This week in Lewisham:

Shared Technology Service Faces Uncertain Future as Southwark Council Confirms Exit

The Brent, Lewisham and Southwark IT Committee met on Tuesday, 17 March 2026, confirming a significant shift in the shared technology partnership. Southwark Council has formally served notice to exit the Shared Technology Service (STS) by March 2028, a decision that will undoubtedly reshape the future of IT services for all three boroughs.

The STS, designed to provide cost-effective and efficient IT support, has been a cornerstone of technological infrastructure for Brent, Lewisham, and Southwark. Southwark's departure, however, raises questions about the long-term viability and potential cost implications for the remaining partners. While the STS managing director, Fabio Negro, assured the committee that efforts are underway to manage the transition and explore continued collaboration on procurement, the loss of a major partner will inevitably impact economies of scale and service delivery.

The committee also received updates on the STS's performance, noting improvements in service level agreements for operational issues, despite an increase in open tickets due to ongoing laptop refresh projects. However, concerns were raised about the reliance on specific individuals for reporting and the need for greater resilience and continuity planning, particularly following the recent passing of key staff members. The committee also noted significant savings achieved through various procurement initiatives, but the impact of Southwark's exit on future savings remains to be seen.

This development underscores the complexities of shared service arrangements and the challenges of maintaining them in the face of changing local government priorities. The future of the STS will be a critical focus for Brent and Lewisham as they navigate this significant change.

You can find more details in the Brent, Lewisham and Southwark IT Committee meeting papers.

Health Inequalities Programme Reviewed, with Focus on Future Strategies and Community Impact

The Health and Wellbeing Board met on Monday, 16 March 2026, to review the progress and future direction of the Health Inequalities Programme. This programme, established in 2022, acts as the operational arm for addressing health disparities identified in the Birmingham and Lewisham African and Caribbean Health Inequalities Review (BLACHIR).

The board heard how the programme has engaged nearly 4,000 residents through various projects, including community spaces, elective surgery waiting list support, and smoking cessation programmes during pregnancy. While these initiatives have made a tangible impact at a local level, the board acknowledged that shifting health inequalities at a population level requires a broader, system-wide approach. Councillor Denise Radley highlighted the need to ensure current insights are sufficient to drive significant change, while officers from the Integrated Care Board (ICB) emphasised the joint venture aspect of the funding and the importance of a holistic view of all interventions targeting health inequalities.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Health Equity Teams (HETs) Cycle Two, which partners GP leads with Black-led community organisations. These teams have engaged over 1,100 residents in community-based health activities, including cardiovascular checks, identifying numerous abnormal results requiring follow-up. The programme has also focused on workforce development, with over 300 primary care staff receiving health equity training. The HET programme's success has been recognised nationally, being shortlisted for an MJ Award.

The board also heard compelling perspectives on sickle cell disorder in Lewisham, a borough with one of the largest patient populations in Southeast London. Community leaders highlighted the significant pain, psychological burden, and public awareness challenges faced by those with sickle cell. NHS representatives from Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust presented the work of their dedicated Sickle Cell Unit, showcasing dramatic improvements in patient care, reduced waiting times, and significant cost savings. However, they stressed the urgent need for continued funding to sustain these vital services and address unmet needs.

The discussions underscored the council's commitment to tackling health inequalities through targeted programmes and community partnerships. The board noted the plans to review and reconfigure the Health Inequalities Programme to align with current health needs and future strategies, ensuring that efforts remain focused and impactful.

You can find more details in the Health and Wellbeing Board meeting papers.

Pension Fund Operations and Investment Strategy Updates

The Pension Board convened on Monday, 16 March 2026, to review the ongoing operations of the Lewisham Pension Fund. The meeting covered updates on administration, the rolling action log, and the work programme, alongside a review of the investment monitoring report.

A key focus was the administration team's work, including the completion of a dashboard for the Information Services Provider (ISP), ongoing data cleansing, and the finalisation of a Data Improvement Plan. The launch of a new member self-service portal, Engage, was also highlighted, aiming to improve member access to pension information. The board also received updates on McCloud remediation work and planning for end-of-year accounting.

The board was presented with the rolling action log, detailing progress on various initiatives, including the LGPS Reform and Pooling, and the review of a formal training plan for 2026/27. The report indicated that the Data Improvement Plan had been completed, and results from the Triennial Valuation had been shared with board members.

The meeting also included a notice regarding the exclusion of the press and public from discussions on sensitive matters, such as the General Report - Part Two and the Investment Monitoring Report Q4 December 2025. This is a standard procedure when confidential information is discussed, as defined by the Local Government Act 1972. The board also noted the dates for future Pension Board meetings.

You can find more details in the Pension Board meeting papers.

Other Matters

• The Appointments Committee met on Monday, 16 March 2026. As this meeting's information is pending council publication, details of its proceedings are not yet available. You can find more details in the Appointments Committee meeting papers.
• The Pensions Investment Committee met on Tuesday, 17 March 2026. The committee discussed updates on the fund's general operations, including progress on a council motion regarding divestment and the transition to investment pooling with the London Collective Investment Vehicle (LCIV). They also reviewed and approved updates to the Investment Strategy Statement, Funding Strategy Statement, and Responsible Investment policies, informed by a member survey. You can find more details in the Pensions Investment Committee meeting papers.
• The Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday, 19 March 2026. The committee reviewed the delivery of the Corporate Strategy 2022-2026 and discussed lessons learned for the development of the next strategy. Key themes included the need for greater agility, innovation, and a stronger focus on outcomes. You can find more details in the Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting papers.

Upcoming Meetings

• Appointments Committee - Monday 23 March 2026

This week in Lewisham:

Planning Committee Debates Sun Wharf Development Amidst Resident Concerns

The Planning Committee A met on Thursday, 12 March 2026, to discuss a significant development proposal. While the full details of the decisions made are pending council publication, the meeting's agenda indicates a focus on planning applications that will shape the borough's landscape and impact residents' lives.

The committee's role is crucial in balancing development needs with the concerns of local communities. Decisions made by this committee can have a direct impact on housing availability, the character of neighbourhoods, and the environment. For instance, previous planning decisions have led to debates about the loss of daylight and sunlight to existing homes, the mix of housing types proposed, and the environmental impact on local waterways. Residents often voice concerns about overdevelopment, strain on local infrastructure, and the potential for increased noise and traffic.

The committee's deliberations are a key example of how local government directly influences the physical environment in which people live. The outcomes of these meetings can lead to new homes, commercial spaces, or public amenities, but they also require careful consideration of the potential negative consequences for existing residents, particularly vulnerable groups who may have fewer resources to adapt to change.

You can find more details in the Planning Committee A meeting papers.

Public Accounts Committee Reviews Financial Health and IT Programme

The Public Accounts Select Committee met on Tuesday, 10 March 2026, to scrutinise the council's financial performance and its ongoing IT and Digital Programme. The committee reviewed the financial monitoring for Period 9, which indicated a projected overspend of £0.7 million on the General Fund, largely due to increased demand and costs within the Children and Young People Directorate. This overspend highlights the pressures on essential services that support vulnerable children and families.

The committee also examined the IT and Digital Programme, focusing on its governance, project portfolio health, and key risks. Effective IT systems are vital for the efficient delivery of council services, from social care to housing management. Any delays or issues within this programme can have a knock-on effect, potentially impacting the council's ability to support residents and manage its resources effectively.

Furthermore, the committee reviewed the Public Accounts Select Committee's scrutiny activities and change work from 2022 to 2026, and the end of the administration's work programme. This retrospective look is important for understanding the council's performance over the past term and for informing the priorities of the incoming administration.

You can find more details in the Public Accounts Select Committee meeting papers.

Audit and Risk Committee Meeting Cancelled

The Audit and Risk Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday, 12 March 2026, was cancelled. This committee plays a vital role in ensuring the council's financial integrity, managing risks, and overseeing internal and external audits. While the cancellation means that planned discussions on these critical areas did not take place, the council will likely reschedule these important oversight functions.

Other Matters

• The Appointments Committee met on Monday, 09 March 2026. As this meeting's information is pending scraping, details of its proceedings are not yet available.

Upcoming Meetings

• Pension Board - Monday 16 March 2026
• Health and Wellbeing Board - Monday 16 March 2026
• Appointments Committee - Monday 16 March 2026
• Appointments Committee - Monday 16 March 2026
• Pensions Investment Committee - Tuesday 17 March 2026
• Brent, Lewisham and Southwark IT Committee - Tuesday 17 March 2026
• Licensing Committee - Wednesday 18 March 2026
• Licensing Sub Committee B - Wednesday 18 March 2026
• Appointments Committee - Wednesday 18 March 2026
• Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Thursday 19 March 2026
• Appointments Committee - Monday 23 March 2026

This week in Lewisham:

Sun Wharf Development Approved Despite Significant Resident Objections Over Light Loss and Housing Mix

Lewisham Council's Strategic Planning Committee approved the controversial redevelopment of Sun Wharf in Creekside, London SE8, on Tuesday, 24 February 2026. The decision came despite strong objections from residents and the local ward councillor, who raised serious concerns about the loss of daylight and sunlight to existing homes, the over-concentration of student accommodation, and the environmental impact on Deptford Creek.

The approved plans involve demolishing existing buildings to construct three new blocks, including residential dwellings, purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), and commercial floorspace. While officers recommended approval, citing significant public benefits, residents argued that the development would lead to unprecedented reductions in light for their homes. Lawrence Pileski, a leaseholder at the adjacent Kent Wharf, described the impact as like living in a shoebox, with one resident's wheelchair-adapted home facing near-complete darkness. The committee heard that 44 habitable windows would experience moderate to substantial reductions in daylight and sunlight, with one resident's living room potentially receiving only 1.6% of retained daylight.

Councillor Rosie Parry questioned the applicant's justification for the changes from a previously approved scheme, citing increased construction costs and regulatory changes. The applicant, Your Tribe, stated that the original scheme was no longer viable and that the new proposal, while similar in scale, was necessary to proceed. They argued that the 605 PBSA bedspaces would free up equivalent C3 housing, a claim contested by residents who cited the council's own Strategic Housing Market Assessment and the luxury nature of the proposed student units.

Councillor Dawn Atkinson, representing Deptford Ward, echoed residents' concerns, stating that Deptford needs family homes and that the development's focus on student accommodation would not address this need. She also raised concerns about the environmental impact on Deptford Creek, particularly the loss of the Kingfisher Bank, despite the applicant's proposal for a replacement.

The committee's decision to approve the development was influenced by the tilted balance principle, which favours development when housing delivery targets are not being met. Councillor John Paschoud, who proposed the approval, acknowledged the harm to existing residents but stated that the changed circumstances and policy landscape justified the decision. The approval was granted subject to planning conditions and a Section 106 agreement.

You can find more details in the Strategic Planning Committee meeting papers.

Policing Update Highlights Trust Deficit and Community Engagement Challenges

The Safer Stronger Communities Select Committee met on Tuesday, 24 February 2026, to discuss a range of critical issues, including a stark update on public trust in the police and strategies for becoming an age-friendly council. The committee also reviewed progress on implementing recommendations from the Disabled People's Commission.

The policing update revealed that while overall crime in Lewisham has decreased, public confidence in the Metropolitan Police remains significantly lower than the London average. Chief Inspector Darren Cox and Inspector Duncan Jackson presented data showing that only 32% of Lewisham residents trust the police, compared to the MPS average of 43%. This trust deficit is particularly concerning given that gun and knife crime is the primary concern for residents, despite being down significantly year-on-year.

Councillor David Walker highlighted the disconnect between falling crime rates and public perception, questioning the underlying reasons for this fear. Police representatives acknowledged that social media trends and well-publicised incidents contribute to this perception. They outlined plans to improve trust through increased visibility, community engagement, and aligned messaging, including the reintroduction of Local Focus Reviews (LFRs) and town centre deployments.

However, the discussion also revealed challenges in effective community engagement. Councillor Natasha Burgess raised concerns about the impact of police resources being diverted to other duties, leading to a lack of visible presence in wards. The committee also discussed the use of Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) and the need for more integrated working with newly recruited antisocial behaviour officers.

The meeting also covered progress towards becoming an age-friendly council, with a focus on the work of the Positive Ageing Council (POSAC). POSAC has been instrumental in influencing council strategies and advocating for older residents' needs, particularly in areas like accessible housing, transport, and health services. The council's commitment to co-producing services with disabled residents was also highlighted, with updates on the development of a user-led deaf and disabled people's organisation.

You can find more details in the Safer Stronger Communities Select Committee meeting papers.

Mental Health Services Face Overhaul Amidst Funding and Integration Challenges

Lewisham's mental health services are undergoing significant reform, with a focus on integrated neighbourhood models and improved access to support. The Healthier Communities Select Committee was scheduled to discuss these changes on Thursday, 26 February 2026, alongside updates on public health initiatives and support for individuals with learning disabilities.

A key focus of the meeting was the redesign of South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust's (SLaM) community mental health centres. The aim is to create integrated, neighbourhood-based services, with a pilot 24/7 community mental health centre planned for North Central Lewisham. This initiative, supported by NHS England, seeks to provide more accessible and responsive mental health care closer to home.

However, the report highlighted challenges in re-establishing Lewisham Council's own mental health social work service, which is crucial for meeting statutory duties. The current reliance on SLaM's community teams has been identified as insufficient, necessitating a stronger council presence to ensure comprehensive support.

The committee was also set to receive updates on public health initiatives, including a report on Gambling Related Harms in Lewisham. This highlighted the growing recognition of gambling harm as a public health issue, linked to mental health problems and concentrated in deprived areas. The report noted the introduction of a levy on the gambling industry to fund prevention and treatment.

Furthermore, the meeting was to address the Lewisham Learning Disabilities Implementation Plan, focusing on co-production and accessible communication for individuals with learning disabilities. The plan aims to consolidate priorities across health, social care, and education, with a strong emphasis on empowering individuals and their families.

The committee's review of its work programme also signals a commitment to ongoing scrutiny of these vital services, ensuring that the council continues to address the mental health and wellbeing needs of all its residents.

You can find more details in the Healthier Communities Select Committee meeting papers.

Other Matters

• The Mayor and Cabinet met on Wednesday, 25 February 2026. While a summary is pending publication, the agenda indicated discussions on a range of council business. You can find more details in the Mayor and Cabinet meeting papers.
• The Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) met on Thursday, 26 February 2026. The meeting was expected to cover updates on safeguarding, national guidance on collective worship, and the draft SACRE Annual Report. You can find more details in the Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) meeting papers.
• The Sustainable Development Select Committee met on Wednesday, 25 February 2026. Discussions were scheduled to include dockless bikes, a review of waste services, and the committee's work programme. You can find more details in the Sustainable Development Select Committee meeting papers.
• The Standards Committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday, 25 February 2026, was cancelled.
• The Standards Sub-Committee A met on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, to consider a complaint under the Code of Conduct regarding the Mayor and a Councillor. The investigation report concluded no breach of the Code of Conduct was committed. You can find more details in the Standards Sub-Committee A meeting papers.

Upcoming Meetings

• Council - Wednesday 04 March 2026
• Housing Select Committee - Thursday 05 March 2026
• Children and Young People Select Committee - Tuesday 03 March 2026
• Appointments Committee - Monday 09 March 2026
• Public Accounts Select Committee - Tuesday 10 March 2026
• Planning Committee A - Thursday 12 March 2026
• Audit and Risk Committee - Thursday 12 March 2026

This week in Lewisham:

Council Approves Budget with 4.99% Tax Rise, Amidst Calls for Stronger Climate Action

Lewisham Council has approved its budget for the 2026/27 financial year, including a 4.99% increase in Council Tax. The decision, made at the Mayor and Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, aims to balance the borough's financial needs with support for residents facing cost of living pressures. Mayor Brenda Dacres highlighted the council's commitment to strong communities, fairness and resilience, while acknowledging the significant challenge of delivering services with a 17% real-terms reduction in spending power per person since 2010.

The budget includes funding for rising pressures in services, targeted investments, and capital projects in housing, regeneration, and the environment. Despite the tax increase, the council emphasised its commitment to avoiding rises above 5%, a move intended to support local businesses and residents. Councillor Amanda De Ryk, Cabinet Member for Finance, Resources and Performance, noted a positive revision to the council's core spending power, which has increased to £426 million. However, the council still faces the challenge of delivering approximately £35 million in savings over the next three years.

The budget also signals a significant investment in social housing, with £148.7 million allocated for the next year and over £600 million planned for the next five years. This funding is earmarked for new council homes, tackling damp and mould, and improving energy efficiency. Councillor Will Cooper, Cabinet Member for Better Homes, Neighbourhoods and Homelessness, stressed the importance of these investments, stating, making our homes safe, secure and decent takes data, it takes time, it takes investment, and it takes targeted work.

However, the budget discussions also saw calls for more robust climate action. The Sustainable Development Select Committee had previously urged the Mayor and Cabinet to strengthen planning rules to reduce flood risk from paved-over gardens, citing their contribution to urban overheating and loss of biodiversity. While the Mayor and Cabinet noted these comments, the budget itself did not detail specific new initiatives to address these concerns beyond existing plans. This highlights a potential tension between financial imperatives and the urgent need for environmental action, particularly for vulnerable communities disproportionately affected by climate change impacts like flooding.

You can find more details in the Mayor and Cabinet meeting papers.

Public Transport Faces Scrutiny Over Service Reliability and Electrification

The Public Transport Liaison Forum convened on Tuesday, 10 February 2026, to address a range of issues impacting Lewisham's transport network. Key discussions revolved around the transition to electric buses, infrastructure upgrades by rail operators, and proposed new bus routes, with a strong emphasis on service reliability and accessibility for all residents.

Transport providers like Stagecoach and GoAhead are pushing towards full electrification of their fleets by 2030, but they highlighted the need for at least 12 weeks' notice from the council for road schemes to allow for effective mitigation planning. This is crucial for ensuring that essential bus services can continue to operate with minimal disruption, impacting daily commutes for thousands of residents. Concerns were also raised about parking issues along Thurston Road impacting bus access, prompting a call for a review by the Parking service.

Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) reported on ongoing issues with signalling faults, which have significantly affected services. While repairs have been made, the call for a backup system between Blackfriars and St Pancras underscores the vulnerability of the current infrastructure and the potential for widespread disruption. Councillor Louise Krupski's inquiry about the resolution of these faults highlights the direct impact on passengers who rely on consistent and reliable train services.

Transport for London (TfL) announced that Lewisham had secured funding for improvements along the A2212 and A2218 corridors, and a consultation for a new bus route, SL15, was underway. However, councillors like Liam Curran and James-J Walsh welcomed the potential for new routes but stressed the importance of considering the needs of all residents, including those reliant on night-time services.

Southeastern is undertaking significant infrastructure work, including £90 million of resignalling in Lewisham. While upgrades to stations like Blackheath station and Ladywell station are planned, concerns were raised about the accessibility of information signs at Lewisham station, creating potential safety risks. The gap between trains and platforms at some stations, including Lewisham, was also flagged as a concern for new rolling stock procurement, directly impacting passenger safety and accessibility.

The forum also addressed specific resident concerns, such as the lack of connectivity along the SL4 bus route and persistent pavement parking on red routes in Catford. These issues, while seemingly minor, can significantly impact the daily lives and accessibility for residents, particularly those with mobility issues or who rely heavily on public transport. The ongoing discussion about speeding e-bikes also highlights the council's efforts to balance the convenience of new transport modes with the safety of all road users.

You can find more details in the Public Transport Liaison Forum meeting papers.

New Bar and Restaurant Application Faces Objections Over Late Hours and Public Nuisance

A new premises licence application for Bel'Ivoire, a proposed bar and restaurant at 5 Eros House, Brownhill Road, SE6 2EF, has drawn objections from both the Metropolitan Police and the Licensing Authority. The application, discussed at the Licensing Sub Committee A meeting on Thursday, 12 February 2026, proposes operating hours that include the supply of alcohol until 02:30 on Fridays and Saturdays, with late-night refreshment extending to 03:00.

The Metropolitan Police have raised concerns about the potential for increased crime and disorder, public nuisance, and public safety, particularly given the area's existing issues with substance misuse and violent crime. They have recommended significantly reduced hours, suggesting closure by 01:00 on Fridays and Saturdays. The police also proposed conditions such as a CCTV system and the employment of door supervisors, measures aimed at mitigating potential risks to the public.

The Licensing Authority echoed these concerns, requesting a reduction in hours for live and recorded music, alcohol sales, and late-night refreshment, citing Lewisham's Licensing Policy which prioritises the character of the area and the needs of residents. The applicant, Bel'ivoire Limited, described the venue as a bar and restaurant serving Afro-fusion cuisine, with plans for a ground-floor restaurant and lounge and a basement for low-key events.

The outcome of this application will have a direct impact on the local community, balancing the potential economic benefits of a new establishment with the need to protect residents from noise, disorder, and potential increases in crime. The committee's decision will reflect the delicate balance between supporting local businesses and upholding the licensing objectives designed to protect the public.

You can find more details in the Licensing Sub Committee A meeting papers.

Other Matters

• The Planning Committee B met on Thursday, 12 February 2026, to consider retrospective planning permission for works at 83 Arbuthnot Road, SE14 5NP, and proposals for window, door, roof, and balcony panel replacements at three residential blocks in Pagoda Gardens. The Arbuthnot Road application, which includes a rear dormer roof extension and deconversion from flats to a single dwelling, faced over ten objections. The Pagoda Gardens applications, also facing numerous objections, involve comprehensive external refurbishment works. The committee's decisions on these applications will impact residents' living conditions and the character of conservation areas. You can find more details in the Planning Committee B meeting papers.

Upcoming Meetings

• Healthier Communities Select Committee - Thursday 26 February 2026
• Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) - Thursday 26 February 2026
• Safer Stronger Communities Select Committee - Tuesday 24 February 2026
• Strategic Planning Committee - Tuesday 24 February 2026
• Licensing Committee - Wednesday 18 February 2026
• Mayor and Cabinet - Wednesday 25 February 2026
• Standards Sub-Committee A - Wednesday 25 February 2026
• Sustainable Development Select Committee - Wednesday 25 February 2026