The Cabinet of Waltham Forest Council met on Thursday 9 May 2024, approving revised budgets for the Soho Theatre Walthamstow project and the PFI Schools expiry, and noting improvements to the council's housing complaints service.

Ombudsman Housing Complaints and Complaints Improvement Plans

Cabinet noted the trends and patterns in housing complaints upheld by the Housing Ombudsman and the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman. They also noted the steps being taken to address issues raised by the Ombudsmen and to mitigate future complaints, as well as the improvement plans for the corporate complaints service. This follows a report detailing several cases of severe maladministration upheld against the council, including issues with handling anti-social behaviour, repairs, and complaint handling. The council is implementing a new complaints handling code and has a comprehensive improvement plan for its corporate complaints service, aiming to modernise processes and improve resident experience.

Soho Theatre Walthamstow - Project Update

Cabinet noted the programme and construction update for the Soho Theatre Walthamstow project, which advises of practical completion in late September 2024. They also noted initial proposals and the programme for a Welcome Festival to celebrate the venue's opening. A revised project budget was agreed and noted, with the economic impact of the theatre to the local economy projected to increase to £61 million over its first 10 years of operation. The project is a key driver for the borough's cultural quarter and has already delivered significant social value through its construction contract.

Private Finance Initiative (PFI) - Schools Update, Expiry Activities and Resourcing Plan

Cabinet noted and approved the Resource Plan for the New Schools (Leyton) PFI Project, which relates to The Lammas School. This includes approving £95,000 from corporate contingency for asset condition surveys and noting that £58,000 for project management and technical support in 2024 will be funded by the Infrastructure and Projects Authority (IPA). Authority was delegated to the Corporate Director of Property and Delivery to procure necessary staff and surveys, and to award contracts within the available resources. Additionally, authority was delegated to the Strategic Director of Resources to increase the future budget for the project's expiry activities up to a maximum of £500,000. The Lammas School PFI contract is due to expire on 31 August 2026, making it one of the earliest PFI school contracts to expire nationally. Preparations are underway to ensure the buildings are returned in the condition prescribed by the PFI Project Agreement.

Vote of Thanks

Councillor Grace Williams, Leader of the Council, thanked the Cabinet Commissioners for their support throughout the municipal year. She also extended thanks to Ms Roberts-Egan, the Elections Team, and all officers involved in the recent election, describing the process as smooth and highlighting the council's strong performance compared to other London boroughs.