This week in Tower Hamlets:

Council Faces Urgent Scrutiny Over Financial Stability and Service Delivery

Tower Hamlets Council's Transformation and Assurance Board met on Tuesday, 24 February 2026, to confront critical issues identified by external auditors EY. The board reviewed a mobilisation action plan designed to address statutory recommendations and significant weaknesses, particularly concerning financial management and internal controls. This comes as the Council itself met on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, to discuss the proposed Budget Report for 2026-27 and the accompanying Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for 2026-29, signalling a period of intense focus on the council's financial health and its ability to deliver essential services.

Mobilising Action Plan to Tackle Financial Weaknesses

The Transformation and Assurance Board's agenda was dominated by a detailed review of a mobilisation action plan, a direct response to an EY Value for Money report. This report flagged four statutory recommendations and ten significant weaknesses within the council's operations. The action plan is structured around four key workstreams:

• Financial Management and Accountability: This addresses statutory recommendations on reliable financial reporting and weaknesses in the Annual Governance Statement. The proposed solutions include reassessing roles and resources for financial reporting and ensuring the statement accurately reflects the council's challenges. The council aims to clarify the Annual Governance Statement process and strengthen year-end controls by May and June 2026, respectively.
• Audit, Investigations and Assurance: This workstream tackles recommendations concerning a sound system of internal control and the effectiveness of internal investigations. EY identified pervasive weaknesses in internal controls and inconsistent investigation arrangements. The council's response includes developing an action plan with clear responsibilities and strengthening its investigations function by June 2026.
• Procurement and Contract Management: Persistent weaknesses in procurement and contract management were highlighted, leading to control failures. The proposed EY solution involves a detailed review and improved controls over payments. The council reports this workstream is 84% complete, with a new Procurement Strategy and training planned by May 2026.
• BVI, Core Services and Capacity: This section addresses weaknesses identified in the Best Value Inspection, Social Housing governance, and the capacity of key leadership roles. Improvement programmes for Social Housing are underway, and an interim Section 151 Officer has been appointed.

The implications of these weaknesses are significant. Poor financial management can lead to inefficient use of taxpayer money, while weak internal controls can create opportunities for fraud or error. For residents, this could translate into delayed or reduced services, particularly for vulnerable groups who rely heavily on council support. The board's focus on embedding this work programme within the council's Continuous Improvement Plan (CIP) is crucial for ensuring sustained progress.

• Find out more about the Transformation and Assurance Board meeting at http://opencouncil.network/meetings/97268.

Council Grapples with Budget and Financial Strategy Amidst Rising Demands

The Council meeting on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, was set to tackle the critical task of approving the Budget Report for 2026-27 and the Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for 2026-29. This comprehensive financial plan acknowledges the significant challenges facing local government, including rising service demand and constrained resources.

Key aspects of the proposed budget include:

• Net General Fund Budget Requirement: A projected £482.151m for 2026-27, with additional allocations for temporary accommodation and Adult Social Care growth.
• Housing Investment: A planned £100m investment in existing housing stock over five years and a commitment to delivering 4,000 new homes.
• Savings and Efficiencies: Proposed new savings and efficiencies of £6.4m for 2026-27.
• Council Tax: A proposed 2% Adult Social Care precept and a 2.99% increase on the general Council Tax element.
• Housing Revenue Account (HRA): Proposed rent increases of 4.8% (CPI +1%) and service charges by 3.8% (CPI), alongside a £400k HRA Hardship Fund.

The MTFS aims to maintain investment in frontline services while delivering major transformation programmes. However, the proposed rent and council tax increases will place additional financial pressure on residents, particularly those on lower incomes or facing the cost of living crisis. The council's strategy to replenish its risk reserve and strengthen contingency provisions highlights the awareness of ongoing economic uncertainties.

• Learn more about the Council meeting and budget proposals at http://opencouncil.network/meetings/63892.

New Sports Pitch Proposed for Millwall Park Amidst Resident Concerns

The Development Committee met on Thursday, 26 February 2026, to consider a planning application for a new synthetic turf pitch at Millwall Park in Stebondale Street. The proposal aims to replace a deteriorating grass pitch with a modern, all-weather facility, offering enhanced opportunities for year-round sports and recreation.

The application includes plans for spectator areas, goal storage, fencing, an acoustic barrier, and an LED floodlighting system. While the intention is to provide a high-quality sports facility for the community, the proposal has generated significant public interest, with residents raising concerns primarily focused on potential impacts on their amenity.

Key concerns include:

• Noise Pollution: Residents are worried about increased noise levels from the pitch, particularly during evening and weekend use.
• Light Pollution: The proposed floodlighting system has raised concerns about its impact on nearby residential properties.
• Highway Network: Increased usage of the facility could lead to greater traffic and parking pressure in the local area.

The report indicated that assessments of noise and light pollution have been conducted, with proposed mitigation measures and conditions aimed at safeguarding the amenity of nearby residents. The committee's decision will weigh the benefits of improved sports facilities against the potential impact on the quality of life for those living nearby.

• Find out more about the planning application at the Development Committee meeting.

Licensing Sub Committee Considers Alcohol Sales at Tobacco Dock and Shell Old Ford

The Licensing Sub Committee met on Tuesday, 24 February 2026, to consider applications for new and varied premises licences, including proposals for extended alcohol sales at Tobacco Dock and Shell Old Ford. These decisions have direct implications for local amenity and public safety.

Tobacco Dock: Shadow Licence Application

The committee considered an application for a new premises licence for Tobacco Dock, described as a shadow licence. This type of licence is typically held by a landlord to protect their interest in the property, with the intention that it would only be used if the primary licence holder (the tenant) fails to operate responsibly. The applicant sought to permit the sale of alcohol, late-night refreshment, and regulated entertainment with proposed hours extending late into the night, with potential for further annual extensions.

Representations were received from local residents expressing concerns about potential noise pollution, anti-social behaviour, and the proximity to residential areas. Residents argued for harmonising licensing hours with other local venues to mitigate these impacts. The applicant emphasised that the licence was a protective measure and not intended for active use, and that responsible authorities had not raised objections.

Shell Old Ford: 24-Hour Alcohol Sales Proposal

An application to vary the premises licence for Shell Old Ford was also considered, seeking to extend alcohol sales for off-premises consumption to 24 hours a day. The existing licence already permits 24-hour operation for other purposes.

Local residents objected, citing concerns about noise nuisance, traffic control, and crime and disorder associated with late-night alcohol consumption. They highlighted that the original application for a 24-hour licence in 2019 was restricted due to similar concerns, and argued that increased residential development in the area now makes these concerns even more pertinent. The applicant contended that the site is no longer in a cumulative impact zone and that the proposed hours align with the council's framework hours policy for shops. The committee heard that the premises has been operating with a licence since 2019 without significant issues being formally reported to responsible authorities, though residents detailed ongoing disturbances.

The committee also reviewed the premises licence for Castle and Goodman's Stile following an application by the Metropolitan Police.

• Find out more about the discussions at the Licensing Sub Committee meeting.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• Pension Board - 02 March 2026 - Review of pension fund administration, engagement, and investment strategies.
• Strategic Development Committee - 03 March 2026 - Consideration of planning applications for Mastmaker Court and 35A Commercial Road.
• King George's Field Charity Board - 04 March 2026 - Review of finances, funding agreements, and fees for King George's Field Trust.
• Council - 05 March 2026 - Further council business.
• Housing & Regeneration Scrutiny Sub Committee - 09 March 2026 - Scrutiny of housing and regeneration matters.
• Pensions Committee - 09 March 2026 - Review of pension fund administration, engagement, and investment strategies.
• Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee - 10 March 2026 - Review of health and adult social care services.
• Licensing Sub Committee - 10 March 2026 - Further licensing applications.
• Housing Management (Cabinet) Sub-Committee - 11 March 2026 - Discussion on housing management matters.
• Audit Committee - 12 March 2026 - Review of financial controls and risk management.
• Standards Advisory Committee - 12 March 2026 - Review of standards and conduct matters.

This week in Tower Hamlets:

Council Pushes Forward with Teviot Estate Regeneration, Approves New Housing Strategy

Tower Hamlets Council's Cabinet met on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, making significant decisions that will shape the future of housing and community safety in the borough. The meeting saw the Cabinet asked to approve a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) for the Teviot Estate regeneration scheme, a move that could see hundreds of new homes built, and also considered the council's new Housing Strategy.

Teviot Estate Regeneration Moves Closer with Compulsory Purchase Order Approval

A key decision before the Cabinet was the resolution to make a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) for Phase 1 of the Teviot Estate regeneration scheme. This ambitious project aims to deliver 475 new homes, alongside commercial spaces and public realm improvements, as part of a wider regeneration of the Teviot Estate.

Councillor Kabir Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Inclusive Development and Housebuilding, presented the report, highlighting the scheme's potential to address the borough's critical housing shortage. The decision to pursue a CPO, a legal process allowing the council to acquire land for public purposes even if the owner is unwilling to sell, signals the council's determination to proceed with the regeneration. This move, however, will directly impact existing residents and leaseholders on the estate, raising questions about compensation, relocation, and the future of the community. The Cabinet also agreed to enter into a CPO indemnity agreement with Poplar HARCA, a housing association that manages many homes in the area, and to approve the acquisition of land for planning purposes.

The potential outcomes of this decision are far-reaching. For residents, it could mean displacement from their current homes, with the hope of returning to new, modern properties. For the council, it represents a significant step towards delivering its housing targets and improving living conditions for many. However, CPOs can be contentious, and the council will need to ensure a transparent and fair process for all affected parties.

• Find out more about the Teviot Estate regeneration and the CPO at the Cabinet meeting.

New Housing Strategy Aims to Tackle Crisis and Build More Homes

The Cabinet was also set to approve the council's new Housing Strategy 2026-2036. This comprehensive strategy outlines the council's vision for addressing the borough's housing crisis over the next decade. While the specific details of the strategy were not fully available in the provided documents, its approval signifies a commitment to tackling issues such as affordability, supply, and quality of housing.

The strategy is expected to build upon existing efforts to increase the supply of social rented homes and improve the quality of existing housing stock. Given the high demand for housing in Tower Hamlets, with thousands of households on the waiting list, this strategy is crucial for providing secure and affordable homes for residents. The real-world impact will be felt by those struggling with overcrowding, insecure tenancies, and the rising cost of living, as the strategy aims to provide tangible solutions.

• Learn more about the new Housing Strategy at the Cabinet meeting.

Anti-Social Behaviour Policy Update and Integrated Enforcement Highlighted

The Overview & Scrutiny Committee met on Monday, 16 February 2026, to discuss the council's approach to tackling anti-social behaviour (ASB) and enhancing integrated enforcement efforts across the borough. The meeting provided a platform for councillors to scrutinise the effectiveness of current policies and explore ways to improve community safety.

New Anti-Social Behaviour Policy to Strengthen Response

A significant item was the review of the council's proposed new Anti-Social Behaviour Policy. This policy aims to provide a clearer, more coordinated response to ASB, particularly following the insourcing of Tower Hamlets Homes. Councillor Abu Talha Chowdhury, Cabinet Member for Safer Communities, emphasised the importance of this policy in addressing residents' concerns about crime and ASB, which consistently rank high in resident surveys.

The new policy seeks to clarify responsibilities between the council and registered social landlords, ensuring a consistent approach to reporting and managing ASB. The introduction of a 24/7 ASB reporting line and the tripling of enforcement officers are key elements of the council's enhanced response. Councillor Gulam Kibria Choudhury raised concerns about the accessibility of information for diverse communities, prompting a commitment to ensure materials are available in multiple languages. The policy's success will be measured by residents' perception of safety and a reduction in ASB incidents, directly impacting the quality of life for all who live and work in Tower Hamlets.

• Explore the new Anti-Social Behaviour Policy at the Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting.

Integrated Enforcement: A Coordinated Approach to Community Safety

The committee also reviewed the council's approach to Integrated Enforcement, as detailed in the Integrated Enforcement Spotlight report. This initiative consolidates various enforcement functions into a single division, aiming to improve efficiency and effectiveness in tackling crime and ASB. The report highlighted significant investment in community safety, including more enforcement officers and upgraded CCTV infrastructure.

The capabilities of the Tower Hamlets Enforcement Officers (THEOs) and their role in enforcing a range of legislation were discussed. The committee heard about the civil and criminal powers these officers possess, underscoring their importance in maintaining public order and safety. The integrated approach is designed to ensure a more responsive and visible presence in communities, deterring criminal activity and reassuring residents.

• Learn more about the Integrated Enforcement approach at the Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting.

Young Adults Reoffending Rates and Road Safety Under Scrutiny

The Overview & Scrutiny Committee also delved into the critical issues of reoffending rates among young adults and road safety. The committee reviewed reports from scrutiny challenge sessions aimed at identifying solutions to reduce reoffending and road danger.

Breaking the Cycle: Tackling Reoffending in 18-25 Year Olds

A scrutiny challenge session focused on Breaking the Cycle on 18–25-year-olds Reoffending Rates. The report highlighted that reoffending in this age group is driven by complex factors, including unmet needs, instability, and trauma. For young adults in Tower Hamlets, these risks are amplified by developmental factors. The review resulted in eight recommendations, including improving data sharing, developing integrated support models, and rebalancing towards early intervention.

The impact of reoffending is significant, placing pressure on the criminal justice system, public services, and communities. By addressing the root causes and providing targeted support, the council aims to improve life chances for young people and reduce harm in the borough. Councillor Abdi Mohamed, who chaired the challenge session, emphasised that adopting these recommendations is not just about good governance but about creating a fairer and safer Tower Hamlets.

• Read the full report on tackling youth reoffending at the Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting.

Reducing Road Danger and Deaths: A Vision Zero Approach

The committee also noted the findings of a scrutiny challenge session on Reducing Road Danger and Deaths. Tower Hamlets has a high number of casualties on its roads, with pedestrians, cyclists, and young people disproportionately affected. The council's draft Road Safety Plan aims to eliminate road deaths by 2041, aligning with the Mayor of London's Vision Zero Action Plan.

The report made eight recommendations, including increasing the ambition of the road safety plan, prioritising vulnerable road users, and investing in infrastructure. These recommendations are vital for protecting residents, particularly children and young people, from the dangers of road traffic. The focus on modal shift and safer streets aims to create a healthier and more sustainable environment for everyone.

• Find out more about efforts to reduce road danger at the Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting.

Grants Determination Sub-Committee Reviews Funding Programmes

The Grants Determination (Cabinet) Sub-Committee met on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, to review the performance of various grant programmes and consider new policies. These decisions directly impact the voluntary and community sector organisations that deliver vital services to Tower Hamlets residents.

Mayor's Small Grants and Community Grants Programmes Under Review

The Sub-Committee received updates on the Mayor's Small Grants Programme and the Mayor's Community Grants Programme (MCGP). Performance reports for the MCGP covering three quarters of the 2025 financial year were presented, providing an overview of the programme's progress and the impact of the grants awarded. These programmes are crucial for supporting local initiatives that benefit residents, particularly those in vulnerable groups.

Voluntary and Community Sector Funding and Community Engagement Recognition

The committee also considered reports on VCS Funding Awarded Under Delegated Authority, outlining grants provided to voluntary and community sector organisations. Additionally, a new Community Engagement Recognition Policy was reviewed, aiming to formalise the council's approach to engaging with the community. The Wraparound Childcare Programme was also listed for consideration. These decisions reflect the council's commitment to supporting its community partners and ensuring effective engagement with residents.

• Learn more about the grant programme reviews at the Grants Determination (Cabinet) Sub-Committee meeting.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• Licensing Sub Committee - 24 February 2026 - Consideration of new premises licences for Tobacco Dock and Shell Old Ford.
• Council - 25 February 2026 - Discussion and approval of the council's budget for 2026-27 and the Medium-Term Financial Strategy for 2026-29.
• Development Committee - 26 February 2026 - Planning application for a synthetic turf pitch in Millwall Park.
• Pension Board - 02 March 2026 - Review of pension fund matters.
• Strategic Development Committee - 03 March 2026 - Further planning applications and development projects.
• King George's Field Charity Board - 04 March 2026 - Charity board matters.
• Council - 05 March 2026 - Further council business.

This week in Tower Hamlets:

Housing Crisis Deepens: Council Tackles Leaseholder Alterations and Tenant Satisfaction Amidst Ongoing Challenges

Tower Hamlets Council is grappling with significant issues in its housing services, as evidenced by the Housing Management (Cabinet) Sub-Committee meeting on Wednesday, 11 February 2026. The committee delved into the Council Housing Annual Report, a new Leasehold Alterations Policy, and updates on the Your Voice, Our Action programme, all of which have direct implications for the thousands of residents living in council homes.

Leaseholders Gain Clarity on Property Alterations, But Concerns Remain

A key focus was the Housing Management Service's new Leasehold Alterations Policy. This policy aims to provide a clearer framework for leaseholders wishing to make changes to their properties. While designed to be more enabling than previous policies, ensuring a fair and consistent process, it also prioritises health, safety, and structural integrity. The policy was developed with input from leaseholders, leading to clarifications on various aspects, including the distinction between alterations and repairs, and restrictions on hard flooring.

However, discussions revealed ongoing concerns. Councillor Sabina Akhtar, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Social Care, highlighted the need for the policy to be enabling, acknowledging that many residents have been waiting years for larger homes. The policy allows for internal alterations and extensions, such as roof or garden extensions, to alleviate overcrowding. Yet, questions were raised about the practicalities, particularly regarding absentee leaseholders and the communication of policy changes. Councillor Shafi Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Environment and the Climate Emergency, noted resident complaints about noise from wooden floors, indicating that while the policy aims for flexibility, managing neighbourly disputes remains a challenge. A specific point of contention was the blanket no to water pumps, which some councillors felt should be considered on a case-by-case basis, especially for properties with low water pressure. This highlights the delicate balance between council policy and individual resident needs.

• Learn more about the new Leasehold Alterations Policy at the Housing Management (Cabinet) Sub-Committee meeting.

Tenant Satisfaction: A Mixed Picture of Progress and Persistent Gaps

The Council Housing Annual Report 2024-25 and the Tenant Satisfaction Measures (TSMs) for Quarter 2 2025-26 painted a mixed picture of resident satisfaction. While the report indicated that satisfaction with treating tenants fairly and with respect and keeping residents well informed were above the London average, performance in other areas, such as safety, showed a decline. Overall tenant satisfaction saw a slight increase to 66%, but nine measures remained stagnant, signalling a continued need for improvement.

The Your Voice, Our Action – Safe Homes, Great Services Programme is central to addressing these issues. This programme, designed to place tenants' voices at the heart of services, has completed 68 initiatives. However, the report also highlighted overdue and at-risk deliverables, indicating that the pace of change needs to accelerate. Councillor Gulam Kibria Choudhury, Chair of the Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee, expressed concern about the number of overdue items, particularly in Asset Management, and questioned the confidence in meeting completion deadlines.

The discussions underscored the real-world impact of these measures. Low tenant satisfaction can lead to prolonged periods of living in substandard conditions, impacting mental and physical well-being. The report noted that tenants aged 45-64 were more likely to report dissatisfaction, and male tenants reported higher satisfaction with home safety compared to female tenants, a trend that requires further investigation and targeted action. The council's commitment to transparency through these reports is crucial, but the focus must remain on tangible improvements that directly benefit residents.

• Explore the Council Housing Annual Report and TSMs at the Housing Management (Cabinet) Sub-Committee meeting.

Addressing Damp and Mould: A Priority Under Awaab's Law

A significant focus within the housing discussions was the ongoing effort to tackle damp and mould in council homes, a critical issue highlighted by Awaab's Law. The Housing Management Performance and Compliance Report indicated that the council achieved 100% performance in meeting statutory timeframes for damp and mould actions. This is a positive step, ensuring that residents are not left in homes with conditions that can severely impact their health, particularly children and those with respiratory issues. However, the broader satisfaction with repairs and maintenance remains a concern, with some measures showing a decline. The council's commitment to addressing the underlying causes of damp and mould, beyond just superficial fixes, is essential for long-term resident well-being.

• Find out more about damp and mould performance at the Housing Management (Cabinet) Sub-Committee meeting.

Health and Wellbeing Board Tackles Loneliness and Safeguarding Adults

The Tower Hamlets Health and Wellbeing Board met on Tuesday, 10 February 2026, to address critical issues impacting the borough's residents, including the pervasive problem of loneliness, the safeguarding of vulnerable adults, and the ongoing development of the Better Care Fund and Mental Health Strategy.

Just Say Hello : Combating Loneliness Across Tower Hamlets

The Board received an update on the Connection Coalition's work to combat loneliness and social isolation, a significant issue affecting one in ten residents in Tower Hamlets. The coalition's 2025-2027 Action Plan focuses on system-wide integration, raising awareness of support services, building the capacity of the voluntary sector, improving impact measurement, and collaborating with the Tackling Poverty Team. The Just Say Hello campaign, launched in January 2026, aims to reach older residents and encourage social connection. Councillor Sabina Akhtar, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Social Care, emphasised the importance of this work, stating that chronic loneliness is one of the greatest causes of long-term, you know, mental health in the UK, especially among all the residents. The campaign's multi-faceted approach, including bus stop ads, billboards, and local films, aims to reach diverse communities. However, questions were raised about ensuring these efforts reach hard to reach communities, with a commitment to translating materials and working with specialised voluntary sector organisations. The impact of loneliness can be profound, leading to poorer mental and physical health outcomes, and this initiative is vital for supporting the borough's most vulnerable.

• Learn more about the Connection Coalition's efforts at the Tower Hamlets Health and Wellbeing Board meeting.

Safeguarding Adults: A New Strategy for Enhanced Protection

A new Safeguarding Adults Board (SAB) Strategy for 2025-2030 was presented, focusing on five key areas: homelessness, safety from domestic abuse, transitional safeguarding, tackling inequalities, and strengthening partnership working. The SAB has a statutory duty under the Care Act 2014¹ to coordinate and ensure the effectiveness of adult safeguarding. The strategy aims to address identified gaps and emerging risks, protecting vulnerable adults from abuse and neglect. Councillor Bodrul Choudhury, Cabinet Member for Customer Services, Equalities and Social Inclusion, welcomed the focus on inequalities, noting the borough's diverse population and the need for a tailored approach. The strategy acknowledges that certain groups, such as older adults and those with dementia, may be at greater risk. The implementation of this strategy is crucial for ensuring that vulnerable residents receive the support and protection they need.

• Explore the new Safeguarding Adults Board Strategy at the Tower Hamlets Health and Wellbeing Board meeting.

Better Care Fund and Mental Health Strategy: Navigating Reforms and Ensuring Continuity

The Board received updates on the Better Care Fund (BCF) and the Adults Mental Health Strategy. The BCF is transitioning to the Integrated Care Funding Framework (ICFF) and will increasingly support integrated neighbourhood teams, with a focus on intermediate care, reablement, and prevention. While short-term stability is assured, the council is preparing for reshaping how BCF resources are used.

The development of a new Adults Mental Health Strategy is underway, acknowledging high and rising mental health needs in Tower Hamlets, with significant inequalities persisting for specific communities. The strategy aims to address systemic challenges and promote a joined-up partnership approach. However, discussions highlighted uncertainties regarding the ICB restructure and its impact on leadership and governance for mental health services. The Board's input was sought on where leadership and direction for a partnership approach to the mental health strategy would best sit, underscoring the complexity of coordinating services across different agencies and the need for clear oversight to ensure vulnerable individuals receive timely and effective support.

• Find out more about the Better Care Fund and Mental Health Strategy at the Tower Hamlets Health and Wellbeing Board meeting.

Human Resources Committee Reviews Workforce and Recruitment

The Human Resources Committee met on Thursday, 12 February 2026, to review its work plan, receive updates on corporate director activities, and discuss senior recruitment. The committee also considered a quarterly review of employee relations casework and policy, crucial for maintaining a fair and effective working environment for council staff.

• Details of the Human Resources Committee meeting can be found online.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• Overview & Scrutiny Committee - 16 February 2026 - Review of the Anti-Social Behaviour Policy, Integrated Enforcement, and scrutiny challenge sessions on reducing reoffending and road danger.
• Cabinet - 18 February 2026 - Approval of the new Housing Strategy 2026-2036 and a revised procurement strategy for capital investment.
• Grants Determination (Cabinet) Sub-Committee - 18 February 2026 - Review of grant programmes, including the Mayor's Small Grants Programme and Mayor's Community Grants Programme.
• Council - 25 February 2026 - Discussion and approval of the council's budget for 2026-27 and the Medium-Term Financial Strategy for 2026-29.
• Licensing Sub Committee - 24 February 2026 - Consideration of new premises licences for Tobacco Dock and a variation for Shell Old Ford.
• Development Committee - 26 February 2026 - Planning applications and development projects.

This week in Tower Hamlets:

Young People Demand Action on Mental Health and Opportunities as Council Committee Hears Their Voices

The Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee met on Tuesday, 3 February 2026, to hear directly from the Young Mayors team, whose powerful presentations highlighted urgent concerns about mental health support, online safety, and access to opportunities for young people in Tower Hamlets. The committee also received updates on the Healthy Weight programme, child exploitation, serious youth violence, and corporate parenting accountability.

Young Mayors Champion Urgent Needs

The Young Mayors team, led by Young Mayor Moussa, presented a compelling manifesto outlining their priorities. Leticia Ojo, Deputy Young Mayor for Health and Well-being, spoke passionately about the mental health crisis facing young people, stating, Between 2022 and 2023, over 40,000 children and young people waited more than two years before receiving mental health support. Two years. That is not a short delay in a young person's life. She called for the implementation of trained counsellors in all Tower Hamlets schools, emphasizing that early intervention saves lives.

Nicole Rahman, Cabinet for Environment, stressed the importance of practical environmental literacy and called for structured volunteering programmes to combat the perception that environmental action is a burden. Aaliyah, Cabinet for Social and Economic Development, highlighted the stark inequalities within the borough, stating, In Tower Hamlets, Canary Wharf and Whitechapel stand only minutes apart, yet for young people they represent worlds apart. She advocated for improved access to work experience and targeted crime prevention programmes, arguing that investing in young people early doesn't just save money, it saves lives.

Selina Mia, Cabinet for Community, addressed issues of radicalism and a lack of community cohesion, proposing improved outreach for safe spaces and opportunities. Amaira Katyal, Cabinet for Education, echoed the need for better access to work opportunities and mental health support within schools, particularly for those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Young Mayor Moussa reiterated the importance of strengthening youth voice and making it easier for young people to find work, suggesting incentives for local businesses to employ more young people.

The committee engaged in a detailed discussion with the Young Mayors, with councillors asking probing questions about their experiences and priorities. Concerns were raised about the perceived underestimation of young people and the need for better communication of existing opportunities. The discussion underscored the vital role of youth participation in shaping council decisions and services that directly affect young residents.

• Learn more about the discussions at the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting.

Healthy Weight Programme Shows Progress, but Challenges Remain

The committee received an update on the Child Healthy Weight programme, detailing actions taken to address recommendations from a previous report. Progress includes improvements to school meals, the development of a health and wellbeing offer in Young Tower Hamlets, and training for professionals. Draft proposals for the Local Plan aim to enhance play, exercise, and green spaces.

However, data presented showed a concerning trend: while the number of children with a healthy weight is improving in reception, the proportion of overweight and obese children in year six is significantly higher than in reception, and continues to be above the national average. This highlights the critical need for sustained focus and intervention during the primary school years. The report acknowledged that the issue of weight is complex, influenced by factors beyond individual choice, including the availability of affordable healthy food and safe spaces for physical activity.

The programme is evolving to focus on Eat Well and Move Well initiatives, with a commitment to a whole-family approach. This shift aims to address the root causes of excess weight and promote sustainable healthy lifestyles.

• Explore the Healthy Weight update at the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting.

Addressing Child Exploitation and Serious Youth Violence

The Sub-Committee was briefed on multi-agency responses to child exploitation and serious youth violence. This included local data on young victims and perpetrators, and details of the Local Missing Hub (LMH) and integrated gang unit. The report highlighted robust information sharing and strong relationships with partner agencies, alongside a focus on developing partnerships with Adult Social Care and improving responses to disproportionality and anti-racism. These efforts are crucial for protecting vulnerable young people from harm and preventing them from being drawn into dangerous situations.

Corporate Parenting Accountability Praised

The report on Corporate Parenting Accountability highlighted that Children's Services has been rated 'Outstanding' by Ofsted. This commendation reflects strong progress in education, housing, and health for care-experienced young people. Initiatives such as a Council Tax exemption until age 25 and priority housing are in place. The report also noted the adoption of Care Experience as a protected characteristic and the refurbishment of the Kit Kat Terrace Hub. However, challenges remain, including reducing CAMHS¹ referral waiting times and addressing national placement pressures.

Strategic Development Committee Considers Major Redevelopment at Iceland Wharf

The Strategic Development Committee met on Wednesday, 4 February 2026, to consider a significant planning application for the redevelopment of Iceland Wharf. The proposal, which includes a substantial number of new homes and employment space, aims to contribute to the regeneration of the area.

Iceland Wharf Redevelopment Plan

The committee reviewed a planning application for the redevelopment of Iceland Wharf, located at Iceland Road, London, E3 2JP. The proposal includes the construction of 165 residential dwellings, with a commitment to 55% affordable housing, and approximately 3,527 square metres of flexible employment space. The development is planned across four building plots, with heights ranging from 4 to 12 storeys.

The report recommended granting planning permission, subject to conditions and planning obligations. Key considerations included the impact on daylight and sunlight to neighbouring properties, which, while acknowledged as material, were deemed acceptable in light of the project's broader public benefits. The development is expected to deliver high-quality architecture, enhance the public realm, and contribute to biodiversity net gain.

Extensive consultations were held with various external bodies, including Active Travel England, the Canal & River Trust, and the Greater London Authority (GLA), as well as internal council departments. Points raised covered land use, impact on local services, design, transport, and environmental considerations. The proposal aims to maintain the existing quantum of employment provision, avoiding a net loss of floorspace, and contribute to the delivery of much-needed homes in the borough.

• Find out more about the discussions at the Strategic Development Committee meeting.

Licensing Sub Committee Reviews New Premises Licence Applications

The Licensing Sub Committee met on Thursday, 5 February 2026, to consider three applications for new premises licences. These applications relate to a cafeteria at Istituto Marangoni, an adult gaming centre, and a venue on Brick Lane. The committee's decisions will impact local amenity and public safety.

The committee reviewed applications for:

• A new premise licence for a cafeteria at Istituto Marangoni, 30 Fashion Street, London, E1 6PX.
• A new premises licence for Jackpot Slots Adult Gaming Centre, 403 Bethnal Green Road, London E2 0AF. This application falls under the Gambling Act 2005.
• A new premise licence for a venue at the Basement & Ground Floor, 49 Brick Lane, London, E1 6PU.

The Licensing Sub Committee plays a crucial role in balancing the needs of businesses with the concerns of residents, ensuring that licensed premises operate responsibly and do not cause undue public nuisance or harm.

• Details of the Licensing Sub Committee meeting can be found online.

Other Matters

• The Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting scheduled for Monday, 2 February 2026, was cancelled.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• Housing Management (Cabinet) Sub-Committee - 11 February 2026 - Discussion on housing management matters.
• Grants Determination (Cabinet) Sub-Committee - 11 February 2026 - CANCELLED
• Tower Hamlets Health and Wellbeing Board - 10 February 2026 - Review of health and wellbeing strategies, including the Connection Coalition, Safeguarding Adults Board Strategy, Better Care Fund, and Mental Health Strategy.
• Human Resources Committee - 12 February 2026 - Review of HR matters and workforce data.
• Overview & Scrutiny Committee - 16 February 2026 - Further scrutiny of council plans and strategies.
• Cabinet - 18 February 2026 - Various council decisions.
• Grants Determination (Cabinet) Sub-Committee - 18 February 2026 - Consideration of grant applications.