Hackney's Cabinet has rejected proposals to sell off two council-owned properties, opting instead to explore community-led alternatives.
The decision, made at a meeting on Monday, July 20, 2026, means that the properties at 28-32 Ellingfort Road and 77 Brooksby's Walk will not be sold for commercial purposes.
Instead, the Cabinet has committed to a time-limited process to evaluate credible, community-led proposals for the sites. This approach aligns with the administration's election manifesto, which emphasised the importance of placing assets into community ownership and public hands.
The Cabinet's decision was made following public engagement and a subsequent review of the proposed disposals. The move aims to address the council's financial pressures while prioritising community benefit and local control over valuable assets.
The council is currently facing significant financial pressures, including a forecast overspend of £5.4 million on its General Fund. This is largely driven by increased cost pressures in children's services, particularly concerning Special Educational Needs (SEND), and the continuing demand for adult social care, as detailed in the 'Overall Financial Position Report - May 2026'.
