The Council of Tower Hamlets Council met on Wednesday 11 March 2020, discussing issues ranging from waste collection and park facilities to air pollution and the COVID-19 virus. Key decisions included referring petitions on waste collection, park changing rooms, air pollution, and road safety to the Corporate Director for Place for a written response, and agreeing to debate an emergency motion on COVID-19.

Waste Collection in Limehouse Ward

Residents of Newell Street and surrounding areas in Limehouse Ward presented a petition highlighting persistent failures in waste collection over the past 18 months, attributing the problem to the contractor, Veolia. The petitioner, Paul Howick, stated that over 60 collections had been missed, with rubbish piling up. He criticised council officers for offering excuses rather than solutions and expressed concern that the situation would persist even as the council brings waste collection services back in-house. Councillor James King supported the petition, noting similar issues in other parts of the ward, and asked if a review of waste collection rounds would be conducted when the service returns in-house. Councillor Mina Ali questioned the reported inequalities in collection within the ward, noting that some areas seemed to fare better than others. Councillor David Edgar, Cabinet Member for Environment, acknowledged the importance of the issue and confirmed that the service would be brought in-house from April 1st. He stated that all rounds would be reviewed for efficiency and effectiveness and offered to meet with residents to discuss improvements. The petition was referred to the Corporate Director, Place, for a written response within 28 days.

Baclet Park Football Changing Rooms

A petition concerning the inadequate state of football changing rooms at Barclay Park was presented by Terry McGrannera. He described the existing facilities as two portacabins that had been in use for over 20 years and were a disgrace. McGrannera also criticised the plans for new changing rooms, calling them pods, not changing rooms and lacking communal areas, an indoor waiting room, and a first aid room. He also raised concerns about the consultation process, stating that drivers were not consulted regarding parking changes when Cottall Street was closed. Councillor Bex-White, the ward councillor for Barclay Park, expressed surprise at the concerns raised, stating she had received positive feedback from residents about the park improvements and had not heard from those with concerns. She questioned where the predicted parking dramas from the closure of Cottall Street had occurred. Councillor Asma Islam, also a ward councillor, confirmed that many of her residents use Barclay Park and asked how the petitioner had engaged with the consultation process. Councillor Sabina Akhtar, Cabinet Member for Culture, Arts, and Brexit, stated that the new changing rooms had been consulted on and had full planning permission. She explained they were designed in line with Sports England guidance and were part of a £4.2 million scheme to improve the park, which included a fully accessible playground, closure of Cottall Street, and development of a pedestrian area linking to Limehouse Cut. The petition was referred to the Corporate Director, Place, for a written response within 28 days.

Air Pollution in Tower Hamlets

Students from New City College, presenting a petition on air pollution, highlighted that 40% of Tower Hamlets residents live in areas with unacceptable air quality. They urged the council to plant more trees, lobby institutions to build more green screens, and ensure knowledge and understanding of air pollution and the climate crisis grows, especially among young children. A student shared a personal story about their 13-year-old sister developing asthma after moving to Tower Hamlets, attributing it to air pollution. They noted that Tower Hamlets is the fourth worst borough in London for mortality rates linked to air pollution. Councillor La Val Whitehead expressed a desire for the students to become decision-makers in the future and asked about their proposals for tree and green screen locations. Councillor Bex-White inquired about the third point of the petition, focusing on increasing information and awareness. Councillor Abdallah suggested supporting community vegetable growing initiatives and planting more trees. Councillor Eve McQuillan asked how to influence people outside the borough causing air pollution. Councillor David Edgar, Cabinet Member for Environment, thanked the students for holding the council accountable and acknowledged their reading of the Air Quality Action Plan. He mentioned ongoing work such as installing electric vehicle charging points and the £15 million Liveable Streets programme, but noted challenges in addressing hotspots like Blackwall and Whitechapel. He encouraged the students to stay in touch to ensure the council's commitments are met. The petition was referred to the Corporate Director, Place, for a written response within 28 days.

Keep-Clear Box at Cornwall Street

Mohamed Wakib presented a petition on behalf of Tarling West Estate in Shadwell, requesting a keep-clear box at the junction of Cornwall Street. He explained that one end of the street had been pedestrianised without consultation, leaving only one entry and exit point, and the absence of a keep-clear box was causing obstructions, traffic, and visibility issues, creating a dangerous situation. He stated that the issue had been raised with various council and Tower Hamlets Homes (THH) consultants and managers for three years without resolution. Mayor John Biggs expressed disappointment that a petition was necessary for such a seemingly simple issue and stated he had no record of the request being made for three years. He also highlighted the ongoing consultation for the Livable Street Scheme in the area. Councillor Kahn questioned the effectiveness of consultants in feeding back to highways and the inconsistency of officers' responses. Councillor David Edgar, Cabinet Member for Environment, acknowledged the frustration and stated that officers could meet with Tower Hamlets Homes to explore options. He proposed painting a keep clear marking as a short-term solution, noting that a yellow box would require a statutory consultation period. He apologised for any lack of action and promised a written response to the petition. The petition was referred to the Corporate Director, Place, for a written response within 28 days.

COVID-19 Virus Emergency Motion

Councillor Peter Golds moved an emergency motion on the COVID-19 virus, highlighting its global importance and the need for the council to consider its impact. He stressed the importance of hygiene, including proper handwashing techniques, and advised against spitting in public. He suggested placing the Local Government Association's guidance on coronavirus on the council website and ensuring computers are cleaned regularly. Mayor John Biggs seconded the motion, acknowledging the international emergency and the anxiety within the borough. He noted that the motion confirmed the council was in the containment phase and that the government's response had been messy. He emphasised the need to reassure residents, encourage safe practices, and prepare for potential changes in national advice. Councillor Rabina Khan proposed an amendment to work closely with faith communities, particularly in light of Ramadan, and stressed the importance of accurate and non-stigmatising communication about the virus, referencing World Health Organisation guidelines. Councillor Amin Ali welcomed the cross-party motion and the emphasis on clear messaging to different communities. He outlined the council's existing influenza pandemic plan and the work of the multi-agency pandemic committee. Councillor Andrew Wood highlighted the need for greater proactivity, citing a lack of information at the Canary Wharf Idea Store and the need for hand sanitizers for visitors. He also raised concerns about airport checks and children attending school from affected countries. Councillor Mohammed Pappu expressed concerns about airport checks, school attendance, and hospital waiting areas, urging for more awareness about sufficient stock of essential items. Councillor Peter Golds summed up, emphasising the need to be proactive and listen to experts, referencing historical examples of school closures. He urged for the motion to be placed on the council website. The motion, with an amendment, was agreed unanimously.

Mayor's Report

Mayor John Biggs presented his report, highlighting the council's budget, which he stated protects services despite government cuts. He criticised the government's approach to national issues, including the COVID-19 virus and austerity measures. He also discussed the need for infrastructure investment in London and the importance of supporting social care and special educational needs. He mentioned the council's campaigning approach and the ongoing challenges of austerity. Mayor Biggs provided an update on the four confirmed cases of coronavirus in the borough and the ongoing Veolia workers' strike, which he stated would cause disruption to bin collection and street cleaning services. He also mentioned events marking Martyrs' Day and International Women's Day, and the council's commitment to tackling the climate emergency, including an anti-idling pledge. He highlighted the Deputy Mayor for Housing's presentation to MPs on the borough's housing needs and the council's challenge to the Secretary of State's decision on the Westbury Printworks planning application. Councillor Peter Golds, Leader of the Conservative Group, responded, noting the government's investment in affordable homes and building safety. He also commented on the need for a more balanced approach to national funding, suggesting that areas like County Durham should also benefit from government initiatives. Mayor Biggs responded to Councillor Golds, emphasising the need to make a strong case for Tower Hamlets and its residents.

Climate Change Emergency Motion

Councillor Rachel Blake moved a motion on the climate change emergency, highlighting that 40% of residents live in areas with unacceptable air pollution and framing the climate emergency as a social justice issue. She outlined the council's net-zero action plan, aiming for a zero-carbon council by 2025, and mentioned initiatives such as switching to renewable energy tariffs, streetlight upgrades, and the £50 million Liveable Streets programme. Councillor Andrew Wood moved an amendment, criticising the council's delivery on climate action over the past year. He cited examples such as a net loss of trees at Limehouse Triangle, a new school next to a major road with poor air quality, the purchase of new diesel refuse vehicles, and a lack of solar panels. He called for a focus on delivery, delivery, delivery. Councillor Amina Ali seconded the motion, welcoming the focus on health benefits for residents, particularly the elderly and those with long-term illnesses. Councillor Val Whitehead welcomed the commitment to climate impact assessments for all decisions and highlighted work on the Liveable Streets programme in Bow. Councillor Bex White declared a personal interest due to living near a polluted junction and having a family member with breathing issues. She praised the council's actions and the growing consensus on the issue, suggesting further measures to minimise hard surfacing and communicate the risks of driving children to school. Councillor Perumia welcomed the motion but stressed that the poorest in society are disproportionately affected by climate change and pollution. He urged for policies to be evenly distributed and for BME and working-class voices to lead the movement. Councillor John Piers criticised the Conservative government's policies on feed-in tariffs for solar panels, stating they had hindered renewable energy development. Councillor Rabina Khan noted that engagement with faith communities, BME communities, and women had not been sufficient and suggested incorporating climate impact assessments into the budget. She also highlighted the role of religion in addressing climate change. Councillor Shurad Islam emphasised the importance of resident engagement and involving housing associations. He mentioned a successful climate change cafe organised by residents in his ward. Councillor Peter Golds spoke about the long history of raising climate change issues and criticised the lack of delivery, citing examples of parents driving children to school and high levels of unpaid parking tickets. He argued for a more realistic approach to car parking and environmental policies. Councillor Blake replied, urging support for the motion and reiterating the social justice aspect and the need for faster delivery. The amendment was voted on and agreed, and the substantive motion was then agreed unanimously.

Car Parking Motion

Councillor Peter Golds moved a motion on car parking, highlighting the issue of too many cars and insufficient spaces in the borough. He criticised the granting of planning applications for car-free developments that later become occupied by cars. He specifically raised concerns about the misuse of blue badges by Uber drivers, questioning the legitimacy of their use by individuals who are not genuinely disabled or ill. He called for encouragement of public transport and criticised the granting of planning applications without a sustainable transport policy. Councillor Andrew Wood seconded the motion, sharing an anecdote about a mother in a car-free development who needed a car for her family but could not obtain a permit. He argued that current policies do not adequately cater to those with legitimate reasons for needing a car, such as for work or due to infirmity. He suggested extending parking hours in some areas. Councillor Kirstie Perry responded, stating that the council takes an evidence-based approach and aims to halve car use over 20 years, investing in the Livable Streets Programme. She argued that reducing car use disproportionately benefits the elderly, disabled, parents, and children. Councillor David Edgar, Cabinet Member for Environment, stated that the motion identified problems but its suggestions would increase the number of cars. He noted that the council is already working on changes to control parking zone hours and installing electric vehicle charging points. Mayor John Biggs welcomed the motion as a politically dynamite issue and agreed that parking is a significant political challenge. He noted the increase in blue badges and the potential for abuse. He stated that the council cannot please everyone but is committed to addressing the issue. Councillor Golds exercised his right of reply, reiterating the need to address car parking and the environmental impact of vehicles. He argued that increasing parking hours could solve many problems. The motion was put to a vote by show of hands and was not agreed.

Reports for Consideration

The council agreed to adopt the Pay Policy for 2020-2021 and the Members' Allowance Scheme for 2020-2021. Councillor Andrew Wood spoke on the Members' Allowance Scheme, suggesting a need for greater transparency and a mechanism to demonstrate the value of councillors' work. The council also agreed to approve the committee calendar for 2020-2021, noting a change to the annual council meeting date.

Questions from Members

A series of questions were asked by councillors on various topics, including:

• Locksley development: Mayor John Biggs responded to Councillor Asma Islam's question about the Locksley development, stating that 33 new council homes are being built, with a mix of rents and wheelchair-accessible units.
• Parking issues on the Isle of Dogs: Councillor David Edgar responded to Councillor Peter Golds' concerns about parking on the Isle of Dogs, outlining patrols, potential double yellow lines, and increased patrols on Manchester Road. Mayor John Biggs offered to meet with Councillor Golds to discuss specific issues.
• Anti-social behaviour at Jolly's Green: Councillor Asma Begum, Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Equalities, responded to Councillor Bex-White's question, outlining a multi-agency action plan to address anti-social behaviour and crime in the area.
• Tyler Road Leisure Centre: Mayor John Biggs responded to Councillor Andrew Wood's question about the Tyler Road Leisure Centre, stating that there are no immediate redevelopment plans but the centre's condition and viability will be reviewed as part of the leisure management contract re-procurement. He expressed interest in looking at examples from Greenwich and Camden.
• Boundary Estate: Mayor John Biggs responded to Councillor Abdoumoukhet MBE's question about the Boundary Estate, acknowledging concerns about the nighttime economy, anti-social behaviour, parking, and housing management. He mentioned ongoing initiatives and a forthcoming meeting.
• Adult social care and COVID-19: Councillor Amina Ali, Cabinet Member for Adult Health, responded to Councillor Val Whitehead's question, stating that adult social care is monitoring the COVID-19 situation and implementing protective measures for vulnerable residents. She acknowledged concerns about insecure employment for care staff and the need for government action on sick pay.
• Cyril Jackson Primary School Akademization: Councillor Danny Hassell, Cabinet Member for Children's Schools and Young People, responded to Councillor James King's question, stating that an external review of the school's academisation process had been commissioned due to parental concerns.
• Troubled Families Program: Councillor Danny Hassell responded to Councillor Kyrsten Perry's question about the Troubled Families Program (Supporting Stronger Families), confirming its extension for one additional year but expressing uncertainty about its long-term future.
• Incident at London Central Mosque: Councillor Asma Begum responded to Councillor Charmaine's question about the incident at London Central Mosque, stating that the safety of places of worship is a priority and that the council is working with the community and police. She mentioned support for applications to the Government's Places of Worship Security Fund.
• Youth employment initiatives: Councillor Martin Ousman responded to Councillor Mohammed Pappu's question, highlighting the council's work in youth employment through the Work Path programme and career services.
• Equality impact assessments: Councillor Asma Begum responded to Councillor Perromia's question about socio-economic inequalities in equality impact assessments, stating that the council considers social and economic impacts where relevant and offering to discuss the matter further.
• Water pressure issues on the Isle of Dogs: Mayor John Biggs responded to Councillor Mohammed Pappu's question about water pressure issues on the Isle of Dogs, explaining the council's role in planning and working with Thames Water. He acknowledged the problem and offered to work with landlords and residents to mitigate the impact.
• Gender equality: Councillor Asma Begum responded to Councillor Rabina Khan's question about gender equality, highlighting the council's investment in programmes to support women in work and reduce violence against women. She offered to discuss the issue of equal pay further.

Motions Submitted by Members

• NJC Pay: Councillor H. Schamhake moved a motion regarding the National Joint Council (NJC) pay, highlighting the importance of public services and the impact of government cuts on council workforces. He criticised years of pay restraint and the current negotiations with management. Mayor John Biggs and Councillor Rachel Blake spoke in support of the motion, emphasising the need for fair pay for local government staff, particularly women in frontline roles. Councillor Andrew Wood raised an inaccuracy in the motion regarding job losses. Councillor H. Schamhake replied, urging support for the motion. The motion was put to a vote and agreed.
• Motion on COVID-19: This motion was debated and agreed unanimously earlier in the meeting.

The meeting concluded with tributes to the Speaker.