This week in Newham:

Licence Suspended for Convenience Store Over Illicit Tobacco Sales and Public Nuisance

A convenience store in East Ham has had its licence suspended for six weeks and its Designated Premises Supervisor removed following a decision by the Licensing (2003 Act) Sub-Committee. The committee reviewed the premises licence for Nandanam Convenience Store at 2 Boundary Road, East Ham, E13 9PR after evidence was presented regarding the sale of illicit tobacco and concerns about public nuisance.

• Why it matters: The sale of illicit tobacco undermines legitimate businesses, deprives the government of tax revenue, and often fuels organised crime. Furthermore, the sale of high-strength alcohol to street drinkers can contribute to public nuisance and anti-social behaviour, impacting the quality of life for residents in the surrounding area.
• Illicit Tobacco Seized: Trading Standards officers discovered over 32,000 illicit cigarettes and half a kilogram of hand-rolling tobacco during a search of the premises on 11 September 2025. Evidence suggested the tobacco was stored in areas not typically accessible to the licence holder, and a previous seizure of illicit tobacco occurred in 2022. The premises owner, Mrs. Premcy Somadas, denied knowledge of the illicit tobacco, claiming it belonged to a former tenant. However, the committee found her lack of cooperation during the investigation and previous incidents concerning.
• Public Nuisance Concerns: The Licensing Team presented evidence of street drinkers purchasing high-strength cider from the store, with alcohol containers subsequently found littered near the Sir Bobby Moore Statue. This behaviour was linked to anti-social behaviour in the vicinity.
• Decision and Impact: The Sub-Committee decided to suspend the licence for six weeks and remove Mrs. Somadas as the Designated Premises Supervisor. This decision aims to impress upon the licence holder the seriousness of the offences and provide an opportunity to address the conditions imposed. The suspension could mean the store is unable to operate for a period, impacting its owners and potentially local customers who rely on it.
• Resident Support: Despite the serious findings, letters of support from local residents were submitted, highlighting the store's value as a local amenity, particularly for vulnerable residents.

Read more about the Licensing (2003 Act) Sub-Committee meeting

New Restaurant Licence Granted with Strict Conditions to Mitigate Nuisance

A new premises licence has been granted for R3 Restaurant at 88-90 Leytonstone Road, E15 1TQ, allowing it to operate as a bar and club with the sale of alcohol and music on Fridays and Saturdays until 2:00 AM. However, the Licensing (2003 Act) Sub-Committee attached a comprehensive set of conditions to address significant concerns raised by council departments.

• Why it matters: Licensing decisions for venues operating late at night can have a direct impact on nearby residents, particularly concerning noise, public nuisance, and potential increases in anti-social behaviour. This decision aims to balance the applicant's business aspirations with the need to protect the local community.
• Objections Raised: The Council Licensing Team, Commercial Environmental Health, and the Council Planning Team all raised objections. Concerns included the premises leaning towards a nightclub rather than a restaurant, potential noise and nuisance from customers dispersing late at night, and previous planning enforcement notices related to the site being used as a drinking establishment.
• Conditions for Operation: To mitigate these concerns, the licence was granted with strict conditions. These include:
  • The premises must operate primarily as a restaurant, with alcohol sales only permitted to customers having a sit-down meal.
  • Vertical drinking and off-sales are prohibited.
  • A maximum capacity of 86 persons.
  • A minimum of two SIA Registered Door Supervisors required from 9:00 PM until closing.
  • Strict rules on smoking areas, noise limiting devices, and customer dispersal to minimise disturbance to residents.
  • A clear display of contact information for residents to report complaints.
• Balancing Business and Community: The decision to grant the licence, albeit with stringent conditions, suggests the committee believes the applicant can operate responsibly. However, the extensive list of conditions highlights the significant potential for disruption if not adhered to, which could lead to further complaints and scrutiny.

Read more about the Licensing (2003 Act) Sub-Committee meeting

Council Secures £2.7 Million National Lottery Grant for Heritage Centre

Newham Council has accepted a substantial £2.7 million grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) to complete the development of the Newham Heritage Centre. The decision was made at an Officer Non-Key Decision meeting.

• Why it matters: This funding is crucial for bringing the Newham Heritage Centre to life, preserving the borough's history, and making it accessible to all residents. It ensures that a significant cultural asset can be fully realised and sustained for future generations.
• Completing the Vision: The grant will fund the fit-out of the centre, including exhibition spaces, a reading room, learning areas, and commercial hire spaces. It will also cover the relocation of the borough's archive and the implementation of an interpretation and activity plan. This funding is essential for the centre's operational readiness.
• Long-Term Commitment: A key condition of the grant is that the property must operate as the Newham Heritage Centre for at least 20 years after completion. This ensures the long-term preservation and public engagement with Newham's historical collections.
• Financial Implications: The total project expenditure is estimated at £3.154 million, with the NLHF grant covering the majority. The remaining £458,000 will need to be secured through match funding from commercial income, fundraising, and grants, demonstrating the council's commitment to securing diverse funding streams for cultural projects.
• Community Benefit: The Newham Heritage Centre, located in the Grade II listed Canning Town Old Library, is expected to significantly enhance cultural participation in the borough, providing a valuable resource for education, research, and community engagement.

Read more about the Officer Non-Key Decision meeting

Other Matters

• The Newham Pensions Board met on Tuesday 14 April. The meeting was scheduled to discuss the board's activities, but no specific decisions or outcomes were detailed in the provided information. Read more about the Newham Pensions Board meeting
• The Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee met on Thursday 16 April to discuss the appointment of a new Director of Young People and Opportunities. This role is designed to strengthen leadership within Children and Young People Services. The meeting agenda included interviewing candidates for this senior position. Read more about the Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee meeting

This week in Newham:

New Director of Digital, Data and Technology to Spearhead Council's Digital Transformation

Newham Council is set to appoint a new Director of Digital, Data and Technology, a crucial role in modernising council services and improving how residents interact with the council online. The Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee met on Thursday 9th April to interview candidates for this vital position.

• Why it matters: In today's world, digital services are essential for accessing council information and support. A skilled Director of Digital, Data and Technology will ensure that Newham's online platforms are user-friendly, secure, and efficient, making it easier for everyone, especially those less digitally savvy, to access the services they need. This role is key to ensuring the council keeps pace with technological advancements and provides accessible services for all residents.
• The Recruitment Process: The recruitment for this senior role has been extensive, involving 140 applications and a rigorous selection process. Candidates have undergone assessments by external assessors and participated in various panels, including those with internal stakeholders and young people. The sub-committee's recommendation for appointment will be subject to a two-day consultation period with Cabinet members.
• Impact on Services: The appointment of a Director of Digital, Data and Technology is fundamental to the council's ability to deliver services effectively in the digital age. This includes improving online access to information, streamlining application processes, and enhancing data security.

Read more about the Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee meeting

New Director of Young People and Opportunities to Strengthen Youth Services

The council is also moving forward with the creation of a new senior role, the Director of Young People and Opportunities. The Chief Officer Appointment Committee met on Tuesday 7th April to discuss the establishment of a sub-committee that will be responsible for appointing someone to this new position.

• Why it matters: This new role is designed to bolster the leadership within Children and Young People Services. It signals a commitment to improving services for Newham's young residents, focusing on areas like early help, education, community cohesion, and safeguarding. A dedicated director will ensure these vital services are well-resourced and strategically managed, directly benefiting the borough's youth.
• Strengthening Youth Support: The Director of Young People and Opportunities will oversee a significant portfolio, including targeted youth support, youth justice, and initiatives to reduce the number of young people not in education, employment, or training (NEET). This focus is crucial for providing young people with the opportunities and support they need to thrive.
• Ensuring Fair Recruitment: The committee discussed the composition of the appointment sub-committee, emphasising the importance of diversity and adherence to council policies on recruitment. This ensures a fair and transparent process for selecting the best candidate for this impactful role.

Read more about the Chief Officer Appointment Committee meeting

Topps Pizzas Granted Late-Night Refreshment Licence with Conditions

The Licensing (2003 Act) Sub-Committee met on Wednesday 8th April to consider a new premises licence application for Topps Pizzas, located at 951 Romford Road, Manor Park, E12 5JR. Despite an objection from a local resident, the committee decided to grant the licence with additional conditions.

• Why it matters: Decisions on late-night refreshment licences can impact local communities by affecting noise levels, public nuisance, and the general atmosphere of an area, particularly during late hours. This decision balances the needs of a new business with the concerns of residents.
• Resident Concerns Addressed: A local resident had raised objections concerning crime and disorder and public nuisance. While the committee heard these concerns, they also noted that the applicant had been operating since mid-January 2026 without reported issues. The applicant emphasised that the premises only serves pizzas, with no frying, and no indoor seating, minimising potential disturbances.
• Conditions for Operation: The subcommittee granted the licence with additional conditions, which will be detailed in the written decision. These conditions are designed to ensure the business operates responsibly and mitigates any potential negative impacts on the neighbourhood. The applicant has the right to appeal the decision within 21 days.

Read more about the Licensing (2003 Act) Sub-Committee meeting

Other Matters

• An Officer Non-Key Decision meeting was held on Tuesday 7th April. The details of this decision are pending council publication. Read more about the Officer Non-Key Decision meeting

This week in Newham:

Council Gears Up for Key Chief Officer Appointments Amidst Ongoing Recruitment

Newham Council is continuing its process of appointing senior leadership roles, with several Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committees meeting recently. These meetings are crucial for filling vital positions that will shape the direction and delivery of council services.

• Why it matters: The individuals appointed to these senior roles are responsible for managing significant budgets, implementing council policies, and ensuring the effective delivery of services that impact all residents. Their expertise and leadership are critical for the council's success, particularly in areas like transformation, community safety, and digital services.
• Director of Transformation Appointment: The Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee met on Thursday 26 March to consider the appointment of a Director of Transformation. This role is key to driving efficiency and change within the council. The recruitment process involved multiple stages, including assessments by external assessors and panels with internal stakeholders and young people. The sub-committee was tasked with recommending a candidate for appointment, following consultation with Cabinet members. Details of the candidates were held in exempt appendices due to their personal nature. Read more about the Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee meeting
• Director of Strategy, Policy and Communications: Another Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee convened on Tuesday 24 March to discuss the appointment of a Director of Strategy, Policy and Communications. This role is essential for shaping the council's future direction and ensuring effective communication with residents. The recruitment process for this position also involved extensive assessments, including stakeholder and young people's panels. The recommendation for appointment was subject to a two-working-day consultation period with Cabinet members. Read more about the Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee meeting
• Director of Community Safety and Integrated Enforcement: On Friday 27 March, a Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee met to interview candidates for the position of Director of Community Safety and Integrated Enforcement. This role is vital for ensuring the safety and well-being of Newham residents. The recruitment process included technical interviews, stakeholder panels with representatives from the Metropolitan Police and other departments, and young people's panels. The sub-committee's recommendation for appointment would also be subject to Cabinet consultation. Read more about the Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee meeting
• Director of Digital, Data and Technology: A Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee scheduled for Tuesday 31 March was cancelled. This meeting was intended to consider the appointment of a Director of Digital, Data and Technology, a role crucial for modernising council services and improving resident experience through technology. The recruitment process for this position had already involved extensive assessments and interviews. Read more about the cancelled Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee meeting

Newham Pension Fund Reviews Performance and Legislative Changes

The Newham Pensions Board met on Tuesday 24 March to review the performance of the Local Pension Partnership Administration (LPPA), which manages the Newham Pension Fund. The meeting also covered significant legislative changes impacting the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) and the fund's communication strategy.

• Why it matters: The effective management of the pension fund is crucial for the financial security of current and future pensioners, including council employees. Understanding legislative changes ensures the fund remains compliant and can adapt to new requirements, safeguarding its long-term viability.
• LPPA Performance: The LPPA reported strong operational casework performance, exceeding service level agreements. Customer satisfaction in the contact centre was also reported positively, with a significant increase in members registered on the online portal. However, the report noted that five out of six complaints resolved in December 2025 and January 2026 were upheld, citing reasons such as delays in processing leaver notifications and benefit payments.
• Legislative Updates: The Board was updated on the ongoing implementation of the McCloud Remedy, which addresses age discrimination in public service pension schemes. Progress on the Pensions Dashboard project was also highlighted, with connection completed and public access anticipated in Summer 2027. Several government consultations are expected to lead to legislative changes, including those affecting survivor benefits, death grants, and the normal minimum pension age.
• Compliance and Communication: A review of the Newham Pension Fund's compliance with The Pension Regulator's General Code of Practice found that while a majority of modules were compliant, there were areas for improvement. The Board also reviewed the Communication Plan for 2026/27, which aims to enhance understanding of LGPS benefits for members and employers.

Read more about the Newham Pensions Board meeting

Council Addresses Public and Member Questions on Key Issues

The Council met on Monday 23 March to address a wide range of questions from both the public and its own members. These discussions covered critical areas such as community safety, council tax, housing, ethical investments, and the council's overall achievements.

• Why it matters: This is where residents' concerns are directly raised with councillors and cabinet members, and where the council explains its actions and policies. The responses provided offer insight into how the council is addressing the challenges faced by the borough and its residents.
• Resident Concerns: Questions from the public touched upon the definition of everyday safety beyond crime statistics, the impact of rising council tax on services, and the process for housing allocation. There were also specific questions regarding the ethical investment of pension funds, particularly in relation to the conflict in Gaza, with the council reiterating its commitment to its Environmental and Social Governance (ESG) Policy and stating it does not invest in companies supplying arms to Israel.
• Member Questions: Councillors raised issues including the potential for police hubs in the Olympic Park, the council's stance on temporary refugee status, management of hire bikes, and efforts to tackle phone thefts near DLR stations. Questions were also posed regarding secure cycle storage, the housing crisis in West Ham, and waste reduction initiatives.
• Mayor's Legacy and Payments: A series of questions were directed at Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz OBE concerning a payment made to her following an employment tribunal claim. The published response directed questioners to a council statement from December 2024, which confirmed a capped contribution towards her legal costs as part of a settlement. The Mayor was also asked to outline her administration's greatest achievements and legacy.
• Inclusion and Belonging: The Council was also set to discuss the report of the Independent Commission on Inclusion and Belonging in Multi-ethnic Newham, which examines how the borough fosters a sense of belonging for all residents.
• Building a Fairer Newham Progress: A review of the progress and achievements of the Building a Fairer Newham Corporate Delivery Plan (2022–2026) was also on the agenda, providing an account of delivered initiatives and acknowledging ongoing challenges.

Read more about the Council meeting

Other Matters

• An Officer Key Decision meeting was scheduled for Friday 27 March. The specific details of this decision were pending. Read more about the Officer Key Decision meeting

This week in Newham:

• The Officer Key Decision meeting was scheduled to discuss an early works package for the refurbishment of Lady Helen Seymour House.
• The Licensing (2003 Act) Sub-Committee met to consider a new premises licence application for R3 Restaurant.
• The Cabinet met and approved a new Social Value Procurement Policy and the Newham Domestic Abuse Strategy 2026-2031.
• The Overview and Scrutiny Committee met to review the council's Best Value Self-Assessment and the strategic approach to addressing obesity.

Officer Key Decision - Tuesday 17 March 2026

The Officer Key Decision meeting scheduled for Tuesday 17 March 2026 was set to discuss an early works package for the refurbishment of Lady Helen Seymour House. This refurbishment is intended to create a 42-bed Rough Sleeping Assessment Centre.

The meeting's agenda included a report concerning an early works package for Buxton Building Contractor Ltd for the refurbishment of Lady Helen Seymour House. This package is a necessary step to meet the project's completion date of January 2027 and to secure grant funding from the Greater London Authority (GLA) and the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC).

The report indicated that the Corporate Director of Inclusive Economy and Housing, Paul Kitson, in consultation with Cllr Rita Chadha, Lead Member for Adult Health and Social Care, was recommended to agree to enter into an advanced works agreement with Buxton Construction Limited. The proposed early works include site setup, demolition of internal walls, lowering the ground floor, installing hoarding for site security, erecting scaffolding, and addressing highway requirements and statutory fees.

The estimated cost for this early works package was £820,765.65, which would be funded from the overall capital allocation for the project. This allocation totals £10.802m, comprising GLA SHAP capital grant funding, GLA Top-up, Carbon Offset Fund, and prudential borrowing. The project aligns with Newham's Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy, aiming to support people to move off and stay off the streets, and also contributes to the council's Corporate Plan priorities for a healthier Newham and providing homes for residents. The report also referenced the council's Climate Action Just Transition Plan, highlighting principles of increasing equity, reducing emissions, and future readiness.

The report noted that the decision was delegated to the Corporate Director of Inclusive, Economy and Housing following a restructure in August 2025. The decision-making process was also subject to consultation with Cllr Rita Chadha. The report stated that the estimated contract value was below the threshold for works under the Procurement Act 2023, meaning it was not subject to the full regime of that act. The report also confirmed that an Equalities Impact Assessment had been undertaken for the broader Rough Sleeping Integrated Supported Services procurement, which included the potential inclusion of this service, and no adverse impact on equalities was noted.

The report indicated that Appendix A contained exempt information due to legal professional privilege, and therefore was not publicly available.

Licensing (2003 Act) Sub-Committee - Wednesday 18 March 2026

The Licensing Act 2003 Subcommittee of Newham Council met on Wednesday 18 March 2026 to consider a new premises licence application for R3 Restaurant at 88-90 Leytonstone Road, Stratford. The hearing was adjourned to allow the applicant to seek legal advice following the revelation of an extant enforcement notice relating to the premises.

Premises Licence Application for R3 Restaurant, 88-90 Leytonstone Road, Stratford

The primary purpose of the meeting was to hear and determine a new premises licence application for R3 Restaurant, located on the first floor at 88-90 Leytonstone Road, Stratford E15 1TQ. The application, submitted by Klaudia Ciecielag for U MAXIMA, sought authorisation for the sale of alcohol, performance of recorded music, and performance of dance on Fridays and Saturdays from 8:00 PM to 2:00 AM the following day.

During the initial proceedings, it was revealed that an enforcement notice was extant on the land, issued in 2017 for operating as a drinking establishment without planning permission. Chloe Selwood, Principal Planner for the council, explained that operating as a drinking establishment in breach of this notice would remain a criminal offence, even if a premises licence were granted. This information prompted the applicant, Ms. Ciecielag, to request an adjournment to seek legal advice. The subcommittee, with the agreement of legal advisor Umair Malik, granted the adjournment in the public interest. A new date for the hearing was pencilled in for 15 April 2026.

The application had attracted representations from several responsible authorities:

• Licensing Team: The council's Licensing Team, represented by Senior Licensing Officer Steve Jackson, submitted a representation on the grounds of crime and disorder and the prevention of public nuisance. They noted that the area had been subject to efforts to eradicate anti-social activities and expressed concerns about the proposed smoking area, the lack of detail on staff training, and the absence of food provision during licensable hours, suggesting the application leaned towards a nightclub. They requested more robust conditions to be met.
• Commercial Environmental Health: Ian McConnell, Public Protection Officer from the Commercial Environmental Health Team, raised concerns regarding the prevention of public nuisance. He highlighted that the premises are adjacent to residential properties and that previous complaints had been received about customers leaving the venue, causing noise and anti-social behaviour. He expressed concern about the lack of detail on how noise and nuisance from customer dispersal would be minimised, particularly given the late operating hours. The team also requested that any noise limiter be set at an agreed level and be tamper-proof.
• Planning Team: Chloe Selwood, Principal Planner, submitted a representation on behalf of the Planning and Development department, citing the prevention of public nuisance and the prevention of crime and disorder. The representation detailed an enforcement notice issued in April 2017 for a material change of use to a drinking establishment, which was upheld on appeal. The Planning Team maintained that operating as a bar or club would likely require planning permission and that continued operation in breach of the enforcement notice would constitute a criminal offence. They referenced the Planning Inspectorate's findings that the previous use had an adverse effect on residents' health, the aural environment, and general living conditions.

The existing premises licence for R3 Lounge Ltd, held under licence number 23/25933/LAPRE, was also provided as part of the documentation. This licence, issued on 22 November 2023, authorised the supply of alcohol, performance of live and recorded music, and late-night refreshment, with operating hours extending to 2:30 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. However, the application under consideration was for a new premises licence.

Cabinet - Tuesday 17 March 2026

The Newham Cabinet met on Tuesday 17 March 2026 to discuss a range of important issues affecting the borough. Key decisions included the adoption of a new Social Value Procurement Policy, the approval of the Newham Domestic Abuse Strategy 2026-2031, and proposals for upgrading the borough's CCTV network. The Cabinet also reviewed progress on the Housing Services Improvement Programme and discussed the adoption of the Newham's Air Quality Action Plan 2025-2030.

Social Value Procurement Policy

The Cabinet approved the adoption of a new Social Value Procurement Policy, which establishes a framework for all procurement activities over £150,000. This policy aims to strengthen social value expectations, clarify ethical standards, embed environmental responsibilities, and improve access for SMEs¹ and VCSE² organisations. The policy aligns with the Public Services (Social Value) Act 2012 and the Procurement Act 2023, and will be applied to all contracts with a net value over £150,000.

Newham Domestic Abuse Strategy 2026-2031

The Cabinet approved the Newham Domestic Abuse Strategy 2026-2031 and its accompanying action plan for 2026-2027. This strategy builds on previous achievements, maintaining the principles of listening, believing, and acting. It includes a commitment to a whole community approach, enhanced partnership responses, and support for survivors of all genders and identities. Key developments include moving to a daily MARAC³ meeting to ensure high-risk cases are heard within 48 hours, specialist services for young people aged 16-25, and expanded perpetrator programmes. The strategy also acknowledges the financial pressures and rising demand for services.

Upgrade of The London Borough of Newham CCTV

The Cabinet approved the drawing down of £2 million from the corporate capital budget to modernise the Council's public space CCTV system. This investment will replace aging equipment, extend coverage in priority locations, upgrade the radio transmission network, and introduce advanced video analytics technology. The programme aims to enhance image quality, evidential value, and real-time response capabilities, supporting crime prevention and detection. A contract for project management and technical expertise was also approved.

Housing Services Improvement Programme

The Cabinet received a quarterly update on the progress of the Housing Services Improvement Programme. The report highlighted progress in core areas of safety and compliance, with over 4,500 fire risk assessment actions in train and proactive measures to tackle damp and mould cases. The Council is also preparing to enter into a Voluntary Undertaking with the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) to formalise its commitment to delivering the improvement plan. The report detailed progress on tenancy audits, resident involvement strategies, and tenant satisfaction measures.

Air Quality Action Plan 2025-2030

The Cabinet approved the adoption of the Council's refreshed Air Quality Action Plan (AQAP) for 2025-2030. This statutory document sets out strategies to improve air quality and reduce residents' exposure to air pollution. The plan builds on previous achievements, focusing on reducing transport emissions, expanding green spaces, and enhancing community engagement. It acknowledges the need for collaboration across Council departments and with external partners. The AQAP aligns with the Mayor of London's targets and WHO guidelines.

Other Key Discussions

The Cabinet also discussed and made decisions on the following:

• Shared Ownership Tenure Conversion - Burgoyne's Depot and Greenhill Centre: Approved the change in tenure from London Affordable Rent and Shared Ownership to solely London Affordable Rent for 41 units across two development sites. This conversion aims to address temporary accommodation pressures and enhance financial viability.
• Procurement of a single social care case management system: Approved the procurement of a joint core social care case management system across Adult Services and Children and Young People's Service via the Crown Commercial Service (CCS) Framework RM6259 Vertical Application Solutions, Lot 2. This aims to improve system integration, operational clarity, and data transparency.
• Anti-Fraud & Corruption Strategy and Policies 2026/27: Approved the refreshed Anti-Fraud & Corruption Strategy and accompanying policy suite, reinforcing the Council's zero-tolerance approach to fraud and corruption.
• Risk Management Strategy and Policy 2026/27: Agreed the updated Risk Management Strategy and Policy, aligning the Council's framework with ISO 31000 and HM Treasury's Orange Book.
• Use of the LBLS Solicitors Framework Agreement: Approved the utilisation of the London Boroughs' Legal Alliance (LBLA) Solicitors Framework for accessing specialist legal services when required, aiming for cost savings and efficient procurement.
• Upgrade of The London Borough of Newham CCTV: Approved the drawing down of £2 million from the corporate capital budget to modernise the Council's public space CCTV system.
• PSPO Proposals (Street harassment, Misuse of car parks, and Misuse of fireworks): Approved the implementation of three new Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) borough-wide for street harassment and misuse of fireworks, and location-specific for car parks. These aim to tackle anti-social behaviour and improve public safety.
• Improving Outcomes Together - A Section 75 Extension with the North East London Integrated Care Board: Approved the continuation of the Section 75 agreement⁴ for a further three years, enabling pooled resources and joint commissioning of health and social care services.
• Building a Fairer Newham 2022-26: progress and achievements: Noted the achievements and impact made in delivering the Building a Fairer Newham Corporate Delivery Plan 2022-2026.
• Best Value Notice: Interim Chief Executive's Progress Assessment & Delivering Best Value for Residents Plan 2026/27: Noted the Chief Executive's progress assessment and endorsed the Best Value Plan 2026/27, outlining the council's continued commitment to improvement.
• Built Leisure Needs Assessment 2025 and Playing Pitch Strategy 2025 Adoption: Formally adopted the findings of these assessments, which provide an evidence base for future planning and investment in sports and leisure facilities.

The meeting was noted as being the last Cabinet meeting before the upcoming election.

Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 17 March 2026

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee of Newham Council met on Tuesday 17 March 2026 to discuss the council's Best Value Self-Assessment, the strategic approach to addressing obesity in Newham, and to review the draft Annual Scrutiny Report. Key decisions included noting the council's progress assessment and the Delivering Best Value for Residents Plan 2026/27 , and the committee's agreement to delegate authority to the Chair to finalise the Annual Scrutiny Report.

Best Value Self-Assessment

The committee considered the council's response to the non-statutory Best Value Notice issued by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) in May 2025. The Interim Chief Executive, Paul Martin, presented his assessment, which acknowledged significant progress in financial stability, governance, and service delivery, while also highlighting areas requiring further improvement, particularly in housing services and adult social care. The council has set a balanced budget for 2026/27 without requiring Exceptional Financial Support¹, a significant turnaround from the previous year. The Delivering Best Value for Residents Plan 2026/27 was also presented, outlining the council's continued commitment to improvement across service delivery, financial sustainability, and governance, regardless of the outcome of the MHCLG's 12-month review of the Best Value Notice. The committee noted these reports and agreed to delegate authority to the Chair, Councillor Lester Hudson, to finalise the Annual Scrutiny Report.

Addressing Obesity in Newham

The committee received a comprehensive report detailing the strategic approach to addressing obesity across the borough. The report highlighted the high prevalence of overweight and obesity in Newham, with nearly half of Year 6 children and 70% of adults having an unhealthy weight when adjusted for ethnicity. The council's 50 Steps to a Healthier Borough strategy, aligned with corporate priorities, outlines a whole-system approach involving various directorates and partners. Key initiatives include promoting healthy food environments through planning policies, supporting active travel, and delivering targeted weight management programmes. The report also detailed the financial context, noting that while many effective interventions rely on leadership and collaboration, some require funding from sources such as the Public Health Grant and Transport for London. Challenges identified include the increasing demand on services, the impact of national policy changes, and the need for sustained cross-directorate working. The committee was presented with several case studies illustrating successful interventions, such as the Eat Well Newham programme, Healthy Schools London initiatives, and the BetterPoints app for incentivising active travel.

Draft Annual Scrutiny Report

The committee reviewed the draft Annual Scrutiny Report for 2025/26, which summarises the work undertaken by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and its subsidiary commissions throughout the municipal year. The report highlighted key achievements, including the exercise of call-in powers on major decisions, sustained oversight of the council's response to the Best Value Notice, and detailed scrutiny of financial matters, housing services, and children's services. The report also emphasised the importance of resident engagement and the impact of scrutiny in strengthening governance and improving decision-making. The committee agreed to note the draft report and delegated authority to the Chair, Councillor Lester Hudson, in consultation with officers, to finalise it.

The meeting also included updates from the Chairs of Scrutiny Commissions on their respective areas of work, covering topics such as crime, environment, transport, education, children and young people, health and adult social care, housing, regeneration, and the relationship between Black boys and the borough. The committee also reviewed its work programme and considered suggestions for the next municipal year.