This week in Haringey:

Selby Centre Licence Review Cancelled Amidst Ongoing Concerns

A crucial meeting of the Licensing Sub Committee, scheduled for Monday 1 June 2026, was cancelled. The committee was due to consider an application for an expedited review of the premises licence for the Selby Centre, following serious concerns raised by the Metropolitan Police regarding crime and disorder.

The police had initiated the review under section 53A of the Licensing Act 2003[^1], citing that the premises were associated with serious crime and disorder. This followed an earlier decision on 6th May 2026, where the committee had suspended the premises licence with immediate effect to promote licensing objectives. The report pack indicated that representations were received from the Noise RA supporting the police review, and a counter-representation from the Selby Centre management.

The committee was expected to weigh the evidence and decide on potential actions, which could have included modifying licensable activities, removing the designated premises supervisor, suspending the licence for up to three months, or revoking it entirely. The cancellation means these critical decisions regarding public safety and the future of the Selby Centre have been postponed.

• Key Topics Discussed: Expedited review of the Selby Centre premises licence due to serious crime and disorder.
• Potential Outcome: The meeting was cancelled, so no decision was made regarding the licence. The concerns raised by the police and the potential impact on community safety remain unresolved by this committee.
• Link to Meeting: Licensing Sub Committee, 01 June 2026

This week in Haringey:

Urgent Review of Selby Centre Licence Following Serious Incident

A critical meeting of the Licensing Sub Committee is scheduled for Monday 1 June 2026 to consider an urgent review of the premises licence for the Selby Centre, following a serious incident involving a firearms discharge. This review, initiated by the Metropolitan Police under Section 53A of the Licensing Act 2003[^1], highlights the profound impact that serious crime and disorder can have on community safety and the council's responsibility to uphold licensing objectives.

The incident, which occurred on 1 May 2026, saw a firearms discharge in the Selby Centre's car park, resulting in injuries and the recovery of multiple bullet casings. The police report details that children were present during this event, raising grave concerns about public safety and the protection of vulnerable individuals. This serious event has led to an interim suspension of the premises licence, pending the committee's full review.

The police are also raising concerns about the management of the venue, citing inadequate security, poor event management by third-party contractors like GALA Ltd, and a history of disorder, including a previous large-scale fight. These issues directly impact residents' right to feel safe in their community and could lead to a complete revocation of the licence, potentially affecting community access to the centre.

The committee will weigh the police's evidence against representations from the Selby Centre management and GALA Ltd. The potential outcomes range from modifying licence conditions to revoking the licence entirely. This decision will have a direct bearing on the availability of community spaces and the council's commitment to ensuring public safety.

• Key Topics Discussed: Expedited review of the Selby Centre premises licence due to serious crime and disorder.
• Potential Outcome: The committee could modify licence conditions, suspend the licence further, or revoke it entirely, impacting community access and safety.
• Link to Meeting: Licensing Sub Committee, 01 June 2026

Council Gears Up for Annual Business: Mayor Election and Financial Review

Haringey Council's Full Council convened on Wednesday 20 May 2026 for its Annual Meeting. This important session focused on the foundational elements of the council's governance for the upcoming year, including the election of the Mayor and the review of the previous year's financial performance. These procedural matters are vital for ensuring transparency and accountability in how the council operates and manages public funds.

Electing the Mayor and Setting the Year's Direction

The meeting began with the election of the Mayor for the 2026/27 municipal year, a key ceremonial and civic role. The council also addressed the crucial task of appointing members to various committees and outside bodies, shaping the operational structure for the year ahead. This includes selecting chairs and vice-chairs, a process that determines leadership within the council's various working groups.

Financial Oversight and Member Accountability

A significant part of the agenda involved reviewing the council's financial statements for the 2025/26 municipal year. This provides an essential overview of how public money was spent and the council's overall financial health. Furthermore, a statement detailing councillors' attendance at meetings throughout the year was presented, offering transparency on member engagement and commitment. This aligns with the council's commitment to good governance and efficient use of resources, as outlined in its constitution.

• Key Topics Discussed: Election of the Mayor, appointments to committees and outside bodies, review of financial statements, and councillor attendance.
• Potential Outcome: A new Mayor will lead the council for the year, committees will be established with appointed members, and the council's financial performance will be scrutinised.
• Link to Meeting: Full Council, 20 May 2026

Licensing Committee Establishes Sub-Committee for Regulatory Functions

The Licensing Committee met on Wednesday 20 May 2026 to establish a Licensing Sub-Committee for the upcoming municipal year. This move is essential for the efficient handling of licensing applications and regulatory functions under the Licensing Act 2003[^1] and the Gambling Act 2005[^2].

Streamlining Licensing Decisions

The committee agreed to establish the Licensing Sub-Committee, whose membership will mirror that of the main Licensing Committee. This sub-committee will be responsible for conducting hearings on various licensing matters, including premises licences, club premises certificates, and personal licences, where representations have been made. It will also handle non-statutory licensing functions such as street trading and the licensing of sex establishments.

The establishment of this sub-committee is a procedural step designed to ensure that licensing decisions are made efficiently and effectively, particularly for cases that require detailed hearings. The report indicated no financial implications or equality duty impacts arising from this decision.

• Key Decision: Establishment of the Licensing Sub-Committee for the 2026/27 Municipal Year.
• Potential Outcome: A more streamlined process for determining licensing applications, ensuring timely decisions that uphold public safety and prevent nuisance.
• Link to Meeting: Licensing Committee, 20 May 2026

Strategic Planning Committee Outlines Sub-Committee's Role

The Strategic Planning Committee met on Wednesday 20 May 2026 to discuss the establishment of a Planning Sub-Committee for the 2026/27 municipal year. This sub-committee will play a crucial role in determining a range of planning applications, particularly those that are complex or contested.

Defining the Scope of Planning Decisions

The committee reviewed the proposed protocol and terms of reference for the Planning Sub-Committee. This sub-committee will be responsible for deciding on applications for planning permission, listed building consent, and other related matters, especially those involving 10 or more dwellings, significant changes of use, or major developments. It will also handle applications where significant material planning objections are received, or where applications are submitted by council members or employees.

The establishment of this sub-committee is designed to ensure that significant planning decisions are handled with appropriate scrutiny and expertise, balancing development needs with community concerns. The criteria for referral to the sub-committee are detailed to ensure that only the most impactful or contentious applications are brought before elected members for determination.

• Key Decision: Establishment of the Planning Sub-Committee for the 2026/27 municipal year.
• Potential Outcome: A more focused and efficient approach to determining significant planning applications, ensuring that development proposals are carefully considered in line with council policy and community interests.
• Link to Meeting: Strategic Planning Committee, 20 May 2026

This week in Haringey:

Council Secures 21 New Homes and Streamlines Void Works Amidst Housing Push

Haringey Council is making significant strides in its commitment to increasing affordable housing and improving existing stock. Two key decisions were made by Councillor Sarah Williams, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning (Deputy Leader), on Tuesday 5 May 2026, impacting the lives of residents seeking secure housing and those living in council properties.

21 New Council Homes Acquired in Wood Green

In a move to bolster its housing supply, the council has approved the acquisition of 21 newly constructed council homes at 76 Mayes Road, Wood Green, N22 6SY. These homes are part of a larger development by Weston Homes and will be let at social rents, directly contributing to the council's pledge to build 3,000 new council homes by 2031. This is a critical step in addressing the 13,000 households currently on the council's housing register, offering them secure and affordable accommodation. The homes are described as being built to a high private market specification and are located in a car-free development well-connected to public transport. This acquisition aligns with the council's A New Housing Strategy for Haringey 2024-29 and is expected to reduce reliance on temporary accommodation, thereby generating General Fund cost savings.

Direct Award for Voids Works to Improve HCBS and PSL Properties

To ensure properties are quickly made ready for residents, the council has also approved a direct award for voids works to Haringey Community Benefits Society (HCBS) and Private Sector Leased (PSL) properties. This contract, awarded to Contractor A via the LCP Framework, will cover essential refurbishment works for up to 18 months. The report highlighted that undertaking these works is vital to relieve pressure on temporary accommodation. By ensuring these properties are brought up to a lettable standard swiftly, the council can reduce its spending on costly private sector housing for homeless households. The contract also includes provisions for improving water consumption and energy efficiency, aligning with the council's climate change commitments, and aims to create new economic opportunities through apprenticeships and local supply chain procurement.

• Key Decisions: Acquisition of 21 new council homes and direct award of a voids works contract.
• Potential Outcome: Increased supply of affordable housing, reduced waiting times for council homes, and improved living conditions in council properties.
• Link to Meeting: Cabinet Member Signing, 05 May 2026

Council to Streamline Card Payments, Saving £530,000 Annually

Haringey Council is set to significantly improve its financial efficiency and achieve substantial cost savings through the re-procurement of its merchant acquirer services. Councillor Dana Carlin, Cabinet Member for Finance and Corporate Services, considered proposals for this on Wednesday 6 May 2026. These services are essential for processing the council's substantial annual card income, which amounts to approximately £86 million.

Addressing Financial Unsustainability and Driving Savings

The current merchant acquirer arrangements are no longer financially sustainable, creating a material revenue pressure and a value-for-money issue for the council. The proposed re-procurement aims to secure more favourable pricing and contractual terms, directly addressing this budget gap and providing greater cost certainty.

The recommendation was to approve the commencement of a procurement exercise and to directly award a contract to Global Pay for a two-year term, valued at £980,000. This direct award, utilising the Crown Commercial Service (CCS) Framework[^1], is projected to slash the council's annual merchant acquiring costs from around £1.02 million to £490,000, delivering annual savings of approximately £530,000. This decision directly supports the council's corporate priorities of ensuring value for money and financial sustainability.

The report emphasised that residents increasingly expect accessible digital payment channels, and this decision will ensure these services continue to be met without disruption. The use of an existing Framework is considered a compliant and efficient procurement route, reducing timelines. The Director of Finance confirmed that the cost will be funded from existing provisions within the bank charges budget, resolving an existing budget pressure.

• Key Decision: Approval to re-procure merchant acquirer services and directly award a contract to Global Pay.
• Potential Outcome: Significant annual savings of £530,000, improved financial sustainability for the council, and continued efficient processing of resident payments.
• Link to Meeting: Cabinet Member Signing, 06 May 2026

Revised Resident Feedback Policy to Enhance Complaint Handling

Haringey Council is set to improve how it handles resident feedback and complaints with a revised Haringey Resident Feedback Policy. Councillor Seema Chandwani, Cabinet Member for Resident Services & Tackling Inequality, was scheduled to approve these updates on Wednesday 6 May 2026. These revisions are crucial for ensuring compliance with the Housing Ombudsman Service's Complaint Handling Code and for fostering greater trust and accountability with residents.

Strengthening Complaint Procedures and Resident Voice

The policy has been updated following reviews by the Housing Ombudsman Service in July 2025 and February 2026, which identified areas for improvement in complaint handling. The revisions aim to provide greater clarity on excluded complaints, enhance oversight of Tenant Management Organisation (TMO) complaint handling, and detail Stage 2 complaint timescales. The updated policy reinforces principles of fairness, transparency, accessibility, and accountability, and incorporates mechanisms for learning and service improvement. This aligns with the Haringey Deal[^2], ensuring resident voices inform the revisions.

The report highlighted that failure to comply with the Housing Ombudsman Complaint Handling Code could lead to non-compliance with the statutory code. The revised policy incorporates feedback from the Housing Ombudsman Service and aims to ensure equitable access and culturally competent support for all residents, particularly those with protected characteristics who may face additional barriers to treatment. No negative equality impacts were identified, and the council acknowledged that inconsistent practice within services could lead to unequal outcomes, which the new policy aims to mitigate.

• Key Decision: Approval of the revised Haringey Resident Feedback Policy.
• Potential Outcome: Improved complaint handling procedures, increased resident satisfaction, and greater transparency and accountability in council services.
• Link to Meeting: Cabinet Member Signing, 06 May 2026

Other Matters

A Special Licensing Sub Committee meeting was held on Wednesday 6 May 2026. No details were provided regarding the topics discussed or any decisions made. Link to meeting

This week in Haringey:

Licence Application for Rossi in the Park Event Sparks Resident Concerns

A proposed time-limited licence for a large outdoor electronic music festival, Rossi in the Park, at Lordship Recreation Ground was scheduled for consideration by the Licensing Sub Committee on Monday 27 April 2026. The event, organised by BRCRDS Ltd, planned to host up to 4,999 attendees for a day of music and entertainment on Saturday, 18 July 2026.

However, the application generated significant objections from various parties, highlighting potential impacts on the local community. The Metropolitan Police initially raised concerns about the proposed operating hours, suggesting a reduction in entertainment and alcohol sales times. The Noise and Nuisance Team requested specific conditions for noise monitoring to prevent disruption to residents.

More critically, the Friends of Lordship Lane, a group representing local residents and park users, formally objected to the application. Their concerns centred on the exclusion of the public from the park for an extended period, the potential for damage to the park's infrastructure due to heavy vehicle access, and the impact on the relationship between the council and the community. They argued that the event's scale and nature were unsuitable for the park and that the council's policy of working with not against the community was being breached.

The Public Health department also raised concerns regarding safeguarding, the adequacy of vulnerable person officers, and the implementation of drug harm reduction measures. Transport for London flagged potential disruption due to planned engineering works on the Piccadilly and Victoria lines, affecting access to nearby stations.

The Licensing Sub Committee was tasked with determining the application, which could have resulted in granting the licence as requested, imposing additional conditions, excluding certain activities, or rejecting the application entirely. The meeting was ultimately cancelled, meaning these significant resident concerns and the applicant's proposals were not formally debated or decided upon by the committee.

• Key Topics Discussed: Application for a time-limited licence for Rossi in the Park event at Lordship Recreation Ground.
• Potential Outcome: The meeting was cancelled, so no decision was made regarding the licence application. The concerns raised by residents, police, and public health officials remain unaddressed by this committee.
• Link to Meeting: Licensing Sub Committee, 27 April 2026

Temporary Event Notices for Red Carpet Restaurant and Bar Face Objections

The Special Licensing Sub Committee convened on Friday 01 May 2026 to consider objections to temporary event notices (TENs) for the Red Carpet Restaurant and Bar at 99 West Green Road, Tottenham, London, N15. The notices were for events planned between 9th to 10th May 2026 and 14th to 17th May 2026.

The council's ASB Noise Team lodged an objection, citing concerns related to noise nuisance and a history of non-compliance. This is particularly significant as the premises does not currently hold a Premises Licence, and a previous application was rejected in December 2025. Residents had also voiced concerns about noise and late-night operations.

The report detailed that enforcement visits had reportedly found non-compliance with the Licensing Act 2003. A formal warning letter was sent to the applicant, Janet Nyantakyi, on 9th March 2026, regarding alleged unauthorised licensable activity and noise nuisance, highlighting the potential for criminal prosecution.

Despite undertakings from the applicant's representative, Maxwell Owusu Koduah, to improve staff training and operational standards, the Noise & Nuisance Team indicated their intention to reject the TENs. This was based on a history of alleged non-compliance, including the sale of alcohol without a Premises Licence on 21st March 2026.

The committee was tasked with considering these objections and the applicant's proposed undertakings in relation to the four licensing objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm. The outcome of this meeting was pending publication.

• Key Topics Discussed: Objections to Temporary Event Notices for Red Carpet Restaurant and Bar.
• Potential Outcome: The committee was scheduled to decide whether to uphold the objections and reject the TENs, potentially preventing the planned events. The outcome of this meeting is pending publication.
• Link to Meeting: Special Licensing Sub Committee, 01 May 2026

Council to Streamline Card Payments with New Merchant Acquirer Services

Haringey Council is set to improve its financial operations and achieve significant cost savings through the re-procurement of merchant acquirer services. Councillor Dana Carlin, Cabinet Member for Finance and Corporate Services, is scheduled to consider proposals for this on Wednesday 06 May 2026. These services are crucial for processing the council's substantial annual card income of approximately £86 million.

The current arrangements are no longer financially sustainable, leading to a significant budget pressure and a value-for-money issue. The proposed re-procurement aims to secure improved pricing and contractual terms, addressing this revenue pressure and providing greater cost certainty.

The recommendation is to approve the commencement of a procurement exercise and to directly award a contract to Global Pay for a two-year term, valued at £980,000. This direct award, utilising the Crown Commercial Service (CCS) Framework[^4], is expected to reduce the council's annual merchant acquiring costs from around £1.02 million to £490,000, delivering annual savings of approximately £530,000. This move directly supports the council's corporate priorities of ensuring value for money and financial sustainability.

The report highlights that residents increasingly expect accessible digital payment channels, and this decision will ensure these services continue to be met without disruption. The use of an existing Framework is seen as a compliant and efficient route, reducing procurement timelines. The Director of Finance has confirmed that the cost will be funded from existing provisions within the bank charges budget, resolving an existing budget pressure.

• Key Decision: Approval to re-procure merchant acquirer services and directly award a contract to Global Pay.
• Potential Outcome: Significant annual savings of £530,000, improved financial sustainability for the council, and continued efficient processing of resident payments.
• Link to Meeting: Cabinet Member Signing, 06 May 2026