This week in Islington:

Council Tackles Waste and Boosts Leisure, But Faces Challenges in Keeping Young People Active

Islington Council's Environment, Climate and Transport Scrutiny Committee met on Monday 13 April 2026, reviewing progress on waste reduction, leisure services, and energy efficiency. The committee endorsed a robust report on household recycling and waste reduction, highlighting that while overall waste has decreased, recycling rates have plateaued. Key recommendations include clearer communications, improved bin capacity on estates, and exploring new recycling facilities.

The committee also received an update on the council's leisure services, delivered in partnership with GLL. Islington boasts the second-highest adult activity rate in London, a testament to successful programmes like Healthwise and initiatives promoting physical activity for mental wellbeing. However, a concerning drop in activity rates for young people was noted, prompting a commitment to focus on this demographic. Investments in leisure centres, including decarbonisation works at Archway Leisure Centre, were highlighted, alongside the success of new facilities like the Sobell Leisure Centre's Active Multi Zone.

A presentation on the Seasonal Health Interventions Network (SHINE) service showcased its vital role in tackling fuel poverty. SHINE provides energy advice, installs energy-saving measures, and offers fuel debt support, resulting in significant cost and carbon savings for vulnerable households. Since April 2025, SHINE has generated over £1.3 million in estimated cost savings across London and over £585,000 in Islington alone. Councillors raised important questions about eligibility and the impact of adaptations on housing conditions, underscoring the need for a holistic approach to supporting residents.

Read the full Environment, Climate and Transport Scrutiny Committee meeting details here.

Council Performance Shows Strengths, But Complaints Surge

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 14 April 2026 to review the council's corporate performance and the significant increase in complaints. The committee heard that 84% of the council's delivery plan metrics are on track, with notable successes in supporting residents into work, delivering affordable homes, and improving the stop smoking service. The Community Wealth Building mission, in particular, has exceeded its targets, with nearly 6,000 residents supported into paid work and 1,000 apprenticeship starts achieved ahead of schedule.

However, the meeting also revealed a substantial 48% increase in Stage 1 complaints and a 54% rise in Stage 2 complaints. The majority of these issues stem from the Homes and Neighbourhoods Directorate, with delays being the primary root cause. While acknowledgement and response times have improved, the sheer volume of complaints, particularly those upheld by the Housing Ombudsman, indicates ongoing systemic challenges. The committee discussed the need to address failure demand – issues that lead to residents contacting the council multiple times – and the importance of improving communication and service delivery, especially within housing repairs. A proposal for a centralised triage model for member and MP enquiries was also discussed, aiming to improve consistency and efficiency.

Read the full Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting details here.

Planning Sub Committee A Meeting Cancelled

The Planning Sub Committee A meeting, originally scheduled for Thursday 16 April 2026, was cancelled.

Licensing Sub Committee C Meeting Pending Publication

The Licensing Sub Committee C meeting was scheduled to consider new premises licence applications for Reggae Flame and YRS LDN. Reggae Flame faced resident objections regarding noise and potential nuisance, particularly due to its location within a Cumulative Impact Area. YRS LDN's application for 24-hour alcohol sales and entertainment also raised concerns with the Metropolitan Police regarding crime and disorder in the Clerkenwell Cumulative Impact Area. The outcome of these applications will be crucial for managing the night-time economy and ensuring the wellbeing of local residents.

Read the full Licensing Sub Committee C meeting details here.

This week in Islington:

Council Boosts Budget for Crisis Support and Extra Care Housing, But Faces Homelessness Challenges

Islington Council's Executive met on Wednesday 25 March 2026, making key decisions on the borough's financial health, corporate performance, and crucial support services. A significant outcome was the approval of proposals for Islington's new Crisis and Resilience Fund, which will replace the Household Support Fund. This new fund offers a three-year commitment, a welcome change from previous short-term cycles, and aims to tackle the root causes of financial hardship by providing immediate support alongside wraparound services. Councillor Flora Williamson, Executive Member for Finance and Performance, highlighted that this aligns with the council's objective to end poverty in Islington.

The Executive also approved a procurement strategy for extra care services at Lindsay Apartments on the Holloway Park plot. This initiative will provide approximately 60 units of housing designed for residents who can live independently but require care support. Councillor Dr Sara Hyde, Executive Member for Health and Social Care, described it as an exciting development that will free up capacity within the borough and allow residents currently living out of borough to return. This is particularly important for older residents, as the scheme is intergenerational with the majority of residents over 55.

However, the meeting also addressed the ongoing challenge of homelessness. A report from the Homes and Communities Scrutiny Committee on homelessness in Islington was presented. While Councillor John Woolf, Executive Member for Homes and Neighbourhoods, noted that Islington is performing well compared to other London boroughs with shorter lengths of time spent in temporary accommodation and decreasing homelessness rates, the issue remains a significant concern. The Executive noted the recommendations made by the Scrutiny Committee, indicating a commitment to further action.

The council also reported a positive budget monitoring update for Q3 2025/26, forecasting an underspend of £4.337 million. This improvement is largely attributed to increased parking income and a one-off payment from the NHS. Corporate performance for Q3 was also noted as strong, with the delivery plan largely on track.

Read the full Executive meeting details here.

Licensing Applications Spark Resident Concerns Over Noise and Nuisance

Licensing Sub Committee B met on Tuesday 24 March 2026 to consider several applications for new and varied premises licences. These applications, particularly those seeking extended hours for alcohol sales and late-night refreshment, have raised significant concerns among local residents and responsible authorities regarding potential increases in public nuisance, crime, and disorder.

Sapid Coffee: Late-Night Music and Alcohol Sales

An application to vary the premises licence for Sapid Coffee sought to extend licensable activities, including live and recorded music, late-night refreshment, and the sale of alcohol, to 3:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays, and on bank holidays. While the Police had accepted additional conditions proposed by the applicant, concerns were raised about the applicant's engagement and the potential impact of extended hours on the Holloway Road area. The Licensing Authority noted that the initial application did not adequately address the premises' location within a Cumulative Impact Area¹. The applicant stated the extended hours were for economic reasons and that the venue operated as an events space.

Sainsbury's Supermarket: Off-Sales Hours and Resident Objections

A new premises licence application for Sainsbury's Supermarket sought permission for the sale of alcohol (off-sales only) from 7:00 am to 11:00 pm, Monday to Sunday. While agreement was reached with the Police on proposed conditions, representations were received from a local resident expressing concerns about potential increases in noise and nuisance, inadequate waste management, and the impact of delivery vehicles. The resident also raised concerns about rodent activity and the misuse of communal waste areas.

Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration: Entertainment and Alcohol Sales in Conservation Area

The committee also discussed a premises licence application for the Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration. The application sought to allow for regulated entertainment and the on and off-sale of alcohol from 8:00 am to 10:30 pm, seven days a week. The applicant described the premises as a charity-run cultural venue. However, the application received numerous representations from local residents opposing it, primarily on the grounds of the prevention of public nuisance. Concerns were raised about noise from amplified music, patron dispersal, and the impact of alcohol sales in a quiet residential conservation area. Residents highlighted the potential for increased footfall, traffic, and anti-social behaviour.

The meeting also included formal matters such as introductions, apologies for absence, declarations of substitute members, and declarations of interest. The procedure for hearings under the Licensing Act 2003 was also outlined.

Read the full Licensing Sub Committee B meeting details here.

Pension Fund Performance and Investment Strategy Under Review

The Pensions Board met on Tuesday 24 March 2026 to consider a range of financial and strategic matters concerning the council's pension fund. Key discussions focused on the fund's performance, actuarial review results, and updates on the investment strategy.

The board reviewed the performance of the pension fund for the period of October to December 2025. This discussion also took into account decisions made by the Pensions Committee on 16 March 2026.

A significant item on the agenda was the consultation results for the draft Funding Strategy Statement. This review is crucial for ensuring the long-term solvency of the pension fund. The board also received an update on the consultation regarding the Investment Strategy, which likely covered feedback received and potential adjustments to how the pension fund's assets are managed. Further details on related consultations, including a divestment consultation, were also presented.

Other items for discussion included pension administration performance, the Pensions 3-year budget, and the cashflow for 2025/26. The board also reviewed the Risk Register and the Pensions Board's forward work programme for the upcoming period.

Read the full Pensions Board meeting details here.

The Pensions Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday 26 March 2026 was cancelled.

This week in Islington:

• The Homes and Communities Scrutiny Committee scrutinised the council's efforts to tackle homelessness and reviewed housing performance, making key recommendations for a whole-system approach.
• The Health and Wellbeing Board approved a framework for monitoring the Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy and discussed Islington's healthy weight programme.
• The Audit and Risk Committee approved the internal audit plan for 2026/27 and the proposed Code of Corporate Governance.
• The Employment and Appointments Committee was scheduled to appoint a new Corporate Director of Resources.
• The Pensions Committee was scheduled to review the Pension Fund's performance and discuss updates to the investment strategy.

Homes and Communities Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 17 March 2026

The Homes and Communities Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 17 March 2026 to address the critical issue of homelessness and review the council's housing performance. The committee made significant recommendations for tackling homelessness and noted improvements in housing services, while acknowledging ongoing pressures.

Scrutiny Review of Homelessness 2025/26: Final Report and Recommendations

A major focus of the meeting was the final report and recommendations from a year-long scrutiny review into homelessness in Islington. The report concluded that homelessness is a system-made crisis rather than an individual failing. It highlighted the council's strong performance in preventing homelessness and reducing the time spent in temporary accommodation compared to other London boroughs. However, the report also stressed the significant impact of the national housing emergency, including high private rents and a shortage of affordable homes.

Key recommendations from the report include:

• Whole-system statutory duty to prevent homelessness: Advocating for all public services to have a legal responsibility to prevent homelessness.
• Changing the homelessness framework: Reforming national policy to abolish the priority need framework and end local connection requirements for rough sleepers.
• Delivering services that end homelessness: Implementing a place-based model integrating housing, health, and social care.
• Securing a new generation of social homes: Calling for government funding to purchase ex-Right to Buy homes annually and for council housebuilding to be treated as national infrastructure investment.
• Uprating Local Housing Allowance (LHA): Urging the government to align LHA rates with real market rents.
• Rent stabilisation: Recommending government introduce rent stabilisation in high-cost areas like London.
• Preventing homelessness before crisis point: Strengthening early intervention and legal advice services.
• Rapid rehousing and reduced reliance on temporary accommodation: Shifting towards quicker moves from emergency accommodation into permanent homes.
• Housing First: Continuing and expanding the Housing First approach.
• Ending exploitation and preventing tenancy breakdown: Developing a multi-agency approach to issues like cuckooing.
• Women's homelessness and gender-specific provision: Developing trauma-informed accommodation and support.
• Supporting migrants and refugees: Continuing to provide advice and support, and recommending government review No Recourse to Public Funds conditions.
• Access to support beyond housing: Investing in integrated health, care, and housing support.
• Social connections, recovery and belonging: Investing in community-based groups to help residents rebuild relationships.
• Redefining success and sustaining tenancies: Developing resident-led measures of success.
• Lived experience and resident voice: Embedding the voices of those with lived experience in service redesign.
• Workforce resilience, sustainability, and representation: Seeking long-term investment for specialist homelessness roles.
• Regulation, safety, and accountability: Advocating for homelessness and supported accommodation services to fall under the Regulator of Social Housing.
• Domestic abuse: Embedding domestic abuse prevention and survivor-centred practice.
• Empowerment and partnership accountability: Strengthening the Homelessness Forum.
• A National Plan to End Homelessness: Welcoming the government's plan but urging it to go further with statutory responsibilities and funding.

The committee noted that draft recommendations would be finalised shortly.

Quarterly Homelessness Performance Report

Ian Swift, Director of Housing Operations, presented the quarterly homelessness performance report. The report indicated that while Islington faces challenges with a rising number of households in temporary accommodation, the council's performance in areas like antisocial behaviour and estate services has improved. Rent arrears remain a pressure point due to the cost of living crisis. Islington has the second highest number of homelessness assessments in London but a comparatively low rate of households in temporary accommodation, with an average stay of 10-11 months. Domestic abuse and evictions from family and friends were identified as significant drivers of homelessness. The council's property purchase programme has helped secure additional accommodation.

Councillor Heather Staff raised concerns about the lack of data regarding refugees and asylum seekers in the homelessness figures and questioned the effectiveness of the extended move-on period for those leaving Home Office hotels. Ian Swift responded that the 42-day period is an improvement but advocated for 56 days, and confirmed that Islington had assisted those leaving the Barbican Hostel with rehousing.

Resident observer Cassandra Flavius inquired about the focus on preventing homelessness due to family or friends no longer being willing to accommodate, and the duration of stays in bed and breakfast accommodation. Ian Swift confirmed that preventing parental evictions is a priority and that the council aims to move families out of hotels within 72 hours.

Councillor Phil Graham noted the impressive performance in reducing the length of time people spend in temporary accommodation but questioned the 66 households who have been in temporary accommodation for five years or more. Ian Swift explained this is often due to complex needs such as severe autism, physical disabilities, or larger family sizes, where suitable accommodation is difficult to find.

Quarter 3 Housing Performance Report

The committee received the Quarter 3 Housing Performance Report, detailing performance against key indicators for the Homes and Neighbourhoods directorate. Key performance indicators showed:

• Decent Homes Standard: 97% of homes met the standard, placing Islington in the upper quartile for London.
• Repairs: 83% of non-emergency repairs were completed on time, meeting the target. Emergency repairs were at 95%.
• Building Safety: High compliance rates were reported across gas, fire, asbestos, water, and lift safety checks.
• Anti-social behaviour (ASB): A slight increase in reporting was noted, attributed to making reporting easier.
• Complaints: Stage 1 complaints were at 63 per 1,000 homes, with 85% responded to within timescales. Stage 2 complaints saw 80% responded to within timescales.
• Tenancy Satisfaction Measures (TSM): Overall satisfaction was 68%, placing Islington in the upper quartile for London.
• Temporary Accommodation: The rate of households in temporary accommodation was 17 per 1,000, below the London average.
• Rough Sleeping: The number of people sleeping rough was 26, a decrease from the previous year.
• Rent Arrears: Rent arrears stood at 4.8% of the rent roll, a decrease from the previous year, though managing arrears was identified as a challenge.

Councillor Ilkay Cinko-Oner raised concerns about the monitoring of contractors' timing for repairs and the quality of work. Jed Young, Corporate Director of Homes and Neighbourhoods, acknowledged the need for improved contractor monitoring. Councillor Cinko-Oner also raised issues regarding cyclical works and a problematic tender process. Councillor Phil Graham reiterated concerns about lift maintenance. Elizabeth Emmanuel raised concerns about rising rent arrears and the risk of increased evictions.

The committee also discussed potential topics for the next year's work programme, including the impact of rising rents in the private rented sector and antisocial behaviour. Councillor Rommel requested that the issue of the new generation scheme for young people be included, citing concerns about young people being priced out of the borough.

Health and Wellbeing Board - Tuesday 17 March 2026

The Health and Wellbeing Board met on Tuesday 17 March 2026 to discuss safeguarding, the Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy, and the council's healthy weight programme.

Islington Safeguarding Adults Board Annual Report 2024-2025

The Board received the annual report for the Islington Safeguarding Adults Board (ISAB) for 2024-2025. The report highlighted the development of a new strategy for 2025-2028, created in consultation with professionals, partners, and residents. It detailed achievements in risk management and noted an increase in safeguarding referrals, with neglect, financial/material abuse, psychological abuse, and self-neglect being the most common types of abuse. The report was noted by the Board.

Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy Outcomes Framework

Charlotte Ashton, Assistant Director of Public Health, presented the proposed outcomes and metrics for monitoring the Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2025-2030. The strategy aims to improve life expectancy and healthy life expectancy in Islington while reducing inequalities. The proposed framework includes indicators across four priority areas: Start Well, Live Well, Age Well, and Healthy Environments. The Board approved the proposed outcomes and metrics, reviewed the baseline data, and noted the plan to publish the metrics on the Council's website. Key data points highlighted included a gap in life expectancy between men and women and significant inequalities linked to deprivation. The Board also agreed to remove disability free life expectancy as an indicator due to a lack of updated national data.

Local Government Association Review Programme

Jonathan O'Sullivan, Director of Public Health, presented the outcomes of a Local Government Association (LGA) review of the Health and Wellbeing Board. The review identified strong system-wide partnerships, maintaining a coherent local focus during change, and championing children and young people as key strengths. Three impactful changes were proposed to strengthen the Board's effectiveness: greater focus on resident views, organising business differently with clearer items, and developing an outcomes, delivery, and assurance framework. The Board noted the outcomes and agreed to implement the identified actions.

Islington's Healthy Weight Programme

Fran Bury and Emily Clark presented an update on Islington's healthy weight programme, a new strategic approach to address overweight and obesity. The programme uses a whole systems approach guided by eight healthy weight principles, aiming to make healthier options the easiest option, avoid stigmatising weight, and support health at different sizes. The Board noted the progress made, including the completion of a healthy weight needs assessment and the development of the programme's principles, and noted the plans for the forthcoming year. Discussions highlighted the complexity of the issue, the potential for stigma, and the need for a nuanced approach.

Audit and Risk Committee - Thursday 19 March 2026

The Audit and Risk Committee met on Thursday 19 March 2026 to review the internal audit plan, whistleblowing reports, and the council's code of corporate governance.

2026/27 Internal Audit Plan

The committee reviewed and approved the 2026/27 Internal Audit Strategy and the draft Internal Audit Plan. The strategy outlines how the Internal Audit service will be delivered, aiming to provide independent assurance to support effective governance and internal control. The plan details the work to be undertaken, based on the council's priorities and principal risks. A significant aspect of the plan is the inclusion of 130 contingency days to allow for flexibility in responding to emerging risks.

Councillor Diarmaid Ward, Chair of the committee, highlighted the importance of stabilising key appointments. The committee discussed the resourcing of the internal audit function, with Chris Martin, Assistant Director of Audit & Risk, explaining that while the in-house team has strong local knowledge, external specialists are used to supplement workload and skills. He noted that reliance on external partners would be reduced over time as the in-house team capacity is built. Councillor Satnam Gill OBE expressed a view that the team currently lacks the capacity for a comprehensive internal audit service, suggesting it could function more like a management consultancy. The committee was also informed about the upcoming de-merger of the Internal Audit service from Camden Council in July 2025.

Biennial Whistleblowing Monitoring Report

The committee received the biennial whistleblowing monitoring report, covering the period from 1 August 2025 to 31 January 2026. The report indicated a downward trend in the volume of referrals compared to the previous year, although the complexity of some referrals has increased. A total of four new referrals met the criteria for whistleblowing during this period. Discussions ensued regarding the handling of allegations, particularly those with a potential criminal element where evidence was insufficient for internal action. Councillor Gill raised concerns about the threshold for pursuing allegations, suggesting that if there is an indication of a criminal offence, the decision should be left to the police. Paul Clarke, Acting Corporate Director of Resources, explained that disciplinary thresholds are lower than criminality thresholds. Councillor Janet Burgess MBE expressed concern about a specific case and requested it be revisited.

Code of Corporate Governance

The committee reviewed and approved the proposed Code of Corporate Governance for Islington Council. This code is based on the seven principles outlined in the CIPFA/SOLACE guidance 'Delivering Good Governance in Local Government', setting out the council's governance standards to ensure it operates effectively, honestly, and accountably. Councillor Convery noted that the code is based on frameworks from CIPFA and SOLACE, questioning the accountability of these private organisations and suggesting the Local Government Association might be a more appropriate body to lead on such frameworks. Paul Clarke explained that CIPFA and SOLACE are at the forefront of developing such guidance for the benefit of the sector.

Licensing Committee - Monday 16 March 2026

The Licensing Committee meeting scheduled for Monday 16 March 2026 was CANCELLED.

Pensions Committee - Monday 16 March 2026

The Pensions Committee was scheduled to meet on Monday 16 March 2026 to review the performance of the Pension Fund, discuss updates to the investment strategy, and consider the results of the draft Funding Strategy Statement consultation. The committee was also to receive information on upcoming changes to LGPS governance and pooling regulations.

Pension Fund Performance - October to December 2025

The committee was scheduled to review the performance of the Pension Fund for the period of October to December 2025, including the performance of various fund managers and their respective asset allocations. A presentation from Apex, the independent investment advisers, on the fund managers' quarterly performance was also scheduled.

Investment Strategy Update and Review

A key item on the agenda was an update on the implementation of the current investment strategy and a review of potential changes to the strategic asset allocation (SAA). The report detailed progress made since the last review and asked members to consider alternative SAA options presented by Mercer.

2025 Actuarial Valuation - Draft Funding Strategy Statement Consultation Results

The committee was to consider the results of the consultation on the draft Funding Strategy Statement (FSS) as part of the 2025 Actuarial Valuation. The report outlined the purpose of the FSS and presented the employer consultation results.

LGPS Fit for the Future Draft Guidance

An update was provided on the government's Fit for the Future reforms concerning LGPS pooling arrangements, including draft statutory guidance on fund governance, the Investment Strategy Statement (ISS), and asset pooling.

Pensions Committee 2026/27 Forward Work Programme

The committee was presented with the proposed Forward Work Programme for the Pensions Committee for the period March 2026 to March 2027.

Employment and Appointments Committee - Thursday 19 March 2026

The Employment and Appointments Committee was scheduled to meet on Thursday 19 March 2026. The primary item scheduled for discussion was the appointment of a Corporate Director of Resources.

Appointment of Corporate Director of Resources

The committee was scheduled to consider the appointment of a candidate to the role of Corporate Director of Resources. This position is key to supporting the delivery of the council's objectives. The committee had previously approved a shortlist of candidates for interview. The report indicated that the committee would be asked to appoint a candidate, note the advertised salary, and agree the final salary or parameters for the offer. The appointment process was being conducted in accordance with the Council's Constitution. The appendix containing the applications for consideration was exempt from publication. The committee was also scheduled to consider whether to exclude the press and public from discussions concerning the appointment.

This week in Islington:

Council Faces Tough Choices on Hospital Performance and Data Privacy Amidst Funding Concerns

Islington Council's Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday 12 March 2026, confronting critical issues that directly impact residents' health and the future of sensitive data. A major point of contention was the proposed involvement of Palantir, a controversial data analytics company, in running the NHS federated data platform. Concerns were raised about the potential privatisation of NHS data systems, the trust and accountability of the chosen contractor, and the urgent need for robust safeguards and transparency.

Councillor Joseph Croft, Chair of the committee and Mental Health Champion, voiced his deep reservations, which were echoed in the Islington Tribune. He stressed the importance of keeping the NHS public and free at the point of use. The committee heard from Shirley Franklin, a convener of the Defend the Whittington Hospital Coalition, who questioned why Whittington Hospital was training staff on Palantir systems if the council and coalition opposed its use. Franklin stated, Whittington will tell us, and they've told you, they've told everybody, that they're not using it. But the truth is that they're training people up in it. And they have used our health monies to pay Palantir to train their staff. She urged the council to investigate its power to instruct the Trust to cease this activity. Councillor Mick Gilgunn added to the opposition, noting the Good Law Project's legal challenge to the contract, with significant portions redacted, raising worries about US companies handling sensitive data.

The committee also received updates on the performance of Whittington Hospital and University College London Hospitals (UCLH). Whittington Health's Chief Nurse, Sarah Wilds, acknowledged challenges highlighted in a recent CQC inspection, particularly concerning mental health services and the hospital's aging infrastructure, noting it was built in, I think, 1970s. It's not fit for purpose for the population we serve. Despite these difficulties, improvements were noted in recruiting permanent staff for the paediatric department and positive staff survey results. However, concerns remain about staffing levels and the hospital's ability to provide consistent training and support across wards, especially as patients are much sicker than they've ever been. The hospital is actively campaigning for funding to upgrade its urgent and emergency care facilities.

UCLH's performance update revealed mixed results. While the hospital showed improvements in its Summary Hospital-Level Mortality Indicator (SHMI) and ranked highly in the inpatient survey, A&E performance had reduced, falling below the national target. The waiting list for diagnostics had also worsened due to equipment shortfalls, and the number of patients waiting over 12 hours in A&E had risen. Notably, UCLH was confirmed to be using Palantir, a point raised by Councillor Benali Hamdache, Leader of the Independent and Green Group.

The committee also reviewed draft recommendations for a scrutiny review, focusing on tackling inequalities, improving data insight, and addressing avoidable hospital admissions. Jonathan O'Sullivan, Director of Public Health, presented a positive Quarter 2 performance report, with Public Health meeting or exceeding all targets. However, concerns were raised about the hidden epidemic of nitrazine deaths and the risks associated with synthetic opioids, with the council confirming it was aware and strengthening its response systems.

Read the full Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee meeting details here.

Climate Action and Community Resilience Take Centre Stage

Islington Council's Environment, Climate and Transport Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 10 March 2026 to assess the borough's progress on climate action and resilience. The meeting highlighted the council's commitment to a greener future, with a strong emphasis on community involvement and partnership. Councillor Ruth Hayes, Chair of the committee, underscored that climate action is central to many council services, aiming to ensure residents have comfortable homes, clean air, green spaces, and affordable fuel bills.

The committee heard about initiatives supporting community food growing, with efforts to unlock land for allotments and integrate food growing into planning and estate management. This approach is recognised nationally as both a climate and public health intervention. Discussions also covered community energy, with Islington actively involved in a London-wide mission to leverage funding and explore community energy options, working with groups like Power Up North London.

Concerns were raised about watering trees during drought periods, with the council explaining its focus on species selection and the use of watering bags to facilitate community involvement. The protection of green space amidst housing development was also discussed, with assurances that designated public open space is strongly protected. The withdrawal of Zipcar services was acknowledged as a pan-London crisis, with the council coordinating with other boroughs and companies to find replacements for car-sharing services.

The decarbonisation of housing estates is a significant undertaking, with projects underway to install energy centres and retrofit properties. The main challenge identified is the cost, and the council is working to maximise available funding. The London Community Resilience Toolkit was presented as a vital resource to help communities develop emergency plans and strengthen local action, with Voluntary Action Islington leading the development of three community emergency plans in the borough. The Islington Climate Panel, a group of 35 residents, has been instrumental in shaping the vision for a climate-resilient Islington, focusing on greening the borough and community resilience.

Read the full Environment, Climate and Transport Scrutiny Committee meeting details here.

Planning Applications and Heritage Preservation Under Review

Planning Sub Committee B met on Monday 09 March 2026 to consider several planning applications, including a part-retrospective application for a rear extension at 137 Newington Green Road, which had previously been subject to an Enforcement Notice. The current proposal aims to address concerns about the extension's external finish by introducing high-quality brick cladding and improving extraction systems to mitigate visual impact and odour. The committee also considered a proposal for the dismantling, conservation, and reinstallation of the Grade II listed Jubilee Clock Tower at Highbury Hill, which is in deteriorating condition. These works are deemed necessary for the long-term preservation of this heritage asset. An application to stop up part of the footway on Wilson Street to facilitate development at Arbuthnot House was also reviewed, with the council's Highway Officer not objecting to the proposal.

Read the full Planning Sub Committee B meeting details here.

Council Appoints Key Director and Reviews Pension Fund Performance

The Employment and Appointments Committee met on Monday 09 March 2026 to approve the shortlist of candidates for the crucial role of Corporate Director of Resources. This position is vital for supporting the council's strategic objectives and the implementation of the Islington Together 2030 Plan. Interviews for the shortlisted candidates were scheduled for 19 March 2026.

Separately, the Pensions Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday 16 March 2026 to review the performance of the Pension Fund, discuss the investment strategy, and consider the results of a consultation on the draft Funding Strategy Statement. The committee will also discuss LGPS Fit for the Future draft guidance and the Pension Fund's forward work programme.

Read the full Employment and Appointments Committee meeting details here. Read the full Pensions Committee meeting details here.