The Sutton Local Committee met on 12 February 2026, hearing updates from local charitable organisations and discussing public questions regarding local development sites. The committee also received an update on housing services within the borough.

Community Showcase: St Helier Charitable Foundation

Margaret Thomas and Jean Crosby, trustees of the St Helier Charitable Foundation (SHCF), presented an overview of the organisation's work. SHCF operates within the St Helier Estate and across the London Borough of Sutton, aiming to improve residents' quality of life and alleviate poverty by providing information and support. The trustees highlighted their regular events, including the St Helier Festival, Easter trail, and Christmas market, as well as various social projects. They explained that funding for free events is secured through grants from bodies such as the National Lottery and the Local Authority, alongside sponsorships, and that donations can be made via their website or by contacting the charity directly. SHCF collaborates with other organisations and uses social media platforms like Facebook, alongside established community contacts, to advertise events and engage with residents.

Citizens Advice Sutton

Steve Triner, Chief Executive Officer of Citizens Advice Sutton (CAS), provided an update on the services offered by the charity. CAS provides advice to Sutton residents on a range of issues, including welfare benefits, housing, and debt. Mr Triner shared local data on service users and outlined how CAS supports individuals in Sutton. He mentioned that CAS employs approximately 20 paid staff. Mr Triner encouraged attendees to undertake the Advice: The Basics training, designed to equip participants with a foundational understanding of welfare benefits, housing, and debt, enabling them to identify those in need of advice and direct them to appropriate support services. He noted that ideally, each training session would have around 15 attendees and that refresher sessions would be beneficial. Information was also provided on how residents can volunteer with CAS, with interested individuals encouraged to email the organisation. Ideal volunteer candidates are expected to possess strong communication and written skills, be capable of managing clients in high-stress situations, and be willing to make a long-term commitment.

Public Questions

Two public questions were submitted to the committee, with written responses provided in advance and published on the council's website. A supplementary question was raised by a representative from the Burnell and Lewis Residents Association concerning the land registry for the Prince Regents Quarter, noting that homes within the building appeared to have already been sold. Council officers confirmed that extensive due diligence had been completed on the development, ensuring it met all necessary regulations and quality standards. An offer has been made by the Council, and they are awaiting a formal response from the receiver. Officers agreed to follow up on the land registry query after the meeting.

A question was also raised regarding Throwley Yard. Officers reported that the marketing process for the site had concluded, resulting in six expressions of interest. The bidding parties are currently undergoing assessment and due diligence, with an update expected soon. Officers agreed to provide a response regarding the likely timescale for a new tenant to occupy Throwley Yard following the meeting.

Sutton Housing Partnership Update

An update was provided on the activities and investments of the Sutton Housing Partnership concerning council properties within the Sutton Local Committee's boundaries. The committee discussed rights of succession for council properties and efforts being made to improve resident satisfaction with the housing service.