The Cabinet Member Signing meeting was scheduled to discuss the extension of a contract for information, advice, and guidance services, a major works programme for Hamilton Close, and the extension of a lift maintenance contract.

Haringey Citizens Advice Bureaux - Contract Extension

The meeting was scheduled to consider a proposal to extend the contract for the provision of Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) services by Haringey Citizens Advice Bureaux. The proposed extension would be for a period of two years, from 1st April 2026 to 31st March 2028, at an annual cost of £726,536. This extension is intended to ensure the continuity of a service that provides crucial support to residents facing issues such as homelessness risk, debt, and health inequalities. The report highlighted that the service plays a vital role in preventing crises, reducing reliance on statutory services, and supporting the Council's Corporate Delivery Plan 2024-2026, particularly in preventing homelessness and improving health and wellbeing. It also supports compliance with the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017. The report noted that the service has delivered significant measurable financial outcomes for residents, including securing successful benefit claims and writing off debt. The extension also aims to align with the Council's Anti-Poverty Strategy by providing accessible advice on welfare benefits, debt management, and housing.

Hamilton Close Major Works Programme

A key item on the agenda was the proposed award of a contract for the Hamilton Close Major Works Programme. This programme involves significant improvement works to seven blocks of flats on the Hamilton Close estate, including the replacement of timber-framed communal entrances with an aluminium curtain walling system, application of fire-rated coatings, and renewal of floor coverings. The report indicated that updated Fire Risk Assessments had highlighted fire safety deficiencies, necessitating a review of the original scope of works to ensure alignment with current fire safety standards. The proposed contract value for these works is £1,909,942.00. The report also detailed that the project would include energy efficiency improvements, such as upgraded external wall insulation and high-performance glazing, supporting the Council's commitment to achieving a net-zero-carbon borough. The works are intended to safeguard the blocks from further deterioration, minimise future costs, and enhance the overall condition of the Council's housing stock. Leasehold implications were also to be discussed, with an estimated recovery of £310,780.00 from leaseholders.

Lift Maintenance Contract Extension

The meeting was also scheduled to consider a one-year extension to the Lift Service and Maintenance Contract with Jackson Lift Services Limited. This extension, from 1st April 2026 to 31st March 2027, would involve a variation to increase the contract value by £358,324.49, bringing the total to £3,261,254.49. The report stated that the extension is necessary to ensure the continuation of a statutory service provision and to allow time for the re-procurement of a new, long-term lift maintenance contract. This approach aims to stagger major contract re-procurements and avoid future pressure on resources. The report emphasised the Council's statutory obligations under regulations such as LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998) and the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 to ensure lifts are regularly serviced and maintained. The extension is expected to have a positive impact on residents, particularly older people, families with young children, and those with mobility challenges, by ensuring reliable lift operation and minimising service disruption.