Cllr Saima Ashraf

The Cabinet decided to approve the procurement strategy for Infant Feeding Services on 13 October 2026. The Cabinet authorised the Strategic Director of People, in consultation with others, to conduct the procurement and award the contract. This includes agreeing to proceed with the procurement in accordance with the report's strategy.

The Cabinet of Barking and Dagenham Council approved the appointment of CREATIVE BARKING & DAGENHAM as operator and the terms of a 30-year lease for the Galleon Arts Centre on 13 October 2026. The Cabinet authorised the Strategic Director of Inclusive Growth and Place, in consultation with others, to enter into the lease and necessary agreements.

The Cabinet of Barking and Dagenham Council approved the procurement strategy for fleet vehicles on 13 October 2026. The decision allows the Council to proceed with purchasing replacement vehicles and authorises the Director of Public Realm to conduct the procurement and award contracts.

The Cabinet of Barking and Dagenham Council approved the revised Empty Property Policy on 13 October 2026. The policy aims to bring long-term vacant properties back into use by enforcing repairs and reducing anti-social behaviour. It includes measures such as Council Tax premiums on long-term empty properties and second homes, and provides guidance on VAT incentives for renovations.

The Cabinet decided to note the key highlights and issues relating to Council-owned companies in the first quarter of 2026/27 and the ongoing scrutiny provided by the Shareholder Panel. This decision was made on 13/10/2026.