This week in City of London:

Barbican Residents Face Governance Overhaul and Scrutiny of Service Charges

Residents of the Barbican Estate are bracing for a governance review and increased scrutiny of service charges, as the Barbican Residential Committee discussed a range of issues impacting the iconic estate. Link to Barbican Residential Committee Meeting

• Governance Review: A governance review, costing between £97,600 and £105,000, will be undertaken by Charles Russell Speechlys (CRS) and Inside the Box Consulting to examine decision-making structures and stakeholder relationships. The review aims to strengthen governance, consultation, and accountability across the Barbican's mix of statutory bodies, resident organisations, and the City of London Corporation. > The Governance Review was designed to deliver a single, authoritative reference framework for how the Barbican Estate is governed.
• Service Charge Underspend: The consolidated accounts for the Barbican Estate were underspent against the billed estimate by £1,384,436. While some areas saw underspending due to improved management, others, like lift maintenance, experienced overspends due to the age and difficulty in maintaining the lifts across the estate.
• In-House Repairs: The Barbican Estate Office (BEO) is adopting a phased approach to implementing an in-house repairs service, with an open resident meeting scheduled at St Giles Church to discuss the approach and gather feedback.

These developments come as residents seek greater transparency and accountability in the management of the Barbican Estate, particularly regarding service charges and decision-making processes.

City Police EDI Strategy Aims for Inclusivity Amidst Challenges

The Equity, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Sub-Committee discussed the City of London Police's (CoLP) EDI strategy, which aims to create a more inclusive and trusted police service. Link to Equity, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Sub-Committee Meeting

• Silver Accreditation: The City of London Police has been awarded 'Silver' accreditation by 'Inclusive Employers' following their submission, and that no Police Force achieved higher in 2024.
• Challenges Remain: The report noted a number of challenges, including the need to invest more time on evaluation, data gaps in recording systems, and responding to events outside of their control. > The City of London Police will be one of the most inclusive and trusted police services in the country CoLP EDI Strategy 2024-2027
• Social Mobility: The City Corporation achieved its highest ever ranking of 24th out of 140 entrants in the 2025 Social Mobility Employer Index (SMEI).

These efforts reflect the City of London Corporation's commitment to promoting equity, equality, diversity, and inclusion across its various operations.

Projects and Procurement Sub-Committee Considers Facilities Management and Sexual Health Services

The Projects and Procurement Sub-Committee discussed a range of issues, including integrated facilities management, sexual health services, and corporate risk. Link to Projects and Procurement Sub-Committee Meeting

• Integrated Facilities Management: The Sub-Committee was scheduled to consider a report from the City Surveyor regarding the Integrated Facilities Management (IFM) approach for the City of London Corporation's property portfolio (excluding housing) up to 2033. The report recommended that the Sub-Committee support the continuation of the six IFM contracts, not utilise the break clause, and approve a further consolidation strategy.
• Pan London Sexual Health Programme Eservice (SHL.UK): The Sub-Committee was scheduled to consider a joint report from the Director of Community & Children's Services and the Chamberlain regarding the Pan London Sexual Health Programme Eservice (SHL.UK).
• Procurement Act 2023: The Sub-Committee was scheduled to receive a report from the Chamberlain providing an update on the implementation and implications of the Procurement Act 2023.

These discussions highlight the City of London Corporation's focus on efficient service delivery and strategic planning across its various departments.

Other Matters

• The Audit and Risk Management Committee discussed counter fraud measures, risk management, and internal audit updates. Link to Audit and Risk Management Committee Meeting
• The Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting and Analysis Service Procurement Committee met to discuss the Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting and Analysis Service, including a progress report, audit review findings, and the status of the public beta launch. Link to Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting and Analysis Service Procurement Committee Meeting
• The Hampstead Heath Consultative Committee convened to address a range of topics, including the appointment of a new committee member, updates on grant funding and the Hampstead Heath ponds, and the remarketing of cafe spaces. Link to Hampstead Heath Consultative Committee Meeting
• The Senior Remuneration Sub-Committee met to discuss the appraisal and remuneration package of the Town Clerk and Chief Executive. Link to Senior Remuneration Sub-Committee Meeting
• The Investment Committee of the City Bridge Foundation Board met. Link to Investment Committee of the City Bridge Foundation Board Meeting
• A meeting was held, but no transcript or minutes were provided. Link to Meeting
• A meeting was held, but no transcript or minutes were provided. Link to Meeting
• A meeting was held, but no transcript or minutes were provided. Link to Meeting
• The Board of Governors of the City Junior School met. Link to Board of Governors of the City Junior School Meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• The Barbican Centre Board on Monday 24 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Port Health & Environmental Services Committee on Tuesday 25 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Safeguarding Sub (Community & Children's Services) Committee on Tuesday 25 November 2025 has been cancelled. Link to Meeting
• The Capital Buildings Board on Wednesday 26 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The City Bridge Foundation Board on Wednesday 26 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Housing Management and Almshouses Sub (Community and Children's Services) Committee on Wednesday 26 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Joint Consultative Committee on Wednesday 26 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Epping Forest & Commons Committee on Thursday 27 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Digital Services Committee on Thursday 27 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Community & Children's Services Committee on Monday 01 December 2025 has been cancelled. Link to Meeting
• The Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting and Analysis Service Procurement Committee on Monday 01 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Investment Committee on Monday 01 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Planning and Transportation Committee on Tuesday 02 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Professionalism and Trust Committee (Police) on Tuesday 02 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Funding Committee of the City Bridge Foundation Board on Tuesday 02 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Freedom Applications Sub (Policy & Resources) Committee on Tuesday 02 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Corporate Services Committee on Wednesday 03 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Pensions Committee on Wednesday 03 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting

This week in City of London:

Social Housing Faces £3 Million Lift Upgrade Crisis: Residents Fear Being Stranded

Residents of the York Way Estate are facing uncertainty as the Community & Children's Services Committee discussed a report regarding refurbishment and upgrade works to the lifts, lift lobbies and stairwells within Kinefold, Penfields and Lambfold Houses. The six residential lifts that service these blocks have exceeded their recommended lifespan and require upgrading and refurbishment. The committee approved a budget of £60,000 for consultant fees to reach the next Gateway, and noted the total estimated cost of the project at £3,000,000 (excluding risk). Link to Community & Children's Services Committee Meeting

• Lifeline at Risk: The six residential lifts that service Penfields, Kinefold and Lambfold Houses have exceeded their recommended lifespan and require upgrading and refurbishment.
• Poor Condition: All lift lobbies within the three blocks are in a poor state of repair and require refurbishment and the stairwells require decorating to bring them up to the expected standard.
• Costly Repairs: The committee approved a budget of £60,000 for consultant fees to reach the next Gateway, and noted the total estimated cost of the project at £3,000,000 (excluding risk).

This crisis raises serious questions about the City Corporation's commitment to providing safe and decent housing for its tenants.

City Plan 2040: Heritage and Tall Buildings in Focus

The Policy and Resources Committee discussed modifications to the City Plan 2040, following its independent examination. The plan, which guides development in the City, has undergone scrutiny, and inspectors have proposed changes that require formal consultation. Link to Policy and Resources Committee Meeting

• Heritage at the Forefront: Many modifications relate to heritage, including preserving Conservation Areas, using the St Paul's Setting Study in assessments, and considering the Tower of London's Outstanding Universal Value.
• Tall Buildings Debate: Changes address the City Cluster's contours and include a new tall building site at Broadgate.
• Housing and Office Space: The plan includes additional housing completion information and minimum office space requirements.

These modifications aim to balance development with heritage preservation and ensure the City Plan is sound for adoption.

Police Spending Prioritizes Cybercrime and Fraud, but Workforce Gaps Persist

The Resource and Estates Committee (Police) reviewed the City of London Police's budget and workforce, highlighting financial pressures and recruitment challenges. Link to Resource and Estates Committee (Police) Meeting

• Cybercrime Costs: A £1 million cost pressure stems from the Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting and Analysis Service (FCCRAS) implementation.
• Staffing Shortfalls: While the police met officer uplift targets, staff vacancies remain, with 86.4% of staff establishment achieved.
• Proceeds of Crime: The Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) reserve is expected to be substantially utilized by the end of 2026/27.

These issues underscore the need for careful financial management and strategic workforce planning within the City of London Police.

Other Matters

• The Policy and Resources Committee also discussed Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and On Street Parking Reserve (OSPR) allocations, and considered capital bids for 2026/27. Link to Policy and Resources Committee Meeting
• The Local Policing Committee discussed community engagement, policing performance, and crime prevention measures, including signage for crime prevention in the City of London. Link to Local Policing Committee Meeting
• The Community & Children's Services Committee was scheduled to endorse appointments to the allocated members scheme to the various housing estates, and to receive the City & Hackney Safeguarding Children Partnership (CHSCP) Annual Report for 2024/25. Link to Community & Children's Services Committee Meeting
• A meeting was held, but no transcript or minutes were provided. Link to Meeting
• The Planning Applications Sub-Committee meeting was cancelled. Link to Planning Applications Sub-Committee Meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• The Barbican Centre Board on Monday 24 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Port Health & Environmental Services Committee on Tuesday 25 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Safeguarding Sub (Community & Children's Services) Committee on Tuesday 25 November 2025 has been cancelled. Link to Meeting
• The Capital Buildings Board on Wednesday 26 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The City Bridge Foundation Board on Wednesday 26 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Housing Management and Almshouses Sub (Community and Children's Services) Committee on Wednesday 26 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Joint Consultative Committee on Wednesday 26 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Epping Forest & Commons Committee on Thursday 27 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Digital Services Committee on Thursday 27 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• A meeting will be held on Friday 21 November 2025. Link to Meeting
• The Barbican Residential Committee on Monday 17 November 2025 met. Link to Meeting
• A meeting was held on Wednesday 19 November 2025. Link to Meeting
• The Equity, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Sub-Committee on Thursday 20 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Senior Remuneration Sub-Committee on Thursday 20 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Investment Committee of the City Bridge Foundation Board on Wednesday 19 November 2025 met. Link to Meeting
• The Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting and Analysis Service Procurement Committee on Wednesday 19 November 2025 met. Link to Meeting
• A meeting was held on Friday 21 November 2025. Link to Meeting
• The Board of Governors of the City Junior School on Friday 21 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Audit and Risk Management Committee on Monday 17 November 2025 met. Link to Meeting
• The Projects and Procurement Sub-Committee on Tuesday 18 November 2025 met. Link to Meeting
• The Hampstead Heath Consultative Committee on Monday 17 November 2025 met. Link to Meeting

This week in City of London:

Social Housing Faces £84 Million Funding Crisis: Residents Fear Neglect

The City of London Corporation's social housing strategy is in jeopardy due to a staggering £84 million capital funding shortfall in the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). This was previously discussed in the Policy and Resources Committee. This deficit threatens essential upgrades to over 1900 social rented homes and 900 leasehold properties across seven London boroughs, potentially leaving vulnerable residents in substandard conditions.

• Golden Lane Estate Impact: The Golden Lane Estate Investment Programme is particularly at risk.
• Staffing Shortfall: An additional £1.5 million annually is needed to hire staff to meet regulatory compliance and deliver the programme.

This crisis raises serious questions about the City Corporation's commitment to providing safe and decent housing for its tenants.

Cybercrime and Fraud on the Rise: Police Struggle to Keep Up

The Economic Security and Cyber Crime Committee of the City of London Police Authority Board heard that Action Fraud complaints have doubled, with Police action following contact being the most common grievance. Link to Economic Security and Cyber Crime Committee of the City of London Police Authority Board Meeting

• Complaint Surge: Schedule 3 complaints doubled in Q2 2025/26.
• Unmet Expectations: Many complaints stem from unmet expectations regarding Action Fraud investigations.
• Cyber Griffin Success: The Cyber Griffin programme exceeded training targets, but the overall threat remains high.

These figures highlight the growing challenge of economic crime and the need for improved public awareness and police resources.

Barbican Residents Face Governance Review Amidst Service Charge Concerns

The Barbican Estate Residents Consultation Committee discussed a governance review of the Barbican Estate, aiming to clarify decision-making and improve resident engagement. Link to Barbican Estate Residents Consultation Committee Meeting

• Governance Review: A three-phase review will examine decision-making structures and stakeholder relationships.
• Service Charge Underspend: The Barbican Estate's consolidated accounts were underspent by £1,384,436, with underspending in general repairs and overspending on lift maintenance.
• In-House Repairs: The Barbican Estate Office is adopting a phased approach to implementing an in-house repairs service.

This review comes as residents grapple with service charge concerns and seek greater transparency in the estate's management.

Finance Committee Flags Housing Revenue Account Overspend and Climate Action Risks

The Finance Committee reviewed budget monitoring, revealing an overspend in the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) and risks to achieving net-zero targets. Link to Finance Committee Meeting

• HRA Overspend: The Housing Revenue Account is forecasting an overspend, requiring urgent savings plans or funding solutions.
• Climate Action Risks: Progress against targets to achieve net zero for the City Corporation's own operations by 2027 is at risk.
• Risk Management: The Housing Revenue Account departmental risk has been escalated to a corporate risk due to potential regulatory intervention and reputational damage.

These financial challenges underscore the need for careful resource allocation and strategic planning to address key priorities.

Resource Allocation Sub-Committee Prioritizes Heat Networks and Barbican Podium

The Resource Allocation Sub (Policy and Resources) Committee discussed allocating funds from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and On Street Parking Reserve (OSPR). Link to Resource Allocation Sub (Policy and Resources) Committee Meeting

• Heat Network Funding: £1,500,000 was allocated for heat network projects to support the Climate Action Strategy's goal of a net-zero Square Mile by 2040¹.
• Barbican Podium: £10,024,825 was allocated for Barbican Podium Phase Two to address waterproofing issues.
• London Museum: £1.75m of OSPR was reallocated from the West Smithfield Area Public Realm and Transport project to the Museum of London for Section 278 works².

These funding decisions reflect the City's priorities in climate action, infrastructure, and cultural development.

Markets Board Focuses on Climate Action and Budget for Smithfield, Billingsgate and New Spitalfields

The Markets Board reviewed the draft revenue and capital budgets for 2026/27 and received an update on the Climate Action Strategy at the markets. Link to Markets Board Meeting

• Budget Decrease: The 2026/27 draft estimate totals £1.341m, a decrease of (£168k) compared to the 2025/26 original budget.
• Emissions Reduction: Landlord emissions from the markets have decreased by 59% since 2018/19, and tenant emissions have decreased by 52%.
• Waterless Cleaning: Smithfield Market has rolled out waterless cleaning of urinals, estimated to save 3,000 litres of water a day.

These efforts demonstrate the City's commitment to sustainability across its various operations.

Culture Committee Considers Future of Sculpture in the City

The Culture, Heritage and Libraries Committee discussed the Sculpture in the City (SITC) programme and considered options for its future delivery. Link to Culture, Heritage and Libraries Committee Meeting

• External Entity: The recommendation was to transfer SITC ownership, management, and operational delivery to an external entity in the form of a Community Interest Company (CIC).
• Keats House Success: Keats House saw a 21% increase in visitors between April and September 2025.
• Inspiring London Through Culture Fund: The Inspiring London through Culture Fund awarded 10 grants totalling £76,104 in 2024/25, supporting various cultural projects.

These discussions highlight the City's commitment to supporting arts and culture in the Square Mile.

Crime and Disorder Committee Focuses on Safer Public Spaces and Violence Against Women and Girls

The Crime and Disorder Scrutiny Committee received an update on the work of the Safer City Partnership (SCP). Link to Crime and Disorder Scrutiny Committee Meeting

• Safer Public Spaces: A Joint Working Group has been formed to address antisocial behaviour, and a register is being developed for rough sleepers.
• Violence Against Women and Girls: Police statistics show a 34% increase in VAWG incidents between June and July, with Bishopsgate identified as a persistent hotspot.
• Serious Violence: There has been a 12-month rolling increase in serious violence (+14.5%), but recent months show better control.

These efforts reflect the City's commitment to addressing crime and ensuring the safety of its residents and visitors.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Audit and Risk Management Committee on Monday 17 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Barbican Residential Committee on Monday 17 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Hampstead Heath Consultative Committee on Monday 17 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Projects and Procurement Sub-Committee on Tuesday 18 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Investment Committee of the City Bridge Foundation Board on Wednesday 19 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting and Analysis Service Procurement Committee on Wednesday 19 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• A meeting will be held on Wednesday 19 November 2025. Link to Meeting
• The Equity, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Sub-Committee on Thursday 20 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Senior Remuneration Sub-Committee on Thursday 20 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• A meeting will be held on Friday 21 November 2025. Link to Meeting
• A meeting will be held on Friday 21 November 2025. Link to Meeting
• The Board of Governors of the City Junior School on Friday 21 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Resource and Estates Committee (Police) on Wednesday 12 November 2025 met. Link to Meeting
• A meeting was held on Thursday 13 November 2025. Link to Meeting
• The Community & Children's Services Committee on Monday 10 November 2025 met. Link to Meeting
• The Local Policing Committee on Monday 10 November 2025 met. Link to Meeting
• The Policy and Resources Committee on Thursday 13 November 2025 met. Link to Meeting
• The Planning Applications Sub-Committee on Tuesday 11 November 2025 was cancelled. Link to Meeting

This week in City of London:

Baltic Street West Planning Application Rejected: Public Space Preserved

The Planning Applications Sub-Committee rejected a proposal to build a self-build single-storey dwelling with a detached single-storey garage and gardens on Baltic Street West, an area of publicly accessible land near the Golden Lane Estate. The decision, made on 28 October 2025, protects valuable public open space and addresses concerns raised by residents and heritage organisations. Link to Planning Applications Sub-Committee Meeting

• Loss of Public Space: The Sub-Committee agreed that the proposed development would result in the unacceptable loss of public open space, contrary to several policies in the London Plan 2021 and the emerging City Plan 2040.
• Heritage Concerns: Historic England and the Golden Lane Estate Residents Association objected to the application, citing harm to the Grade II listed Hatfield House and the Golden Lane Estate. > Historic England considers these proposals to be harmful to Hatfield House and the Golden Lane Estate and recommends that your authority refuse planning permission. > Historic England
• Traffic and Amenity: The Sub-Committee also raised concerns about the impact on the pedestrian environment, road safety, and residential amenity.

This decision demonstrates the City of London Corporation's commitment to preserving public spaces and protecting its unique heritage, even in the face of development pressures.

Health and Social Care Scrutiny Focuses on Safeguarding and Direct Payments

The Health and Social Care Scrutiny Committee met on 29 October 2025 to discuss the City and Hackney Safeguarding Adults Board (CHSAB) Annual Report 2024/25 and Adult Social Care Direct Payments. The meeting highlighted the importance of safeguarding vulnerable adults and providing them with greater control over their care. Link to Health and Social Care Scrutiny Committee Meeting

• Safeguarding Priorities: The CHSAB Annual Report outlined key achievements in safeguarding, including training for frontline staff and events to raise awareness. The Board's strategic priorities for 2025/26 include developing a community engagement strategy and improving outcomes for people experiencing homelessness.
• Direct Payments Audit: An internal audit of Adult Social Care Direct Payments concluded that Substantial Assurance is provided in respect of the control environment. Direct payments enable people to commission their own care and support, promoting independence and choice.
• Service Usage: The report noted that 21 out of 23 adults with care and support needs opt for third-party managed accounts for their direct payments, while 12 adults employ their own personal assistants.

These discussions underscore the City of London Corporation's commitment to protecting vulnerable adults and empowering them to live fulfilling lives.

Christ's Hospital Impact Report Highlights Charitable Mission

The Committee of Aldermanic Almoners, Common Council Governors and Donation Governors of Christ's Hospital met on 27 October 2025 to receive an impact report from Christ's Hospital, an independent boarding school with a long-standing charitable mission. The report highlighted the school's commitment to providing education to young people from all backgrounds, regardless of their financial circumstances. Link to Committee of Aldermanic Almoners, Common Council Governors and Donation Governors of Christ's Hospital Meeting

• Bursary Support: Christ's Hospital provided £23 million in means-tested bursary support in the past year, benefiting 672 students with an average of 85% remission of fees.
• Lord Mayor's Royal Mathematical School Scholarship: The report mentioned the establishment of the Lord Mayor's Royal Mathematical School Scholarship programme in collaboration with the Lord Mayor of London, Professor Michael Mainelli.
• Outreach Programme: A £24,000 grant from the City of London Corporation will fund a series of two-day camps in 2025 for 210 students from Galleywall Primary School and Redriff Primary School.

This report demonstrates the ongoing partnership between the City of London Corporation and Christ's Hospital in providing educational opportunities for young people.

Other Matters

• The Civic Affairs Sub-Committee met on 28 October 2025 to discuss the Committee Hospitality Programme, applications for the use of the Great Hall, and applications for hospitality. No transcript or minutes were provided. Link to Civic Affairs Sub-Committee Meeting
• The Keats House Consultative Committee met on 31 October 2025 to discuss achievements at Keats House and priorities for 2026-2029. Link to Keats House Consultative Committee Meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• The Resource Allocation Sub (Policy and Resources) Committee on Monday 03 November 2025 will discuss allocating funds from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and On Street Parking Reserve (OSPR). Link to Meeting
• The Culture, Heritage and Libraries Committee on Monday 03 November 2025 will discuss the Inspiring London through Culture Fund and achievements at Keats House. Link to Meeting
• The Barbican Estate Residents Consultation Committee on Monday 03 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Finance Committee on Tuesday 04 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Economic Security and Cyber Crime Committee of the City of London Police Authority Board on Tuesday 04 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Markets Board on Thursday 06 November 2025 will discuss updates from Smithfield Market, New Spitalfields Market and Billingsgate Market. Link to Meeting
• The Crime and Disorder Scrutiny Committee on Thursday 06 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Community & Children's Services Committee on Monday 10 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Local Policing Committee on Monday 10 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Planning Applications Sub-Committee on Tuesday 11 November 2025 has been cancelled. Link to Meeting
• The Resource and Estates Committee (Police) on Wednesday 12 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• A meeting will be held on Thursday 13 November 2025. Link to Meeting
• The Policy and Resources Committee on Thursday 13 November 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting