to approve the construction of new council homes at Dawlish and Scales Road. Link to meeting
• The Cabinet will meet on Tuesday 10 February 2026 to discuss the budget, housing strategies, and community development plans. Link to meeting
• The Overview and Scrutiny Committee will meet on Thursday 12 February 2026 to review council performance and strategic decisions. Link to meeting