Newham Council Stratford One Complaint Details Withheld Under EIR

The ICO reviewed a complaint against the London Borough of Newham regarding the withholding of information relating to complaints about Stratford One student accommodation in East London. The Council invoked EIR regulation 12(5)(b), which allows withholding information if disclosure would adversely affect the course of justice. The Commissioner determined the Council correctly applied this exemption and dismissed the complaint.

For affected parties seeking information about local government complaints or student accommodation concerns, this decision confirms that public authorities may rely on EIR regulation 12(5)(b) to withhold information where disclosure could prejudice legal proceedings or the administration of justice. Requesters should note that not all information requests must be fulfilled, and exemptions under environmental information regulations provide authorities with discretion in certain circumstances.