This week in Islington:

Community Hub to Rise at Sunnyside Gardens: Council Approves New Building

Islington Council's Planning Sub Committee B has granted planning permission for the demolition of existing structures and the construction of a new single-storey community building at Sunnyside Community Gardens on Hazellville Road. This decision marks a significant step forward for the much-loved community space, which has relied on temporary facilities since 2013.

The new 114-square-metre building will replace outdated portacabins and sheds, providing a much-needed permanent, accessible, and sustainable facility. Planning officers highlighted the high quality of the design and its sustainability features, including solar panels and a rainwater garden.

Anna Portch, Manager at Sunnyside Community Gardens, spoke passionately about the gardens' role as a third space for the local community and the vital importance of the new building for their growing volunteer numbers and therapeutic horticulture programmes. She emphasised that planning permission was crucial for securing the necessary capital grants to fund the construction, a point echoed by the committee's unanimous vote in favour.

Concerns were raised by Councillor Sheridan Kates regarding security and light, specifically the use of mesh panels and roller shutters. Architects explained the design choices, balancing security with natural light, and Councillor Clare Jeapes successfully proposed an amendment to Condition 3 of the planning permission to ensure flexibility in specifying internal roller blinds for shading. The committee also discussed the construction timeline, with an estimated one-year build period, and measures to support volunteers during this time, including the retention of existing facilities and the use of a temporary greenhouse.

This decision will allow Sunnyside Community Gardens to continue its valuable work, providing a vital green space and community hub for residents.

Read more about the Planning Sub Committee B meeting here.

Housing Crisis Review Launched: Council Tackles Reactive Spending with Preventative Investment

The Homes and Communities Scrutiny Committee has initiated a crucial review into Housing in crisis: the cost of reactive spend and the case for preventative investment. This review aims to identify how Islington Council can reduce the human and financial costs associated with housing problems by shifting focus and investment towards preventative measures.

The committee, chaired by Councillor Hannah McHugh, will examine where the council is currently spending reactively due to housing issues reaching crisis point. The review will focus on four key areas: homelessness and temporary accommodation, voids and empty homes, repairs, damp and mould, adaptations, stock condition and planned works, and rightsizing.

Councillor Jackson Caines, Executive Member for Homes and Neighbourhoods, welcomed the review, noting that it addresses issues often looked at in silos. Ian Swift, Director of Housing Operations, highlighted that Islington has already saved nearly £29 million over the last two years through its homelessness prevention work, demonstrating the significant potential of preventative measures.

This review is vital for residents, as it seeks to ensure that earlier interventions can improve outcomes, reduce pressure on services, and make better use of public money. The committee will also consider the impact of contractor performance and procurement, and will actively seek resident experience to inform its recommendations.

Read more about the Homes and Communities Scrutiny Committee meeting here.

Housing Improvement Programme: Addressing Regulatory Judgement and Enhancing Resident Safety

The Homes and Communities Scrutiny Committee also received a critical update on the Housing Improvement Programme, which is directly addressing a C3 regulatory judgement from the Regulator of Social Housing. This judgement highlighted six areas of non-compliance, including outdated stock condition surveys, limited assurance over health and safety data, overdue lift remedial actions, and gaps in tenant data.

Director of Housing Operations, Ian Swift, acknowledged the disappointment of the judgement but stressed the commitment to ensuring the council never returns to this position. The improvement plan includes accelerating stock condition surveys, tackling overdue lift remedial actions by December 2026, and improving data on tenants' diverse needs.

The council is investing £2.426 billion over 30 years in its Housing Revenue Account (HRA) business plan, with £485 million allocated for the next five years. This significant investment will focus on building and fire safety, achieving the Decent Homes Standard, tackling damp and mould, and improving energy efficiency.

Residents like Elizabeth Emmanuel shared personal experiences of long waits for repairs, underscoring the real-world impact of these issues. The committee's scrutiny of this programme is essential to ensure that residents' safety and the quality of their homes are prioritised.

Read more about the Homes and Communities Scrutiny Committee meeting here.

Other Matters

The Licensing Regulatory Committee and Licensing Sub Committee D meetings scheduled for Tuesday 01 September 2026 and Thursday 03 September 2026 respectively, were both cancelled. The Licensing Regulatory Committee was due to consider a new special treatment licence application for Spice of Life, with the Metropolitan Police having raised concerns about the applicant's suitability.

Read more about the Licensing Regulatory Committee meeting here. Read more about the Licensing Sub Committee D meeting here.

This week in Islington:

Pub Licence Application for Judges Food and Wine Deferred Amidst Community Concerns

A planned decision on a new premises licence for Judges Food and Wine, located at 113 Holloway Road, London, N7 8LT, was postponed. The application, which sought permission for the sale of alcohol from 8 am to 10 pm daily, had initially faced objections from the Metropolitan Police and a local resident.

While the applicant, represented by Amarpreet Singh and Jarpreet Singh of Judges Food and Wine Ltd, proposed several conditions to address these concerns – including restrictions on the sale of single cans and small spirit bottles, and a commitment to enhanced CCTV – the meeting was ultimately cancelled. This means the committee did not get to deliberate on whether these measures were sufficient to prevent potential issues like increased public nuisance or crime, particularly given the premises' location within the Holloway and Finsbury Park Cumulative Impact Area. This area is subject to a policy that presumes against new licences unless the council is satisfied that there will be no adverse cumulative impact on licensing objectives.

The potential impact on the local community, especially regarding noise and anti-social behaviour, remains a key concern for residents. The postponement means a further delay in determining whether this new establishment will contribute positively to the area or exacerbate existing issues.

Read more about the Licensing Sub Committee B meeting here.

This week in Islington:

Housing Crisis Deepens: Council Approves Corporate Plan Amidst Social Housing Concerns

Islington Council's Executive met on Thursday 30 July 2026, approving a new Corporate Plan for 2026-2030 and a crucial Housing Improvement Plan in response to a critical judgement from the Regulator of Social Housing. The meeting also saw the approval of a joint procurement strategy for short breaks for disabled children and young people, highlighting the council's ongoing efforts to support vulnerable residents.

A New Vision for Islington: The Corporate Plan 2026-2030

The Executive approved the Corporate Plan 2026-2030, a document that operationalises the majority party's manifesto. Councillor Una O'Halloran, Leader of the Council, emphasised the plan's focus on creating a more equal Islington and a better for all of us, stressing its commitment to making people in the borough feel safe, managing risks in the public realm, and prioritising fundamental public services. This plan is designed to guide the council's work over the next four years, aiming to deliver on core promises to residents.

The plan's emphasis on a more inclusive and welcoming borough is particularly significant, aiming to ensure that all residents, regardless of their background or beliefs, feel a sense of belonging. The council's commitment to fundamental public services, without fancy window dressing or vanity projects, signals a focus on practical improvements that directly impact residents' daily lives.

Read the full Executive meeting details here.

Addressing Housing Failures: The Housing Improvement Plan

A critical outcome of the meeting was the approval of the Housing Improvement Plan, a direct response to a C3 judgement from the Regulator of Social Housing. This judgement highlighted significant areas for improvement within the council's housing stock and management. Councillor Jason Jackson, Executive Member for Homes and Neighbourhoods, acknowledged the judgement and outlined ambitious targets for improving housing conditions.

The plan includes:

• Significant investment in stock condition surveys.
• Modernisation of lifts.
• A comprehensive approach to complaints and resident experience.

This initiative is vital for the thousands of Islington residents living in council properties. The Regulator's judgement indicates that current standards are not meeting expectations, and this plan aims to rebuild tenant confidence and deliver excellence. The establishment of a Housing Improvement Board, with an independent chair, will oversee this critical programme, ensuring accountability and progress.

Read the full Executive meeting details here.

Supporting Disabled Children and Young People: Joint Procurement Strategy

The Executive approved a joint procurement strategy with Camden Council for short breaks for disabled children and young people. This strategy will establish a flexible framework for 96 months, with an estimated value for Islington Council of up to £13,600,000. Councillor Sheila Chapman, Executive Member for Children, Young People and Families, highlighted the benefits for young people and their families, ensuring access to specialist providers and sustainable services. Short breaks are essential for providing respite for families and enriching experiences for disabled children and young people, allowing them to develop skills and social connections.

Read the full Executive meeting details here.

Cleaner Islington Programme Launched to Enhance Borough's Liveability

Islington Council has officially launched the Cleaner Islington programme, aiming to create a cleaner, safer, healthier, and more sustainable borough. Approved by the Executive on Thursday 30 July 2026, this ambitious programme focuses on a balanced approach of education, empowerment, and enforcement.

Councillor Rowena Champion, Executive Member for Climate, Environment & Transport, introduced the report, emphasising the programme's focus on behavioural change and collaboration. The initiative seeks to improve residents' everyday experience by making streets, estates, parks, and public spaces more attractive and welcoming.

Key aspects of the Cleaner Islington programme include:

• Prevention and Behavioural Change: Encouraging residents to take shared responsibility for their local environment.
• Enforcement: A proportionate and intelligence-led approach to tackle issues like littering and fly-tipping.
• Community Involvement: Supporting residents who wish to be more involved in improving their streets and communities.

Councillor Heather Staff, Executive Member for Community Safety and Neighbourhoods, stressed that enforcement actions will be fair and focused on achieving long-term behavioural change. The programme also includes the approval of the Lowest Waste Borough Delivery Plan, underscoring the council's commitment to environmental sustainability.

The Executive also responded to a Scrutiny Committee review on household recycling and waste reduction, noting that recommendations have been incorporated into the Joint Waste Strategy Delivery Plan. Councillor Champion reiterated the council's commitment to maintaining weekly general waste collections, criticising proposals for fortnightly collections as potentially leading to increased dumping and unsanitary conditions.

Read the full Executive meeting details here.

Other Matters

Appointments and General Purposes Committee Reviews Constitution and Senior Appointments

The Appointments and General Purposes Committee met on Tuesday 28 July 2026 to discuss its membership, terms of reference, and work programme for the upcoming municipal year. The committee also reviewed the council's constitution, which outlines the rules and procedures for how the council operates. This review is crucial for ensuring that the council's governance structures are robust and effective, particularly in relation to the recruitment and appointment of senior officers. The committee's work in appointing senior officers is directly linked to the delivery of the council's corporate plan, the Islington Together 2030 Plan.

Read the full Appointments and General Purposes Committee meeting details here.

Pensions Board Reviews Fund Performance and Draft Accounts

The Pensions Board met on Wednesday 29 July 2026 to review the performance of the Pension Fund for January to March 2026, with the fund's total market value at £2,181.8 million. The Board also considered the draft year-end accounts for 2025/26, which showed an increase in net assets to £2,211 million. Updates on pension administration performance and the fund's risk register were also discussed, including a new strategic risk concerning Governance Risk (Pooling). The Board's forward work programme for 2026-27 was also presented, outlining key areas of focus for the coming year.

Read the full Pensions Board meeting details here.

Appointments and General Purposes Committee Considers Director Appointment

The Appointments and General Purposes Committee also met on Tuesday 28 July 2026 to consider the appointment of a Director of Environment and Public Safety. The committee also discussed whether to exclude the press and public from discussions on certain agenda items due to the potential disclosure of exempt or confidential information.

Read the full Appointments and General Purposes Committee meeting details here.

This week in Islington:

Children's Mental Health Services Under Strain: Long Waits for Diagnosis and Support

The Health and Wellbeing Board met on Tuesday 21 July 2026, highlighting significant challenges in accessing timely support for children and young people's mental health. The Board discussed a concerning analysis of wait times for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), revealing that demand for services has surged, leading to extended waits for crucial diagnoses and therapies.

The report indicated a national trend of increasing numbers and complexity of children and young people needing support. This has directly translated into longer waiting lists for therapies, diagnoses of neurodevelopmental disorders like Autism and ADHD, and access to community mental health services. The implications for young people and their families are profound, potentially leading to prolonged distress, academic difficulties, and a worsening of mental health conditions if support is not received promptly.

The Board reviewed performance data against local and national benchmarks and discussed current initiatives aimed at reducing these wait times. The commitment to continuing these initiatives signals an understanding of the urgency, but the sheer scale of the demand suggests that significant further action will be needed to ensure children and young people receive the support they need when they need it.

The Board also focused on embedding resident and community insight into its decision-making processes. A proposed standardised operating procedure aims to ensure that community voices are actively sought and considered in all agenda items. This is a positive step towards more inclusive governance, particularly important when discussing sensitive issues like children's mental health, where lived experience is invaluable.

The Board also reviewed its annual work plan for 2026-27, ensuring a structured approach to addressing ongoing health and wellbeing priorities.

Read the full Health and Wellbeing Board meeting details here.

Planning Decisions: Balancing Development with Resident Concerns

Islington's Planning Sub Committee A met on Monday 20 July 2026, making decisions on two significant planning applications that illustrate the delicate balance between development and the impact on local residents.

93 Axminster Road: Conversion Approved Amidst Quality and Sustainability Debates

The committee granted planning permission for the conversion of a single dwelling into two flats at 93 Axminster Road, London N7 6BS. The proposal included a rear extension, a new roof extension, and the installation of sustainable features like an air source heat pump and solar panels.

However, the decision was not without controversy. Objectors and ward councillors raised concerns about the quality of the proposed accommodation, potential future use as a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), and the adequacy of sustainability measures. Specific worries included floor area discrepancies, insulation depth, and the suitability of a single heat pump for two flats. Residents voiced fears that the proposed homes might not be quiet, cool, or truly usable, impacting their quality of life.

The committee ultimately voted to grant permission, with officers clarifying that conditions would be imposed to restrict the property's use as a large-scale HMO. This decision reflects a common planning challenge: how to ensure new developments meet high standards of quality and sustainability while respecting the constraints of existing buildings and the concerns of existing residents. The debate highlighted the importance of detailed design and the council's ability to enforce conditions to maintain standards.

Read the full Planning Sub Committee A meeting details here.

68-70 & 60 Goswell Road: Office Refurbishment Approved with Sustainability Focus

Planning permission was also granted for the refurbishment and extension of office buildings at 68-70 and 60 Goswell Road, London EC1M 7AD. The approved development includes façade alterations, new roof extensions with terrace space, solar panels, and plant areas, aiming to improve accessibility and fire safety.

The discussion centred on the sustainability aspects of the project, including the angle and placement of solar panels and potential light pollution in a rear courtyard. Officers explained that the panel angle was a compromise between visibility and energy performance, and that no light pollution impact was identified. The applicant highlighted the collaborative process and the balance struck between heritage considerations and sustainability goals.

The committee's approval, with a condition added regarding green roof maintenance, underscores the council's commitment to enhancing the energy efficiency and environmental performance of its commercial buildings. This project is expected to increase the Gross Internal Area by 374 square metres, contributing to the borough's economic activity while incorporating modern sustainability features.

Read the full Planning Sub Committee A meeting details here.

Other Matters

The Licensing Sub Committee B met on Monday 20 July 2026 to consider applications for new and varied premises licences. The agenda included a new licence application for Seventh Cavalry Restaurant, which had attracted objections from local residents concerned about public nuisance and crime. The committee also reviewed a variation to the licence for XOYO, which had also received resident objections regarding noise and anti-social behaviour. The outcomes of these discussions are pending council publication.

The Pensions Board meeting scheduled for Tuesday 21 July 2026 was postponed.