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Hello Everyone, With the significance of Ramadan and Lent deeply known for so many in our borough, many of our residents are taking the time to reflect and focus on their faith. Together, these observances remind us of the diversity and shared values that make our borough such a special place. These times allow for generosity, togetherness, reflection, and renewal – so what a blessed period this is. At the Council, we continue working hard to progress Newham’s balanced budget for 2026/27. The proposals will be presented to Full Council on 26 February for final approval, and residents are very welcome to attend. While we all recognise the significant financial pressures facing councils across the country, our budget demonstrates that we are doing all we can to deliver for residents and build a stronger, fairer Newham. One of the highlights of the week was attending a reception at 10 Downing Street to discuss how Newham is leading the way in using Artificial Intelligence to support our temporary accommodation (TA) response. AI is changing the world around us, and we are determined to shape that change responsibly - using new technology to deliver smarter, faster, and better services for everyone who lives and works in Newham. We will continue working closely with the government, other boroughs, and partners such as the London Office of Technology and Innovation to ensure safety, ethics, and public benefit remain at the heart of our approach. On the same theme, I’m proud that Newham Council has been nominated in the Data for Change category at the Women in Data Awards - a fantastic recognition of the innovative work we are doing to support women and girls learn about AI and get skilled! The week ended on a real high note as I joined residents and families to open the newly refurbished play area at Beckton District Park South. Seeing children playing - and the joy of watching our youngest residents explore, laugh, and make new memories - is a powerful reminder of why investing in our public spaces matters. But what makes this project particularly important is how it came about. This is part of our long-term Beckton Parks Master Plan which was shaped by residents over months of consultation and engagement. Local people told us what they wanted to see, and that the partnership between the Council and the community has guided every step of the process. As Mayor, I’m proud of our investment in Beckton’s parks, creating a new community hub - supported by external funding, including around £1.5 million secured for place-making and community infrastructure. I was also pleased to see the progress at the Will Thorne Pavilion and look forward to it becoming a vibrant space where friendships grow, opportunities flourish, and community life thrives for years to come - after it opens in this summer! Until next week, stay well and take care of each other – and enjoy your weekend.
Best Wishes, Rokhsana Fiaz OBE Mayor of Newham Follow what I am up to via X/Twitter/Insta: @rokhsanafiaz |
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It could be Newham... Heritage Centre gets lotto cash
Newham Council has secured a £2.7m grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to complete the transformation of the Grade II-listed Canning Town Old Library into the new Newham Heritage Centre.
The project will return the much‑loved building to community use, celebrating its deep social and working‑class ties to east London.
Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz OBE said the investment reflects Newham’s belief that heritage is “a living foundation for our future,” highlighting the combined Heritage Fund grant and government funding that will revitalise the landmark for residents.
Stuart McLeod of The National Lottery Heritage Fund praised the initiative for unlocking Newham’s rich stories and safeguarding historic collections for future generations.
The new centre will host exhibitions, community-led curation, digital programmes and skills opportunities, offering residents creative and educational activities while expanding access to over 400,000 archival items.
Learn more about the Newham Heritage Centre plans > |
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| Projects shortlisted for 2026 Pineapple Awards
Newham is celebrating national recognition after five major regeneration and placemaking projects were shortlisted for the 2026 Pineapple Awards, which honour initiatives improving communities and urban life.
They are among 129 shortlisted projects across the UK, ahead of live presentations during the Festival of Pineapples from 24 - 26 February, with winners to be announced on April 22.
Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz OBE praised the achievement as a tribute to residents and partners shaping the borough’s future, highlighting regeneration that delivers safer streets, greener spaces and the community facilities people need.
The shortlisted schemes include work at Carpenters Estate, improvements to the Lower Lea Crossing, the Canning Town and Cody Road Strategic Regeneration Framework, upgrades to Queen’s Market and Queen’s Square, and the Demonstration Modular Home showcased in the Royal Docks.
The recognition underscores Newham’s commitment to creating better homes, stronger neighbourhoods and lasting community value.
Find more details of the five projects shortlisted > |
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Newham enhances Carers Emergency Card scheme
Newham Council has updated its Carers Emergency Card scheme to give unpaid carers greater reassurance that their loved ones will be supported if an emergency prevents them from providing care.
The scheme, which was devised with the Council’s Resident Advisory Group, enables carers to create an emergency plan outlining how the person they care for should be supported if they suddenly become unable to help.
Carers receive a free card containing a unique registration number and a 24/7 emergency telephone line, allowing rapid activation of their plan.
Newham Network manages the process, contacting nominated individuals or arranging short-term care when needed.
Find more information about the Carers Emergency Card scheme > |
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| Make an impact on Newham’s housing We’re now looking for more passionate and enthusiastic Newham Council Housing Tenants or Leaseholders to join the Newham Housing Resident Challenge Board.
It’s a fantastic opportunity to help improve and make a significant impact on the housing services we deliver to residents across the borough.
You’ll get to scrutinise our progress, challenge us where needed, contribute meaningful recommendations to improving our services, and connect with other residents who are equally passionate as you.
If you have any questions email the team at getinvolved.housing@newham.gov.uk .
Find out more about the Resident Challenge Board > |
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New Food Waste Champions ready to help you save money
Local volunteers are stepping up to help tackle food waste in Newham after completing the latest Train the Trainer: Love Food Hate Waste Champions programme, delivered by the Council’s Waste Reduction Team in partnership with Nutrition Kitchen.
Participants received certificates from Cllr John Whitworth, Cabinet Member for Air Quality, Climate Emergency & Environment, recognising their achievement and are now equipped with practical skills to help residents save money and reduce waste.
Training covered food hygiene, meal planning and storage, understanding date labels, portion control, and creative ways to use leftovers.
Each new Champion will deliver at least one workshop in Newham over the next year. In 2025, 255 residents have already taken part – and we’re excited to grow the scheme even further.
Learn about the Love Food... programme > |
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| Meet the Council's housing team face to face
If you are a council housing tenant or leaseholder in Newham and have a question for the housing team then here’s your chance to see them face to face.
They regularly hold in person drop-in sessions for tenants and leaseholders at local venues.
They are here to help and listen.
The next event is on Wednesday, February 25, from 2-4pm at Plaistow Community Centre, 63 Queens Road West, E13 0PE.
They hope to see you there.
Find out more about our Housing Team drop-in events > |
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Our Newham: Empowering residents and businesses with confidential advice and support
Our Newham is the council’s service exclusively for Newham residents supporting you across five programmes: Money, Work, Business & Enterprise, Learning & Skills and Youth.
From helping residents maximise their income and kickstarting career journeys to supporting local businesses and start-ups, find out how Our Newham can help give you the boost you need at: www.newham.gov.uk/ournewham or come and visit us at 112-118 The Grove, E15 1NS
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Copyright © 2026 London Borough of Newham, All rights reserved. |
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Our mailing address is: London Borough of Newham, Newham Dockside, 1000 Dockside Road, London, E16 2QU. |
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