This week in Bromley:

Pension Fund's £1.6 Billion Portfolio Faces Strategic Overhaul Amidst Government Pressure

Bromley Council's Pensions Committee convened to discuss the performance of its £1.6 billion pension fund and consider a significant shift in its investment strategy. The Pensions Committee meeting focused on adapting to the government's Fit for the Future reforms, which mandate the transfer of assets to the London Collective Investment Vehicle (LCIV).

• Strategic Asset Allocation Review: The committee reviewed a report from Apex Investment Advisory (Apex) that presented several options for the fund's Strategic Asset Allocation (SAA). The recommendation was to divest from multi-asset income funds and international property, and increase investment in global equities, fixed income, index-linked gilts, and social/affordable housing.
• Government Mandate: The government's Fit for the Future consultation requires the fund to transfer its assets to investment pools like the LCIV by March 2026. This mandate is forcing the fund to change managers and potentially alter its asset allocation, as the LCIV does not currently offer Multi-Asset Income funds.
• Performance Concerns: The Apex report noted that both Global Equity managers had underperformed their benchmark over the quarter, as US mega-sized tech stocks dominated returns. The report also emphasized the importance of generating sufficient income to cover the shortfall between contributions and pension payments, especially as the employer contribution rate is being lowered.

Councillor Christopher Marlow, Vice-Chairman of the Pensions Committee, expressed a desire for a higher allocation to equities for long-term performance but suggested a more cautious approach given current market conditions:

We think a 65% allocation to equities would be good for the long-term performance of the fund, but considering that these markets are currently at record highs, we would like to propose 60% for this SAA.

The committee also considered a business case for Buckinghamshire Pension Fund to join the London CIV pool, which would create an estimated 10% growth in assets pooled.

The decisions made by the Pensions Committee will have a significant impact on the financial security of Bromley's pensioners and the council's ability to meet its pension obligations. The shift in investment strategy and the transfer of assets to the LCIV could lead to both opportunities and risks for the fund's future performance.

Religious Education in Bromley Schools: Balancing Faith and Worldviews

The Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) met to discuss the future of religious education in Bromley schools. The Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education meeting included discussions on how to teach children about different religions and belief systems. No video was provided.

Other Matters

• The Schools' Forum meeting scheduled for Thursday was cancelled. Link to the Schools' Forum meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• Council - December 08, 2025 - Meeting of the Council
• Plans Sub-Committee No. 1 - December 11, 2025 - Meeting of the Plans Sub-Committee No. 1
• Executive - December 12, 2025 - Meeting of the Executive
• Renewal, Recreation and Housing Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee - December 11, 2025 - Meeting of the Renewal, Recreation and Housing Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee
• Licensing Sub-Committee - December 18, 2025 - Meeting of the Licensing Sub-Committee
• Rights of Way Sub-Committee - December 18, 2025 - Meeting of the Rights of Way Sub-Committee

This week in Bromley:

Council Eyes Library Service Overhaul Amidst Financial Pressures

Bromley Council is weighing critical decisions about the future of its library service, potentially impacting access to vital community resources. The Executive is scheduled to discuss a report outlining various options, including maintaining the status quo, reducing opening hours, or closing some libraries. Link to the Executive meeting

• Budget Constraints: The council faces ongoing financial pressures, forcing a review of all services, including the library service.
• Service Accessibility: Any changes to library services could disproportionately affect vulnerable residents who rely on them for access to books, computers, and community programs.
• Public Consultation: It remains unclear whether the council will conduct a public consultation before making any final decisions about the future of the library service.

The outcome of this review could reshape the library service for years to come, potentially impacting access to information, education, and community engagement for Bromley residents.

Council Tax Support Scheme Faces Scrutiny Amidst Concerns for Vulnerable Residents

Bromley Council is set to discuss its Council Tax Support Scheme for 2026/27, raising concerns about potential impacts on low-income households. The Executive is scheduled to review the proposed scheme, which aims to provide financial assistance to residents struggling to pay their council tax. Link to the Executive meeting

• Scheme Eligibility: Changes to the eligibility criteria or funding levels could affect the amount of support available to vulnerable residents, potentially leading to increased financial hardship.
• Impact on Low-Income Households: Any reductions in council tax support could disproportionately impact low-income families, pensioners, and disabled individuals who rely on this assistance to make ends meet.
• Review of Previous Changes: The Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee noted that a full review would be undertaken once a complete year's worth of data was available to assess the impact of previous changes on vulnerable adults and children. Link to the Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee meeting

The council's decision on the Council Tax Support Scheme will have a direct impact on the financial well-being of many Bromley residents, particularly those who are already struggling to afford basic necessities.

Biggin Hill Airport Noise Concerns Addressed with Trial Flight Path

Residents near Biggin Hill Airport may experience some relief as the council has approved a six-month trial of an alternative approach to Runway 03, commencing on 13 November 2025. The Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee received an update on the matter. Link to the Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee meeting

• Noise Reduction: The new approach is designed to reduce noise for residents living under the flightpath.
• Civil Aviation Authority Approval: The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has approved the trial, indicating that it meets safety standards.
• Noise Action Plan Delays: Members of the committee expressed frustration with delays to the review of the Noise Action Plan (NAP), which is now expected in the latter part of the next year.

Councillor Jonathan Andrews, Darwin Ward Councillor, submitted a representation requesting that the Noise Sensitive Area regime be reviewed to protect residents residing under the new route from the impact of flights.

The trial flight path offers a potential solution to address long-standing noise concerns from residents near Biggin Hill Airport. However, the delays in reviewing the Noise Action Plan raise questions about the council's long-term commitment to mitigating the impact of airport operations on the community.

Other Matters

• Haematology Services at PRUH to be Reconfigured: The Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee is scheduled to receive an update from King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (KCH) concerning a proposal to redesign haematology services at the Princess Royal University Hospital (PRUH). Link to the Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting
• West Wickham Leisure Centre Redevelopment: The Development Control Committee is scheduled to discuss a planning application for the proposed redevelopment of the West Wickham Leisure Centre. Link to the Development Control Committee meeting
• Section 106 Agreements Update: The Development Control Committee received an update on Section 106 Agreements¹. Link to the Development Control Committee meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• Pensions Committee - December 02, 2025 - Meeting of the Pensions Committee
• Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education - December 03, 2025 - Meeting of the Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education
• Council - December 08, 2025 - Meeting of the Council
• Plans Sub-Committee No. 1 - December 11, 2025 - Meeting of the Plans Sub-Committee No. 1

This week in Bromley:

Council Grapples with Rising Empty Homes Amidst Housing Demand

Bromley Council is facing an increasing number of empty homes, a challenge that could exacerbate the borough's housing shortage. The Renewal, Recreation and Housing Information Briefing highlighted that the number of long-term empty homes has risen from 381 in September 2024 to 497 in September 2025, despite the council's efforts to incentivise owners to bring these properties back into use. Link to the Information Briefings meeting

• Council Tax Premium Ineffective? The briefing suggests that the Council Tax Premium, which imposes additional charges on long-term empty properties, may not be sufficient to address the issue.
• CHAP Programme Struggles: The Council Housing Acquisition Programme (CHAP), aimed at purchasing empty homes, has yet to acquire any properties due to the extensive renovation works required to meet the Decent Homes Standard.
• Website Update Planned: The council plans to launch an empty homes support page on its website by February 2026, offering advice and guidance to owners.

The rise in empty homes is a concern, as it represents a missed opportunity to provide much-needed housing for Bromley residents. The council's efforts to address the issue appear to be falling short, raising questions about the effectiveness of current strategies.

Digital Divide Persists as Bromley Lags Behind London Average in Gigabit Connectivity

Bromley Council is struggling to keep pace with the rest of London in terms of digital infrastructure, with full-fibre broadband coverage significantly below the city average. The Renewal, Recreation and Housing Information Briefing revealed that Bromley's full-fibre coverage stands at 64%, compared to the London average of 78%. Link to the Information Briefings meeting

• Openreach Commitment: Following negotiations with the council, Openreach has reaffirmed its commitment to providing full-fibre broadband to over 75% of premises in Bromley by summer 2026.
• Altnets Underperforming: Alternative infrastructure providers (Altnets) contribute significantly less coverage in Bromley compared to other London boroughs.
• 5G Coverage Improving: 5G mobile coverage in Bromley has increased to 89%, approximately double the national average.

The digital divide in Bromley could have significant implications for residents and businesses, limiting access to essential services and hindering economic growth. The council's efforts to improve digital connectivity are crucial to ensure that Bromley remains competitive and inclusive.

Public Safety in Focus as Committee Examines Enforcement Services and Fly-Tipping Surge

The Public Protection and Enforcement Policy Development & Scrutiny Committee discussed a range of issues related to public safety and environmental enforcement, including neighbourhood enforcement services, fly-tipping, and the use of surveillance technologies. Link to the Public Protection and Enforcement Policy Development & Scrutiny Committee meeting

• Neighbourhood Enforcement Review: The committee examined the council's neighbourhood enforcement services, considering how to balance proactive and reactive enforcement given resource constraints.
• Fly-Tipping Increase: Reports of dumped rubbish have surged, with 6,981 instances reported via the Fix My Street system in 2024/25, compared to 4,619 the previous year.
• Fixed Penalty Notice Increase Proposed: The committee considered increasing the amount payable for Fixed Penalty Notices for littering, Householder Duty Of Care, and Business Duty Of Care.

The committee's discussions highlight the challenges of maintaining public safety and environmental standards in the face of rising demand and limited resources. The proposed increase in Fixed Penalty Notices could serve as a deterrent to environmental offences, but it remains to be seen whether this will be sufficient to address the growing problem of fly-tipping.

Other Matters

• Safeguarding Reports Presented: The Health and Wellbeing Board received annual reports from the Bromley Safeguarding Children Partnership and the Bromley Safeguarding Adults Board, providing updates on safeguarding efforts in the borough. Link to the Information Briefings meeting
• Winter Preparedness Discussed: The Health and Wellbeing Board discussed winter preparedness and vaccinations, focusing on the One Bromley Winter Plan 2025/26. Link to the Health and Wellbeing Board meeting
• Adult Care and Health Budget Overspend Projected: The Adult Care and Health Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee discussed a projected overspend of £9,842,000 by year-end on controllable expenditure, mainly due to cost pressures within assessment and care management. Link to the Adult Care and Health Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee meeting
• Library Service Contract Extension Considered: The Renewal, Recreation and Housing Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee considered an options appraisal for the future of Bromley's Library Service, with a contract extension with Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL) being the recommended approach. Link to the Renewal, Recreation and Housing Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• Pensions Committee - December 02, 2025 - Meeting of the Pensions Committee
• Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education - December 03, 2025 - Meeting of the Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education
• Schools' Forum - December 04, 2025 - Meeting of the Schools' Forum
• Information Briefings - November 27, 2025 - Meeting of the Information Briefings
• Executive - November 26, 2025 - Meeting of the Executive
• Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee - November 26, 2025 - Meeting of the Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee
• Development Control Committee - November 27, 2025 - Meeting of the Development Control Committee
• Licensing Sub-Committee - November 28, 2025 - Meeting of the Licensing Sub-Committee
• Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee - November 24, 2025 - Meeting of the Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee

This week in Bromley:

Council to Decide on Library Service Future Amidst Performance Concerns

Bromley Council is at a crossroads regarding its library services, with a decision looming on whether to extend the current contract with Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL), seek a new operator, or bring the service back in-house. The Renewal, Recreation and Housing Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to discuss the Options Appraisal - Future of the Library Service at their meeting on Tuesday. Link to the Renewal, Recreation and Housing Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee meeting

• Contract End Date: The current contract with GLL is set to expire on 31 October 2027.
• Performance Review: The committee will also review GLL's performance in delivering the library service, examining key performance indicators (KPIs) and overall service quality.
• Financial Implications: The decision will have significant financial implications for the council, as each option carries different costs and potential revenue streams.

This decision is crucial for Bromley residents, as it will determine the future of a vital community resource. The library service provides access to books, computers, and other resources, as well as offering a range of programs and activities for people of all ages. The committee's decision will shape the library service for years to come.

Safeguarding Children Partnership Report Highlights Key Challenges

The Bromley Safeguarding Children Partnership (BSCP) Annual Report 2024/25 reveals both progress and ongoing challenges in protecting vulnerable children in the borough. The Health and Wellbeing Board will receive the report at an Information Briefing on Thursday.

• Increased Enquiries: The Children and Families Hub (C&F Hub) received a peak of 1314 enquiries in January 2025, with a total of 13,651 for the year.
• Common Factors: Mental health issues among parents/carers and domestic abuse were identified as the most common factors in social work assessments.
• Above National Average: The rate of children in need in Bromley (376.5 per 10,000) is significantly above the national average.

The report underscores the importance of multi-agency collaboration and effective safeguarding practices to protect children from harm. It also highlights the need to address key challenges such as mental health, domestic abuse, and rising demand for services.

Council to Consider Mortuary Contract Amid Limited Options

Bromley Council faces a critical decision regarding mortuary services, with a recommendation to directly award a contract to King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. The Public Protection and Enforcement Policy Development & Scrutiny Committee will discuss the contract at their meeting on Thursday. Link to the Public Protection and Enforcement Policy Development & Scrutiny Committee meeting

• Statutory Duty: The council has a legal obligation to ensure appropriate mortuary provision under the Coroners and Justice Act 2009.
• Limited Providers: King's Trust is reportedly the only viable provider within the HM South London Coronial District.
• Failed Procurement: A previous competitive procurement exercise in 2018 failed to attract any bids.

This decision is essential to ensure that the council can fulfill its statutory duty and provide dignified mortuary services for bereaved families. However, the lack of alternative providers raises concerns about competition and value for money.

Other Matters

• Empty Homes on the Rise: The Renewal, Recreation and Housing Information Briefing on Tuesday will include an update on the number of empty homes in Bromley, which has increased significantly in the past year. Link to the Information Briefings meeting
• Biggin Hill Airport Update: The Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee will receive an update on matters relating to Biggin Hill Airport, including the alternative instrument approach to runway 03, at their meeting on Monday. Link to the Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee meeting
• Safer Bromley Partnership Update: The Public Protection and Enforcement Policy Development & Scrutiny Committee will receive an update on the activities, initiatives, and progress of the Safer Bromley Partnership at their meeting on Thursday. Link to the Public Protection and Enforcement Policy Development & Scrutiny Committee meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• Information Briefings - November 18, 2025 - Meeting of the Information Briefings
• Renewal, Recreation and Housing Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee - November 18, 2025 - Meeting of the Renewal, Recreation and Housing Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee
• Adult Care and Health Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee - November 19, 2025 - Meeting of the Adult Care and Health Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee
• Information Briefings - November 19, 2025 - Meeting of the Information Briefings
• Health and Wellbeing Board - November 20, 2025 - Meeting of the Health and Wellbeing Board
• Information Briefings - November 20, 2025 - Meeting of the Information Briefings
• Public Protection and Enforcement Policy Development & Scrutiny Committee - November 20, 2025 - Meeting of the Public Protection and Enforcement Policy Development & Scrutiny Committee
• Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee - November 24, 2025 - Meeting of the Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee
• Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee - November 26, 2025 - Meeting of the Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee
• Executive - November 26, 2025 - Meeting of the Executive
• Development Control Committee - November 27, 2025 - Meeting of the Development Control Committee