Merton Council convened on 19 November 2025, addressing a range of community and strategic issues. Key decisions included the adoption of the Merton Draft Statement of Licensing Policy 2026-2031, and approval of the Treasury Management Annual Report. The council also discussed community forum reports, various notices of motion, and financial monitoring.

Community Forum Reports

The council reviewed reports from several community forums, including:

• Raynes Park Community Forum: Councillor John Oliver chaired a meeting at Raynes Park Library attended by over 40 residents and three councillors. Discussions included concerns about littering at bus stops on Sydney Road, a proposed crossing on Bushey Road, and issues with bins at Whitfield Court. There was also an update on the Motspur Park Gasholders development planning application, with concerns raised about the impact on local amenities and green spaces. PC Doug Walter and PCSO James Cushing provided a police update, addressing shoplifting, dangerous dogs, and road traffic enforcement. Elizabeth Lane from Friends of Raynes Park Station shared updates on the station's achievements and challenges, including plant theft and trespassing. John Scales, CEO of Raynes Park Vale Football Club, outlined the club's community work and future plans.

• Mitcham Community Forum: Councillor Gill Manly chaired the meeting at Vestry Hall, with an update from Mark Warren, Mitcham Town Centre Manager, on town centre improvements, including the new Merton 60 noticeboard, the Armfield Station mural at Armfield Crescent play area, and the Mitcham bandstand. Residents raised concerns about the closure of Raleigh Gardens car park and the proposed Majestic Way development by Clarion. Pat Yeboah from Merton Healthwatch provided an update on the Armed Forces Veteran project.

• Morden Community Forum: Councillor Shuile Syeda chaired the meeting at Merton Civic Centre. Concerns were raised about low attendance and methods to improve community engagement. Discussions covered safety issues at Morden Station, fly-tipping near Iceland Supermarket on Aberconway Road, and parking at Sainsbury's on London Road. There was an update on the Morden Moments Design competition and the Remaking Morden programme.

• Wimbledon Community Forum: Councillor Tony Reiss chaired the meeting at Mansel Road Centre, Trinity Church. Craig Hurring from Love Wimbledon provided an update on town centre activities and Christmas events. Discussions included the shortening of bus lanes on Queen's Road and the Heartfelt Walk redevelopment. Paul Kohler MP discussed transport issues, railway safety, and the Planning and Infrastructure Bill. Christopher Coombe from Save Wimbledon Park shared an update on their campaign actions related to the AELTC (All England Lawn Tennis Club) and Wimbledon Park.

Notices of Motion

Several notices of motion were debated:

• Liberal Democrat Motion: Details of this motion are not available in the provided text.
• Conservative Motion: Details of this motion are not available in the provided text.
• Labour Motion: Details of this motion are not available in the provided text.

Treasury Management Annual Report

The council approved the Treasury Management Annual Report. This report provides a review of the council's investment and borrowing activities, ensuring they align with the council's risk appetite and financial regulations. Treasury management is the process by which local authorities manage their cash flows, borrowing, and investments¹.

Statement of Licensing Policy

The council adopted the Merton Draft Statement of Licensing Policy 2026-2031, which sets out the principles the council will apply when making decisions on applications for licenses, such as those for the sale of alcohol or for entertainment venues. The policy aims to balance the needs of businesses with the protection of residents from potential negative impacts².

Financial Monitoring Report

The council reviewed the Financial Monitoring Report 2025/26 - Period 5, which included updates on The Merton Legacy Fund. This report provides an overview of the council's financial performance against its budget, highlighting any areas of concern or overspending. The Merton Legacy Fund refers to funds set aside for specific projects or initiatives, often resulting from the sale of assets or unexpected income.

Appointment of Director of Resources

The council approved the appointment of the Director of Resources. The Director of Resources is a key strategic role, responsible for overseeing the council's financial management, human resources, and other corporate services³.

Appointment of Independent Person

The council discussed the appointment of an Independent Person. Independent Persons are appointed to provide advice and oversight on complaints against councillors, ensuring transparency and impartiality in the council's ethical standards⁴.

Approval of Absence

The council approved absences under Section 85 of the Local Government Act 1972. This section allows councillors to be absent from meetings for specific reasons, with the council's approval.

Changes to Membership of Committees

The council addressed changes to the membership of committees and related matters. These changes ensure that committees have the appropriate skills and representation to carry out their functions effectively.

Petitions

The council considered petitions submitted by residents on various local issues. Petitions are a way for residents to raise concerns and request action from the council on matters of public interest.