Here's a summary of the Lewisham Council Mayor and Cabinet meeting:

The meeting addressed key housing policy updates, financial performance, and infrastructure projects. Approvals were granted for revised housing policies, contract extensions, and budget allocations, with a focus on regulatory compliance, service improvements, and sustainable development.

• Housing Policy Updates
• Repairs, Disrepair and Damp and Mould Policies: The cabinet approved updates to the council's housing policies, including revisions to the Anti-Social Behaviour Policy, the Clear Corridors Policy, and the introduction of new policies for Lodgers and Subtenants, Reasonable Adjustments, and Tenancy agreements. These changes aim to enhance transparency, consistency, and legal compliance across housing services, particularly in light of Awaab's Law. Councillor Will Cooper, Cabinet Member for Better Homes, Neighbourhoods and Homelessness, emphasised that the changes do not significantly alter the policy direction of the council, but formalise current practices. The updated policies aim to comply with the Equality Act 2010¹ and the Regulator of Social Housing's tenancy standard.
• To comply with Awaab's Law, the cabinet approved a revised damp and mould policy, a repairs policy, and a new disrepair policy. The damp and mould policy focuses on strict timeframes for addressing damp and mould, including emergency repairs within 24 hours. The repairs policy incorporates Awaab's Law requirements for Category 1 hazards². The disrepair policy standardises procedures and aligns with legal standards.
• Appointment of Director to Catford Regeneration Partnership Limited
• The cabinet approved the appointment of Shola Ojo as a director of the Catford Regeneration Partnership Limited (CRPL), replacing Nick Penny. This appointment aims to support the management and regeneration of assets in Catford, furthering the council's economic, social, and environmental goals.
• Financial Performance and Strategy
• Period 4 Financial Monitoring Report: The cabinet noted the Period 4 Financial Monitoring Report, which set out the council's current financial forecast. The General Fund showed an underspend, mainly due to early delivery of budget savings. The Dedicated Schools Grant had an overspend on the high needs block, while the Housing Revenue Account was projected to balance at year-end. The cabinet also approved writing off a £98,000 Adult Social Care debt and a £52,000 business rates debt.
• Contract Extensions and Procurements
• Young Persons Supported Housing Contract: The cabinet approved a one-year extension of the contract with Single Homeless Project (SHP) for the Lewisham Young Persons Accommodation-Based Support Service, valued at £585,370. This service provides accommodation and support to care leavers and homeless young people. Councillor Paul Bell, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care, highlighted the positive impact of the service, including continuity of care, improved pathway planning, and co-production with young people.
• Housing Repairs and Maintenance Contracts: The cabinet approved multiple procurement exercises and contract awards for housing repairs, maintenance, and capital works. This aims to expand and diversify the council's supply chain, improve capacity, quality assurance, and value for money in delivering services across Lewisham's housing stock.
• Building Security and Related Services: The cabinet approved triggering a two-year extension period in relation to the council's buildings.
• Infrastructure and Development Projects
• Myatt Garden Primary School Roof Remediation: The cabinet approved procuring a capital works contract to remove reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) from the roof of Myatt Garden Primary School. The structural works are fully funded by the Department for Education (DfE) and will not affect the Children and Young People budget.
• Building for Lewisham Programme - Mayfield: The cabinet approved the next stage in the delivery of the Mayfield scheme, a project that will provide 64 new homes.
• Lewisham Library Operator Procurement: The cabinet approved procuring a single provider or lead provider consortium to operate a concession for a full repair and maintenance lease, including operational management of the building and provision of a cafe and business hub/workspace at Lewisham Library for a minimum of five years, with an option to extend for up to a further five years. Councillor Sakina Sheikh, Cabinet Member for Culture, Communities and Sports, expressed pride in Lewisham's libraries and highlighted the innovative approach to operating the revamped Lewisham Library.
• Surrey Canal Station Update: The cabinet noted the progress on the Surrey Canal station project and approved the use of Strategic Community Infrastructure Levy (SCIL) to support its delivery. Councillor James-J Walsh, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Regeneration and Planning, noted that the station is an essential infrastructure project that will significantly improve transport connectivity in the area.
• Other Business
• Lewisham Homes Business Plan: The cabinet approved Lewisham Homes Limited's business plan for 2025/26, which aligns with the council's corporate priorities and supports housing delivery.
• Better Care Fund Agreement: The cabinet approved entering into a Section 75 agreement with the South East London Integrated Care Board for the Better Care Fund 2025-26, securing £53 million in funding for health and social care services.
• Housing Ombudsman Service Complaint Handling Code Annual Submission: The cabinet approved the annual submission for the Housing Ombudsman Service Complaint Handling Code, addressing challenges and service improvements in complaints handling. Councillor Cooper acknowledged that the council has not historically met the high standards expected in housing services and outlined improvement plans to ensure residents receive responsive and effective service.