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Weekly updates

Pensions, Cyber Crime, and Grants for Vulnerable Londoners

This week in City of London:

Pensions Committee to Discuss 'Fair Access' Consultation Amidst Concerns for Vulnerable Workers

The Pensions Committee is set to discuss the Local Government Pension Scheme 'Fair Access' Consultation, a move that could significantly impact access to pensions for elected mayors, councillors, and outsourced staff. The consultation includes proposals to raise the Normal Minimum Pension Age (NMPA) from 55 to 57, potentially affecting vulnerable workers who rely on early access to their pensions. Link to Pensions Committee Meeting

  • NMPA Increase: The government proposes increasing the NMPA from 55 to 57 from 6 April 2028, with protections for certain members. This could delay retirement plans for some and create financial uncertainty.
  • LGPS Access: The government proposes extending LGPS access to councillors and mayors in England, including those of the City of London. This could provide financial security for elected officials but raises questions about fairness and resource allocation.
  • New Fair Deal: The government seeks to implement New Fair Deal in local government, ensuring continuity of LGPS membership for staff outsourced to contractors. This could protect the pension rights of vulnerable workers who are often subject to precarious employment conditions.

The committee will also review its terms of reference and receive updates on pension scheme administration, including measures to prevent pension scams and ensure accurate record-keeping. Failure to maintain accurate records could lead to fines or enforcement action from the Pensions Regulator.

Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting Service Faces Scrutiny Amidst Rising Complaints

The Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting and Analysis Service Procurement Committee met to discuss the Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting and Analysis Service (FCCRAS), a critical initiative aimed at combating the growing threat of cybercrime. The committee was scheduled to decide on whether to 'go live' with the service, review its progress, and examine a report by the National Infrastructure & Service Transformation Authority (NISTA). Link to Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting and Analysis Service Procurement Committee Meeting

  • 'Go Live' Decision: The committee was scheduled to decide on whether to 'go live' with the FCCRAS, a decision that could significantly impact the City of London Police's ability to respond to cybercrime incidents.
  • Progress Report: The committee was scheduled to discuss the FCCRAS Regular Progress Report for December 2025, providing insights into the service's development and implementation.
  • NISTA Review: The committee was scheduled to receive a report on a Gateway 4 Review of the FCCRAS Programme by the National Infrastructure & Service Transformation Authority (NISTA), offering an independent assessment of the service's readiness.

The meeting comes at a time when cybercrime is on the rise, and the City of London Police is facing increasing pressure to protect businesses and residents from online threats.

City Bridge Foundation Awards Millions in Grants to Support Vulnerable Londoners

The Funding Committee of the City Bridge Foundation Board met to discuss budget monitoring, grant funding activity, and the progress of LocalMotion, a collaborative effort to address structural injustices in towns and cities. The committee approved millions in grants to support a wide range of organizations working with vulnerable Londoners. Link to Funding Committee of the City Bridge Foundation Board Meeting

  • LocalMotion Update: The committee received an update on LocalMotion, a project supporting place-based change and community empowerment in Enfield. The project uses the voices of people with lived experience of mental health issues to drive systems change in mental health provision.
  • Grant Funding Activity: The committee received a report detailing funds approved and rejected under delegated authority, with a net grant spend of £36.1 million to date in 2025/26.
  • Budget Monitoring: The committee received a financial update on CBF Funding activities, with a revised grants commitments forecast for the year of £50.1 million.

The grants awarded by the City Bridge Foundation will provide vital support to organizations working to address a range of social issues, including poverty, homelessness, and violence against women and girls.

Other Matters

Upcoming Meetings

  • The Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood and Queen's Park Committee on Monday 08 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The Culture, Heritage and Libraries Committee on Monday 08 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The Finance and Risk Committee of the Barbican Centre Board on Monday 08 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The Senior Remuneration Sub-Committee on Monday 08 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The Court of Aldermen on Tuesday 09 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The Finance Committee on Tuesday 09 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The Streets and Walkways Sub (Planning and Transportation) Committee on Tuesday 09 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The General Purposes Committee of Aldermen on Tuesday 09 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The Member Development and Standards Sub Committee on Tuesday 09 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The City of London Police Authority Board on Wednesday 10 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The Communications & Corporate Affairs Sub (Policy & Resources) Committee on Wednesday 10 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The People, Culture & Inclusion Committee of the Barbican Centre Board on Wednesday 10 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The Natural Environment Board on Thursday 11 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The Policy and Resources Committee on Thursday 11 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The West Ham Park Committee on Thursday 11 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • A meeting will be held on Friday 12 December 2025. Link to Meeting
  • The Court of Common Council on Friday 12 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting

ASB Policy Changes, Heathrow Pet Fees, and Door Access Control

This week in City of London:

Housing Committee to Decide on Anti-Social Behaviour Policy Amidst Resident Concerns

The Housing Management and Almshouses Sub (Community and Children's Services) Committee is set to decide on an updated Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Policy, a move that could significantly impact residents' quality of life. The policy aims to address issues ranging from noise complaints to harassment, but without a transcript of the discussions, it's unclear how resident concerns have been incorporated. Link to Housing Management and Almshouses Sub (Community and Children's Services) Committee Meeting

  • Policy Overhaul: The committee will review and potentially adopt a new ASB Policy, outlining procedures for reporting, investigating, and resolving ASB cases.
  • Legacy Project Closures: Decisions will be made on closing several long-standing projects, including balcony screens and fire door replacements at Petticoat Tower, and cold water distribution system replacements at Middlesex Street Estate and York Way Estate.
  • Tenant Satisfaction: The committee will receive information on tenant satisfaction measures, but it remains to be seen how this data will translate into tangible improvements for residents.

The updated ASB policy and project closures come at a time when many residents are already struggling with the cost of living crisis, and any changes to housing services could have a significant impact on their well-being.

Environment Committee to Discuss Heathrow Animal Reception Centre Fees, Potentially Impacting Pet Owners

The Port Health & Environmental Services Committee is scheduled to discuss proposed changes to fees at the Heathrow Animal Reception Centre (HARC), a move that could increase costs for pet owners importing animals into Greater London. The committee will also discuss the Environment Department Business Plan, risk management, and the Tobacco and Vapes Bill. Link to Port Health & Environmental Services Committee Meeting

  • HARC Fee Review: The committee will consider a report recommending higher fees for airlines that don't have a Service Level Agreement with HARC for pet imports.
  • Environment Plan Update: The committee will receive a mid-year update on the Environment Department's Business Plan 2025-30, covering port health, public protection, and cleansing services.
  • Tobacco and Vapes Bill: The committee will discuss the implications of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which aims to create a smoke-free generation and make vaping less attractive to young people.

The proposed changes to HARC fees could disproportionately affect pet owners who rely on specific airlines or services, while the Tobacco and Vapes Bill could have implications for local businesses selling these products.

Digital Services Committee to Decide on Door Access Control System Convergence, Raising Security and Privacy Questions

The Digital Services Committee is set to decide on a proposal to merge Door Access Control Systems (DACS) across the City of London Corporation, integrating them with the new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system and Microsoft 365 (M365). This move raises questions about data security, privacy, and the potential for increased surveillance. Link to Digital Services Committee Meeting

  • System Integration: The committee will consider merging DACS across the City Corporation, aiming to improve operational efficiency, security, and emergency preparedness.
  • Programme Sapphire Update: The committee will receive an update on Programme Sapphire, the City of London Corporation's project to replace legacy HR and finance systems with a modern Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solution.
  • Enterprise Architecture: The committee will discuss the strategic technology direction required to deliver the Corporate Plan 2024–2029 and related strategies.

The DACS convergence proposal could have significant implications for the security and privacy of City Corporation employees and visitors, while the Programme Sapphire update will provide insights into the progress of this major IT project.

Other Matters

Upcoming Meetings

  • 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
  • The Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood and Queen's Park Committee on Monday 08 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The Culture, Heritage and Libraries Committee on Monday 08 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The Finance and Risk Committee of the Barbican Centre Board on Monday 08 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The Court of Aldermen on Tuesday 09 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The Finance Committee on Tuesday 09 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The Streets and Walkways Sub (Planning and Transportation) Committee on Tuesday 09 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The General Purposes Committee of Aldermen on Tuesday 09 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The Member Development and Standards Sub Committee on Tuesday 09 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The City of London Police Authority Board on Wednesday 10 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The Communications & Corporate Affairs Sub (Policy & Resources) Committee on Wednesday 10 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The People, Culture & Inclusion Committee of the Barbican Centre Board on Wednesday 10 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The Natural Environment Board on Thursday 11 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The Policy and Resources Committee on Thursday 11 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • The West Ham Park Committee on Thursday 11 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
  • A meeting will be held on Friday 12 December 2025. Link to Meeting
  • The Court of Common Council on Friday 12 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting

Barbican Governance Review; Police EDI; Sexual Health Services

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

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

City Lifts Crisis, Heritage Plan, Police Cybercrime Costs

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

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

City Faces £84M Housing Crisis; Cybercrime Surges

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

  1. The City of London's Climate Action Strategy sets out how the City of London will achieve net zero emissions by 2040. 

  2. Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 allows a local planning authority to enter into a legally-binding agreement with a landowner in association with the granting of planning permission. The agreement will outline obligations on the landowner. These obligations are also known as planning obligations. 

Court of Common Council

Court of Common Council - Friday, 12th December, 2025 1.00 pm

The Court of Common Council is scheduled to meet to discuss investment in social housing, award a contract for a sexual health programme, and consult on modifications to the City Plan 2040. They will also be asked to approve the annual on-street parking accounts, and to formally thank the late Lord Mayor.

December 12, 2025
Committee

Board of Trustees of the City of London Academies Trust - Friday, 12th December, 2025 9.00 am

We do not yet have a summary for this meeting. Since it is very recent, this may be because we have not yet processed it. Please check back later.

December 12, 2025
West Ham Park Committee

West Ham Park Committee - Thursday, 11th December, 2025 9.30 am

The West Ham Park Committee is scheduled to meet on 11 December 2025 to discuss the park's budget for 2026/27, and to review a report from the Assistant Director of North London Open Spaces. Some discussion on the agenda will be held in private due to its commercially sensitive nature.

December 11, 2025
Policy and Resources Committee

Policy and Resources Committee - Thursday, 11th December, 2025 1.45 pm

The Policy and Resources Committee are scheduled to discuss a ward boundary review, strategic branding, the Square Mile Sport Strategy, and the Sculpture in the City programme. They will also discuss the Housing Revenue Account position. Some of these discussions may lead to decisions being made.

December 11, 2025
Natural Environment Board

Meeting start time at 11.00am or at the rising of the West Ham Park Committee, whichever is later., Natural Environment Board - Thursday, 11th December, 2025 11.00 am

The Natural Environment Board is scheduled to discuss the 2026/27 budget, fees and charges for City Gardens, and responsible dog ownership. They will also receive a verbal update on the Climate Action Strategy and City Gardens.

December 11, 2025
People, Culture & Inclusion Committee of the Barbican Centre Board

People, Culture & Inclusion Committee of the Barbican Centre Board - Wednesday, 10th December, 2025 1.45 pm

The People, Culture & Inclusion Committee of the Barbican Centre Board is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, 10 December 2025. The agenda includes discussion of the draft Equity, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EEDI) Strategic Framework, and an update on the Barbican Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Strategy. The committee will also consider the minutes of the previous meeting.

December 10, 2025
City of London Police Authority Board

City of London Police Authority Board - Wednesday, 10th December, 2025 11.00 am

The City of London Police Authority Board is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 10 December 2025 to discuss performance updates, subcommittee reports, and updates from the chair and commissioner. The board will also discuss and decide on a number of non-public items, including the future police estates programme, risk register updates, and fraud and cyber crime reporting.

December 10, 2025
Communications & Corporate Affairs Sub (Policy & Resources) Committee

Communications & Corporate Affairs Sub (Policy & Resources) Committee - Wednesday, 10th December, 2025 4.00 pm

The Communications & Corporate Affairs Sub (Policy & Resources) Committee are scheduled to discuss a strategic branding review, political party conferences, and an update to the Square Mile Sport Strategy. They will also discuss risk appetite in a non-public session.

December 10, 2025
General Purposes Committee of Aldermen

General Purposes Committee of Aldermen - Tuesday, 9th December, 2025 10.00 am

The General Purposes Committee of Aldermen met on 9 December 2025 to discuss the City of London Corporation's budget, the transfer of trusteeship of the Samuel Wilson Loan Charity, and the disposal of 1 Queen Victoria Street, among other items. The committee was also scheduled to consider the award of an annual grant to the Livery Companies.

December 09, 2025
Finance Committee

Finance Committee - Tuesday, 9th December, 2025 1.00 pm

The Finance Committee of the City of London Corporation met to discuss a range of financial matters, including approving the 2026/27 operational budget estimates, allocating funds from the International Disaster Fund, and addressing the Housing Revenue Account position. The committee also approved contingency funding for the Bury Street public inquiry and reviewed the Integrated Facilities Management Forward Strategy to 2033.

December 09, 2025

No upcoming meetings scheduled.