Custom House
Newham Council approved a £16.6 million cost increase for its Affordable Homes programme, including Custom House, in November 2025.
Newham Council approved contract variations totalling £16.6 million across nine projects in its Affordable Homes for Newham programme, which includes the Custom House scheme, in November 2025. This decision, made by the Corporate Director of Inclusive Economy & Housing, addressed cost increases due to build cost inflation, market volatility, and delivery complexity. A report to the Cabinet in September 2025 noted no additional funds were requested. The decision is subject to call-in.
The council is adopting a 'plan slowly, build fast' approach to streamline future developments and increase the supply of genuinely affordable housing. This strategy aims to reduce the number of households in temporary accommodation. The Custom House project is part of Newham Council's affordable housing scheme, providing 95 homes.
Key facts
- Newham Council approved contract variations totalling £16.6 million across nine affordable housing projects in November 2025. Source 1 Source 2
- The decision was made by the Corporate Director of Inclusive Economy & Housing, Paul Kitson. Source 1 Source 2
- The cost increases were attributed to build cost inflation, market volatility, and delivery complexity. Source
- The decision to approve contract variations is subject to call-in. Source
- Newham Council's Affordable Homes for Newham programme aims to reduce 7,491 households in temporary accommodation. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.