This week in Camden:

Camden Music Festival Faces Police Objections Over Safety Concerns

Licensing Panel D met to consider a new premises licence application for the Camden Music Festival, an annual three-day event proposed for various locations in Camden Town. Link to the Licensing Panel D meeting The application faced strong objections from the Metropolitan Police Service, the Camden Safer Neighbourhood Board, and local residents, primarily due to concerns about public safety, crime, and anti-social behaviour.

• The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) objected to the application, citing concerns about criminal activity, vulnerability to attendees, and a lack of consideration for mandatory areas such as missing children and violence against women and girls (VAWG).
• Inspector Peter Luciano, Camden Safer Neighbourhood and Town Centre Lead, stated that the event organisers had not adequately considered the crime and vulnerabilities that would arise, comparing it unfavourably to established festivals like British Summer Time in Hyde Park and Wireless in Finsbury Park.
• The Camden Town Cumulative Impact Policy Area¹ applies to the location, creating a presumption to refuse new applications.
• Representations also highlighted a lack of engagement with Transport for London (TFL) and local businesses, potential disruptions to emergency vehicle access, and concerns about noise levels.

The panel was also scheduled to consider an Event Safety Management Plan (ESMP) submitted by the applicant, as well as proposed police conditions, including the submission of an Event Management and Operating Plan (EMP) to a Safety Advisory Group (SAG) no later than 3 months ahead of the event. The outcome of this decision will significantly impact the future of large-scale events in Camden Town and the council's approach to balancing economic development with public safety.

Kentish Town Co-op Seeks Late-Night Alcohol Sales Amid Resident Opposition

Licensing Panel D also considered an application to vary a premises licence for Co-operative Group Food Limited, located at 250-254 Kentish Town Road NW5 2AB. Link to the Licensing Panel D meeting The application requested permission to extend the supply of alcohol for consumption off the premises until 2:00 AM, add late-night refreshment, and amend opening hours.

• Two ward councillors and three resident associations opposed the application, citing concerns about public nuisance, noise, and safety.
• The application did not include women's safety principles.
• The applicant submitted a photo of hatch arrangement to demonstrate where sales and deliveries would be conducted after the main store had closed.
• Proposed conditions included the use of electric mopeds for deliveries and staff training in Welfare and Vulnerability Engagement (WAVE), Ask for Angela, and drink spiking.

This decision highlights the ongoing debate about balancing the needs of businesses with the concerns of local residents regarding late-night activity and potential disturbances. The outcome could influence future licensing decisions for similar establishments in residential areas.

Other Items

The Licensing Panel D meeting also included:

• Election of a chair for Licensing Panel D for the rest of the 2025/26 municipal year.
• Guidance on remote meetings held under the Licensing Act 2003 and associated regulations.
• Approval of the minutes of the meeting held on 19th June 2025.
• Any other business that the chair considered urgent.

No video was provided.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Planning Committee will meet on Thursday 07 August 2025 to discuss planning applications, including a major development at 19 Charterhouse Street. Link to the Planning Committee meeting
• Licensing Panel E will meet on Thursday 07 August 2025 to discuss licensing applications for Abu Afif and Pho. Link to the Licensing Panel E meeting
• Licensing Panel A will meet on Thursday 14 August 2025. Link to the Licensing Panel A meeting

This week in Camden:

Hampstead Residents to Get Final Say on Neighbourhood Plan

Camden Council was scheduled to consider the adoption of the Hampstead Neighbourhood Plan 2025-2040, giving residents a greater say in planning decisions in their area. Link to the Council meeting The plan, which covers Hampstead Town ward, parts of Frognal, Gospel Oak, and Highgate wards, aims to balance conservation with sustainability and climate change mitigation.

• The plan includes policies on design and heritage, the natural environment, basements, traffic and transport, the economy, and housing and community.
• Proposed amendments include measures to enhance biodiversity, promote sustainable development, and ensure considerate construction practices.
• The plan's vision is to conserve Hampstead's charm and liveability while increasing sustainability and enhancing the natural environment.

This decision empowers Hampstead residents to shape the future of their neighbourhood, ensuring that development aligns with their vision for the area. The plan's focus on sustainability and heritage reflects a commitment to preserving Hampstead's unique character while addressing the challenges of climate change.

Council to Review Licensing Policy Amid Safety Concerns

Camden Council was scheduled to consider its Statement of Licensing Policy 2025-2030, outlining its approach to regulating licensable activities across the borough. Link to the Council meeting The policy includes updates on women's safety, alcohol-related harm, and a pre-application advice service.

• The policy aims to prevent crime and disorder, public nuisance, and protect children from harm.
• Updates include guidance on women's safety, addressing female harassment, and promoting responsible alcohol consumption.
• The Licensing Committee requested the removal of wording stating that in moderation, the consumption of alcohol can have health benefits from the draft policy.

This decision reflects Camden's commitment to creating a safe and responsible environment for residents and visitors. The focus on women's safety and responsible alcohol consumption demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing potential harms associated with licensable activities.

Camden Tackles Homelessness with New Initiatives

Camden Council was scheduled to provide an update on its efforts to address homelessness and temporary accommodation, highlighting the work of the Temporary Accommodation Taskforce. Link to the Council meeting The update outlines progress in moving families from commercial hotels to alternative temporary accommodation and developing new family hostels.

• The Temporary Accommodation Taskforce has moved 180 households from commercial hotels, resulting in £3.5 million in annual savings.
• The service no longer has any families in bed and breakfast temporary accommodation for over six weeks.
• Construction of two new family hostels is underway, scheduled for completion in Autumn/Winter 2026.
• A Housing First scheme is in development in partnership with Notting Hill Genesis and Westminster City Council.

This update demonstrates Camden's commitment to supporting vulnerable residents and addressing the root causes of homelessness. The focus on moving families out of unsuitable accommodation and developing new housing options reflects a proactive approach to tackling this complex issue.

Other Matters

• The Council was scheduled to discuss the We Make Camden: State of the Borough 2025 Report, which brings together data and evidence about the outcomes experienced by people in Camden. Link to the Council meeting
• The Council was scheduled to consider amendments to motions regarding housing and community involvement. Link to the Council meeting
• The Planning Committee was scheduled to discuss updates on affordable workspace, digital planning, retrofitting and conservation, and enforcement. Link to the Planning Committee meeting
• Licensing Panel C was scheduled to discuss procedure rules for remote meetings and a new premises licence application for Fiena Cafe on Judd Street. Link to the Licensing Panel C meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• Licensing Panel D will meet on Thursday 31 July 2025 to discuss licensing applications for Co-operative Group Food Limited and Camden Music Festival. Link to the Licensing Panel D meeting
• The Planning Committee will meet on Thursday 07 August 2025. Link to the Planning Committee meeting
• Licensing Panel E will meet on Thursday 07 August 2025. Link to the Licensing Panel E meeting

This week in Camden:

Healthy School Street Scheme Sparks Controversy

The Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to discuss a call-in of a decision to implement a trial Healthy School Street (HSS)¹ scheme near St Margaret's School and St Luke's Church of England School. Link to the Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee meeting The scheme, involving timed motor vehicle restrictions on several local streets during school hours, has faced huge local opposition, according to Councillors Steve Adams, Andrew Parkinson, Stephen Stark and Shiva Tiwari, who initiated the call-in. They argue that the decision was made on a scheme amended after consultation and does not respect the outcome of the flawed public engagement. The committee was also scheduled to hear deputations from Francesca Agostini of Green School Runs and Naomi Gordon, a local resident, regarding the scheme.

This decision highlights the tension between promoting sustainable transport and addressing the concerns of residents who may be negatively impacted by such schemes. The outcome could influence how Camden Council engages with communities on future traffic management initiatives.

Council to Standardise Temporary Accommodation Rents, Impacting Vulnerable Residents

The Resources and Corporate Performance Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to discuss standardising temporary accommodation (TA) rents at 90% of the 2011 Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rate². Link to the Resources and Corporate Performance Scrutiny Committee meeting While the council claims most households will be unaffected, the change will primarily impact those in Temporary Accommodation Placement Partnership (TAPP) properties and could lead to increased rents for some of Camden's most vulnerable residents. An Equality Impact Assessment has been carried out.

This decision underscores the financial pressures facing Camden Council and the difficult choices it must make regarding housing policy. The standardisation of rents could have significant consequences for low-income families relying on temporary accommodation.

Pension Committee to Review Investments in Conflict Zones

The Pension Committee was scheduled to receive an update on responsible investment actions, including a review of investments in Conflict Affected and High Risk Areas (CAHRAs). Link to the Pension Committee meeting The committee was expected to discuss the terms of reference for an independent review of the fund's investment assets, focusing on companies involved in defence and related industries operating in conflict zones. The review aims to inform the fund's approach to managing conflict-related ESG risks and potentially introduce a Conflict Zone Exposure Policy.

This discussion reflects a growing awareness of the ethical implications of pension fund investments and the potential for local authorities to use their financial power to promote responsible business practices. The outcome could lead to significant changes in Camden's investment strategy and set a precedent for other local government pension schemes.

Other Matters

• The Cabinet was scheduled to meet on Wednesday 16 July 2025. Link to the Cabinet meeting No transcript was provided.
• The Audit and Corporate Governance (Appointment Panel) Sub-Committee met to discuss the appointment of a new Executive Director for Investment, Place and Opportunity. Link to the Audit and Corporate Governance (Appointment Panel) Sub-Committee meeting The sub-committee was scheduled to interview a candidate and decide whether to recommend them for the position.
• The Housing Scrutiny Committee convened to discuss a range of housing-related issues, including tenant satisfaction, homelessness, and investment strategies. Link to the Housing Scrutiny Committee meeting The committee was also scheduled to review its work programme for the upcoming year and consider the appointment of co-opted members.

Upcoming Meetings

• Council will meet on Monday 21 July 2025 to discuss culture in Camden, the We Make Camden: State of the Borough Report, and the Hampstead Neighbourhood Plan. Link to the Council meeting
• The Planning Committee will meet on Tuesday 22 July 2025 to discuss updates on the Knowledge Quarter, affordable workspace, conservation, retrofitting, digital planning, planning policy, development management performance, and planning enforcement. Link to the Planning Committee meeting
• Licensing Panel C will meet on Thursday 24 July 2025 to discuss procedure rules for remote meetings and a new premises licence application. Link to the Licensing Panel C meeting
• Licensing Panel D will meet on Thursday 31 July 2025. Link to the Licensing Panel D meeting

This week in Camden:

Babylon Park Licence Change Sparks Police and Council Concern

A cancelled meeting of Licensing Panel A was scheduled to discuss a request from Babylon Park, an entertainment venue in Camden Town, to significantly alter its premises licence. Link to the Licensing Panel A meeting The application seeks to remove several conditions related to alcohol sales and security, prompting objections from both the Metropolitan Police Service and the Licensing Authority.

• Babylon Park, located at 8 Castlehaven Road, currently operates under a licence that restricts alcohol consumption to specific event rooms, requires SIA door supervisors on Fridays and Saturdays, limits alcohol sales to pre-booked functions with substantial meals, and prohibits alcoholic shots.
• The applicant requested the removal of these conditions, which the Metropolitan Police Service argued would contradict the venue's original intended purpose.
• The Licensing Authority also objected, noting that the venue is situated in a Cumulative Impact Area¹ and that the application breaches Camden's adopted policy on Framework Hours².
• The Licensing Authority suggested that the venue adopt measures to support the Licensing Objectives, including staff training on harassment prevention and awareness of support campaigns like Ask for Angela³.

The outcome of this application could have implications for the management of licensed premises in Cumulative Impact Areas and the enforcement of licensing objectives related to public safety and nuisance.

Focus on Accessibility and Women's Safety in Camden's Nightlife

The Licensing Committee met to discuss crucial issues surrounding accessibility for disabled people and women's safety in Camden's evening and night-time economy. Link to the Licensing Committee meeting

• The committee considered a report on improving disabled access in licensed premises and events, highlighting the legal duties under the Equality Act 2010 and practical improvements for Camden venues.
• The report outlined challenges such as physical access gaps, inconsistent standards, insufficient staff training, lack of sensory provision for neurodiverse people⁴, and poor communication of accessibility information.
• Proposed next steps include developing an accessibility guide for licensees, offering training sessions, collaborating with Camden Disability Action, launching an Accessible Venue Award, and including access checks in joint inspections.
• The committee also received an update on initiatives to improve women's safety in the evening and night-time economy, including Welfare and Vulnerability Engagement (WAVE) training and the 'Ask for Angela' scheme.
• Camden's revised Statement of Licensing Policy (2024-29) explicitly references women's safety, requiring safety statements from new applicants and encouraging staff training and participation in safety schemes.
• Statistics on reported drink spiking incidents in Camden were also presented, noting that Holborn & Covent Garden and Camden Town remain spiking hotspots.

These discussions reflect Camden's commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all residents and visitors, particularly those who are most vulnerable. The emphasis on training, collaboration, and policy updates demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing accessibility and safety concerns in the borough's nightlife.

Standards Committee Examines Councillor Conduct and Government Proposals

The Standards Committee convened to discuss a range of issues related to councillor conduct, including a government consultation on strengthening the standards framework and the annual monitoring of Code of Conduct complaints. Link to the Standards Committee meeting

• The committee considered a report on the government's consultation on strengthening the standards and conduct framework for local authorities in England, which proposes a mandatory minimum code of conduct, stronger sanctions for breaches, and a right of appeal.
• Councillor Sharon Hardwick, Chair of Standards Committee, noted support for an Independent Chair for Standards Committee, but the Borough Solicitor, Andrew Maughan, explained that it would not be lawful at present.
• The committee reviewed the annual monitoring report on Code of Conduct complaints, noting that none of the 11 complaints received required a formal investigation.
• The most significant trend among the complaints was an alleged failure to act on issues raised and/or to engage in correspondence.
• The Borough Solicitor stressed the importance of responding to correspondence and highlighted a case at another council where a councillor breached the Code of Conduct by emailing a fellow Planning Committee member during a meeting.

These discussions highlight the importance of ethical conduct and accountability in local government. The committee's review of complaints and consideration of government proposals demonstrate a commitment to maintaining high standards of behaviour among elected officials.

Housing Panel Focuses on Fire Safety and Compliance

The Housing Fire and Building Safety Panel met to discuss fire and building safety in council homes, with a focus on compliance performance, resident training, and future work plans. Link to the Housing and Fire Safety Advisory Panel meeting

• The panel reviewed a report on the council's performance on compliance with fire, legionella, asbestos, gas, electrics and lifts (FLAGEL) safety regulations for council homes in Q4 2024/25.
• The report noted that the council had received two Building Assessment Certificates (BACs) from the Building Safety Regulator for high-rise buildings on the Ampthill Square estate.
• The panel also discussed preparations for Awaab's Law, which will require social landlords to investigate and fix dangerous damp and mould within set time periods.
• The panel considered proposed changes to their terms of reference, in line with the recommendations of the Grenfell Inquiry Phase 2 report⁵.
• The panel discussed a report on raising resident awareness of fire and building safety, and to provide their views on a proposed resident training programme.

These discussions underscore the council's commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents, particularly in light of recent tragedies and regulatory changes. The focus on compliance, training, and resident engagement demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing fire and building safety concerns in council homes.

Health Committee Praises Social Care, Examines Mental Health Model

The Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee met to discuss Adult Social Care in Camden, including the Care Quality Commission's assessment and a new model of mental health social work. Link to the Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee meeting

• The committee discussed the Care Quality Commission's (CQC) assessment of Camden's Adult Social Care (ASC) services, which awarded them the first Outstanding rating in the country under the new CQC Assurance framework.
• The report pack noted that Camden remains focused on continuous improvement, including strengthening resident and carer voices and enhancing support for people experiencing multiple disadvantages.
• The committee received an update on the development of a new model of Mental Health Social Work in Camden, which aims to work in partnership with the NHS Mental Health Services and strengthen integrated neighbourhood working.
• The new model includes a Mental Health Social Work Hub and localised Mental Health Social Work Teams (MHSWTs).
• The committee also considered the Insight, Learning and Impact Report – Quarter 4/End of Year 2024-25, which identified challenges such as the complexity of work on service, the financial viability of providers, and a sudden increase in drug-related non-fatal overdoses.

These discussions highlight the council's commitment to providing high-quality social care services and addressing the complex needs of vulnerable residents. The focus on integration, prevention, and continuous improvement demonstrates a proactive approach to meeting the challenges facing the adult social care sector.

Health Board Tackles Key Public Health Challenges

The Health and Wellbeing Board convened to discuss health protection, pharmaceutical needs, and strategic priorities, with a focus on improving the health and well-being of Camden residents. Link to the Health and Wellbeing Board meeting

• The board considered the Camden Better Care Fund Plan 2025-26, which outlines how Camden Council and the North Central London ICB will integrate their spending, with a pooled annual budget of £44,900,088.
• The board reviewed the draft Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment (PNA) report for 2025-28, which found no current or future gaps in the provision of necessary pharmaceutical services in Camden.
• The board received an update on health protection issues, including a measles outbreak in a primary school, a cluster of Invasive Group A Streptococcus (iGAS) cases among people who inject drugs and people living with homelessness, and a new COVID-19 variant.
• The board discussed short-term strategic priorities, proposing the adoption of three new priorities: reducing alcohol-related harm, reducing drug-related harm, and embedding prevention in neighbourhoods.

These discussions demonstrate the board's commitment to addressing key public health challenges and improving the health and well-being of Camden residents. The focus on prevention, integration, and collaboration reflects a comprehensive approach to tackling complex health issues.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Resources and Corporate Performance Scrutiny Committee will meet on Monday 14 July 2025 to discuss the Leader's annual report, the council's financial position, and its work programme for the coming year. Link to the Resources and Corporate Performance Scrutiny Committee meeting
• The Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee will meet on Monday 14 July 2025 to discuss a call-in of a decision regarding a Healthy School Street scheme, a petition to ban barbecues in a local park, and updates on low carbon environments and plant-based catering. Link to the Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee meeting
• The Housing Scrutiny Committee will meet on Tuesday 15 July 2025. Link to the Housing Scrutiny Committee meeting
• The Audit and Corporate Governance (Appointment Panel) Sub-Committee will meet on Tuesday 15 July 2025. Link to the Audit and Corporate Governance (Appointment Panel) Sub-Committee meeting
• The Cabinet will meet on Wednesday 16 July 2025. Link to the Cabinet meeting
• The Pension Committee will meet on Thursday 17 July 2025. Link to the Pension Committee meeting
• Council will meet on Monday 21 July 2025. Link to the Council meeting
• The Planning Committee will meet on Tuesday 22 July 2025. Link to the Planning Committee meeting
• Licensing Panel C will meet on Thursday 24 July 2025. Link to the Licensing Panel C meeting