The Brent Cabinet met on Monday 7 September 2026 to discuss a range of important issues, including the future of family support services, school amalgamations, and the expansion of special educational needs provision. Key decisions included approving the insourcing of Best Start Family Hubs support services, moving forward with formal consultation on the amalgamation of Roe Green Infant and Junior Schools, and approving the expansion of Phoenix Arch Special School.

Opposition to Perimeter Fencing at College Green Open Space

James Hogan, Chair of the College Green Preservation Society, presented a petition opposing the installation of perimeter fencing around College Green Open Space. He highlighted the historical significance of the space, established in 1913 by All Souls College Oxford, and its current use for allotments, scout land, a nursery, and open space. Mr. Hogan expressed concerns that proposed fencing by the nursery would restrict access, block views, and negatively impact the character of the area, potentially violating a legally binding covenant from All Souls College. He also voiced fears of a land grab by the nursery, citing previous expansions and the appropriation of scout land.

Councillor Jake Rubin, Cabinet Member for Children's Services, Employment and Climate Action, acknowledged the petitioners' concerns regarding the impact on the open space but stressed the need to balance this with the nursery's safeguarding requirements for children. He confirmed that council officers are reviewing current fencing arrangements, considering safeguarding needs, relevant legislation, and Department for Education guidance. The findings and recommendations will be shared with all stakeholders, including the nursery, scout group, and local residents, to identify a way forward. Councillor Muhammed Butt, Leader of the Council, reaffirmed this commitment to review the issues and engage further with all relevant parties.

Brent's Gypsy, Roma & Traveller Framework and Action Plan 2026-2030

Cabinet approved Brent's new Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Framework and Action Plan for 2026-2030. This framework aims to address the disproportionate outcomes experienced by these communities and improve the Council's relationship with them. The plan prioritises providing safe and suitable sites, building strong and sustainable relationships, and delivering accessible services.

During the meeting, John O'Donnell, representing residents from the Lynton Close Traveller site, highlighted concerns about the lack of plans for temporary sites to alleviate overcrowding. He stressed the urgent need for such sites to address health and safety issues and prevent travellers from occupying unallocated transit sites. Councillor Robert Johnson, Cabinet Member for Housing, Homelessness and Renters, confirmed that an independent search company has been commissioned to identify potential sites, and that any identified locations would need to go through the planning process. He also acknowledged the commitment to making alternative accommodation available, though primarily through the Council's temporary accommodation supply rather than new pitch sites.

Several Cabinet members spoke in support of the framework, emphasizing the importance of rebuilding trust, ensuring services are accessible and culturally appropriate, and celebrating the rich history and identity of Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller communities. Councillor Knight noted that Lynton Close is in her ward and she fully supports the framework and the need to find suitable alternative sites. Councillor Amadi highlighted the framework's alignment with the Council's vision of a community-focused borough where every community is respected and included.

The framework is eligible for call-in until 6pm on Monday 14 September 2026.

Future Commissioning and Delivery Options for Best Start Family Hubs Support Services

Cabinet resolved to approve the insourcing of the majority of Best Start Family Hubs Support Services from 1 April 2027. This decision aims to create a fully integrated Council-led Family Hub and Early Help model, strengthening accountability, consistency of practice, quality assurance, service integration, and value for money.

Councillor Jake Rubin, Cabinet Member for Children's Services, Employment and Climate Action, explained that bringing the service in-house would offer greater flexibility, stronger operational control, and clearer accountability, aligning with the Council's evolving Family Hub and Early Help approach. Councillor Gwen Grahl, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources, welcomed the move, stating that public ownership should be a priority for councils committed to enhancing residents' lives. Councillor Liz Dixon, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Public Health, highlighted the importance of early intervention for children facing inequalities, which integrated family hubs can effectively provide.

Authority has been delegated to the Corporate Director of Children, Young People and Community Development, in consultation with Councillor Rubin, to implement the transition, including necessary consultations and workforce arrangements. This decision is also eligible for call-in until 6pm on Monday 14 September 2026.

Outcome of Informal Consultation on the Amalgamation of Roe Green Infant School and Roe Green Junior School

Cabinet resolved to note the feedback from the informal consultation on the proposed amalgamation of Roe Green Infant School and Roe Green Junior School. They also approved a period of formal consultation, through the publication of a statutory notice, on proposals to close Roe Green Junior School, expand the age range of Roe Green Infant School to admit children aged 3-11, and change its name to Roe Green Primary School.

Councillor Jake Rubin explained that the amalgamation would simplify the educational journey for parents and children, eliminating the need for reapplication for Year 3 entry. The informal consultation showed strong support for the proposal, with 93.1% of respondents agreeing with the amalgamation. Concerns raised by a small number of respondents regarding potential funding loss and staffing impacts were addressed in the report, with assurances that economies of scale and careful budget management would mitigate these issues.

The formal consultation period will allow for further feedback before a final decision is made by Cabinet on 7 December 2026. The amalgamation is planned to take effect from September 2027. This decision is eligible for call-in until 6pm on Monday 14 September 2026.

Proposal to Expand Phoenix Arch Special School on the Strathcona Site

Cabinet approved the expansion of Phoenix Arch Special School by 50 places, utilising the Strathcona site from September 2027. This expansion is a response to the growing demand for specialist provision in Brent for children with autistic spectrum condition (ASC).

Councillor Jake Rubin highlighted that the expansion addresses the increasing number of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) in the borough, with a 10% increase in one year. He noted the significant cost savings associated with in-borough placements (£37,000 per place) compared to independent special school placements (£58,000 per place), potentially saving around £1 million annually. Councillor Gwen Grahl welcomed the proposal as part of the wider SEND capital programme, emphasizing the importance of keeping provision within the community and ensuring good terms and conditions for staff. Councillor Kilditcher also voiced support, highlighting the commitment to equity and providing fair opportunities for all children.

The formal consultation received three responses, with one in support and one neutral. Concerns were raised by the Chair of the South Kenton Preston Park Residents Association regarding traffic and parking, and the suitability of the Strathcona site for SEND provision. The Council acknowledged these concerns and stated that further work would be undertaken during the design development phase to mitigate impacts on the local community, encouraging sustainable travel options. This decision is eligible for call-in until 6pm on Monday 14 September 2026.

Delivering Brent's 2024-2028 EDI Ambitions: Two Years On

Cabinet endorsed the progress made in Year 2 of the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Strategy 2024-2028, the Anti-Racism Action Plan, and the EDI Board priorities. They also agreed that the information in the report be used for public-facing communications highlighting Year 2 achievements.

Councillor Gwen Grahl, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources, highlighted improvements in accessibility, such as enhanced interpretation and translation services, and the expansion of community-led projects. She noted significant progress in tackling digital exclusion and strengthening the use of EDI data. Within the council, over 700 employees have completed anti-racism and inclusive practices training, and workforce data is being used to address inequalities in recruitment, progression, representation, and pay. Councillor Grahl also pointed to progress in jobs and skills, particularly for young people with SEND, and the importance of providing meaningful and sustainable work opportunities.

The report details progress across three EDI objectives: Inclusion (Accessibility and Cohesion), Narrowing the Gap (Tackling Inequalities), and Establishing an Inclusive Workforce. Key achievements include improved inclusive communications, increased resident participation in consultations, the launch of the Love Where You Live Celebrating Diversity Fund, and a reduction in school exclusions for Black boys and pupils with SEND. The Anti-Racism Action Plan has seen increased integration into organisational processes, with over 700 employees completing anti-racism training. The EDI Board's priorities for Year 2 focused on community engagement, embedding EDI within AI and automation, and supporting the LGBTQ+ community. This decision is eligible for call-in until 6pm on Monday 14 September 2026.

Treasury Management Outturn Report 2025-26

Cabinet resolved to note the overall financial performance for 2025-26 and that the Council had complied with its Prudential Indicators. They also approved the submission of the report to Full Council for approval.

Councillor Gwen Grahl, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources, presented the report, highlighting that despite a challenging economic environment with high interest rates and market volatility, the Council had managed its finances responsibly. Borrowing increased by £174.0m to £1,074.0m, primarily to support the capital programme, while cash investments decreased slightly to £43.8m. The average interest rate on borrowing increased marginally to 3.90%, and the rate of return on cash investments decreased to 3.81%.

The report detailed the Council's borrowing strategy, which aims to balance low interest costs with cost certainty and flexibility. It also outlined the Council's investment activity, emphasizing the priority given to security and liquidity over yield, with investments predominantly held in short-term, low-risk money market funds. The report confirmed compliance with all Prudential Indicators and the CIPFA Treasury Management Code of Practice.

Other Decisions

• Minutes of the Previous Meeting: Approved as a correct record.
• Reference of item considered by Scrutiny Committees: No items were referred from Scrutiny Committees.
• Exclusion of Press and Public: No items required the exclusion of the press or public.
• Any other urgent business: There were no items of urgent business.