Hackney Council is set to review its corporate assets as part of its ongoing efforts to improve services and financial sustainability, according to discussions at the Skills, Economy and Growth Scrutiny Commission meeting on Monday, 7 July 2025.
The decision follows a recommendation from the Corporate Peer Challenge Review, with the commission planning to examine the council's assets in relation to this recommendation at its first meeting in June 2025. Councillor Clare Potter, Chair of the Scrutiny Commission, highlighted the importance of this review, also suggesting that the commission assess the Executive’s progress on fulfilling commitments made to residents in 2022 related to supporting Hackney's recovery, a green deal for Hackney, and thriving high streets and neighbourhoods.
This review comes as the council faces increasing financial pressures and the need to make the most efficient use of its resources. The Public reports pack for the meeting outlined the need for the council to be financially sustainable and to transform services to become a modern, innovative and creative organisation.
During the meeting, cabinet members provided updates on their respective areas, highlighting achievements, challenges, and priorities for the final year of the administration. Some key points included:
Councillor Chris Kennedy (Health, Adult Social Care, Voluntary Sector and Culture): Reported upskilling library staff and high resident satisfaction, but faces challenges delivering major investment in all libraries due to resource constraints and asbestos discoveries. His priority is re-engaging in discussions about the St Leonard's Hospital site and envisioning a mixed-use development.
Councillor Joe Walker (Strengthening Neighbourhoods): Noted successful consultations with the voluntary community sector (VCS) but faces a 33% reduction in funding for the grants programme, leading to difficult decisions. His priority is reviewing and resetting the council's relationship with the VCS, without retreating from its responsibilities.
Councillor Susan Fajano-Thomas (Regulatory Services): Announced approval of Hackney's first evening and night-time economy strategy, with ongoing focus on licensing, the night-time economy, and markets.
Councillor Carole Williams (Employment, HR, Inequalities): Highlighted Hackney Works' success in securing jobs, work experience, and training opportunities. Challenges remain with the Project Search programme at Homerton Hospital and Hackney Sixth Form College, and ensuring the longevity and sustainability of the supported internship programme.
Councillor Sarah Young (Climate Change, Environment and Transport): Celebrated planting over 5,000 trees and implementing sustainable urban drainage systems. However, while recycling rates have increased, the overall amount of waste produced has not decreased.
Councillor Guy Nicholson (Regeneration and Inclusive Economy): Noted significant investments in Hackney Central, including UK government funding for public realm improvements and the transformation of the town hall square.
Councillor Sam Pallas (Inclusive Economy): Reported that Hackney Impact has supported 339 businesses, 36% of which are black and global majority businesses, and created 115 jobs. A key challenge is ensuring that growth benefits all residents.
The Skills, Economy and Growth Scrutiny Commission will continue to meet to discuss these and other important issues facing Hackney. The Draft Work Programme 2025/26 outlines the planned topics for future meetings.
