This week in Bromley:

Plans for New Homes and Community Facilities Spark Debate

The Plans Sub-Committee No. 1 met on Thursday 19 February 2026 to consider a range of planning applications, including proposals for new housing, a change of use for a children's home, and significant redevelopment at a council depot.

Demolition and New Dwellings at 6 Ladywood Avenue

A contentious application to demolish the former Friends Meeting House at 6 Ladywood Avenue, Petts Wood, Orpington, BR5 1QJ and build two four-bedroom detached homes was on the agenda. This proposal has faced previous refusals and an appeal dismissal. The report recommended refusal, citing insufficient justification for losing a community facility, which goes against Policy 20 of the Bromley Local Plan and Policy S1 of the London Plan. The loss of community spaces can disproportionately affect those who rely on them for social connection and support, particularly older residents or those with limited mobility.

Children's Home at 65 Bassetts Way

The committee considered a change of use application for 65 Bassetts Way, Orpington, BR6 7AG to establish a children's home for up to three children. This proposal aims to address a local need for children's care spaces. The recommendation was to grant permission, with no significant external alterations planned. Providing safe and nurturing environments for children in care is a critical council responsibility, and such facilities are vital for their well-being and development.

Priory Depot Redevelopment

A substantial project to demolish the existing museum and art store at Priory Depot, Church Hill, Orpington, Bromley, BR6 0GE and construct a new archive, museum, and art storage building was also discussed. This development is intended to meet statutory duties and maintain accreditation. While acknowledging some harm to the area's character and Urban Open Space designation, the report concluded that the public benefits, including improved access to heritage resources, outweighed these impacts. Such facilities are important for preserving local history and providing educational opportunities for all ages.

Nursery Building at The Pavilion, Recreation Ground

The committee reviewed plans for a new nursery building at The Pavilion, Recreation Ground, Havelock Road, Bromley, BR2 9NY to increase nursery capacity. The development would be located within the existing car park area, avoiding the loss of open space. Permission was recommended, subject to conditions on operating hours and the number of children. Expanding access to affordable childcare is crucial for working families and supports early childhood development.

Display of Advertisements

Seven applications for advertising boards on council-owned land were also on the agenda. As these are on council sites, they fall outside the council's usual delegated authority. The recommendation was to grant delegated authority to the Assistant Director to determine these applications, unless a call-in request was received. Objections were lodged for six of these applications, indicating local concerns about the visual impact of advertising.

Link to the Plans Sub-Committee No. 1 meeting

Other Matters

Landscape Improvements at Manorfields Court

The committee considered landscape improvement works at Manorfields Court, 139 Avalon Road, Orpington, BR6 9BE. The proposal involves enhancing soft and hard landscaping within the existing open space, including new footpaths, seating, and lighting. Permission was recommended. These improvements can enhance community well-being and provide more accessible public spaces.

Mobile Home at 7 Jail Lane

An application for a Lawful Development Certificate for a mobile home at 7 Jail Lane, Biggin Hill, Westerham, TN16 3SA was on the agenda. This item had been deferred for review of appeal decisions. The report indicated the structure complies with relevant legislation and would not constitute a material change of use. The recommendation was to grant the certificate.

Householder Extensions at 67 Malmains Way

A proposal for a front porch extension, loft conversion with a rear dormer and front roof light, and elevational alterations at 67 Malmains Way, Beckenham, BR3 6SB was also reviewed. The report suggested the design would not harm the character of the property or street scene, and the impact on neighbours would be acceptable. Permission was recommended.

Link to the Plans Sub-Committee No. 1 meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• Pensions Committee - Tuesday 24 February 2026 - Meeting of the Pensions Committee
• Audit and Risk Management Committee - Wednesday 25 February 2026 - Meeting of the Audit and Risk Management Committee
• Licensing Sub-Committee - Wednesday 25 February 2026 - Meeting of the Licensing Sub-Committee
• Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education - Wednesday 25 February 2026 - Meeting of the Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education
• Council - Thursday 26 February 2026 - Meeting of the Council
• Pensions Committee - Tuesday 03 March 2026 - Meeting of the Pensions Committee
• Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee - Thursday 05 March 2026 - Meeting of the Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee

This week in Bromley:

Council Tax Hike Looms as Budget Pressures Mount

Bromley Council is facing difficult decisions regarding its budget for the upcoming financial year, with a significant increase in Council Tax being considered. The Executive met on Wednesday 11 February 2026 to discuss the Council Tax Report for 2026/27, which outlines projected funding shortfalls and the need to raise revenue.

The report highlights a challenging financial settlement from the government, with anticipated reductions in funding. This, coupled with rising costs for essential services like Adult Social Care and Children's Social Care, means the council is looking at increasing the Bromley element of Council Tax and the Adult Social Care Precept. For many households, particularly those on fixed incomes or facing financial hardship, any increase in Council Tax can create significant strain. This decision will directly impact the affordability of living in Bromley for many residents.

The Executive was also set to review the Council's Capital Strategy for 2026/27 to 2029/30, which details planned investments in infrastructure and assets. Amendments to the Capital Programme, including new schemes and adjustments to existing ones, were on the agenda. This strategy is crucial for the long-term development of the borough, but its funding is intrinsically linked to the council's overall financial health.

Link to the Executive meeting

Mental Health Strategy Progress and Better Care Fund Performance Under Review

The Health and Wellbeing Board Information Briefings meeting on Thursday 12 February 2026 provided updates on two critical areas: the Bromley Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy and the performance of the Better Care Fund.

Bromley Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy: A Focus on Integrated Care

The meeting was scheduled to review the action plan for the Bromley Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy (2025-27). This strategy, a joint effort between the Bromley Local Care Partnership and the London Borough of Bromley Executive, aims to improve mental health services for all residents. Key priorities include:

• Children and Young People: Enhancing the Integrated Single Point of Access (ISPA) for mental health services.
• Adult Services: Recommissioning Bromley Talking Therapies and expanding mental health employment support.
• Financial Sustainability: Ensuring the long-term viability of mental health provision.

The strategy's success is vital for ensuring that residents, especially those experiencing mental health challenges, receive timely and effective support. The overall budget for 2024/25 was £76.5m, jointly funded by the council and NHS South-East London Integrated Care Board.

Better Care Fund: Integrating Health and Social Care

An update on the Better Care Fund (BCF) performance for the third quarter of 2025-26 was also presented. The BCF is a statutory requirement aimed at integrating health and social care services to improve patient outcomes and reduce hospital admissions. The report was expected to detail financial summaries and key performance metrics, such as emergency admissions for those aged 65+ and the efficiency of patient discharges. The BCF's total cost for 2025-26 was £44,862k, with a further £3,031k allocated to the Disabled Facilities Grant.

The performance of these funds directly impacts the quality of care and support available to vulnerable individuals, including the elderly and those with long-term health conditions.

Link to the Information Briefings meeting

Council Staff Pay Award and Polling Place Changes on the Agenda

The General Purposes and Licensing Committee met on Tuesday 10 February 2026 to discuss several important administrative and operational matters, including the proposed pay award for council staff and changes to polling places for upcoming elections.

Proposed Pay Award for Council Staff

The committee was scheduled to consider a proposed pay award for council staff for 2026/27. The recommendation was for a 4.45% increase across all salary points, with a 3.2% increase to the Merited Rewards budget. This decision has direct implications for the council's workforce and its ability to retain skilled staff. The estimated annual cost of the proposed pay award is £4.03 million.

Polling Place Adjustments for 2026 Elections

The committee was also to be advised of proposed changes to polling places for the Local Council Elections on Thursday 7 May 2026. Three polling stations – Bromley Common Baptist Church, Castlecombe Children & Family Centre, and Blenheim Children & Family Centre – were identified as unavailable. Alternative venues have been identified and assessed for suitability and accessibility. Ensuring accessible and convenient polling places is crucial for enabling all residents to exercise their democratic right to vote.

Link to the General Purposes and Licensing Committee meeting

Other Matters

Local Pension Board Reviews Fund Performance and Governance

The Local Pension Board met on Monday 09 February 2026 to review the performance of the Bromley Pension Fund. The Board considered the Performance Monitoring Report for 2025/26, assessing compliance with The Pensions Regulator's Code of Practice on Governance and Administration. An update on the government's Fit for the Future programme, aimed at reforming the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), was also discussed. This includes requirements for asset transfers to the London Collective Investment Vehicle (LCIV) and the implementation of new governance policies. The Board also reviewed the Pension Fund's Risk Register, identifying key risks such as investment performance and regulatory changes.

Link to the Local Pension Board meeting

Executive, Resources and Contracts Committee Scrutinises Treasury Management and Contracts

The Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee met on Monday 09 February 2026 to scrutinise the Council's Treasury Management Strategy for 2026/27 and review the Corporate Contracts Register. The Treasury Management Strategy outlines how the council manages its borrowing and investments to ensure financial stability. The committee also reviewed the Corporate Contracts Register, providing transparency on active contracts valued over £200,000. Pre-decision scrutiny of reports for the Executive meeting, including the Council Tax Report and Capital Strategy, was also undertaken.

Link to the Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• Pensions Committee - Tuesday 24 February 2026 - Meeting of the Pensions Committee
• Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education - Wednesday 25 February 2026 - Meeting of the Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education
• Audit and Risk Management Committee - Wednesday 25 February 2026 - Meeting of the Audit and Risk Management Committee
• Licensing Sub-Committee - Wednesday 25 February 2026 - Meeting of the Licensing Sub-Committee
• Council - Thursday 26 February 2026 - Meeting of the Council

This week in Bromley:

Tackling Loneliness and Reconfiguring Hospital Services: Key Issues for Residents

This week, the Adult Care and Health Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 03 February 2026 to discuss critical issues impacting the well-being of Bromley residents. The meeting covered the ongoing efforts to combat loneliness across the borough and a significant update on proposed changes to haematology services at the Princess Royal University Hospital (PRUH).

Tackling Loneliness: A Community-Wide Effort

The committee received an update on the Tackling Loneliness Strategy Action Plan 2022-2026. This comprehensive strategy, launched in November 2021, brings together various partners to address the pervasive issue of loneliness. The action plan focuses on three key areas:

• Organisation and Services: Efforts are underway to make information about local groups and support services more accessible. The Simply Connect Bromley database, which lists over 1,500 activities from 695 organisations, is a vital tool in this regard. Support is also being tailored for specific communities, including Ukrainian refugees, carers, and individuals with learning disabilities. A network of champions is being trained to identify and address loneliness, with over 700 participants already attending workshops. Befriending services have reported that 100% of their clients feel more confident and less isolated.
• Community Infrastructure: The strategy aims to make better use of community spaces and improve transport accessibility. Initiatives include encouraging landlords of Extra Care Housing and care homes to open their facilities to the wider community, with ideas like chatty benches and community events being implemented. Parks and green spaces are also being enhanced to encourage community involvement. Clarion Futures is delivering social activities and digital support, and efforts are being made to promote digital tools to combat isolation.
• Building a Culture: The strategy seeks to raise awareness and reduce the stigma associated with loneliness through ongoing communication campaigns. Volunteering is also being promoted, with grassroots organisations receiving support through an Innovation Fund to develop local day activity projects. Libraries are playing a role by offering activities for various age groups, and a Home Library Service supports less mobile users.

The impact of these initiatives is crucial, particularly for older residents and those who may be socially isolated due to health conditions or other circumstances.

Link to the Adult Care and Health Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee meeting

Proposed Reconfiguration of Haematology Services at PRUH

A significant discussion point, noted from the minutes of a previous Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting, concerned the proposed reconfiguration of haematology services at the Princess Royal University Hospital (PRUH) by King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.

The proposal involves centralising specialist haematological cancer services from the Chartwell ward at the PRUH to Denmark Hill. King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust argues this move is necessary to meet national standards, improve patient outcomes through access to more specialist treatments and clinical trials, and benefit from a more robust governance structure.

However, this proposal has raised considerable concerns among councillors and the public regarding:

• Patient Travel and Access: Increased travel times for patients and their families in Bromley could create significant hardship.
• Availability of Local Care: Questions remain about ensuring specialist care remains accessible closer to home for those who need it.
• Impact on Staff: The potential impact on specialist staff, including chemotherapy nurses, is also a consideration.

The minutes record that the update was noted by the Sub-Committee, indicating that discussions and concerns have been raised, but no decisions have yet been made on the future of these vital services.

Link to the Adult Care and Health Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee meeting

Renewal, Recreation and Housing Committee Tackles Budget and Housing Strategy

The Renewal, Recreation and Housing Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday 04 February 2026 to address key issues affecting the borough's housing, sport, and leisure services.

Draft Budget for 2026/27 Highlights Financial Pressures

The committee reviewed the draft revenue budget for the Renewal, Recreation and Housing portfolio for 2026/27. The report underscored the challenging financial landscape, with rising inflation and reduced government funding contributing to a projected budget gap. The committee was asked to consider proposed savings and cost pressures, with a focus on initiatives like reducing high-cost temporary accommodation placements and increasing planning income. However, growth areas, such as increased costs for temporary accommodation and housing development programmes, also present significant challenges. These financial decisions will directly impact the council's ability to deliver essential housing services and support for residents.

Housing with Care Strategy and Rent Setting Policy

The committee received an update on the Bromley Housing with Care Strategy 2023-2033, which aims to expand housing options with care and support for vulnerable adults. This strategy is crucial for an ageing population and increasing demand for services. Additionally, the proposed Rent and Service Charge Setting Policy for 2026-2027 was reviewed. This policy provides a framework for setting rents and service charges for council-owned properties, ensuring compliance with regulations and maintaining transparency for tenants.

Performance of Housing Management Contract

An update on the performance of Penge Churches Housing Association (PCHA), the council's managing agent for its residential housing portfolio, was discussed. The report covered operational performance, statutory compliance, and tenant satisfaction. While areas of strong performance were noted, the committee also reviewed areas requiring improvement, ensuring that residents receive the best possible service.

Link to the Renewal, Recreation and Housing Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee meeting

Other Matters

The Adult Care and Health Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee also met on Tuesday 03 February 2026. The committee was scheduled to discuss the draft budget for 2026/27, an update on the Adult Services Transformation and Improvement Programme, and the publication of the Care Quality Commission (CQC) report for Adult Services, which indicated an overall rating of Requires Improvement . The committee also reviewed the council's risk register and discussed the Housing with Care Strategy.

Link to the Adult Care and Health Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee meeting

The Development Control Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday 05 February 2026 was cancelled.

Upcoming Meetings

• Local Pension Board - Monday 09 February 2026 - Meeting of the Local Pension Board
• Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee - Monday 09 February 2026 - Meeting of the Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee
• General Purposes and Licensing Committee - Tuesday 10 February 2026 - Meeting of the General Purposes and Licensing Committee
• Executive - Wednesday 11 February 2026 - Meeting of the Executive
• Health and Wellbeing Board - Thursday 12 February 2026 - Meeting of the Health and Wellbeing Board
• Information Briefings - Thursday 12 February 2026 - Meeting of the Information Briefings
• Plans Sub-Committee No. 1 - Thursday 19 February 2026 - Meeting of the Plans Sub-Committee No. 1

This week in Bromley:

Council Faces Tough Choices as Draft Budget Reveals Significant Funding Gap

Bromley Council is confronting a stark financial reality, with the draft budget for 2026/27 highlighting significant cost pressures and a projected budget gap. The Environment and Community Services Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 27 January 2026 to review the initial draft budget for the Environment and Community Services Portfolio, which stood at a projected £46,970,009. This comes against a backdrop of a wider council-wide projected budget gap increasing to £53.1 million per annum by 2028/29.

The report presented to the committee painted a challenging picture, citing a reduced spending power due to inflation and rising service demands, with a projected real-terms funding reduction of around £10.1 million in 2026/27. This means that difficult decisions will need to be made about how services are delivered and funded, with potential impacts on everything from park maintenance to waste collection. The council is aiming to achieve transformation savings totalling £2.77 million in 2026/27 through service redesigns, demand management, and operational efficiencies, but the scale of the deficit suggests these savings alone may not be enough.

The committee was asked to consider this draft budget as a basis for setting the overall council budget and to provide comments for the Executive's consideration. The financial strain is particularly concerning for vulnerable groups who often rely heavily on council-provided services.

Link to the Environment and Community Services Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee meeting

Open Spaces Strategy Faces Funding Hurdles Despite Progress

The fourth year of Bromley's Open Space Strategy, adopted in November 2021, has seen significant progress, but faces ongoing challenges, particularly concerning financial pressures. The Environment and Community Services Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee received an update on the strategy, which aims to enhance the quality, accessibility, natural assets, health and wellbeing benefits, local economic contribution, and financial sustainability of Bromley's open spaces.

While approximately £1 million has been secured in 2025 to support projects aligned with the strategy's objectives, the report indicated that delivery is increasingly dependent on securing external funding. The council's total current budget for Parks and Greenspaces is £7.4 million. The strategy's five strategic objectives (SOs) have seen progress, with planned projects for 2026 and beyond subject to funding availability. These include infrastructure audits, park audits, playground refurbishments, woodland establishment, and heritage conservation projects. The success of these initiatives, which directly contribute to the borough's environmental quality and residents' well-being, hinges on continued financial support.

Link to the Environment and Community Services Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee meeting

Council Tackles Carbon Emissions with 55% Reduction Against Baseline

Bromley Council is making strides in its commitment to tackling climate change, with a 55% reduction in direct organisational emissions against its 2018/19 baseline. The Environment and Community Services Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee received an update on the council's Net Zero Action Plan (NZAP) for 2024/25.

The report detailed that the council's net zero emissions for 2024/25 totalled 3,259 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e), representing a 13.5% reduction from the previous year. Key initiatives contributing to this reduction include:

• Street lighting upgrades to LED.
• Energy efficiency improvements in council buildings.
• Procurement of 100% renewable electricity.
• Transition to a zero-emission fleet.

Electricity use remains the largest source of emissions (66%), followed by gas (29%). The report noted the potential for a 90% reduction in total emissions if a 'deep green electricity tariff' is purchased. These efforts are crucial for the council's commitment to achieving its 2027 net zero carbon target and contribute to a healthier environment for all residents.

Link to the Environment and Community Services Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee meeting

Religious Education Syllabus Revision and Collective Worship Guidance Under Review

The Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) met on Thursday 29 January 2026 to discuss key aspects of religious education in Bromley schools. A significant item was the review and potential approval of the revised Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education, which is a statutory requirement reviewed every five years. The proposed syllabus continues to use and enhance the 'flower' model for pedagogy, focusing on meaningful 'human' questions.

The council also reviewed existing guidance on collective worship, which had not been updated since 2008. The aim is to develop revised guidance to better support schools in providing quality collective worship, fostering improved community relations and cohesion. This revised guidance will cover legal requirements, the definition of collective worship, its distinction from assembly, and the concept of 'broadly Christian' worship. The report indicated a recommendation that the collective worship guidance for schools be finalised, with example resources to be developed later in the academic year.

Updates on national initiatives, including discussions from NASACRE in Conversation and information about the upcoming NASACRE Conference, were also provided. Locally, the meeting included a review of the Interfaith Calendar Competition for primary schools and plans for a Secondary Interfaith Dialogue Conference.

Link to the Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education meeting

Public Protection Services Prepare for 2026/27 with Budget Scrutiny and Performance Reviews

The Public Protection and Enforcement Policy Development & Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday 29 January 2026 to scrutinise the draft budget for the upcoming financial year and review key service performance. The committee considered the draft budget for the Public Protection and Enforcement Services portfolio for 2026/27, which incorporates anticipated cost pressures, mitigation measures, and savings from transformation initiatives. The report highlighted the council's challenging financial context, including the impact of inflation and rising service demands.

The committee also received a performance overview for the Public Protection and Enforcement portfolio for October to December 2025, with all key performance indicators rated as 'green', indicating performance at or above expectation. Updates were provided on the Stray Dog Service, which boasts a 100% rehoming rate and positive community engagement through social media. The London Fire Brigade also presented its annual report for Bromley, detailing achievements in 2025, including a significant increase in Fire Safety Audits and Home Fire Safety Visits, and outlining priorities for 2026.

A key concern highlighted was a 'red' risk rating for Increased Costs for Coroners Service due to rising demand, inflationary pressures, and potential relocation costs for the Coroner's court. The committee also reviewed the Public Protection and Enforcement Risk Register and discussed the Forward Work Programme.

Link to the Public Protection and Enforcement Policy Development & Scrutiny Committee meeting

Other matters

The Children, Education and Families Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday 28 January 2026. Key discussions included the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) for 2026/27, an update on the DSG deficit recovery plan, and the grant allocation for the Holiday Activities and Food Programme. The committee also scrutinised the draft budget for the portfolio, received an annual update on the Youth Justice Service, and reviewed the department's risk register. The significant deficit in the DSG, projected to continue increasing, poses a considerable challenge for the funding of schools and educational support. Link to the Children, Education and Families Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• Local Pension Board - Monday 09 February 2026 - Meeting of the Local Pension Board
• Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee - Monday 09 February 2026 - Meeting of the Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee
• Renewal, Recreation and Housing Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee - Wednesday 04 February 2026 - Meeting of the Renewal, Recreation and Housing Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee
• Adult Care and Health Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 03 February 2026 - Meeting of the Adult Care and Health Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee
• General Purposes and Licensing Committee - Tuesday 10 February 2026 - Meeting of the General Purposes and Licensing Committee
• Executive - Wednesday 11 February 2026 - Meeting of the Executive
• Health and Wellbeing Board - Thursday 12 February 2026 - Meeting of the Health and Wellbeing Board
• Information Briefings - Thursday 12 February 2026 - Meeting of the Information Briefings