This week in Bromley:

Licensing Decisions Could Impact Local Communities and Businesses

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Friday 17 April 2026 to consider new premises licence applications for two establishments: Mide Afro Mart and Priory Lounge & Tapas Bar. These decisions have the potential to affect local residents through noise, public nuisance, and crime, as well as impact the viability of local businesses.

Mide Afro Mart: Concerns Over Off-Licence Impact

An application for a new premises licence for Mide Afro Mart, an off-licence at 109 Burnt Ash Lane, Bromley, BR1 5AB, was reviewed. The proposed hours of operation are 09:00 to 23:00 daily for the off-site sale of alcohol. Crucially, four objections were received from residents who raised concerns about public nuisance, crime and disorder, and public safety. They fear that a new off-licence could worsen existing issues such as anti-social behaviour, littering, and noise in the area. The report indicated no objections from responsible authorities or local councillors, but the resident concerns highlight the direct impact such licences can have on the quality of life in a neighbourhood. The committee had the power to grant the licence as is, modify it with conditions, or refuse it entirely.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Priory Lounge & Tapas Bar: Late Nights and Music Raise Objections

The committee also considered an application for a new premises licence for the Priory Lounge & Tapas Bar at 140 High Street, Orpington, Kent, BR6 0JS. This application sought permission for alcohol sales, late-night refreshment, and live and recorded music, with proposed operating hours extending to midnight on weekdays and 01:30 on weekends. A significant number of objections – 20 in total – were received from residents, a residents' association, local councillors, and responsible authorities. The primary concerns revolved around potential public nuisance, crime and disorder, and public safety, particularly given the proximity to residential properties and the late hours. The Licensing Authority specifically raised concerns about noise from a newly constructed rear area with a retractable roof. The applicant's history of undertaking significant development work without planning permission also raised questions about their competence and commitment to regulatory compliance. The committee faced a decision on whether to grant the licence in full, with modifications, or refuse it.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Economic Partnership Discusses Local Growth and Armed Forces Support

The Bromley Economic Partnership met on Tuesday 14 April 2026 to discuss economic development initiatives and support for the armed forces community. The meeting provided updates on various projects aimed at boosting local businesses and employment, alongside a specific focus on the Bromley Armed Forces Covenant.

Supporting Our Armed Forces

A key agenda item was the Bromley Armed Forces Covenant, presented by Charlotte Ryan, Culture, Projects and Events Manager. This covenant signifies a commitment from the council and the community to ensure fair treatment and support for armed forces personnel, veterans, and their families. Such initiatives are vital for recognising the sacrifices made by those who serve and for integrating them back into civilian life.

Economic Development Service Updates

The partnership received an update on the Economic Development Service's ongoing work. This included progress on the Bromley Works Employment Service, which helps residents find employment through programmes like Connect to Work (C2W) . The Opportunity Bromley website is also being developed into an independent business entity, aiming to provide a more robust platform for economic opportunities. The Elmfield Road Public Realm Regeneration Project is progressing, with design teams appointed to improve the area. Discussions with Network Rail regarding improvements at Bromley South Station were also noted. These efforts are designed to create a more attractive and functional environment for businesses and residents alike.

Partner Updates Highlight Business Activity

Updates from various partners painted a picture of local economic activity. The Glades shopping centre reported new store openings and refurbishments, while the Churchill Theatre highlighted a successful pantomime season. My Time Active noted progress on facility refurbishments. Start Up Bromley continued to support local entrepreneurs, and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) shared insights into business confidence, which showed a mixed outlook. Job Centre Plus focused on work experience programmes, and banking and property sector updates indicated a cautious but generally positive economic climate. London South East Colleges (LSEC) reported strong demand for trade skills.

Link to the Bromley Economic Partnership meeting

Plans Sub-Committee No. 1 Considers Housing and Tree Preservation

The Plans Sub-Committee No. 1 met on Thursday 16 April 2026 to address several planning applications and the confirmation of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). These decisions will shape local development and protect valuable natural assets.

Children's Home in Keston

A proposal to change the use of Leafy Grove House, a Grade II listed building in Keston, from a single dwelling to a children's home for up to four children aged 8-17 was discussed. The property has been vacant for over two years. The report recommended granting permission, subject to conditions, acknowledging the council's need for children's care homes and the importance of OFSTED registration for such facilities. This decision directly impacts the provision of safe and supportive environments for vulnerable young people.

House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) in Orpington

The committee considered an application for a first-floor side extension and a change of use from a single dwelling to a four-person House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) at 69 Chelsfield Lane, Orpington, BR5 4HG. This application followed previous refusals for larger HMOs on the same site. The report recommended granting permission, stating that the proposal would provide suitable accommodation and would not unacceptably impact highway safety. The provision of HMOs is a complex issue, balancing housing needs with potential impacts on neighbourhood amenity.

Tree Preservation Orders in Biggin Hill and Cudham

The committee was scheduled to consider objections to two Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPO 3046 relates to trees on a green area south of Hanbury Drive, Biggin Hill, and TPO 3051 concerns trees on the west side of Cudham Lane North. In both cases, objections were received from landowners. The report recommended confirming the TPOs without modification, citing the trees' important contribution to the local amenity. Protecting trees is crucial for maintaining green spaces, biodiversity, and the aesthetic appeal of our neighbourhoods.

Link to the Plans Sub-Committee No. 1 meeting

Health and Wellbeing Board Addresses Key Health Priorities

The Health and Wellbeing Board met on Thursday 16 April 2026 to review critical health and social care matters, including joint commissioning, health protection, and the Better Care Fund.

Joint Commissioning and Better Care Fund

The Board received an update on the Joint Commissioning Board's work, which oversees integrated health and social care services in Bromley. A key focus was the Better Care Fund (BCF) Plan for 2026-27. The BCF is designed to improve health and social care outcomes by fostering collaboration between health and local government services. Decisions made here directly influence the availability and quality of care for residents, particularly older people and those with long-term conditions.

Health Protection and Dementia Support

An update on health protection priorities for 2025/26 covered preparedness for health emergencies, immunisation uptake, and data dashboards. The Board also received a verbal update on dementia support, highlighting initiatives like Dementia Friendly Cafés and the Herbert Protocol. These efforts are crucial for supporting vulnerable individuals and ensuring community resilience.

CPR and Chairman's Report

A verbal update on acute resuscitation (CPR) was also provided, with discussions on promoting CPR training and defibrillator accessibility. Councillor Mike Botting, Chairman of the Health and Wellbeing Board, presented his annual report, summarising the Board's activities and achievements over the past year.

Link to the Health and Wellbeing Board meeting

Other Matters

Countryside Consultative Panel Meets

The Countryside Consultative Panel met on Tuesday 14 April 2026. The meeting was attended by councillors including Councillor Simon Fawthrop, Councillor Kate Lymer, Councillor Alexa Michael, Councillor Chris Price, and Councillor Will Rowlands. The specific topics discussed were not detailed in the provided information.

Link to the Countryside Consultative Panel meeting

This week in Bromley:

Council Grapples with Budget Pressures and Service Delivery in Adult Care

The Adult Care and Health Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 31 March 2026 to discuss the council's draft budget for Adult Care and Health for the 2026/27 financial year. This meeting highlighted significant financial pressures, including anticipated cost increases and a reduction in government grant funding, which could impact the services available to vulnerable residents.

The draft budget includes a growth of approximately £16.8 million for Adult Social Care, alongside planned savings from transformation initiatives. However, a reduction in government grant funding was identified as a concern that will affect all services. For Adult Social Care, this means balancing increased costs with the need to deliver essential support. The Director of Finance noted that any underspends are now fully committed, indicating a tight financial situation.

Concerns were raised about carer support, with assurances that it is not being reduced and that the council intends to undertake more work in this area, supported by an existing Carers Strategy. The Director of Public Health also highlighted that the Public Health Grant has not increased and is expected to remain at the same level for the next three years, leading to a tight budget. Pressures include inflationary uplifts for NHS staff salaries, which are a concern as many contracts are held by NHS organisations and grant conditions require these uplifts to be funded.

The committee also reviewed updates on the Adult Services Transformation and Improvement Programme. This programme aims to create a more sustainable and efficient operating model, improve service quality, and achieve better outcomes for residents and the workforce. Key achievements include progress in Front Door services, early intervention, and safeguarding. The Co-production Approach for Adult Social Care was also discussed, with the creation of the One Bromley Involvement Charter, a commitment to involving residents and communities in the design and development of health and care services.

The meeting also provided an update on the Housing with Care Strategy 2023-2033, which aims to increase the provision of housing with care options for residents. This strategy aligns with the context of an ageing population and the Integrated Learning Disabilities Strategy, focusing on supporting adults with learning disabilities to live in their own homes or with their families.

Furthermore, the committee undertook pre-decision scrutiny of two Executive reports concerning contract awards. These included the Lot One Care and Support contract for three Extra Care Housing (ECH) schemes (Crown Meadow Court, Sutherland Court, and Regency Court) for a five-year term, and the permission to procure a Tier One and Tier Two Domiciliary Care Framework. These decisions are crucial for ensuring the continued provision of essential care services for some of Bromley's most vulnerable residents.

The committee also reviewed the ACH Risk Register, noting the addition of Provider Failure as a risk to be managed. The Contract Register was also presented for scrutiny.

A significant item was the withdrawal of the Publication of the Adult Services Care Quality Commission (CQC) Report. The CQC had withdrawn its report due to an issue with the accuracy of the published information, which had been removed from their website pending resolution.

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

Information Briefings Cover Service Updates and Contract Regulations

On the same day, Tuesday 31 March 2026, an Information Briefings meeting was held. This meeting provided updates on adult services transformation and improvement, as well as contract regulations.

An update on the Adult Services Transformation and Improvement initiatives was presented, likely detailing progress and activities within the One Bromley collaborative. Additionally, a report on Contract Regulations was discussed, focusing on the contract database extract. The meeting also reviewed the One Bromley Communications and Engagement Annual Activity Report, outlining strategies and outcomes of engagement efforts.

Link to the Information Briefings meeting

This week in Bromley:

Council Grapples with £9.3 Million Overspend in Adult Care Amidst Rising Provider Costs

Bromley Council's Adult Care and Health portfolio is facing a significant financial challenge, with a projected overspend of £9.3 million for the 2025/26 financial year. The Adult Care and Health Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 31 March 2026 to review the Q3 revenue budget monitoring report, revealing that the bulk of this overspend stems from escalating fees charged by care providers.

This substantial deficit, primarily within Assessment & Care Management, could mean that vital support services for vulnerable residents are stretched even thinner. The report highlights that despite ongoing transformation projects aimed at improving efficiency and resident independence, the council is struggling to contain costs. The Director of Adult Social Care noted that there is no immediate prospect of social care reform, indicating that these financial pressures are likely to persist. For individuals relying on these services, this could translate into longer waiting times for assessments, reduced care packages, or a struggle to find available care placements.

The committee also reviewed changes to the capital programme, including the addition of a new scheme for the Astley Day Centre with an approved budget of £531,000. Additionally, an update on the Joint Care Home Programme showcased positive achievements, with 90% of care settings rated 'Good' or better by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). However, the overall financial picture for adult social care remains a significant concern for the council and its residents.

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

Local London Partnership Delivers £5.8 Million in Funding for Bromley

Bromley Council's membership in the sub-regional partnership, Local London, has yielded significant financial benefits, securing £5.8 million in funding since December 2022. The Renewal, Recreation and Housing Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee received an update on this partnership, which comprises nine boroughs in north east and south east London, representing approximately 2.6 million residents.

This funding has been instrumental in supporting various projects across the borough, including:

• Strategic Infrastructure Fund (SIF): £1.4 million secured for a dark fibre network to improve connectivity for 4,000 Bromley businesses.
• UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF): £733,000 for an employability programme and £169,000 for a skills investment.
• Connect to Work (C2W): A £2.8 million programme to help over 800 Bromley residents facing employment barriers.
• DWP Trailblazer 1: £330,000 for a pilot programme testing new approaches to employment support.

The report indicated that Bromley's membership in Local London aligns with the partnership's Vision for Growth 2030, aiming to attract investment and support businesses. This collaboration is crucial for promoting strategic assets like Biggin Hill Airport and enhancing the borough's commercial core, such as Elmfield Road / Bromley South. The annual membership fee for Local London is £50,000. The information briefing was for noting, with no new decisions requiring legal obligations for the Council.

Link to the Information Briefings meeting

Licensing Sub-Committee Considers New Premises Licence for Orpington Eatery

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Monday 23 March 2026 to consider a new premises licence application for Cleaves Express, an establishment in Orpington, BR6 7HB. The meeting documents revealed that objections to this application have been lodged, indicating local concerns about the proposed licence.

The committee reviewed the Cleaves Express Final LSC Report , which detailed the application and any objections received. The outcome of this decision will impact the local business landscape and potentially the amenity of the surrounding area.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Other Matters

Council Reviews Member/Officer Protocol and Scrutiny Reports

The Council met on Monday 23 March 2026 to discuss several key governance matters. A revised Member/Officer Protocol was considered, aiming to foster clearer working relationships between elected members and council officers. The Council also received and noted the Annual Scrutiny Report for 2025/26, which summarised the work of the Policy Development and Scrutiny (PDS) Committees throughout the year. The Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) annual report for 2024/25 was also presented.

The Council was asked to formally appoint two Employer Representatives to the Local Pension Board. Additionally, several motions were put forward, including one calling for immediate interim emergency accommodation for homeless children, another highlighting the achievements of the administration, and a third proposing tighter regulations around House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licensing.

Link to the Council meeting

Chief Executive's Annual Review Panel Meets

The Chief Executive Annual Review Panel convened on Thursday 26 March 2026 to discuss the Chief Executive's annual review. Due to the confidential nature of this item, the press and public were excluded from this part of the meeting.

Link to the Chief Executive Annual Review Panel meeting

This week in Bromley:

Council Faces Significant Budget Overspends as Services Feel the Strain

Bromley Council is grappling with substantial financial challenges, with projected overspends across key service areas threatening to impact the delivery of vital support. The Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee met on Monday 16 March 2026, and the Executive met on Wednesday 18 March 2026, to review budget monitoring reports for the 2025/26 financial year.

The Executive meeting revealed a projected net overspend on services of £16,156,000. This figure is expected to lead to a reduction in the General Fund balance by £12,018,000. Significant cost pressures are evident across multiple portfolios, including Adult Care & Health, Children, Education & Families, and Renewal, Recreation & Housing. These overspends could translate into longer waiting times for essential services, reduced support for vulnerable individuals, and potential cuts to community programmes. The report highlights worsening financial situations from 2026/27 onwards, driven by reduced government funding, inflation, and rising service demands, necessitating significant savings and transformation initiatives.

The Environment and Community Services Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee, meeting on Tuesday 17 March 2026, also identified a projected overspend of £1,077,000 for its portfolio by year-end. Notably, Arboriculture Management faces a £250,000 overspend due to increased works and backlog mitigation, while Parking Services is projected to overspend by £727,000, primarily due to a shortfall in enforcement income. Highways also anticipate an overspend of £100,000 from underachieving income. These figures suggest potential impacts on the maintenance of our green spaces and the efficiency of parking services, which can affect residents' daily lives and the borough's environment.

The Children, Education and Families Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee, meeting on Wednesday 18 March 2026, reported a projected overspend of £2,183,000 on its controllable budget. Significant variances are expected within the Education division, particularly concerning SEN Transport, Education Psychologists, and SEN and Inclusion staffing. The Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) faces a projected in-year overspend of £16,995,000, which will be added to existing reserves. This situation could impact the support available for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), potentially affecting their educational outcomes and access to necessary services.

These budget challenges underscore the difficult decisions facing the council in balancing its finances while continuing to provide essential services, particularly for those most in need.

• Link to the Executive meeting
• Link to the Environment and Community Services Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee meeting
• Link to the Children, Education and Families Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee meeting

Council to Acquire Social Housing in Orpington Amidst Housing Shortage Concerns

Bromley Council is moving forward with plans to acquire new social housing units in Orpington, a move aimed at addressing the borough's pressing housing needs. The Executive meeting on Wednesday 18 March 2026 was scheduled to discuss the freehold acquisition of The Crofton at 208-212 High Street, Orpington BR6 0JN. This development comprises 40 new residential units intended for social housing.

The acquisition is contingent on securing grant funding from the Greater London Authority (GLA). This initiative aligns with the council's objective to increase the supply of affordable housing, a critical need for many residents struggling with rising rents and limited availability. The report recommended that the Executive agree to the acquisition and that Full Council approve its addition to the capital programme. This proactive step demonstrates a commitment to providing secure and affordable homes, a cornerstone of the council's Making Bromley Even Better priority.

• Link to the Executive meeting

Highway Maintenance and Transport Contracts Under Review

The council is set to award new contracts for highway maintenance and transport services, aiming to ensure the continued upkeep of the borough's infrastructure and the efficient provision of transport for residents. The Executive meeting on Wednesday 18 March 2026 was scheduled to consider the outcome of tendering processes for these crucial services.

For highway maintenance, contracts for Lot 1 (Major Works) and Lot 2 (Minor Works) are proposed for an initial six-year term, commencing 1 July 2026, with options to extend. The evaluation criteria comprised 40% quality and 60% price, ensuring a balance between service excellence and value for money. The council's highway network, valued at £1.1 billion, is vital for the borough's appearance, prosperity, safety, and accessibility.

Additionally, the Executive was to review a commissioning strategy for passenger transport services. The current framework contract, valued at an estimated £89 million, is due to end in August 2025, with an approved extension option until August 2027. The review aims to ensure best value, considering challenges such as increased client needs and rising costs. These contracts are essential for maintaining the borough's infrastructure and ensuring residents can access services and travel safely.

• Link to the Executive meeting

Other Matters

Planning Applications Considered

The Plans Sub-Committee No. 2 met on Thursday 19 March 2026 to consider several planning applications. These included proposals for developments at Woodland House in Orpington, the Blenheim Children and Family Centre, Southmore Court in Bromley, and properties at 84 Copers Cope Road and 195 Eden Park Avenue in Beckenham. These decisions will shape the local landscape and community facilities.

• Link to the Plans Sub-Committee No. 2 meeting