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Weekly updates
Islington: Alcohol Licences, Youth Safety, & Council Decisions
This week in Islington:
Alcohol Licence Granted Despite Cumulative Impact Concerns
The Licensing Sub Committee B granted a new premises licence to KB Home Store on Chapel Market, permitting the retail sale of alcohol for off-site consumption from 8am to 11pm daily. See the full decision here.
- Cumulative Impact Area: The store is located within the King's Cross Cumulative Impact Area, where there is
a rebuttable presumption that applications for the grant or variation of premises licences which are likely to add to the existing cumulative impact will normally be refused
. - Resident Representations: The committee considered two representations from local residents.
- Conditions Imposed: The licence was granted subject to conditions including CCTV, an incident log, staff training, and restrictions on the sale of high-strength alcohol and single cans.
The decision highlights the tension between supporting local businesses and managing the potential negative impacts of alcohol availability in areas already experiencing cumulative impacts.
Late-Night Terrace Use Approved for Archway Club
The Licensing Sub Committee B also approved a variation of premises licence for The Archway, allowing extended use of its smoking terrace until 1am on Sundays to Wednesdays and 2am on Thursdays to Saturdays. See the full decision here.
- Capacity Increase: The variation allows the terrace to accommodate up to 60 people when the rest of the venue is closed.
- Resident Representation: The Licensing Authority withdrew its representation, leaving one representation from a resident.
- Conditions Agreed: The applicant agreed to conditions including a Noise Management Plan, Acoustic Survey, and SIA operative for up to 60 patrons.
The sub-committee noted that the premises falls within the Junction cumulative impact area and took into consideration Licensing Policies 2 and 3.
This decision raises concerns about potential noise and disturbance for local residents, balanced against the applicant's desire to utilize the terrace area when the main club is not in operation.
Newington Green Café Granted Alcohol Licence Amid Noise Concerns
The Licensing Sub Committee B granted a new premises licence to Lot 103 on Newington Green Road, allowing the sale of alcohol on and off the premises from 11am to 11pm daily. See the full decision here.
- Resident Concerns: A resident expressed concerns that the premises next door had become a popular spot for young people who were loud, and that granting another licence would increase noise and disturb residents, including those with mental health issues and physical disabilities.
- Applicant's Intentions: The applicant explained that the licence was for a café, which would serve a glass of wine and nibbles, and the intention was to open until approximately 8pm.
- Licence Granted: The committee granted the licence, noting that the hours sought were within the hours specified in licensing policy 6.
This decision highlights the challenges of balancing the needs of local businesses with the concerns of residents regarding noise and disturbance, particularly in areas with a high density of housing.
Council Discusses Constitution, Allowances, and Urgent Contract Decision
Islington Council met to discuss updates to its constitution, changes to the members' allowances scheme, and a report regarding a recent urgent decision. See the full meeting transcript here.
- Constitution Update: The council discussed proposed amendments to its constitution, including updating references to officer roles and allowing for the co-option of a non-voting independent member to the Pensions Committee.
- Members' Allowances: The council considered changes to the Members' Allowances Scheme, including payment of a standard meeting attendance allowance to the new co-opted Independent Member to be appointed to the Pensions Committee.
- Urgent Decision: The council reviewed a report regarding a decision made using urgency procedures on 8 September 2025 by the Corporate Director Health and Social Care, concerning the community equipment service contract award to Essex Cares Limited.
The report explained that the decision was considered urgent because the current contract for the community equipment service was ending due to the insolvency of NRS Healthcare.
Youth Council and Public Raise Key Issues
The council meeting also included questions from the Youth Council, members of the public, and councillors, covering a range of important topics. See the full meeting transcript here.
- Youth Council: Questions from the Youth Council covered topics such as plans for an Islington Pride event, improving youth safety, and ensuring young people learn about democracy.
- Public Questions: Members of the public raised concerns about illegal delivery-only kitchen hubs, social rent homes, air quality, dark kitchens, the 'Boycott the anti-boycott bill', and the redevelopment of the Pavilion in Wray Crescent Park.
- Councillor Questions: Councillors asked questions about the consequences of opposing new council housing, support for families on Wedmore Estate, the Elthorne development, support for vulnerable families, the impact of moving the Executive meeting to 5pm, A Level and GCSE results, commemorative activities for the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, events for National Care Leavers week, and Thames Water infrastructure failures.
Council Debates Cuts to PIP and Recognition of CWU
The council considered motions to oppose cuts to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and to recognize the Communication Workers Union (CWU) and the local campaign to save Upper Street Post Office. See the full meeting transcript here.
- Oppose Cuts to PIP: The motion called for the council to continue to engage with government, work with disabled people and advocacy groups, support Islington residents affected by the changes, and continue to lobby government for fairer funding.
- Recognition of CWU: The motion called for the council to publicly thank and commend the CWU, recognize and celebrate the efforts of local councillors and community campaigners, and reaffirm its commitment to defend local public services.
Council Supports Private Renters and Social Value in Procurement
The council considered motions to support private renters in Islington and to embed social value and compliance in procurement. See the full meeting transcript here.
- Supporting Private Renters: The motion called for the council to defend and expand licensing schemes, enforce the Islington PRS Charter, campaign for stronger national reforms, boost tenant engagement, and publish an annual report tracking rental values, enforcement action, and tenant engagement.
- Embedding Social Value: The motion called for the council to reaffirm its commitment to embedding social value at the heart of all procurement activity, implement the CRES recommendations, ensure compliance with the Procurement Act 2023 and NPPS, publish an annual Social Value Report, champion social value across London, and advocate nationally for procurement reform.
Committee Examines School Performance, Suspensions, and Youth Justice
The Children and Young People Scrutiny Committee discussed Islington's Youth Justice Plan, reviewed performance data, and considered provisional school results. See the full meeting transcript here.
- School Performance: The committee reviewed provisional school results and discussed the relationship between school attendance, suspensions, and academic achievement.
- Youth Justice Plan: The committee discussed Islington's Youth Justice Plan for 2025-2026, a document outlining the service's performance, key themes, successes, areas for improvement, and overall objectives.
- Performance Report: The committee reviewed the Quarter Four Performance Report, which monitors progress against targets for performance indicators within the Children and Young People outcome area.
Councillor Michelline Safi-Ngongo, Executive Member for Children, Young People & Families, raised concerns about the radicalisation of young white working-class boys by the far right, and the need for schools, police, and social services to work together to safeguard and protect these young people.
Upcoming Meetings
- The Homes and Communities Scrutiny Committee will meet on Monday 22 September 2025. Link to meeting
- The Audit and Risk Committee will meet on Tuesday 23 September 2025. Link to meeting
- The Executive will meet on Thursday 25 September 2025. Link to meeting
- Licensing Sub Committee A will meet on Wednesday 01 October 2025. Link to meeting
- Licensing Sub Committee C will meet on Thursday 02 October 2025. Link to meeting
Islington: Vorley Rd Approved, Recycling Push, Central St Flats
This week in Islington:
Vorley Road Development Approved Despite Height and Housing Concerns
The Planning Committee approved a revised application for the Vorley Road Bus Stand development, sparking debate over building height, affordable housing, and community impact. See the full meeting transcript here.
- Taller Buildings: The revised plan includes two taller buildings, one exceeding local guidelines, raising concerns about wind and design. Councillor Fin Craig said he had been
knocked over by the wind there,
questioning the impact of the increased height. - Affordable Housing Mix: While the scheme boasts 51% affordable housing, the inclusion of shared ownership drew criticism. Councillor Diarmaid Ward cited the local plan's stance that it is
not seen as a viable way to deliver genuinely affordable housing.
- Tenure Blindness: Councillor Valerie Bossman-Quarshie questioned whether social rent tenants would receive the same quality of construction and access as private renters. Officers assured the committee that the design ensures equality across all tenures.
Despite these concerns, the committee approved the application, citing the high proportion of social rent homes (82%) and the provision of a new library and medical centre as exceptional benefits. Councillor Benali Hamdache voted against the proposal.
This decision highlights the ongoing tension between maximizing affordable housing and adhering to planning policies, particularly in a borough with high demand and limited space.
Central Street Development Approved Amid Viability Questions
The Planning Committee also approved an application for 141-155 Central Street, a mixed-use building with commercial units and 27 residential units. See the full meeting transcript here.
- Limited Affordable Housing: The development only includes 22% affordable housing, far below the 50% policy requirement. Officers stated that a viability review determined the scheme could not viably provide more.
- Single Aspect Flats: Concerns were raised about six south-facing single aspect flats and their ability to meet overheating requirements. Officers confirmed mechanical ventilation would be required.
- Community Objections: A member of the Islington Society objected to the lack of recognition for the architect of the King's Square Estate and the impact on the setting of St Clement's Church.
Despite these concerns, the committee approved the application after the applicant agreed to increase the contribution towards off-site play space to £50,000.
This decision raises questions about the council's ability to secure sufficient affordable housing in new developments, even with viability reviews and community contributions.
Environment Committee Focuses on Recycling and Climate Action
The Environment, Climate Change and Transport Scrutiny Committee discussed household recycling rates, waste reduction, and climate action in Islington. Read the full transcript here.
- Recycling Rates: Islington's recycling rate is around 30%, typical for inner London boroughs. The council aims to recycle 36% of household waste by 2026 and 40% by 2030.
- Waste Reduction: Waste reduction is prioritized over recycling, as it saves the most money. For every tonne of household waste avoided, the council saves £140.
- Food Waste Rollout: The council is ahead of the game on food waste collection, working to roll out communal food waste units for flats above shops.
- Net Zero Carbon: The committee discussed heat networks, retrofitting council properties, and incorporating environmental considerations into transport schemes.
Councillor Caroline Russell asked about protecting people connected to heat networks from price fluctuations, while Councillor Gallagher inquired about the retrofit implementation plan for housing stock.
These discussions highlight the council's efforts to address climate change and improve environmental sustainability, while also considering the needs of vulnerable residents.
Other Matters
- The Islington Council Pensions Board meeting scheduled for 10 September 2025 was cancelled. Link to meeting
- The North Central London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee met to discuss the St Pancras Hospital Transformation Programme, NCL Integrated Care System finances, and ICB reconfiguration. No video was provided. Link to meeting
Upcoming Meetings
- The Homes and Communities Scrutiny Committee will meet on Monday 22 September 2025. Link to meeting
- The Audit and Risk Committee will meet on Tuesday 23 September 2025. Link to meeting
- The Executive will meet on Thursday 25 September 2025. Link to meeting
- Licensing Sub Committee B will meet on Tuesday 16 September 2025. Link to meeting
Islington: Life Expectancy, Deliveroo, and Pension Fund Review
This week in Islington:
Pension Fund Performance and Investment Strategies Under Review
The Islington Council Pensions Committee convened to discuss the performance of the pension fund, investment strategies, risk management, and governance. See the full agenda and reports here.
- Fund Performance: The committee reviewed the pension fund's performance from April to June 2025, including fund managers' performance and overall fund performance compared to other funds.
- Investment Strategy: Councillors considered updates to the investment strategy, taking into account liquidity, risk, inclusive economy, and net zero decarbonisation targets. They also discussed potential new asset classes and de-risking opportunities.
- Risk Management: The committee reviewed the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) risk register, focusing on risks related to pension payroll reports, the McCloud Judgement1, and delayed implementation of the iConnect Tool.
- Independent Member: The committee was scheduled to consider the process for co-opting a non-voting Independent Member to the Pensions Committee, aiming to bring specialist expertise and promote good governance.
The decisions made by the Pensions Committee directly impact the financial security of current and future pensioners in Islington. Prudent investment strategies and effective risk management are crucial to ensuring the fund can meet its obligations to its members.
Scrutiny Committee Examines Life Expectancy and Health Inequalities
The Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee launched a review of life expectancy in Islington, alongside reviewing the North London NHS Foundation Trust's annual performance. Read the full transcript here.
- Life Expectancy Data: The committee heard that life expectancy in Islington is higher for women than for men, but that the gap with national life expectancy has narrowed. However, the gap between the most and least deprived areas has increased slightly for males.
- Key Contributors: Cancer, circulatory disease, and respiratory disease are the largest contributors to the gap in life expectancy. Avoidable mortality is concentrated in the most deprived parts of the borough.
- Drug and Alcohol Deaths: The committee also heard that drug-related deaths occur early in life and contribute to reduced life expectancy. Alcohol-specific deaths have increased in recent years, with Islington having a high proportion of adults drinking over 14 units of alcohol a week.
- NHS Performance: The North London NHS Foundation Trust presented its annual performance report, highlighting improvements in access to talking therapies, memory services, and crisis services.
Councillor Tricia Clarke noted that Bunhill and Finsbury Park are the two most deprived wards in the borough, and that air quality is a contributing factor to respiratory disease.
These discussions highlight the complex factors that influence health outcomes and the importance of targeted interventions to address health inequalities in Islington.
Deliveroo Editions Site Granted Permanent Permission Amid Resident Concerns
The Planning Sub Committee A approved an application to make permanent a temporary permission for a Deliveroo Editions site at Unit 4 of the Raymond Way Industrial Estate. Read the full transcript here.
- Resident Objections: Residents voiced concerns about noise, vehicle movements, air pollution, and the cumulative impact of multiple delivery kitchens operating in the industrial estate.
- Applicant's Response: Deliveroo representatives highlighted the site's support for local jobs and businesses, the increase in electric vehicles servicing the site, and the existence of an Operational Management Plan (OMP) to manage rider behaviour.
- Committee Decision: The committee approved the application but amended the conditions to remove Sunday and bank holiday operations and require a review of the OMP after one year, in consultation with residents.
Councillor Toby North, Chair of the meeting, summarised the key issues, including the reliance on electric vehicle usage in the noise assessment and the lack of planning control to ensure a fully electric fleet.
This decision reflects the challenges of balancing economic development with the need to protect the amenity and well-being of local residents.
Other Matters
- The Corporate Resources and Economy Scrutiny Committee discussed the annual workforce report, noting disparities in grievances and dismissals between white employees and those from Black, Asian, and multi-ethnic backgrounds. The committee also introduced a scrutiny review of the council's approach to tackling poverty. Read the full story here.
Upcoming Meetings
- The Planning Committee will meet on Tuesday 09 September 2025. Link to meeting
- The Pensions Board will meet on Wednesday 10 September 2025. Link to meeting
- The Environment, Climate and Transport Scrutiny Committee will meet on Thursday 11 September 2025. Link to meeting
- The Joint Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Health will meet on Friday 12 September 2025. Link to meeting
- The Children and Young People Scrutiny Committee will meet on Tuesday 16 September 2025. Link to meeting
- The Executive will meet on Thursday 18 September 2025. Link to meeting
- The Licensing Sub Committee B will meet on Tuesday 16 September 2025. Link to meeting
-
The McCloud Judgement refers to a legal case concerning age discrimination in public sector pension schemes. ↩
Islington Alcohol Sales: Late-Night Concerns & New Licences
This week in Islington:
Late-Night Alcohol Sales Spark Crime Concerns in Archway
A Licensing Sub Committee D meeting was held on Wednesday 20 August 2025 to discuss applications for premises licence variations, focusing on H R Organic Food and Vegan Shop and The Passage Pantry. Read the full story here. Unfortunately, no video was provided, so we are unable to provide further details about the meeting.
H R Organic Food and Vegan Shop Faces Police Opposition
Ahir Organic Limited, operating H R Organic Food and Vegan Shop at 786 Holloway Road, sought to extend its alcohol sales and opening hours until 3:00 AM daily. This request met strong opposition, particularly from the Metropolitan Police, due to its location within the Archway Cumulative Impact Area.
- Police Concerns: Police Constable Darren Emanuel from the Islington Licensing Team argued that granting the extension would undermine the licensing objectives, specifically the prevention of crime and disorder and the prevention of public nuisance. He highlighted Archway's existing issues with criminality, antisocial behaviour, vagrancy, and street drinking.
- Councillor Objections: Junction Ward Councillors Janet Burgess M.B.E., Sheila Chapman, and James Potts echoed these concerns, emphasizing the area's high crime rate and proximity to schools and an early years' centre.
- Community Opposition: The Better Archway Forum supported the councillors' objection, citing concerns about the impact of extended off-licence hours on antisocial behaviour. A local resident also objected, fearing noise nuisance and risks to residents from late-night customers.
- Applicant's Defense: Krutiben Ahir, Director at Ahir Organic Limited, argued that alcohol sales constitute only a small portion of the business and that extended hours cater to local customers needing late-night services like Keynest and Payzone. Ahir also stated that trial hours using Temporary Event Notices in April and May 2025 resulted in no complaints or enforcement action.
- Cumulative Impact Policy: The Licensing Sub-Committee was required to consider Islington's Licensing Policy 3, which presumes refusal in Cumulative Impact Areas unless the applicant demonstrates no adverse cumulative impact on licensing objectives.
This case highlights the challenges of balancing business needs with community safety and well-being, particularly in areas already struggling with crime and antisocial behaviour.
The Passage Pantry Seeks On-Premises Alcohol Sales
The Passage Pantry, located at 351-352 Upper Street, applied to vary its licence to allow on-premises alcohol consumption until 10:00 PM on weekdays, 8:00 PM on Saturdays, and 4:00 PM on Sundays.
- Resident Concerns: Two local residents objected, citing potential noise and public safety issues due to the shop's location on the A1. One resident suggested limiting on-licence service to eight people inside the premises, with no outside or vertical drinking.
- Applicant's Commitment: The applicant stated their commitment to upholding the four licensing objectives and highlighted their four years of experience managing The Passage Pantry.
- Police Conditions: The applicant accepted conditions proposed by the Metropolitan Police, including staff training, the
Challenge 25
scheme, limiting sales of high-strength beers, lagers, and ciders, prohibiting vertical drinking, maintaining adequate staffing and security, providing bag retention devices, and prohibiting externally promoted events.
This application raises questions about the potential impact of on-premises alcohol sales on the local community and the effectiveness of proposed conditions in mitigating potential negative effects.
Upcoming Meetings
- Licensing Sub Committee A on Thursday 28 August 2025 will review premises licences. Link to meeting
- Planning Sub Committee A on Monday 01 September 2025. Link to meeting
- Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee on Tuesday 02 September 2025. Link to meeting
- Corporate Resources and Economy Scrutiny Committee on Thursday 04 September 2025. Link to meeting
Islington Council to Streamline Online Access for Residents
This week in Islington:
Modern.Gov User Guide Aims to Streamline External Authentication
Islington Council's Licensing Regulatory Committee was scheduled to meet to discuss a user guide for Entra ID External Authentication in Modern.Gov1. Read the full story here.
- What is Entra ID External Authentication? This system allows external users to access council services and information through the Modern.Gov platform using their existing credentials, rather than creating new accounts.
- Why does it matter? Streamlining external authentication can improve efficiency and user experience for residents, businesses, and other stakeholders who interact with the council online.
- User Guide Details: The guide, authored by Lorraine Clarke from the Development and Testing Team, Modern.Gov, and approved by Ben Parker, covers implementation, system configuration, and user configuration requirements.
- Security Considerations: The guide emphasizes the importance of setting secure passwords and timeboxing auto-enrolment processes to mitigate potential security risks.
- Potential Impact: By implementing this user guide, the council aims to simplify access to its online services, making it easier for external users to engage with the council and access the information they need.
Upcoming Meetings
- Licensing Sub Committee D on Wednesday 20 August 2025 will review premises licence variation applications for H R Organic Food and Vegan Shop at 786 Holloway Road and The Passage Pantry at 351-352 Upper Street. Link to meeting
- Licensing Sub Committee A on Thursday 28 August 2025. Link to meeting
-
Modern.Gov is a platform used by local authorities for managing meetings, agendas, and decisions. ↩
Recent meetings
Council - Thursday, 18th September, 2025 7.15 pm
Islington Council met on 18 September 2025, and voted to establish a twinning agreement with Azaria, a Palestinian town in East Jerusalem, as a gesture of friendship and solidarity. Councillors also approved updates to the council's constitution and Members' Allowances Scheme, and discussed a quarterly monitoring report.
Children and Young People Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday, 16th September, 2025 7.00 pm
The Islington Council's Children and Young People Scrutiny Committee met to discuss the Youth Justice Plan, review the latest performance data, and consider school results. The committee noted the Youth Justice Plan, which aims to protect children from harm and reduce youth crime, and also reviewed the progress and challenges in key performance indicators, including school suspensions and persistent absenteeism. They also agreed to changes to the work programme, including moving the Bright Start update to November 2025 and scheduling witness evidence gathering for January 2026.
Licensing Sub Committee B - Tuesday, 16th September, 2025 6.30 pm
The Licensing Sub Committee B met to consider a new premises licence application for KB Home Store, 26 Chapel Market, London, N1 9EZ. The committee heard from two local residents who objected to the application, and ultimately decided to grant the licence with conditions.
Joint Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Health - Friday, 12th September, 2025 10.00 am
The North Central London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on 12 September 2025 to discuss the St Pancras Hospital Transformation Programme, the North Central London Integrated Care System finances, and the potential reconfiguration of the North Central London Integrated Care Board.
Environment, Climate and Transport Scrutiny Committee - Thursday, 11th September, 2025 7.30 pm
The Environment, Climate Change and Transport Scrutiny Committee met to discuss household recycling rates and waste reduction, and to review the borough's progress towards its net zero carbon targets. Councillors agreed to a Scrutiny Initiation Document (SID) to investigate the plateauing of household recycling rates, and heard updates on climate action progress, including transport, building decarbonisation, and green initiatives. The committee also agreed to their work plan for the coming year.
Pensions Board - Wednesday, 10th September, 2025 4.00 pm
This meeting has been cancelled.
Planning Committee - Tuesday, 9th September, 2025 7.30 pm
The Islington Planning Committee met to discuss planning applications for two sites: the Vorley Road Bus Stand and 141-155 Central Street. The committee approved both applications, with conditions. The Vorley Road Bus Stand application was approved despite being a departure from the development plan, while the 141-155 Central Street application was approved despite concerns about affordable housing and viability.
Corporate Resources and Economy Scrutiny Committee - Thursday, 4th September, 2025 7.30 pm
The Corporate Resources and Economy Scrutiny Committee met to discuss the annual workforce report, a scrutiny review on supporting residents to financial resilience, and a performance update on complaints and member enquiries. The committee reviewed and noted the workforce profile, trends, and progress in equality, equity, diversity and inclusion, as well as priorities for the coming year. Members also heard about emerging priorities in the council's approach to tackling poverty and provided feedback on the direction of the scrutiny review.
Licensing Regulatory Committee - Tuesday, 2nd September, 2025 6.30 pm
This meeting has been cancelled.
Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday, 2nd September, 2025 7.30 pm
The Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee met to discuss the North London NHS Foundation Trust's annual performance, review witness evidence related to life expectancy, and review the Quarter 4 performance report for public health. The committee noted the North London NHS Foundation Trust (NLFT) annual performance report and discussed actions to improve performance against key performance indicators. The committee also discussed strategies for reducing drug-related deaths and alcohol-related harm, and reviewed public health performance against targets, including vaccination rates and access to smoking cessation services.
Upcoming meetings
Homes and Communities Scrutiny Committee - Monday, 22nd September, 2025 7.30 pm
Audit and Risk Committee - Tuesday, 23rd September, 2025 7.00 pm
Licensing Sub Committee A - Wednesday, 1st October, 2025 6.30 pm
Licensing Sub Committee C - Thursday, 2nd October, 2025 6.30 pm
Planning Sub Committee B - Monday, 6th October, 2025 7.30 pm
Corporate Resources and Economy Scrutiny Committee - Thursday, 9th October, 2025 7.30 pm