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Bromley Council Faces £30m Funding Gap

This week in Bromley:

Council Faces £30 Million Funding Gap as Financial Strategy Under Scrutiny

Bromley Council is grappling with a significant financial challenge, with projections indicating a £30.5 million annual reduction in funding by 2028/29. This stark reality was laid bare at the Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee meeting on Monday 19 January 2026, where the draft budget and financial strategy for 2026/27 were discussed. The Provisional Local Government Finance Settlement for 2026/27 was described as very disappointing for Bromley, with the council anticipating substantial cash reductions escalating over the coming years.

These financial pressures are not abstract figures; they translate directly into the services residents rely on. The report highlighted cumulative Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) deficits and the ongoing need to fund the capital programme. Councillor Colin Smith, Leader of the Council, has previously emphasised the need for prudent financial management, but the scale of these projected cuts will undoubtedly test the council's ability to maintain services, particularly for vulnerable groups who often depend most heavily on council support.

The committee also noted significant cost pressures in housing, though mitigation efforts have been made. The Director of Finance explained that budget changes are a result of inflation, growth cost pressures, and transformation mitigation. The Assistant Director for Strategic Property provided examples of transformation projects within the Property Division, such as the Operational Property Review and disposals programme.

The committee supported the recommendations presented, but the underlying financial strain suggests difficult decisions lie ahead regarding service provision and council spending.

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

Urgent Contract Award for Direct Payment Support Service Amidst Contractor Insolvency

In a swift move to ensure continuity of care, the council has awarded an interim contract for the Direct Payment Support Service to The Disability Syndicate. This urgent action was taken by the Director of Social Services under the Council's Contract Procedure Rules due to the insolvency of the previous contractor, Vibrance Ltd. The Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee was informed of this decision on Monday 19 January 2026.

This service is crucial for individuals who receive direct payments to manage their care needs. The insolvency of Vibrance Ltd could have left these individuals without essential support. The new contract, valued at £563,907 over 24 months, was directly awarded to ensure no residents were impacted by the previous contractor's financial difficulties.

The Director of Adult Social Care confirmed that due diligence on the previous contract had been undertaken as part of routine monitoring, and lessons learned were being reviewed, including more regular financial checks. Checks with the new provider included due diligence, direct access to resident accounts, and limits on funds held by the provider. The committee commended officers for their swift action, noting that no residents had been impacted.

King's College Hospital Proposes Haematology Service Reconfiguration: Impact on Patients Under Review

A significant proposal to reconfigure haematology services at the Princess Royal University Hospital (PRUH) was scheduled for discussion by the Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee on Wednesday 21 January 2026. The plan aims to consolidate inpatient haematology cancer care onto the Denmark Hill (DH) site, while enhancing elective and emergency day case provision at the PRUH.

This reconfiguration could have a direct impact on patients receiving haematology treatment. While the proposal states it would not involve closing Chartwell ward, the consolidation of inpatient care for high-acuity patients onto a different site raises questions about accessibility and continuity of care for those in Bromley. The report indicated that a formal engagement period with patients, families, staff, and stakeholders was planned to run for 4-6 weeks from late January 2026. This engagement is vital for understanding the real-world implications for those who will be affected by these changes.

The proposal detailed that three key patient pathways were under review: Planned (Elective) Admissions, Acute Oncology Admissions at PRUH, and Emergency Haematology Care at PRUH. Data presented covered a two-year period (December 2023 to November 2025) for inpatient haematology admissions, noting approximately 45 elective and 125 emergency admissions annually. The proposed changes aim to align nursing structures with increased outpatient chemotherapy activity and day case enhancements, potentially improving continuity of care and patient experience.

The engagement plan outlined a phased approach, including online focus groups, digital surveys, and telephone interviews with patients and families. Staff and local stakeholders, such as Bromley Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee, Healthwatch Bromley, and various local charities and organisations, were also to be engaged.

Link to the Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting

Schools Face Significant Funding Deficit as DSG Recovery Plan Underway

Bromley's schools are facing a substantial financial challenge, with the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) projected to have a deficit of approximately £16.5 million per annum over the next four years. The Schools' Forum met on Thursday 22 January 2026 to discuss the DSG for the 2026/27 academic year and the ongoing deficit recovery plan. The overall DSG deficit at the end of the 2025/26 financial year is estimated to be £42,346,000.

This deficit has significant implications for the resources available to schools, potentially impacting class sizes, staffing levels, and the provision of educational support for pupils. The report notes that the statutory override, which allows local authorities to disregard DSG deficits in their main revenue budgets, has been extended until March 2028, but the council will still need to identify funding for these deficits, potentially from its reserves.

The Schools' Forum also discussed the proposed allocation of the DSG for 2026/27, with the Schools Block set to receive £296,898,709. However, a significant portion of this funding will be top sliced and returned to the Department for Education (DfE) to fund academy schools. The Early Years Block is allocated £68,573,869, and the High Needs Block is allocated £73,607,837, representing a 5.8% increase in cash terms. Despite this increase, the report highlights significant ongoing pressures due to rising volumes and complexity of needs.

The agenda also included a discussion on the DSG Deficit Recovery Plan, indicating that the forum will be presented with proposals for addressing this significant deficit.

Link to the Schools' Forum meeting

Licensing Sub-Committee to Consider Controversial Premises Licence Applications

The Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to consider two contentious premises licence applications on Friday 23 January 2026. Both applications have generated significant objections from local residents and councillors, raising concerns about potential noise, anti-social behaviour, and public safety.

New Premises Licence Application for Old Dunstonians Sports Club

A new premises licence application for Old Dunstonians Sports Club in Beckenham has attracted 63 objections from residents and local councillors. Concerns have been raised about the potential for increased anti-social behaviour, noise pollution, traffic congestion, and risks to public safety and children, particularly due to the premises' location on St Dunstan's Lane, described as a narrow, poorly lit road. Residents are worried about the cumulative impact of this application alongside existing licensed premises in the area.

Variation to Premises Licence at Ornithology Bars & Restaurants Ltd

An application to vary the premises licence for Ornithology Bars & Restaurants Ltd in Petts Wood has also received 21 objections from local residents, a residents' association, and ward councillors. Objections have primarily focused on the potential for public nuisance, particularly concerning noise from outdoor music and patrons using the rear terrace, given the proximity of residential properties. Concerns have also been raised regarding the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, and the protection of children from harm.

The Licensing Sub-Committee will need to carefully weigh the applicant's proposals against the significant concerns raised by the community. The decisions made could have a direct impact on the quality of life for residents in these areas.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Other Matters

The Plans Sub-Committee No. 2 met on Thursday 22 January 2026 to consider a range of planning applications, including proposals for new developments on land north of Dobbies Garden Centre in Bromley and adjacent to Galabrae in Downe. Link to the Plans Sub-Committee No. 2 meeting

Upcoming Meetings

Bromley: Flamingo Park housing plan debated

This week in Bromley:

Flamingo Park Club Development Sparks Debate Over Affordable Housing and Green Belt

A significant planning application for the Flamingo Park Club, located on the A20 Sidcup Bypass Road, was a key item discussed by the Development Control Committee. The application sought to vary conditions on a previous permission, primarily to change 42 affordable housing units to market sale and to alter the development's phasing.

The original permission, granted in 2019, allowed for the demolition of an existing nightclub and the construction of a new football ground alongside 42 residential dwellings. However, the applicant, Cray Wanderers Football Club, argued the original scheme was unviable. The proposed changes would reduce the affordable housing provision to 38% by unit number and 29.7% by habitable room, falling short of the London Plan's Policy H5 and Bromley Local Plan's Policy 2 requirements for affordable housing.

The report highlighted that the site is within the Green Belt, and while the original development was deemed to have Very Special Circumstances, these proposed amendments required a fresh evaluation. A concern was raised that the residential element could be completed and occupied before the sporting facilities were finished. The council's worsening Five Year Housing Land Supply (FYHLS) position would likely carry significant weight in favour of the amendments.

Consultation responses revealed objections from local residents citing noise, light pollution, traffic, and loss of Green Belt land. Conversely, supporters backed the project's completion and community benefits. The Greater London Authority (GLA) also raised concerns about compliance with London Plan policies on affordable housing, fire safety, and carbon emissions.

The outcome of this decision could impact the availability of affordable housing in the borough and the balance between development and Green Belt protection.

Link to the Development Control Committee meeting

Council to Adopt New Statement on Community Involvement in Planning

The Development Control Committee was also scheduled to consider the adoption of the Bromley Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) 2026. This document is a statutory requirement for local planning authorities, detailing how the council will engage with the public and stakeholders on planning matters.

The proposed SCI outlines how the council will involve residents and stakeholders in:

  • The preparation of planning policy documents, such as the Local Plan.
  • Providing advice and assistance for neighbourhood planning.
  • Consulting on planning applications.

A consultation on the draft SCI took place between October and November 2025, with 14 responses received. The adoption of this statement is crucial for ensuring transparency and public participation in the planning process, which directly affects local neighbourhoods and residents' quality of life.

Link to the Development Control Committee meeting

Economic Partnership Gathers to Boost Local Business and Employment

The Bromley Economic Partnership met to discuss initiatives aimed at strengthening the local economy and supporting employment. A key focus was the Tailored Employment Support Trailblazer Project, presented by Jane Knight, founder of 'Successful Mums'. This project is designed to offer specialised employment support, potentially benefiting residents seeking new career opportunities or facing barriers to employment.

Daniel Murray, Head of Economic Development for Bromley London Borough (LBB), provided an update on the Economic Development Service's ongoing work. The meeting also featured updates from a wide array of partners, including:

  • Penge SE20 BID Company, recognised for its community-driven initiatives.
  • Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), offering support to local businesses.
  • Bromley Adult Education College (BAEC) and London South East Colleges, providing educational and vocational training.
  • Splash Damage, a video game developer, showcasing the borough's diverse business landscape.
  • Community Links Bromley, a charity supporting local individuals and communities.
  • Jobcentre Plus, providing employment and benefits services.
  • The Glades, a prominent local shopping centre.
  • Bromley FC, representing the local sports sector.

These discussions and partner updates are vital for fostering a thriving local economy, creating jobs, and ensuring that residents have access to the support they need to succeed.

Link to the Bromley Economic Partnership meeting

Other Matters

The Development Control Committee was also scheduled to make appointments to the Plans Sub-Committees, following changes to the council's political balance.

Upcoming Meetings

Bromley debates beer garden & public access to Darwin lanes

This week in Bromley:

Three Hounds Beer Cafe Expansion Sparks Debate Over Noise and Community

The Bromley Council Licensing Sub-Committee convened this week to consider an application to vary the premises licence for the Three Hounds Beer Cafe and Bottle Shop in Beckenham. The Licensing Sub-Committee meeting focused on the proposed expansion into the adjacent property, and the potential impact on the local community. No video was provided.

  • Community Hub vs. Nuisance Concerns: Supporters of the Three Hounds Beer Cafe and Bottle Shop describe it as a community hub, a safe and social place, and a supporter of local charities like St Christopher's Hospice. Objectors, however, raise concerns about potential public nuisance due to noise, obstruction, and antisocial behaviour.
  • Residential Impact: One objector, a resident of Nelson House which adjoins the Three Hounds Beer Cafe and Bottle Shop, expressed concerns about the building's suitability for licensed activities and the impact on residents, claiming that the proposed expansion would increase capacity and congestion.
  • Planning Authority Conciliation: The Planning Authority initially objected to the variation due to concerns about operating hours, but withdrew the objection after conciliation with the applicant, Matthew Walden, of Three Hounds Bar & Brewery.

The Licensing Sub-Committee will need to weigh the benefits of supporting a local business against the potential negative impacts on residents. The decision could set a precedent for future licensing applications in residential areas.

Rights of Way Reclassification Sparks Debate Over Public Access

The Rights of Way Sub-Committee met to discuss a proposed modification to the classification of three lanes in the Darwin ward: Bogey Lane, Orange Court Lane and Farthing Barn Lane. The Rights of Way Sub-Committee meeting considered a request from the British Horse Society to reclassify the lanes, and the potential impact on public access. No video was provided.

  • Ancient Highways vs. Restricted Byways: The British Horse Society requested that Bogey Lane and Farthing Barn Lane be reclassified as bridleways1 and that Orange Court Lane be reclassified as a restricted byway2. However, the report recommends refusing the request for Bogey Lane and Farthing Barn Lane, as they are already classified as Ancient Highways , which provide broader access rights than bridleways or restricted byways.
  • Potential Downgrade of Rights: The report argues that reclassifying the routes as requested by the applicant would effectively downgrade the rights over them, as bridleways and restricted byways have limitations on the types of vehicles allowed.
  • Orange Court Lane Investigation: The report recommends that the evidence relating to Orange Court Lane be investigated, to determine if its classification should be changed from unadopted highway to ancient highway .

The decision on these rights of way could have a significant impact on public access to these lanes, particularly for those who use mechanically propelled vehicles. The council's decision will need to balance the interests of different user groups and ensure that public rights of way are protected.

  1. A bridleway is a path or track that is open to both pedestrians and horses, and since 1968, bicycles. ↩

  2. A restricted byway is a route open to pedestrians, horse riders, cyclists, and horse-drawn carriages, but not to mechanically propelled vehicles. ↩

Bromley Council to Spend £71m on Housing, Gymnastics Centre

This week in Bromley:

Council to Spend £71 Million on Housing and Gymnastics Centre

Bromley Council's Executive has approved a plan to spend £71.4 million on a housing development and a new gymnastics centre on the Chipperfield Road Site in St Paul's Cray. The Executive meeting approved the plan, which includes using £27.633 million from the Local Authority Housing Fund 4 (LAHF4) and borrowing £43.784 million.

  • Affordable Housing: The development aims to provide at least 50% affordable homes, addressing the need for more affordable housing options in the borough.
  • Gymnastics Club: The plan includes a new facility for the Bromley Valley Gymnastic Club (BVGC), which currently serves around 600 young people.
  • Temporary Accommodation: The LAHF4 funding is intended to reduce the council's reliance on temporary accommodation, which can be costly and disruptive for vulnerable residents.

The council anticipates that the new gymnastics centre will cost between £40,000 and £60,000 per year to rent, subject to a valuation based on the specification of the build agreed. The BVGC currently pay a rent to the council of £20,400 per annum.

The council will be foregoing an estimated capital receipt of circa £5m by developing the Chipperfield Road site.

The project is expected to start in March/April 2027 and be completed in August 2030.

Plans Sub-Committee to Review Applications

The Bromley Council Plans Sub-Committee No. 1 met on Thursday 11 December 2025 to review several planning applications. Link to the Plans Sub-Committee No. 1 meeting No video was provided.

The committee was scheduled to review planning applications for:

Council Discusses Council Tax Support and Treasury Management

Bromley Council met on Monday 08 December 2025 to discuss a range of topics, including the Council Tax Support Scheme, treasury management performance, corporate governance, and committee appointments. Link to the Council meeting No video was provided.

Renewal, Recreation and Housing Committee Discusses Housing Fund

The Renewal, Recreation and Housing Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee met to discuss the Local Authority Housing Fund Round 4. Link to the Renewal, Recreation and Housing Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee meeting No video was provided.

The committee discussed a report on the Local Authority Housing Fund 4 (LAHF4) grant programme, from which Bromley Council had received an indicative allocation of £27.6 million. The report set out proposals for using the grant, for which an application had to be submitted by 19 December 2025.

Upcoming Meetings

Bromley Pension Fund Overhaul: £1.6B Portfolio Faces Changes

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

Upcoming Meetings

Environment and Community Services Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee

Environment and Community Services Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 27 January 2026 7.00 pm

The Environment and Community Services Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 27 January 2026. The meeting's agenda includes a review of contract performance reports for parking services and grounds maintenance, an update on the council's environmental performance, and discussions on planned highway maintenance and electric vehicle infrastructure.

January 27, 2026, 7:00 pm
Information Briefings

ECS Information Briefing, Information Briefings - Tuesday 27 January 2026 7.00 pm

The Environment and Community Services Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to receive information briefings on a range of topics. These include an update on the Open Space Strategy, a review of the draft budget for 2026/27, and progress on the Carbon Net Zero Action Plan. Additionally, the committee will be updated on the Fly-Tipping Action Plan.

January 27, 2026, 7:00 pm
Licensing Sub-Committee

Licensing Sub-Committee - Friday 23 January 2026 10.00 am

The Licensing Sub-Committee of Bromley Council met on Friday 23 January 2026 to consider two applications for premises licences. The first was for a new licence at Old Dunstonian House Club in Beckenham, and the second was for a variation to an existing licence at Ornithology Bars & Restaurants Ltd in Petts Wood. Both applications had attracted a significant number of objections from local residents and councillors.

January 23, 2026, 10:00 am
Plans Sub-Committee No. 2

Plans Sub-Committee No. 2 - Thursday 22 January 2026 7.00 pm

The Plans Sub-Committee No. 2 is scheduled to consider a range of planning applications at its upcoming meeting. These include proposals for new developments on land north of Dobbies Garden Centre in Bromley and adjacent to Galabrae in Downe, as well as applications for garages and residential properties across the borough.

January 22, 2026, 7:00 pm
Schools' Forum

Schools Forum - Thursday 22 January 2026 4.30 pm

The Schools Forum was scheduled to discuss the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) for the 2026/27 academic year, including its allocation and projected expenditure. A significant portion of the meeting was also dedicated to reviewing the ongoing Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) deficit recovery plan, addressing the substantial financial challenges faced by the council in this area.

January 22, 2026, 4:30 pm
Executive

Executive - Wednesday 21 January 2026 7.00 pm

The Executive of Bromley Council was scheduled to consider the draft budget for the upcoming financial year and review progress on the council's transformation agenda. Discussions were also planned regarding the progress of housing schemes and the urgent award of a contract for a direct payment support service.

January 21, 2026, 7:00 pm
Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee

Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee - Wednesday 21 January 2026 5.00 pm

The Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting was scheduled to receive updates from King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, the South East London Integrated Care Board (SEL ICB), and Healthwatch Bromley. A key item for discussion was the proposed reconfiguration of Haematology Services at the Princess Royal University Hospital (PRUH).

January 21, 2026, 5:00 pm
Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee MOVED

Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee - Tuesday 20 January 2026 5.00 pm

This meeting has been moved. It has been rescheduled to 21 January 2026.

January 20, 2026, 5:00 pm
Information Briefings

Information Briefings - Monday 19 January 2026 7.00 pm

We have not been able to find a video broadcast of this meeting.

January 19, 2026, 7:00 pm
Information Briefings

Information Briefings - Monday 19 January 2026 7.00 pm

We have not been able to find a video broadcast of this meeting.

January 19, 2026, 7:00 pm
Children, Education and Families Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee

Children, Education and Families Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee - Wednesday 28 January 2026 7.00 pm

January 28, 2026, 7:00 pm
Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education

Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education - Thursday 29 January 2026 6.00 pm

January 29, 2026, 6:00 pm
Public Protection and Enforcement Policy Development & Scrutiny Committee

Public Protection and Enforcement Policy Development & Scrutiny Committee - Thursday 29 January 2026 7.00 pm

January 29, 2026, 7:00 pm
Information Briefings

ACH PDS Information Briefing, Information Briefings - Tuesday 3 February 2026 7.00 pm

February 03, 2026, 7:00 pm
Adult Care and Health Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee

Adult Care and Health Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 3 February 2026 7.00 pm

February 03, 2026, 7:00 pm
Renewal, Recreation and Housing Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee

Renewal, Recreation and Housing Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee - Wednesday 4 February 2026 7.00 pm

February 04, 2026, 7:00 pm
Development Control Committee CANCELLED

Development Control Committee - Thursday 5 February 2026 7.30 pm

February 05, 2026, 7:30 pm
Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee

Executive, Resources and Contracts Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee - Monday 9 February 2026 7.00 pm

February 09, 2026, 7:00 pm
Local Pension Board

Local Pension Board - Monday 9 February 2026 1.30 pm

February 09, 2026, 1:30 pm
General Purposes and Licensing Committee

General Purposes and Licensing Committee - Tuesday 10 February 2026 7.00 pm

February 10, 2026, 7:00 pm