Councillor Alastair Binnie-Lubbock has been appointed as the Chair of Hackney Council's Constitution Committee. The appointment was noted at a meeting of the committee held on Tuesday, 21 July 2026.
Councillor Binnie-Lubbock, who serves as the Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Planning and Inclusive Neighbourhoods, will lead the committee in its crucial role of reviewing and proposing changes to the Council's Constitution to ensure it remains fit for purpose. The committee can also set its own work programme and invite Councillors or Officers to speak on particular items under consideration.
The committee also noted the nomination of Councillor Rolf Dekker as Vice-Chair, pending approval by Full Council. Councillor Dekker's nomination is for the Municipal Year 2026/27 and is scheduled for approval at the Full Council meeting on 28 July 2026. These appointments were initially agreed at the Annual Meeting of Council on 28 May 2026.
Looking ahead, the Constitution Committee is expected to address significant constitutional matters, including proposed changes to the Planning Committee's terms of reference. These changes are a direct response to new legislation, the Planning and Infrastructure Act 2025, and involve elevating the Planning Sub-Committee to a standalone committee and delegating certain decision-making powers.
The Constitution Committee is a non-executive body established by Full Council to discharge regulatory functions. Its role in scrutinising and recommending amendments to the Council's Constitution highlights its importance in maintaining an effective and up-to-date governance framework for Hackney Council. Further details on the committee's proceedings can be found in the Public reports pack for the meeting.
