This week in Brent:

Council Tax Hike Proposed to Plug £30 Million Budget Gap

Brent Council is proposing a 4.99% council tax increase for 2026-27 as part of its draft budget proposals, aiming to address a £30 million budget gap over the next three years. Link to the meeting The decision, made at the Cabinet meeting, has sparked debate about balancing financial stability with the cost of living pressures faced by residents.

• Protecting Frontline Services: Councillor Mili Patel, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources, stated that the council tax rise would raise £9.1 million to protect those vital frontline services.
• Shielding Vulnerable Households: Councillor Patel added that the council tax support scheme and hardship funds would continue to shield households from the sharpest pressures of the cost of living crisis.
• Financial Challenges: Rising demand for temporary accommodation, adult social care, and children's placements are placing immense strain on local services, according to Councillor Patel.

The proposed council tax increase is not taken lightly, but the council argues it is necessary to maintain essential services for residents. The consultation on the draft budget will provide an opportunity for residents to voice their concerns and priorities.

Health Hub Approved for Gladstone Park Amidst Community Excitement

The Cabinet has approved the allocation of £2.97m Strategic Community Infrastructure Levy (SCIL)[^5] funding to support the redevelopment of the Gladstone Park Youth and Community Centre site into the Willesden Green Health and Wellbeing Integrated Hub. Link to the meeting The hub aims to provide modern health services, community amenities, and wellbeing spaces.

• State-of-the-Art Facility: Dr Mohamed Najim[^19], lead GP at Wallsdon Green Surgery and NHS Brent's Clinical Director for Health Inequalities, described the new hub as a state-of-the-art, flagship integrated health and wellbeing hub.
• Community Benefits: The hub will include a community hall, wellbeing studios, an outdoor paddle court, and a pharmacy.
• Addressing Health Inequalities: Tom Shakespeare[^18], the Managing Director of Brent's ICP, said the proposal was in line with the overall strategy and direction of travel around the development of neighbourhood hubs.

Councillor Gwen Grahl, as the Ward Councillor for Cricklewood and Matesbury, expressed excitement about the proposals and requested that the future naming of the site acknowledge that it is situated in Cricklewood and Matesbury, not in Wilson Green.

The new hub is expected to significantly improve access to healthcare and community services for residents in the area.

Experimental Traffic Order Scheme Divides Queen's Park Community

An experimental traffic order (ETO) scheme between Kingswood Avenue and Salusbury Road continues to generate controversy, with residents expressing concerns about its impact on community cohesion. Link to the meeting

• Community Division: Sanjay Azeem Nazarali, lead petitioner, stated that the ETOs have created deep and lasting division in the community, creating a two-tier ward.
• Petitioners' Concerns: Nazarali claimed that a report stating that 1,400 petitioners welcomed the scheme was untrue and that the officer investigating the complaint about the report was the same officer who wrote it.
• Council Response: Councillor Krupa Sheth, Cabinet Member for Public Realm and Enforcement, responded that the council welcomed all feedback and that officers would consider it alongside traffic surveys, air quality results, and other data.

Councillor Neil Nerva, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Leisure, highlighted the challenge of managing traffic in inner-city areas and said he hoped the council could come up with clear recommendations soon.

The ETO scheme highlights the challenges of balancing traffic management with the needs and concerns of local residents.

Other Matters

• The Cabinet approved the second refresh of the School Place Planning Strategy 2024-2028, aiming to provide sufficient, sustainable, and high-quality school places for every child in Brent. Link to the meeting
• The Cabinet approved a total capital budget of £917,628 for the installation of an alternative, low carbon heating solution at Willesden Green Library and Willesden New Cemetery. Link to the meeting
• The Cabinet formally adopted the socio-economic duty[^39] as part of its commitment to EDI[^38], ensuring that policy and program decisions give due regard to the potential impacts on people experiencing socio-economic disadvantage. Link to the meeting
• The Cabinet approved the council's participation in a collaborative procurement with Ealing Council[^41] and Harrow Council[^42] for a new genitourinary medicine (GUM)[^40] sexual health services contract. Link to the meeting
• The Health and Wellbeing Board discussed winter planning, updates from Healthwatch and the Brent Children's Trust, and the publication of the Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment. Link to the meeting
• The Community and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee discussed housing compliance, medical day care, and the committee's work programme. Link to the meeting
• The North West London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee met to discuss dentist commissioning and children's dental health, the future of place based partnerships, and special school nursing. Link to the meeting

Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below.

• The Audit and Standards Advisory Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 03 December 2025. Link to the meeting
• The Schools Forum is scheduled to meet on Monday 01 December 2025. Link to the meeting
• The Alcohol and Entertainment Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday 01 December 2025 to consider an application for a new premises licence for Lilburne Walk Local, 67 Lilburne Walk, NW10 0TW. Link to the meeting
• The Joint Committee of the London Boroughs of Brent, Lewisham and Southwark is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 25 November 2025. Link to the meeting
• The Alcohol and Entertainment Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 26 November 2025 to consider an application for a new premises licence for Spoon & Rice, located at 16 High Road, NW10 2QG. Link to the meeting

This week in Brent:

Schools Face Budget Deficit Amidst Rising Needs

The Brent Schools Forum met to address critical financial challenges facing the borough's schools, particularly concerning the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) and the increasing demands on the High Needs Block. Link to the meeting The forum discussed budget monitoring reports, funding updates, and strategies to manage a growing deficit, highlighting the real-world impact on vulnerable students.

High Needs Funding Crisis

The Schools Forum heard that the High Needs budget, which supports students with Education, Health & Care Plans (EHCPs)[^4], is facing a significant deficit.

• Growing EHCPs: The number of children and young people with EHCPs increased by 7% between January and September 2025, adding pressure to an already strained budget.
• Rising Costs: The £2.7 million in-year deficit against the High Needs Block is primarily due to increased costs for out-of-borough, residential, and independent placements.
• Cumulative Deficit: The cumulative deficit is projected to reach £16.3 million, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of services for students with special needs.

The council is monitoring its High Needs Block management plan, but the continued growth in EHCPs and associated costs is outpacing funding increases. This could mean longer waits for assessments, reduced support services, and fewer placement options for students with complex needs.

Early Years Funding Cuts

The Early Years Block allocation was reduced by £1.7 million due to lower take-up of entitlements, impacting funding for nurseries and early years providers.

• Reduced Take-Up: The census showed a reduction in take-up of the 3 and 4-year-old universal entitlement, a small increase in 3- and 4-year-old additional 15 hours entitlement for eligible working parents, and a reduction in take-up 2-year-old entitlements.
• Impact on Providers: While the council is not recovering clawbacks from Maintained Nursery schools this year, the long-term impact on early years providers and families remains a concern.

The Schools Forum's discussions underscore the difficult financial decisions facing Brent Council and the potential consequences for students, families, and schools.

Planning Committee Approves Argenta House Despite Local Concerns

The Planning Committee approved the redevelopment of Argenta House, a decision that has sparked debate about balancing housing needs with community concerns. Link to the meeting The development will include 180 residential dwellings, 100% of which will be affordable housing, and a flexible commercial space.

• Affordable Housing Boost: The development will provide 88 social rent units and 92 shared ownership units, addressing the borough's urgent need for affordable housing.
• Community Benefits: The approval is subject to a legal agreement that includes contributions towards local open space, pedestrian and cyclist facilities, and training and employment opportunities for Brent residents.
• Flood Mitigation: The development includes the re-naturalisation of the Wembley Brook, aiming to improve ecology and mitigate flood risk.

However, the decision has faced criticism from local residents who raised concerns about the impact on infrastructure and the surrounding area.

Councillor Patel expressed concerns about the pressure on local GP surgeries, schools, and prayer areas due to the increasing number of high-rise buildings in the area.

The Planning Committee's decision reflects the complex challenges of balancing development with community needs and environmental concerns.

Council Adopts Youth Justice Plan and Addresses Community Concerns

Brent Council convened to discuss a range of issues, including the adoption of the Brent Youth Justice Plan 2025-2028, responses to public questions, and a debate on financial challenges. Link to the meeting The meeting highlighted the council's commitment to supporting young people, addressing community concerns, and navigating financial pressures.

Youth Justice Plan

The council formally adopted the Brent Youth Justice Plan 2025-28, outlining strategies to reduce youth crime and support young people involved in the justice system.

• Successes Highlighted: The plan noted achievements in reducing first-time entrants to the criminal justice system and lowering the number of children sentenced to custody.
• Community Partnerships: The plan emphasizes collaboration with community partners to deliver preventative workshops in schools and provide access to recreational activities.
• Tackling Inequalities: The plan commits to addressing the over-representation of children from Black heritage groups in the youth justice system.

Public Questions

The council addressed questions from the public on issues ranging from anti-social behaviour to climate action and accessibility.

• Anti-Social Behaviour: Councillor Harbi Farah, Cabinet Member for Safer Communities, Jobs and Skills, detailed actions being taken to address anti-social behaviour along High Street Harlesden.
• Climate Action: Councillors Jake Rubin and Krupa Sheth provided updates on the council's progress on the climate agenda, highlighting carbon footprint reductions and air quality improvements.
• Accessibility: Councillor Teo Benea provided updates on progress towards step-free access at Alperton and Queen's Park stations.

Petition

Councillors considered a petition requesting the re-opening of public toilets in Roundwood Park, highlighting the impact on parents, disabled people, and older residents.

Financial Debate

A debate took place on a motion regarding Broken Promises and Failing Finances, with councillors discussing the need for government funding and strategies to address financial challenges.

Other Matters

• The Schools Forum discussed the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) budget monitoring report, funding updates for 2025/26, and a SEND capital project. Link to the meeting
• The Planning Committee approved the application for a variation of condition 2 relating to planning permission 14/2952 for the property at 37 Lydford Road. Link to the meeting

Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below.

• The Welsh Harp Joint Consultative Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday 24 November 2025 to discuss updates to the Welsh Harp Management Plan. Link to the meeting
• The Joint Committee of the London Boroughs of Brent, Lewisham and Southwark is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 25 November 2025. Link to the meeting
• The North West London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 18 November 2025. Link to the meeting
• The Alcohol and Entertainment Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 26 November 2025. Link to the meeting
• The Community and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 19 November 2025. Link to the meeting
• Cabinet is scheduled to meet on Monday 17 November 2025. Link to the meeting
• The Health and Wellbeing Board is scheduled to meet on Thursday 20 November 2025. Link to the meeting

This week in Brent:

Pension Fund Investments Under Scrutiny Amidst Financial Challenges

The Brent Pension Board met this week to discuss the management and performance of the Brent Pension Fund, a critical issue given the council's ongoing financial pressures. Link to the meeting The board reviewed investment strategies, risk management, and the fund's overall health, with a focus on ensuring long-term security for pensioners.

• Triennial Valuation: The board received an update on the 2025 Triennial Valuation and Funding Strategy Statement (FSS), a key indicator of the fund's financial stability. Details on the Whole Fund Result were discussed in a closed session, raising questions about transparency and public access to information.
• Investment Strategy Review: The board reviewed the fund's investment strategy, evaluating its ability to meet strategic objectives. With local government facing significant financial challenges, the performance of the pension fund is more critical than ever.
• London CIV Update: The board received an update on investments held with the London CIV, a collaboration aimed at reducing costs and improving investment outcomes. The success of this collaboration is vital for maximizing returns and minimizing risks for Brent's pension fund.
• Risk Management: The board reviewed an updated Risk Register for the Brent Pension Fund Administration Service, highlighting the importance of identifying and mitigating potential risks to the fund's performance.

The decisions made by the Brent Pension Board have a direct impact on the financial security of current and future pensioners. Effective management of the fund is essential for ensuring that Brent can meet its pension obligations and provide a safety net for its retired employees.

Cracking Down on Illegal Tobacco: Brent and Harrow Trading Standards Seize Thousands of Cigarettes

The Trading Standards Joint Advisory Board of Brent Council and Harrow Council convened to discuss efforts to combat illegal tobacco and review the performance of Trading Standards services. Link to the meeting The board heard an update on Operation CeCe, a National Trading Standards initiative aimed at disrupting the trade in illegal tobacco products.

• Operation CeCe Success: Between March 2021 and September 2025, Brent and Harrow Trading Standards seized over 480,580 illegal cigarettes, 10kg of hand rolling tobacco, 23kg of smokeless tobacco, and 115kg of shisha products.
• Enforcement Actions: These seizures led to the issuing of 63 letters of warning and 10 simple cautions to business owners. 24 cases had been concluded in court, resulting in fines exceeding £38,000 and costs of £25,000.
• Mid-Year Review: The board also discussed the Trading Standards Service's performance mid-way through the year, highlighting key achievements and challenges faced by the service.
• New Legislation: The board noted the introduction of two new pieces of legislation enforced by Trading Standards: the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 and the Environmental Protection (Single-use Vapes) (England) Regulations 2024, banning the sale and supply of single-use vapes.

The crackdown on illegal tobacco protects consumers from potentially dangerous products, supports legitimate businesses, and reduces crime associated with the illicit trade. The enforcement of new legislation on vapes also aims to protect young people from the health risks associated with vaping.

Council Grapples with Financial Overspends and Seeks New Approaches to Social Value

The Resources and Public Realm Scrutiny Committee met to discuss the council's financial forecast, social value policy, procurement strategy, and support for the voluntary sector. Link to the meeting The committee faced a sobering financial forecast and explored new ways to deliver social value and improve procurement practices.

• Financial Forecast: The committee discussed the council's Quarter 2 Financial Forecast for 2025/26, which revealed an overall overspend of £9.2 million against the General Fund revenue budget, £2.7 million overspend against the Dedicated Schools Grant, and £2.6 million overspend on the Housing Revenue Account.
• Social Value Policy: The committee discussed a new approach to social value, shifting from a narrow, procurement-only focus to a whole-council, place-based model. The aim is to embed social value in all areas of the council's work, reflecting the diversity of Brent's communities.
• Procurement Improvement: The committee received an update on the Procurement Improvement Programme and emerging Procurement Strategy, seeking to improve procurement practices and define local suppliers.
• VCSE Sector Support: The committee received an update on the development and support of the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector in Brent, recognizing the vital role these organizations play in the community.

The discussions at the Resources and Public Realm Scrutiny Committee highlight the difficult choices facing Brent Council as it seeks to balance its budget and deliver essential services. The new approaches to social value and procurement aim to maximize the impact of council spending and support local communities.

Other Matters

• The Resources and Public Realm Scrutiny Committee reviewed its work programme and tracked the progress of previous recommendations. Link to the meeting

Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below. These are included to help you inform readers about what is coming up.

• Council is scheduled to meet on Monday 10 November 2025. Link to the meeting
• The Schools Forum is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 11 November 2025. Link to the meeting
• The Planning Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 12 November 2025. Link to the meeting
• The Community and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 19 November 2025. Link to the meeting
• The Alcohol and Entertainment Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 19 November 2025. Link to the meeting
• The Health and Wellbeing Board is scheduled to meet on Thursday 20 November 2025. Link to the meeting
• Cabinet is scheduled to meet on Monday 17 November 2025. Link to the meeting

This week in Brent:

Corporate Director Appointed to Lead Residents and Housing Services

The Senior Staff Appointments Sub-Committee convened this week to interview candidates for the crucial role of Corporate Director Residents & Housing Services. Link to the meeting While the specific details of the interviews remain confidential, this appointment will significantly impact the lives of Brent residents, particularly those relying on council housing and related services.

• Key Responsibilities: The Corporate Director Residents & Housing Services will be responsible for overseeing the delivery of housing services, resident support, and community development initiatives across the borough.
• Impact on Vulnerable Groups: This role is particularly critical for ensuring the well-being of vulnerable residents, including those facing homelessness, living in social housing, or requiring support with housing-related issues.
• Confidentiality: The sub-committee agreed to exclude the press and public from the interview process, citing the need to protect personal information, as permitted under the Local Government Act 1972.

The appointment of a capable and dedicated Corporate Director Residents & Housing Services is essential for addressing the housing challenges facing Brent and ensuring that all residents have access to safe, affordable, and well-managed homes.

Other Matters

• The Senior Staff Appointments Sub-Committee also approved the minutes from their last meeting on Wednesday 23 July 2025. Link to the meeting

Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below.

• The Resources and Public Realm Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 04 November 2025 to discuss the council's financial forecast, social value policy, procurement strategy, support for the voluntary sector, and kerbside management. Link to the meeting
• The Trading Standards Joint Advisory Board is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 5 November 2025 to discuss a mid-year review of trading standards and an update on Operation CeCe. Link to the meeting
• The Pension Board is scheduled to meet on Thursday 06 November 2025. Link to the meeting
• Council is scheduled to meet on Monday 10 November 2025. Link to the meeting
• The Schools Forum is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 11 November 2025. Link to the meeting
• The Planning Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 12 November 2025. Link to the meeting