The Council of Enfield Council is scheduled to convene on Wednesday, 16 September 2026. The meeting's agenda includes a discussion on the decline of street cleaning standards, the proposed Council Plan for 2026-2030, and amendments to the Council's Constitution regarding the national scheme of delegation for planning functions. Additionally, several motions are scheduled for consideration, covering a range of topics from civic flag protocols to environmental issues and school provision.

Opposition Priority Business: Street Cleaning Standards

A significant item scheduled for discussion is the Decline in Street Cleaning Standards Following the Change in Administration in the London Borough of Enfield and its Impact on Residents. This paper, outlined in the agenda frontsheet Agenda frontsheet 16th-Sep-2026 19.00 Council.pdf, is expected to address concerns raised by residents and councillors regarding an observed decrease in the cleanliness of streets, parks, and public spaces since the change in administration in May 2026. The report pack Public reports pack 16th-Sep-2026 19.00 Council.pdf details issues such as overflowing bins, litter, fly-tipping, and the condition of parks. It is anticipated that this discussion will focus on the impact of staffing changes within the street cleaning service and the administration's plans to address these issues, particularly in light of the hot summer conditions experienced in 2026.

Council Plan 2026-2030

The Council is scheduled to consider the Council Plan 2026-2030, titled Delivering for Enfield. This document, presented in the reports pack Public reports pack 16th-Sep-2026 19.00 Council.pdf, outlines the Council's strategic direction and priorities for the next four years. It is structured around seven overarching priority outcomes: A Cleaner Enfield, A Greener Enfield, A Safer Enfield, A Thriving Enfield, A Stronger Enfield, An Affordable Enfield, and A Connected Enfield. The plan details strategic actions to achieve these outcomes and will inform the Council's budget setting and operational activities. The Equality Impact Assessment for this plan indicates an overall positive impact across all protected characteristics and socio-economic groups.

Amendments to the Constitution: National Scheme of Delegation for Planning Functions

A report on Amendments to the Constitution - National Scheme of Delegation of Planning Functions is scheduled for discussion. This item, detailed in the agenda frontsheet Agenda frontsheet 16th-Sep-2026 19.00 Council.pdf, concerns the implementation of the Planning and Infrastructure Act 2025 and associated regulations. The proposed amendments aim to align the Council's Constitution with a new national scheme of delegation for planning functions, which mandates a two-tier approach to decision-making for planning applications. The report pack Public reports pack 16th-Sep-2026 19.00 Council.pdf includes proposed changes to the Planning Committee's terms of reference and a detailed Referral Protocol.

Motions for Consideration

A series of motions are scheduled for discussion, covering a wide array of local issues:

Civic Flag Protocol

Councillor Sarah Jons has put forward a motion concerning the Civic Flag Protocol. This motion highlights Enfield's diversity and the role of civic flags in expressing Council values and welcoming residents. It proposes a review of the current protocol to ensure it promotes inclusivity, community cohesion, and mutual respect, while also considering the development of an annual programme for civic, national, commemorative, and community flags.

Nature's Rights Bill

Councillor Laura Davenport's motion advocates for support for the UK Nature's Rights Bill. The motion argues that nature breakdown is already impacting local communities and that healthy ecosystems are essential for wellbeing and resilience. It proposes that Parliament give serious consideration to the Bill, which recognises nature as a legal subject with rights, and resolves to request the Leader of the Council write to local Members of Parliament expressing support for the Bill's principles.

School Provision and Future of Bishop Stopford's, Starks Field Primary, and Suffolks Primary Schools

Councillor Ergin Erbil has submitted a motion addressing concerns about the future of Bishop Stopford's School, Starks Field Primary School, and Suffolks Primary School. The motion notes the concern among pupils, parents, staff, and residents, and highlights issues such as falling pupil numbers, housing affordability, and inadequate communication surrounding proposals. It calls for schools to be kept open where possible, for genuine engagement with communities, and for a joined-up strategy linking housing, education, and population growth. The motion also calls for support packages for affected families.

NSL Limited and Marston Holdings - Parking Enforcement Services

Councillor Ian Barnes has proposed a motion regarding concerns raised by GMB London Region about proposals by NSL Limited, a contractor for Enfield Council's parking enforcement services, to transfer CCTV monitoring functions to Marston Holdings. The motion expresses concern that this could lead to redundancies for Enfield-based employees and calls for NSL and Marston Holdings to pause changes and discuss alternatives with affected employees. It also requests officers to engage with NSL to understand the implications for the Council's contract and for the Council to examine procurement mechanisms that support local employment.

Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and Children's Lung Health

Councillor Ian Barnes also brings forward a motion noting new research on improvements in children's lung development in London following reductions in air pollution associated with the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). The motion congratulates the Mayor of London, Sir Sadiq Khan, for his leadership on ULEZ and reaffirms the Council's commitment to measures that reduce air pollution. It also recognises the role of the former Enfield Labour administration in supporting clean-air policies.

Pride in Place Programme

Another motion by Councillor Ian Barnes addresses the Labour Government's Pride in Place Programme, which is set to invest £40 million in Enfield Wash and Lower Edmonton over ten years. The motion welcomes this investment, highlighting its potential to transform neighbourhoods through community-led initiatives. It commits the Council to working constructively with independent Neighbourhood Boards and local partners to maximise the benefits of this funding.

Allotment Bonfires

Councillor Ian Barnes has also put forward a motion concerning residents' concerns about bonfires being lit at allotments outside of permitted times. The motion notes the nuisance caused by smoke and the safety risks involved. It proposes the introduction of Fixed Penalty Notices for such offences, a review of further legal powers, and a review of allotment regulations and tenancy agreements to ensure effective deterrents.

Water Sustainability

Councillor Doug Taylor's motion addresses the need for water sustainability in Enfield. It suggests looking at building regulations for new properties to increase water reuse and rainwater capture, and exploring options for reservoir building to enhance sustainability during drought conditions. The motion requests the Leader to engage with Thames Water and Affinity Water to support proposals for a new reservoir.

Commercial Bin Use and Waste Disposal

Councillor Doug Taylor also proposes a motion concerning the use of large commercial bins by businesses. The motion highlights issues with bins being left on the public highway, overflowing, and potentially being inadequate for business needs. It calls for a three-pronged policy of clarity for businesses, robust determination of bin space through planning, and enforcement with zero tolerance for failures in appropriate waste disposal.

Government Resilience Strategy

Councillor Doug Taylor's motion calls for Council support for the Government's resilience strategy and preparing residents for major risks and disruptions. It notes the Labour Government's action plan on building resilience to challenges such as supply chain issues, cyber security, climate change, and food supply. The motion requests the Administration to report on how it will support the Government's efforts and engage residents in preparedness.

Cabinet Member for Children's Services and Chief Whip Role

Councillor Abdul Abdullahi has submitted a motion concerning the dual role of the Cabinet Member for Children's Services and Chief Whip. The motion notes the demanding nature of both portfolios and argues that holding both risks a conflict of attention, potentially compromising safeguarding responsibilities. It resolves to call on the minority administration to review the allocation of responsibilities and ensure the Cabinet Member for Children's Services role is standalone.

Climate Change Impacts on Schools

Councillor Mahym Bedekova's motion addresses the growing impacts of climate change, particularly heatwaves, on local schools. It notes that schools are prone to overheating, negatively affecting health, concentration, and learning outcomes, with children being particularly vulnerable. The motion calls for accelerated funding and delivery of a comprehensive school retrofit programme, prioritising climate adaptation measures and exploring pilot projects in Enfield schools.

Enfield Climate Action Plan 2024

Councillor Ian Barnes brings forward a motion reaffirming commitment to the Enfield Climate Action Plan 2024. The motion highlights the Plan's targets for carbon neutrality for the Council by 2030 and the borough by 2040. It calls on the Cabinet to honour the commitments set out in the Plan, implement actions without delay, and ensure annual public reporting on progress.

Public Health Funding and Prevention Agenda

Councillor Alev Cazimoglu's motion calls for the Council to demonstrate how public health funding contributes to the Government's prevention agenda and to provide evidence that resources are targeted towards communities experiencing the greatest health inequalities.

Fly-Tipping Service Standard

Councillor Kiran Mistry proposes a motion requiring the Council to introduce a published service standard for investigating and removing reported fly-tipping within 48 hours.

Support for Emergency Services

Councillor James Bone's motion acknowledges the dedication of emergency services in Enfield and resolves to work closely with them to strengthen partnership working, improve emergency preparedness and resilience, and support them in serving the community.

Flying the Union Flag

Councillor Lee Chamberlain's motion encourages residents to express their love for the United Kingdom by flying the Union flag or flags of the UK nations, emphasising their role as unifying symbols.

Fly-Tipping and Littering

Councillor Stephanos Ioannou's motion addresses fly-tipping and littering as criminal acts that blight the environment and impose financial burdens. It calls for continued identification and fining of offenders, lobbying the Government to amend the Environmental Protection Act 1990 regarding private land waste removal, and supporting community litter picks.

Crews Hill Horticultural Businesses

Councillor Eralda Qirjo's motion celebrates Crews Hill as a significant area for horticultural businesses and jobs. It contrasts this with a recent public description of the area and proposes building homes on brownfield sites to protect Green Belt land and these businesses.

Squirrel Scouts 5th Birthday

Councillor Andrew Thorp's motion celebrates the 5th birthday of Squirrel Scouts and thanks Enfield residents who volunteer with young people. It commits the Council to promoting uniformed youth organisations across the borough.

Speeding on Enfield Roads

Councillor Chris Dey's motion addresses the issue of speeding on Enfield roads. It proposes investigating the deployment of average speed cameras on other affected roads, working with the Police to increase speed enforcement patrols, and encouraging public participation in the Metropolitan Police Community Roadwatch scheme.

Committee Memberships and Other Appointments

The Council is scheduled to confirm committee memberships, including Councillor Andrew Thorp serving on the Licensing Committee and Councillor Shyam Lennon on the Health and Wellbeing Board. The members of the Conservation and Heritage Advisory Board are also listed for confirmation.

Nominations to Outside Bodies

Changes to nominations for outside bodies are to be confirmed, including Councillor Pat Gregory replacing Councillor Alara Ayyildiz on the Learning Disabilities Partnership Board, and Councillor Bambos Charalambous replacing Councillor James Bone on the Royal Free Hospital Trust.

Scrutiny Annual Work Programmes 2026/27

The Council is asked to approve the Scrutiny Annual Work Programmes for 2026/27 for the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and its four standing panels: Culture and Environment; Healthy and Safe Communities; Thriving Children and Young People; and Housing and Regeneration. These programmes outline the topics to be scrutinised throughout the year.