This week in Bromley:

Council Approves Housing Development and Leisure Centre Funding Boost

At a meeting of the Bromley Council on Monday, councillors made key decisions impacting housing and leisure facilities across the borough. ¹

• Poverest Housing Development: Councillors approved an addition of £23.7 million to the Capital Programme for housing development on the Poverest Adult Education Centre site and surrounding land. This includes at least £4.5 million from the GLA, with efforts ongoing to secure more funding. This decision could significantly increase the availability of affordable housing in the area.
• New Children's Home: An additional £1.76 million was allocated for a new children's home in Wharton Road, Bromley. This investment aims to provide a safe and supportive environment for vulnerable children in the borough.
• Leisure Centre Investment: The council approved an additional £2.3 million for Leisure Centres, bringing the total allocation to £37.823 million. This funding, sourced from external grants, Section 106 agreements, and internal capital funds, will be used to improve leisure facilities across Bromley.

These decisions reflect the council's commitment to addressing housing needs, supporting vulnerable children, and enhancing community amenities.

Link to the Council Meeting

Schools Forum Examines Budget Overspend and Constitution Changes

The Bromley Council Schools Forum met on Thursday to address financial challenges and consider changes to its own structure. ²

• CEF Provisional Outturn Report: The forum noted a projected overspend of £7.338 million in the Children, Education and Families (CEF) portfolio for 2024/25. The Director of Children's Services highlighted that special educational needs (SEN) and SEN transport were significant risk areas due to increasing complexity of needs, shortage of local specialist provision, and rising transport costs.
  • The report stated that the impact of additional legal duties from the SEND Reforms, has led to unsustainable financial pressures on High Needs costs within the DSG[^3], and that the increase in government funding is not sufficient to meet the increased costs. [^3]: DSG stands for Dedicated Schools Grant. It is the primary source of funding for schools and local authorities to support education-related services.
• Schools Forum Constitution: The forum discussed proposed changes to its constitution, aiming to address recruitment difficulties and ensure a full complement of members. The proposed changes include merging Head and Governor/Trustee positions and limiting membership from a single school or academy trust.
• Schools Finance Regulations: The Schools Forum was asked to note a report providing an update to the Financial Regulations to Schools. The Financial Regulations for Schools were last updated in 2020 and are therefore due a review.

These discussions highlight the financial pressures facing the education sector and the council's efforts to adapt and improve its governance structures.

Link to the Schools' Forum Meeting

Council Debates Agricultural Property Relief and Disability Equality

During the Council meeting, councillors debated motions on agricultural property relief and the appointment of a Disability Equality Champion for London.

• Agricultural Property Relief: Councillor Will Rowlands proposed a motion expressing concern about proposed changes to inheritance tax that would scrap Agricultural Property Relief (APR). The motion noted that Bromley has the largest area of farmland in Greater London and that the changes could disproportionately impact Bromley residents and farmers. The motion called for the council to write to the government and the borough's MPs to express concerns and ask them to reconsider the proposals.
• Disability Equality Champion for London: Councillor Chloe-Jane Ross proposed a motion supporting the appointment of a Disability Equality Champion for London. The motion noted that the London Assembly had unanimously passed a motion calling for the appointment of a dedicated Disability Equality Champion for London, but the Mayor had declined to act. The motion called for the Mayor to appoint a senior Disability Equality Champion with lived experience of disability, adequately resourced and accountable to the Assembly, and tasked with co-producing a London Disability Action Plan.

These debates demonstrate the council's engagement with national policy issues and its commitment to representing the interests of its residents.

Link to the Council Meeting

Other Matters

• Local Planning Protocol: The council approved an updated Local Planning Protocol, with a provision prohibiting councillors who have called in an application from moving or seconding a motion on that application.
• Financial Regulations: The council approved updated Financial Regulations and Financial Regulations for Schools, including a reference prohibiting the use of cryptocurrency.
• Contract Procedure Rules: The council approved updated Contract Procedure Rules, revised to reflect recent changes to the UK Public Procurement Regulations.
• Scheme of Delegation to Officers: The council approved an updated Scheme of Delegation to Officers, clarifying departmental responsibilities and property delegations.
• Health and Wellbeing Board Annual Report: The council received and noted the Health and Wellbeing Board's Annual Report for 2024/25, covering a range of issues including mental health services and suicide prevention.
• Local Pension Board Annual Report: The council received and noted the 2024/25 Annual Report of the Local Pension Board, providing information on the board's activities and role.
• Petition - The Spitfire Centre: The council considered a petition concerning the Spitfire Centre at Church Road, Biggin Hill. The decision on the petition was deferred.
• Questions from Members of the Public and Councillors: A number of questions were submitted by members of the public and councillors, covering a range of topics. Written replies are available in the supporting documents.
• Closure of Bishop Challoner School: Councillors requested a statement from the Portfolio Holder for Children, Education and Families on the closure of Bishop Challoner School in Shortlands and Park Langley ward.

Upcoming Meetings

• Plans Sub-Committee No. 2 - July 24, 2025 - Meeting of the Plans Sub-Committee No. 2

This week in Bromley:

Ethical Conduct and Councillor Perks Under Scrutiny

The Standards Committee met on Tuesday to discuss ethical standards within Bromley Council and review the Monitoring Officer's General Report. ¹

• Ethical Standards Discussion: The committee engaged in a discussion with the Chief Executive regarding ethical standards at Bromley Council.
• Gifts and Hospitality: The Monitoring Officer's report included a list of gifts and hospitality received by councillors, raising questions about transparency and potential influence.
  • Examples included lunches, tickets to events (such as the Soul Town Festival and Kent County Cricket Club matches at Kent County Cricket Ground, Beckenham Town), and gifts of wine and chocolate.
• Complaints Summary: The report also included an anonymized summary of complaints against councillors, including allegations of poor conduct, misuse of position, and inappropriate involvement in planning matters.
• National Standards: The committee noted the government's consultation on strengthening the standards and conduct framework for local authorities, including the potential for mandatory codes of conduct and powers of suspension.

The meeting highlights the ongoing need for transparency and accountability in local government, particularly in light of potential conflicts of interest and public concerns about councillor conduct.

Link to the Standards Committee Meeting

Gigabit Broadband Expansion and Economic Development Initiatives

The Bromley Economic Partnership convened on Tuesday to discuss the rollout of gigabit broadband, the impact of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), and updates from the Economic Development Service. ²

• Openreach Gigabit Rollout: The partnership received an update on the Openreach Bromley gigabit rollout, aiming to improve internet connectivity for residents and businesses.
• UKSPF Evaluation: The meeting included a discussion of the evaluation findings of the UKSPF, focusing on how it has supported local businesses.
  • A 12-month extension of UKSPF funding has been secured for three priority Growth Plan Areas, with new funding planned for the Inward Investment Service rollout and public realm improvements to Elmfield Road.
• Economic Development Service Update: The partnership received an update on the Economic Development Service, including initiatives related to business engagement, inward investment, business support, and employment and skills.
  • The council is working on the brand for the new Inward Investment Service, developing business support programmes for entrepreneurs and SMEs, and establishing an Employment and Skills Board.
• Partner Updates: Partner organizations, including the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and Your Bromley BID, provided updates on their activities.

The discussions underscore the council's commitment to fostering economic growth and supporting local businesses through infrastructure improvements, funding opportunities, and targeted support programs.

Link to the Bromley Economic Partnership Meeting

Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee Meeting

The Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee met on Thursday. No video of the meeting was provided.

Link to the Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee Meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• Council - July 07, 2025 - Meeting of the Council
• Schools' Forum - July 10, 2025 - Meeting of the Schools' Forum

This week in Bromley:

Pierluigi's Pasta Fresca Faces Licence Scrutiny Amidst Noise Complaints

The Licensing Sub-Committee was scheduled to review a new premises licence application for Pierluigi's Pasta Fresca, a restaurant located at 86 - 90 High Street, Beckenham. The meeting was scheduled to take place on Monday 23 June 2025.

• Extensive History of Issues: The restaurant has a history of licensing issues, including breaches of Covid restrictions, noise complaints, and operating in breach of its existing premises licence.
• Objections: The Metropolitan Police, the Planning Authority, the Statutory Nuisance & Anti-Social Behaviour Team, Licensing as a Responsible Authority, two ward councillors, three local residents and a local residents association all objected to the application.
• Police Concerns: The Metropolitan Police cited concerns about public nuisance and previous breaches of Covid restrictions. They also reported that the management's attitude was dismissive about a male's intoxication levels following an allegation that he had been assaulted at the venue, and that the premises did not have a refusals log in place, which was a breach of their licensing conditions.
• Resident Concerns: Residents raised concerns about public nuisance, late-night disturbances, unsuitability of the venue, unsafe parking, and the impact on community well-being.
• Support: Thirteen representations were received supporting the application, with supporters noting that Pierluigi's Pasta Fresca brought life to Beckenham High Street, attracted new clientele, boosted the local economy, and provided a high-quality dining experience.

The Licensing Sub-Committee had the option to grant the licence with or without additional conditions, exclude certain licensable activities, refuse to specify a premises supervisor, or reject the application.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee Meeting

LA Sports Club Seeks Licence Variation Amidst Resident Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee also met on Monday 23 June 2025 to consider an application to vary the premises licence for LA Sports Club, St Dunstan's Lane, Beckenham.

• Proposed Changes: The applicant, Langley Annexe Limited, sought to extend the hours for the sale of alcohol and opening hours.
• Objections: The council received 40 valid objections, including one from the Park Langley Residents' Association. Concerns raised included potential public nuisance, increased traffic and parking issues, and the impact on vulnerable adults and children.
• No Objections from Councillors or Authorities: Ward councillors were notified of the application, but no objections were received from them. Responsible authorities were also notified, and no valid objections were received from them.
• Removal of Conditions: Langley Annexe Limited also requested the removal of several conditions from the current licence, arguing that they duplicated existing conditions or were unnecessary, vague, or contradictory.

The Licensing Sub-Committee had the option to grant the variation, grant it with additional conditions, exclude licensable activities, or reject the application.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee Meeting

Executive to Review Emergency Demolition of Dangerous Structure in Croydon Road

The Executive was scheduled to review the emergency demolition of buildings at 164, 166 and 168 Croydon Road, SE20 7YZ, including the former Mitre public house. The meeting was scheduled to take place on Wednesday 25 June 2025.

• Dangerous Structure: The buildings were declared a dangerous structure under Section 78 of the Building Act 1984, following a structural engineer's survey on 6 June 2025.
• Emergency Demolition: Due to the risk of imminent collapse, emergency demolition was implemented, leading to a temporary road closure and displacement of local residents and businesses.
• Financial Implications: The Executive was asked to note the potential spend authorised by Chief Officers due to the emergency nature of the works, and to approve the revenue costs to be drawn down from the 2025/26 central contingency sum until costs are recovered.

Link to the Executive Meeting

Health and Wellbeing Board to Discuss Mental Health, Learning Disabilities, and Suicide Prevention Strategies

The Health and Wellbeing Board was scheduled to meet on Thursday 26 June 2025 to discuss several key strategies aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of Bromley residents.

• Bromley Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2025-30: The strategy aims to address unequal access to services, barriers to access, the need for early intervention, and improved outcomes for young people transitioning into adult services.
• Learning Disabilities Strategy 2025 – 2030: The strategy focuses on being positively prepared for adulthood, community inclusion, healthy living, suitable housing, and learning, work, and independence.
• South East London Sexual Health Strategy 2025-2030: The strategy outlines four themes: healthy and fulfilling sexual relationships, improving reproductive health, reducing the rates of sexually transmitted infections, and preventing and living well with HIV.
• Bromley Suicide Prevention Plan 2025-30: The plan sets out Bromley's local approach to reducing suicide and self-harm, supporting those affected, and building a more compassionate community.

Link to the Health and Wellbeing Board Meeting

Plans Sub-Committee to Review Former Civic Centre Conversion and Chelsfield Station Parcel Locker

The Plans Sub-Committee No. 1 was scheduled to meet on Thursday 26 June 2025 to discuss planning applications, including the proposed conversion of two buildings at the former Bromley Civic Centre and a retrospective application for an InPost parcel locker at Chelsfield Station Car Park.

• Former Bromley Civic Centre: The committee was scheduled to consider two applications relating to the former Bromley Civic Centre, seeking prior approval for the change of use from office to residential. The officer's report recommends that prior approval is refused for both applications.
• Chelsfield Station Car Park: The committee was scheduled to discuss a retrospective application for the siting of an InPost parcel locker at Chelsfield Station Car Park. The planning officer is recommending that it be refused.

Link to the Plans Sub-Committee No. 1 Meeting

Other Matters

• Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee: The Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee were scheduled to meet to discuss the treasury management annual performance, forward work programme, and upcoming key decisions. Link to the Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee Meeting
• Information Briefings: The Health and Wellbeing Board was expected to be informed of the statutory 60-day consultation for the next iteration of the Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment (PNA), and to note the performance against Better Care Fund (BCF) metrics and the finance update for the period January to March 2025. Link to the Information Briefings
• Chief Executive Annual Review Panel: The Chief Executive Annual Review Panel was scheduled to meet to appoint a chair and then to review the performance of the Chief Executive. Link to the Chief Executive Annual Review Panel Meeting
• Executive: The Executive was asked to approve a draft of the Bromley Local Plan Review Direction of Travel consultation document, subject to any further minor amendments and formatting changes, and to consider the adoption of five Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan documents. Link to the Executive Meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• Standards Committee - July 01, 2025 - Discussion with the chief executive about ethical standards, and a review of the monitoring officer's general report
• Bromley Economic Partnership - July 01, 2025 - The Openreach Bromley gigabit rollout, the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), and an update from the Economic Development Service
• Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee - July 03, 2025 - Meeting of the Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee
• Council - July 07, 2025 - Meeting of the Council
• Schools' Forum - July 10, 2025 - Meeting of the Schools' Forum

This week in Bromley:

Mental Health and Learning Disability Strategies Approved

The Adult Care and Health Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee approved the Bromley Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2025-30 and the Bromley Integrated Learning Disability Strategy at their meeting on June 19th. ¹

• Mental Health Strategy: The strategy focuses on early intervention, supporting young people, improving transitions between services, and enhancing outcomes for those with long-term challenges and older adults with dementia.
• Learning Disability Strategy: This strategy aims to empower individuals with learning disabilities to lead fulfilling lives through community support, health initiatives, suitable housing, and opportunities for learning and employment.

The committee also reviewed a budget overspend of £5.485 million in the Adult Care and Health Portfolio for 2024/25, mainly due to high costs of care packages and mental health services.

The committee supported contract variations for BromleyWell, reducing the value of dementia respite at home, and for the Community Substance Misuse Service, increasing capacity for criminal justice treatment and aftercare.

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

Financial Rule Changes Proposed Amidst Budget Concerns

The General Purposes and Licensing Committee reviewed and recommended updated financial regulations and contract procedure rules to the full council for approval. ²

• Financial Regulations: Key changes include increased approval levels for budget transfers (virements) and revised procedures for capital projects.
• Contract Procedure Rules: The updated rules aim for greater clarity in procurement processes and alignment with current regulations.

These changes come as the Adult Care and Health Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee reported a £5.485 million overspend, highlighting the need for careful financial management.

Link to the General Purposes and Licensing Committee Meeting

Religious Education Review and Funding Uncertainties

The Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) agreed to revise the current Bromley Agreed Syllabus at their meeting on June 18th. ³

• Agreed Syllabus Conference: The council voted to revise the current Agreed Syllabus, with the aim of ensuring RE is based around meaningful questions and inter-faith dialogue.
• National Updates: The SACRE RE Adviser highlighted concerns that RE is not currently part of the national curriculum, and that fewer than 1/5 schools were compliant at secondary level in providing core RE for every pupil as well as the option of taking RE GCSE, and for those that were, it was usually sub-standard.

Funding for SACRE is uncertain beyond the current academic year due to reduced central government funding to the Local Authority. A member noted that the SACRE was a statutory body that the Local Authority was required to have and should therefore be funded.

Link to the Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education Meeting

Other Matters

• Children, Education and Families: The Children, Education and Families Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee reviewed the Children, Education and Families Portfolio Plan for the fourth quarter of 2024/25 and the refreshed plan for 2025/26, focusing on safeguarding, housing, life chances, multi-agency working, and efficiency. Link to the Children, Education and Families Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee Meeting

• Adult Services Transformation: The Adult Care and Health Policy Development and Scrutiny (PDS) Information Briefing included updates on the Adult Services Transformation and Improvement Programme, aiming to improve services and reduce costs through better initial contact, assistive technology⁴, community support, and staff empowerment. Link to the Adult Care and Health Policy Development and Scrutiny (PDS) Information Briefing

  Upcoming Meetings

• Licensing Sub-Committee - June 23, 2025 - Application for a new premises licence for Pierluigi's Pasta Fresca at 86 - 90 High Street, Beckenham

• Licensing Sub-Committee - June 23, 2025 - Application to vary the premises licence for LA Sports Club, St Dunstan's Lane, Beckenham

• Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee - June 23, 2025 - Treasury management, pre-decision scrutiny of upcoming executive reports, and the committee's work programme

• Executive - June 25, 2025 - Highway maintenance contracts, mental health services, conservation area appraisals, and a new learning disabilities strategy

• Chief Executive Annual Review Panel - June 25, 2025 - To appoint a chair and then to review the performance of the Chief Executive

• Health and Wellbeing Board - June 26, 2025 - Bromley Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy, the Bromley Learning Disabilities Strategy, the South East London Sexual Health Strategy, and the Bromley Suicide Prevention Plan

• Information Briefings - June 26, 2025 - The Better Care Fund performance and a Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment consultation

• Plans Sub-Committee No. 1 - June 26, 2025 - Planning applications, including a retrospective application for a parcel locker in the Chelsfield Station Car Park, and alterations to windows and fire escapes at Manorfields

• Standards Committee - July 01, 2025 - Meeting of the Standards Committee

• Bromley Economic Partnership - July 01, 2025 - Meeting of the Bromley Economic Partnership

• Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee - July 03, 2025 - Meeting of the Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee