Redbridge Council's Overview and Scrutiny Committee has raised concerns regarding the handling times for anti-social behaviour (ASB) cases within council housing, with complex situations taking an average of 300 days to resolve.

During a meeting on Monday, September 14, 2026, councillors heard that while there is a nominal target of 32 days to resolve ASB cases, these extended timelines are due to factors such as welfare considerations for all parties involved. Ben Tomlinson, Head of Housing Strategy, Quality Assurance, and author of the report, explained that these complex cases can take significantly longer due to the need to consider the welfare of people in the perpetrator's household, not just the perpetrator themselves, and any children involved.

Chart showing the projected decrease in available school places in Redbridge secondary provision, with spare capacity reducing to approximately 4% by 2032/33.
Chart showing the projected decrease in available school places in Redbridge secondary provision, with spare capacity reducing to approximately 4% by 2032/33.Source: Overview and Scrutiny Committee papers, 14 September 2026

Councillor Milli Richards Clack highlighted the frustration this can cause residents, emphasizing the need for clearer timelines and communication regarding case progression. Councillor Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning, acknowledged these concerns and explained that the council's strategy for balancing welfare considerations with the need for timely resolution is a balanced approach. He stated that the team deals with nuisance and ASB neutrally, offering advice and intervention. Andrew Billini, Director of Housing, further elaborated that eviction for harassment would generally be grounds for finding someone intentionally homeless, and that a balanced approach was being taken. The ASB policy also emphasizes Proportionate responses using the least intrusive intervention necessary to resolve issues and Fairness and impartiality treating all residents with fairness and respect.

Residents experiencing prolonged ASB issues while their cases are being processed can receive support. The ASB policy states that the Council will Provide advice and support to residents affected by ASB and Offer referrals to specialist services (e.g., Social Care, Reach Out, mental health or substance misuse services).

The report and related documents can be found in the public reports pack for the Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on September 14, 2026. Public reports pack 14th Sep 2026