This week in Haringey:

Children's Education and Welfare Under Scrutiny

Haringey's commitment to its young people was a key focus this week, with the Children and Young People's Scrutiny Panel meeting to review educational attainment, school finances, and childcare provision. Link to meeting While overall educational outcomes are positive, the panel heard that specific challenges remain for certain groups of pupils.

Attainment Gaps and Financial Pressures

The panel received an update on educational attainment for the 2024-25 academic year, which showed Haringey performing at or above the London average for most key measures. However, a concerning dip in attainment was noted for Black Caribbean and Mixed White and Black Caribbean pupils at Key Stage 2. This was attributed to a higher prevalence of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) within this cohort.

Financially, the picture for schools is mixed. While secondary and primary schools are facing significant pressure on their revenue balances, nursery schools reported an overall surplus. The council's action plan to support schools in financial difficulty was also discussed.

Childcare Sufficiency and Virtual School Support

The council's efforts to ensure sufficient childcare for families were also reviewed. The report indicated that 96% of childcare providers in Haringey are rated as good or outstanding by Ofsted. However, the cost of childcare remains above the national average in outer London.

The Virtual School Team, which supports the education of children in care, presented its annual report. While the number of children in care has decreased since 2021, there has been a recent uptick, mirroring a national trend. The team's mission to challenge stereotypes and champion care-experienced children was highlighted.

Licensing Decisions Loom for Local Businesses

Two local establishments faced scrutiny this week as the Licensing Sub Committee met to consider applications that could significantly impact their operations and the surrounding community. Link to meeting

Noise Concerns at The Victoria Stakes

The Victoria Stakes, a pub on Muswell Hill, faced a review of its premises licence due to noise complaints. A local resident initiated the review, citing concerns about public nuisance. The report detailed numerous complaints from residents regarding amplified music and noise from the premises, particularly from its covered rear area. Conversely, a large number of supporters highlighted the pub's role as a community hub. The committee had the power to modify licence conditions, suspend, or even revoke the licence.

Tottenham Post Office Alcohol Licence Application

An application to vary the premises licence for Tottenham Post Office, located on High Road, Tottenham, also came under consideration. The applicant sought to extend alcohol sales and opening hours significantly. However, the Metropolitan Police and local residents raised objections, citing existing issues with anti-social behaviour, street drinking, and public safety in the area. The police highlighted that extending hours would exacerbate these problems and undermine local initiatives to tackle them.

Planning for Haringey's Future Development

The Planning Sub Committee met to discuss upcoming developments and ongoing major projects across the borough. Link to meeting

New Homes and Workspace at Mallard Place

Pre-application briefings were held for proposals at Mallard Place, Coburg Road, Wood Green. The development plans include the construction of tall buildings to provide 150 social rent dwellings, alongside flexible workspace and public realm improvements. No decisions were made at this stage, with the focus on briefing members and allowing for questions to the applicants.

Tottenham Hotspur Hotel Development on Hold

An update on major proposals revealed that development works on the proposed hotel at Tottenham Hotspur Football Club are currently on hold. The club is assessing viability and exploring alternative options.

Timber Yard Redevelopment Decision

A significant application for the redevelopment of the Timber Yard, 289-295 High Road, Wood Green was discussed. The proposal includes the demolition of existing buildings to create 36 new homes. Residents had raised objections concerning the proposed heights, massing, and privacy impacts. The report indicated a recommendation for planning permission to be granted, subject to conditions and a legal agreement.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Overview and Scrutiny Committee will meet on Monday 19 January 2026 to review the council's draft budget and medium-term financial strategy. Link to meeting
• The Cabinet will meet on Tuesday 20 January 2026 to discuss housing acquisitions, the damp and mould policy, the library strategy, and single-use plastics. Link to meeting
• The Pensions Committee and Board will meet on Thursday 22 January 2026. Link to meeting
• The General Purposes Committee will meet on Thursday 22 January 2026 to discuss workforce and HR policies. Link to meeting
• The Licensing Committee will meet on Monday 26 January 2026 to review licensing fees and charges for 2026-27. Link to meeting
• The Cabinet Member Signing will meet on Wednesday 21 January 2026 to consider the proposed Schools Block Funding Model Strategy for 2026-27. Link to meeting
• The Audit Committee will meet on Thursday 29 January 2026. Link to meeting
• The North Central London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee will meet on Friday 30 January 2026. Link to meeting
• The Cabinet Member Signing will meet on Monday 19 January 2026 to consider new policies on garage allocations and clear communal areas. Link to meeting

This week in Haringey:

Selby Urban Village Heat Network Procurement Moves Forward

Haringey Council is progressing with plans to connect the new Selby Urban Village development to a district heating network. The Cabinet Member Signing meeting on Thursday 8 January 2026 considered a report outlining a proposed procurement strategy for heat supply arrangements, with a recommendation to enter into direct negotiations with Lee Valley Heat Network Operating Company Limited, trading as Energetik.

Connecting Homes to Sustainable Heat

The Selby Urban Village development, a partnership between the Council and The Selby Trust, will eventually comprise 202 new Council homes alongside community facilities and green spaces. The proposed strategy involves a 40-year agreement with Energetik for the connection, supply, and potential management and maintenance of a residential heat network. This approach aligns with the London Plan's energy hierarchy and local planning policies that prioritise connection to existing district energy networks where feasible.

The report highlighted that Energetik, owned by Enfield Council, is an established provider with an expanding network. The procurement strategy is described as mixed, covering works, supply, and services, and is partly exempt from standard competitive tendering processes due to its nature as a utility contract.

Why This Matters for Residents

Connecting new homes to a district heat network like Energetik can offer several benefits. It can provide a more stable and potentially lower-cost heating solution compared to individual boilers, and it is a key component in the council's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and tackling the climate emergency. For residents of Selby Urban Village, this decision will directly impact their future energy bills and the environmental footprint of their homes.

The report indicated that the procurement needed to commence promptly to align with the main works contractor onboarding in March-April 2026. A further report will be presented for the final contract award.

• Key Decision: To approve the commencement of a mixed procurement strategy involving direct negotiations with Energetik for heat supply at Selby Urban Village.
• Potential Impact: Ensures a sustainable and potentially cost-effective heating solution for new homes, contributing to the council's climate goals.
• Link to Meeting: Cabinet Member Signing, 8 January 2026

Contractor Names Corrected for Major Works Programmes

Minor but important corrections have been made to contractor names associated with significant housing improvement programmes. On Monday 5 January 2026, Councillor Sarah Williams, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning (Deputy Leader), approved amendments to previous records concerning works at Stellar House and Kenneth Robbins House.

Ensuring Accuracy in Council Records

The contractor's name for the Major Works Programme at Stellar House was incorrectly recorded as Equans. This has now been officially corrected to Equans Regeneration Limited, as per the contract award letter dated 31 December 2024. This correction, while not affecting the original decision or the contract value of £8,011,626.90, ensures accuracy in council documentation.

Similarly, for works at Kenneth Robbins House, the contractor's name has been amended from United Living to United Living (South) Limited. This correction aligns with the contract award letter dated 31 December 2024 and maintains the integrity of council records for the £10,164,213.00 contract.

New Contract for Asbestos Surveying

In addition to these corrections, Councillor Williams also approved the award of a new contract for asbestos surveying services. This contract, valued at £1,815,540.00 over four years, will ensure the council continues to comply with health and safety regulations, specifically the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002. This is crucial for maintaining the safety of residents in council-managed properties. The decision supports the council's 'Homes for the future' objective by improving the quality and safety of social housing.

• Key Decisions: Approval of contractor name corrections for Stellar House and Kenneth Robbins House; Award of a new asbestos surveying services contract.
• Potential Impact: Ensures accurate record-keeping for major housing improvement projects and maintains essential safety standards in council properties.
• Link to Meeting: Cabinet Member Signing, 5 January 2026

Upcoming Meetings

• The Overview and Scrutiny Committee will meet on Monday 19 January 2026 to review the council's draft budget and medium-term financial strategy. Link to meeting
• The Cabinet will meet on Tuesday 20 January 2026. Link to meeting
• The Pensions Committee and Board will meet on Thursday 22 January 2026. Link to meeting
• The General Purposes Committee will meet on Thursday 22 January 2026. Link to meeting
• The Children and Young People's Scrutiny Panel will meet on Thursday 15 January 2026 to discuss educational attainment, school finances, and childcare sufficiency. Link to meeting
• The Licensing Sub Committee will meet on Thursday 15 January 2026 to consider licence reviews and variations. Link to meeting
• The Planning Sub Committee will meet on Monday 12 January 2026 to discuss pre-application briefings and major development proposals. Link to meeting
• The Corporate Parenting Advisory Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday 13 January 2026 has been cancelled.

This week in Haringey:

Chez Nicky's Licence Under Review Amidst Noise Complaints

Chez Nicky, a restaurant on West Green Road, faces a critical review of its premises licence following numerous noise complaints from residents. Link to meeting The Licensing Sub Committee, comprised of Councillor Anna Abela, Chair of Licensing Committee, Councillor Elin Weston, and Councillor Nick da Costa, will decide whether to modify, revoke, or impose stricter conditions on the restaurant's licence, potentially impacting its ability to operate late into the night.

Noise Nuisance Allegations

• Multiple Complaints: The Haringey Noise & Nuisance Team submitted the review application, citing multiple complaints about noise from music and the use of the rear area, which is allegedly not permitted under the current licence.
• Late-Night Breaches: Officers allegedly witnessed breaches of the licence on several occasions, including finding people in the back area with drinks and food after 1:00 am, and the venue appearing to be open as late as 4:00 am.
• Refused Temporary Event Notice: On one occasion, the owner, Mr Mampasi Lemba, claimed to have a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for the evening, but officers advised him that the TEN had been refused.
• Resident Objections: Residents have submitted representations in support of the review, with one resident, Bernadette, stating that she strongly objects to the premises being permitted to retain their licence due to concerns about public nuisance and crime and disorder.

Proposed Licence Variation

Simultaneously, Chez Nicky Ltd has applied to vary its premises licence, seeking to:

• Extend hours for late-night refreshment and alcohol sales until 2:00 am Sunday to Thursday, and until 3:00 am Friday and Saturday.
• Extend hours on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day until 3:00 am.
• Allow alcohol sales both on and off the premises.
• Extend opening hours to the public until 2:30 am Sunday to Thursday, and until 3:30 am Friday and Saturday.

Police and Resident Opposition

• Police Concerns: The Metropolitan Police have raised concerns about the proposed extension of hours and the inclusion of the rear area, citing ongoing breaches of the current licence.
• Resident Opposition: Residents have voiced strong opposition to the proposed changes, citing unbearable noise levels and significant disturbance.

The sub-committee's decision will have a significant impact on both the business and the surrounding community, balancing the needs of a local establishment with the rights of residents to a peaceful environment.

Council Considers Redundancy Package for Senior Officer

The Disciplinary, Grievance and Dismissal Panel is scheduled to meet to discuss a proposed redundancy and associated severance payment for a Head of Service. Link to meeting The panel, including Councillor Peray Ahmet, Leader of the Council, will consider a report regarding the proposed redundancy and associated severance payment for a Head of Service. The decision, made in private, could have implications for the council's workforce and its ability to deliver services efficiently.

Restructuring and Cost Savings

• Reorganisation: The Director of Environment launched a formal reorganisation within the Highways & Parking and Transport & Travel Service areas.
• Cost Saving Initiative: The proposals would delete six Head of Service roles as a cost saving initiative, replacing them with three new positions.
• Redundancy Package: The panel will consider a report regarding a proposed redundancy and associated severance payment for a Head of Service.

Financial Implications

• Redundancy Costs: The cost of redundancy in Environmental and Residence Experience (ERE) is expected to be circa £450k.
• Pay Policy: The council's pay policy states that severance payments of £100,000 or more must be considered and approved by the appropriate Member Committee.

The panel's decision will be made in private, citing the need to protect confidential information about individuals and labour relations.

Coleridge Primary School Roof Repairs Face Delays

Councillor Zena Brabazon, Cabinet Member for Children, Schools & Families, is scheduled to consider a report regarding condition works at the west site of Coleridge Primary School. Link to meeting The report asks that Councillor Brabazon approve the commencement of a tendering process for a construction works contractor to deliver condition works on the west site at Coleridge Primary School. The decision, made in private, could have implications for the school's infrastructure and the safety of its students.

Deteriorating Roof

• Historical Shortfall of Investment: The school has suffered from a historical shortfall of investment and that the roof is deteriorating.
• Wood Wool Construction: The roof is constructed with wood wool, which the report describes as a deleterious material, which can lose its structural integrity if it becomes wet .
• Essential Works: Engaging a construction works contractor is essential to undertake the roof works.

Carbon Reduction

• Energy Efficient Measures: The project will support the borough's carbon reduction and climate change ambition by delivering approx. 20.99 tCO2pa carbon reduction through the installation of energy efficient measures such as roof insulation.

The decision to proceed with the tendering process will pave the way for much-needed repairs to the school's roof, ensuring a safe and comfortable learning environment for students.

Adults & Health Scrutiny Panel to Review Safeguarding and Complaints

The Adults & Health Scrutiny Panel are scheduled to meet to discuss the Haringey Safeguarding Adults Board annual report, complaints upheld by the Local Government & Social Care Ombudsman, and learning from the failure of a community equipment provider. Link to meeting The panel, including Councillor Pippa Connor, Chair of the Adults and Health Scrutiny Panel, will examine the council's performance in protecting vulnerable adults and addressing complaints about social care services.

Safeguarding Adults

• Annual Report: The panel will be considering the annual report of the Haringey Safeguarding Adults Board (HSAB) for 2024/25.
• Multi-Agency Partnership: The HSAB is a multi-agency partnership that aims to protect adults at risk of abuse or neglect in Haringey.

Community Equipment

• Provider Failure: The Adults & Health Scrutiny Panel are scheduled to discuss a report about community equipment, and learning from provider failure.
• NRS Healthcare Liquidation: This follows the liquidation of NRS Healthcare, who were the community equipment provider for residents.

Ombudsman Complaints

• Upheld Complaints: The panel will be considering details of Adult Social Care complaints upheld by the Local Government & Social Care Ombudsman (LGSCO).

The panel's review will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of the council's safeguarding and complaints handling processes, helping to identify areas for improvement and ensure that vulnerable adults receive the support they need.

Council to Award Print and Post Services Contract

Councillor Dana Carlin, Cabinet Member for Finance and Corporate Services, is scheduled to consider a report regarding the award of a contract for print and post services to support various council functions. Link to meeting The report recommends awarding the contract to DSI Billing Services Limited, with a total value of £1.398 million, for a period of two years, commencing on 1 February 2026.

Essential Services

• Statutory Requirement: The council has a statutory requirement to issue notices for Revenues and Benefits under Local Government Finance Act 1988 & 1992 .
• Financial Implications: £193 million in Council Tax and £84 million for NNDR (Business Rates) has been billed this financial year, and that customers who have not opted for e-billing must receive a paper bill to be obligated to pay.

Digital Strategy

• Hybrid Mail Offer: The proposed contract aligns with the council's Digital Strategy in the short term, allowing flexibility for other services to use the hybrid mail offer, while protecting current users from unit price increases should volumes fall.
• Corporate Print/Post Solution: It is anticipated that an enhanced Corporate print/post solution will be available as part of the Digital portfolio to which the print/post services detailed in this document will be migrated within the term of the contract.

The decision to award the contract will ensure the continued delivery of essential print and post services, supporting the council's revenue collection and communication with residents.

Housing Scrutiny Panel to Discuss Budget and Performance

The Housing, Planning and Development Scrutiny Panel are scheduled to meet to discuss the Housing Revenue Account Business Plan and Budget for 2026/27, a finance update for the second quarter of 2025/26, and a set of key performance indicators relating to the Housing Service. Link to meeting The panel, including Councillor Adam Small, Chair of the Housing, Planning and Development Scrutiny Panel, will examine the council's financial performance and strategic plans for housing, providing oversight and recommendations.

Housing Revenue Account

• Business Plan and Budget: The panel is scheduled to receive and make recommendations on the Housing Revenue Account Business Plan and Budget 2026/27.
• Long-Term Strategy: The Housing Revenue Account (HRA) is a ring-fenced account that manages the income and expenditure related to council housing. The HRA Business Plan sets out the long-term strategy for managing and maintaining council housing stock.

Finance Update

• Financial Position: The panel is scheduled to discuss the council's financial position at Quarter 2 of the 2025/26 financial year.
• Revenue and Capital Expenditure: This will include a review of revenue and capital expenditure, as well as any significant variances from the approved budget.

Key Performance Indicators

• Housing Service Performance: The panel is scheduled to note a set of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) relating to the Housing Service.
• Performance Measurement: KPIs are used to measure the performance of the council's housing services against targets and benchmarks.

The panel's review will provide valuable insights into the council's housing performance and financial management, helping to ensure that resources are used effectively to meet the needs of residents.

Library Strategy and Finances Under Scrutiny

The Climate, Community Safety & Environment Scrutiny Panel are scheduled to discuss the council's finances, its draft library strategy, and its work programme. Link to meeting The panel, including Councillor Makbule Gunes, Chair of the Children and Young People's Scrutiny Panel, will examine the council's financial position and strategic plans for libraries, providing oversight and recommendations.

Draft Library Strategy

• Strategic Plan: The panel are scheduled to discuss the draft library strategy for 2026-2030.
• Consultation: The London Borough of Haringey Draft Library Strategy document is included in the report pack. Also included are the Library Strategy Consultation Survey Questions and Culture Strategy and Communication.

Finance Update

• Financial Position: The Finance Update Quarter 2_Cabinet Report is included in the report pack. Also included are Revenue and Capital virements and Debt Write Off includes less than 50000 and greater than 50000.

The panel's review will provide valuable insights into the council's library strategy and financial management, helping to ensure that resources are used effectively to meet the needs of residents.

This week in Haringey:

Council Tax Hardship Fund Approved Amidst Cost of Living Crisis

Haringey Council has approved a new Council Tax Hardship Fund Policy, aiming to provide financial assistance to residents struggling with council tax payments due to the rising cost of living. Link to meeting The policy, approved by Councillor Seema Chandwani, Cabinet Member for Resident Services & Tackling Inequality, seeks to offer a lifeline to vulnerable residents facing exceptional hardship.

Who Benefits?

• Eligibility: The fund targets residents receiving benefits like Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, or Pension Credit, with weekly incomes below £500 for families or £350 for individuals.
• Life Crisis Support: Those who have suffered a life crisis impacting their ability to pay council tax can also apply.
• Proactive Awards: The council may use data to proactively identify and award funds to eligible residents.

How It Works

• £66,000 Funding: A total of £66,000 has been allocated to the fund.
• Direct Credit: Awards will be credited directly to council tax accounts.
• Time-Limited: Awards typically apply to the balance for the current financial year and are subject to funding availability.

The policy complements the existing Council Tax Reduction Scheme and the council's statutory hardship provision¹, offering a multi-layered approach to supporting residents in financial distress.

Cabinet Approves Climate Action Plan Amid Funding Concerns

Haringey Council's cabinet has approved the 'Haringey Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience Action Plan', effective from January 2026. Link to meeting The plan aims to make the borough more resilient to the effects of climate change, but concerns remain about funding shortfalls.

Building Resilience

• Climate Emergency: The plan builds on Haringey's existing Climate Change Action Plan, addressing the urgent need for adaptation measures.
• Collaborative Work: The plan consolidates the council's collaborative efforts to tackle the climate emergency.

Funding Gap

• Significant Cost: The cabinet acknowledged the significant cost of addressing climate change adaptation and resilience.
• Inaction Costs More: They also noted that the even bigger cost of inaction and the current shortfall of available funding and resources to effectively protect the borough.

The council's commitment to climate action is clear, but the success of the plan hinges on securing adequate funding to address the challenges ahead.

Contract Extension for Disability Support Services Approved

Councillor Lucia das Neves, Cabinet Member for Health, Social Care & Wellbeing, has approved a six-month extension to the contract with Disability Action Haringey (DAH), for direct payment peer support and personal care assistant services. Link to meeting The extension, valued at £100,000, ensures continued support for vulnerable adults managing their direct payments.

Supporting Independence

• Direct Payment Holders: DAH supports residents who receive direct payments to manage their care needs independently.
• Positive Outcomes: The service has reportedly increased the number of direct payment holders and provided valuable outreach and training.
• Client Satisfaction: 100% of clients reported being better informed and confident in managing their direct payments, rating service quality as excellent.

Why Extend?

• Service Disruption: Failure to extend the contract would cause significant disruption for direct payment holders.
• Statutory Duties: The council would risk failing to meet its statutory duties under the Care Act 2014.
• Strategic Review: A full procurement exercise was deemed unfeasible due to the ongoing strategic review of support services for direct payment recipients.

The extension ensures continuity of vital support services while the council plans for the future.

Other Matters

• The Cabinet approved a range of measures, including adopting a new Anti-Social Behaviour Policy, approving a finance update for the second quarter of 2025/26, and approving contracts for Domestic Abuse and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) support services. Link to meeting
• Councillor Emily Arkell, Cabinet Member for Culture & Leisure, confirmed the implementation of changes to library operating hours, which were initially approved by the Cabinet in December 2024. Link to meeting
• The Planning Sub Committee is scheduled to meet on 8 December 2025 to discuss a planning application for a timber yard, receive an update on major planning proposals, and note planning application decisions taken under delegated powers. Link to meeting
• The Overview and Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to meet to review the council's financial position at the end of Quarter 2 of 2025/26, and to consider the committee's work programme. Link to meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• The Licensing Sub Committee will meet on Monday 15 December 2025 to discuss an application to vary the premises licence and an application to review the premises licence for Chez Nicky, 295 West Green Road, London, N15. Link to meeting
• The Disciplinary, Grievance and Dismissal Panel are scheduled to meet on Tuesday 16 December 2025 to discuss a proposed redundancy and consider excluding the press and public from part of the meeting. Link to meeting
• The Housing, Planning and Development Scrutiny Panel are scheduled to meet on Monday 15 December 2025 to discuss the council's financial performance, the Housing Revenue Account Business Plan and Budget for 2026/27, and a set of key performance indicators relating to the Housing Service. Link to meeting
• The Climate, Community Safety & Environment Scrutiny Panel are scheduled to meet on Tuesday 16 December 2025 to discuss the council's draft library strategy, receive a finance update for the second quarter of the financial year, and review their work programme. Link to meeting
• The Cabinet Member Signing of Haringey Council is scheduled to discuss condition works at Coleridge Primary School on Thursday 18 December 2025. Link to meeting
• The Adults & Health Scrutiny Panel are scheduled to meet on 16 December 2025 to discuss the Haringey Safeguarding Adults Board annual report, complaints upheld by the Local Government & Social Care Ombudsman, and learning from the failure of a community equipment provider. Link to meeting
• The Cabinet Member Signing is scheduled to discuss awarding a contract for print and post services and to exclude the press and public from a portion of the meeting on Thursday 18 December 2025. Link to meeting