The Cabinet of Barking and Dagenham Council met on Tuesday 21 April 2026 to discuss several key issues, approving plans for a new multi-sports facility at the May & Baker Sports Club, a refreshed Carers Charter, and the procurement of new refuse collection vehicles. Decisions were also made regarding emergency accommodation for homeless households, vehicle parts, and electrical testing services.

May & Baker Sports Club Multi-Sports Proposal

The Cabinet approved in principle the development of a multi-sports hub at the May & Baker Sports Club in Eastbrook. This follows the insolvency of the May and Baker Community Trust in 2024, which saw the freehold of the property revert to the Council. The proposal aims to preserve and enhance the existing sporting provision, with a focus on developing 3G pitches and improved multi-sport facilities. The project is expected to attract approximately £7 million in external investment through the Football Foundation's Hubs Programme. The approval is subject to a feasibility assessment and confirmation of funding. The Council will access the Football Foundation's procurement framework for the design and build of the 3G pitches and the UK Leisure Framework for the pavilion. Councillor Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Community Leadership & Engagement, presented the report, highlighting the potential to support grassroots football, including women's, girls', and disability football, and to create a significant sporting enterprise for the borough.

Carers Charter Refresh and Action Plan 2026-2036

The Cabinet agreed to the refreshed Carers Charter 2026-2036 and its associated Action Plan. This document, co-produced with unpaid carers and key stakeholders, outlines priorities under four main themes: working together for carers, carers' well-being and employment, supporting young carers, and carers in the wider community. Councillor Maureen Worby, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Health and Housing, presented the report, emphasising the importance of recognising the vital work of unpaid carers. The charter includes I statements reflecting carers' priorities, such as access to practical help, breaks from caring responsibilities, and recognition as equal partners in care. The action plan will be refreshed annually. Councillor Jane Jones, Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care & Disabilities, welcomed the focus on young carers, highlighting the importance of extra support in schools.

Contract for Emergency Accommodation for Homeless Households

The Cabinet retrospectively approved the procurement of Bed and Breakfast (B&B) and self-contained 'nightly paid' accommodation for homeless households between October 2025 and April 2026. They also approved a waiver to continue this spot purchasing of accommodation until July 2027, while a strategic review of the Council's temporary accommodation portfolio is completed. Councillor Maureen Worby explained that this is necessary to fulfil the Council's statutory duty to provide emergency accommodation, particularly for families with children, who cannot be housed in B&B for more than six weeks. The report highlighted a significant decrease in B&B expenditure from £485,000 in October 2025 to £89,000 in January 2026, but acknowledged the ongoing need for flexible arrangements. The Council aims to move families out of B&B and into more suitable self-contained accommodation.

Contract for Replacement of Refuse Collection Vehicles

The Cabinet agreed to proceed with the procurement of replacement refuse collection vehicles (RCVs). The current fleet, purchased in 2019, is nearing the end of its operational life, with significant corrosion leading to costly repairs and operational disruptions. The plan is to procure a single type of vehicle: Euro 6 compliant diesel-fuelled 26-tonne RCVs with rear-wheel steering. The estimated cost for 23 vehicles is £5,750,000, with a lead time of 9 to 18 months for procurement and delivery. Councillor Kashif Haroon, Cabinet Member for Public Realm & Climate Change, presented the report, stressing the importance of these vehicles for fulfilling the Council's statutory duty to collect domestic waste and recycling and contributing to the borough's cleaner neighbourhoods.

Contract for the Supply of Vehicle Parts, Ancillaries and Other Associated Equipment

The Cabinet agreed to proceed with the procurement of a four-year contract for the supply of vehicle parts, ancillaries, and associated equipment. This contract will consolidate the Council's needs for its fleet maintenance workshop, ensuring access to parts for a wide range of vehicles. The estimated contract value is £1,250,000 over four years. The procurement will be conducted through further competition from the YPO Framework 1240. Councillor Kashif Haroon noted that this is essential for the successful operation of the workshop and to prevent disruptions to statutory services.

Procurement of Electrical Testing Services

The Cabinet agreed to proceed with sourcing contractors through the SEC Framework Agreement to undertake electrical testing across approximately 17,938 domestic dwellings and 942 communal areas. This four-year contract, with an estimated value of £6.329 million, will include remedial works identified from Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) to ensure compliance with safety regulations. Councillor Maureen Worby highlighted the importance of this for ensuring the safety of residents and compliance with building safety regulations. The procurement will involve a mini-competition via the SEC Framework, with a tender evaluation weighted at 60% price, 30% quality, and 10% social value.