This week in Croydon:

Late-Night Refreshment Application for Berlin Grill Sparks Resident Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Monday 28 September 2026 to consider a contentious application for a premises licence for Berlin Grill, located at 110 Brighton Road, Purley, CR8 4DB. The application, which sought permission to serve late-night refreshment until the early hours of the morning, attracted significant objections from local residents and businesses.

The applicant proposed operating hours for late-night refreshment from Monday to Thursday between 11:00 pm and 1:00 am the following day, and from Friday to Sunday between 11:00 pm and 2:00 am the following day. The premises would be open to the public from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm Monday to Thursday, and 11:00 am to midnight on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Online sales were also proposed to continue until 1:00 am Monday to Thursday and 2:00 am on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

However, the application was met with a wave of objections from those living and working nearby. Concerns raised included:

• Noise and Disturbance: Residents living above and around the premises voiced fears of increased noise from customers, vehicles, and delivery drivers during late-night hours, impacting their sleep and quality of life.
• Cooking Fumes and Smells: Worries were expressed about strong cooking smells and fumes emanating from the premises, particularly when residents open windows for ventilation.
• Public Safety and Anti-social Behaviour: Objectors highlighted existing issues with intoxicated individuals and anti-social behaviour in the area, fearing that extended operating hours would worsen these problems and make the neighbourhood feel less safe, especially for those returning home late.
• Parking and Obstruction: The limited parking in the vicinity was cited as a concern, with fears that increased vehicle movements during late hours could lead to blocked access for residents and potential security risks for businesses.
• Environmental Impact: Concerns were raised about the potential for increased litter and food waste around the premises, attracting pests and negatively impacting the local environment.
• Impact on Residential Amenity: Objectors argued that the cumulative effect of these issues would detract from the character and amenity of the area, making it less pleasant for residents and businesses alike.

The report pack referenced the Council's Statement of Licensing Policy 2023-28 and the Licensing Act 2003¹, which govern the framework for determining such applications.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Upcoming Meetings:

• The Licensing Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday 05 October 2026 to consider street trading applications. Link to meeting
• The Cabinet is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 14 October 2026. Link to meeting
• The Health & Wellbeing Board is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 14 October 2026 to discuss the Joint Local Health and Wellbeing Strategy and safeguarding reports. Link to meeting
• The General Purposes Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday 12 October 2026 to review election administration and consider constitutional amendments. Link to meeting
• The Housing Assurance Board is scheduled to meet on Monday 12 October 2026. Link to meeting
• The Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday 12 October 2026. Link to meeting
• The Scrutiny Homes Sub-Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 13 October 2026. Link to meeting
• The Planning Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday 15 October 2026. Link to meeting
• The Appointments & Disciplinary Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday 15 October 2026. Link to meeting
• The Planning Sub-Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday 15 October 2026. Link to meeting
• The Pension Board is scheduled to meet on Thursday 15 October 2026. Link to meeting

This week in Croydon:

Council Faces Scrutiny Over Youth Justice Plan and Homelessness Strategy

Croydon Council's Cabinet met on Wednesday 23 September 2026, tackling a range of critical issues including the borough's Youth Justice Plan, a new Temporary Accommodation Strategy, and proposed changes to the Council Tax Support Scheme. The decisions made have significant implications for vulnerable residents, particularly young people and those experiencing homelessness.

Youth Justice Plan Aims to Reduce Re-offending

The Cabinet approved the Croydon Youth Justice Plan for 2026/27, a statutory document required to secure Youth Justice Grant funding. The plan highlights Croydon's success in reducing re-offending rates, which are already below London and national averages. However, it also addresses the concerning over-representation of minority ethnic groups and children in care within the youth justice system. The plan was recommended for approval by Full Council, aligning with the Crime and Disorder Act 1998.

• Why this matters: This plan is crucial for ensuring that young people who come into contact with the justice system receive the support they need to turn their lives around. Addressing disproportionality is vital for fairness and equity, aiming to prevent cycles of offending and provide better life chances for all young people in Croydon.

Link to Cabinet meeting

New Strategy to Tackle Homelessness and Temporary Accommodation Costs

A new Temporary Accommodation Strategy and Action Plan for 2026-2030 were approved, aiming to address the significant financial pressures and resident wellbeing challenges associated with homelessness. The strategy prioritises preventing homelessness earlier, increasing housing supply, and improving the temporary accommodation portfolio. It is forecast to generate approximately £10 million in savings between 2027 and 2030.

• Why this matters: The rising cost of temporary accommodation places a huge strain on the council's budget, diverting funds from other essential services. This strategy is a vital step towards providing more stable and cost-effective housing solutions for those experiencing homelessness, ultimately improving the lives of some of Croydon's most vulnerable residents.

Link to Cabinet meeting

Council Tax Support Scheme Changes to be Consulted On

The Cabinet agreed to initiate a statutory consultation on potential changes to the Council Tax Reduction (Support) Scheme for working-age claimants from April 2027. The proposed changes aim to achieve significant savings for the council by reducing maximum award percentages for various groups, including disabled residents not in employment and lone parents.

• Why this matters: Changes to the Council Tax Support Scheme can have a direct impact on the finances of low-income households. While the council faces financial pressures, any reduction in support could disproportionately affect vulnerable residents, potentially pushing them further into hardship. The consultation process is crucial for understanding the full impact of these proposed changes.

Link to Cabinet meeting

Key Appointments Made to Director Roles

The Appointments & Disciplinary Committee met twice this week, on Monday 21 September 2026 and Friday 25 September 2026, to progress recruitment for senior council positions. The committee conducted final panel interviews for the appointment of a Director of Children's Social Care and a Director of Digital Data and Technology. These appointments are critical for the effective leadership and delivery of essential council services.

The committee also discussed the appointment of a permanent Chief Executive, with national advertising and technical assessments underway. The process for appointing a Chief Executive is rigorous, involving partner panels and final interviews, with recommendations to be submitted to Full Council.

• Why this matters: The appointment of experienced and capable directors and a Chief Executive is fundamental to the council's ability to function effectively. These roles are responsible for managing complex services, implementing council strategies, and ensuring the well-being of residents. Strong leadership is particularly vital during times of financial constraint and service transformation.

Link to Appointments & Disciplinary Committee meeting on 21 September Link to Appointments & Disciplinary Committee meeting on 25 September

Licensing Sub-Committee Reviews Premises Licence for Sun Star Food and Wine

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Thursday 24 September 2026 to consider a review of the premises licence for Sun Star Food and Wine, located at 74 Brigstock Road, Thornton Heath, CR7 7JA. The review was initiated by the Home Office Immigration Enforcement, citing concerns related to the prevention of crime and disorder due to alleged illegal working at the premises.

The Home Office application detailed an enforcement visit where two individuals were found working illegally. The licence holder admitted they worked at the premises, raising serious concerns about right-to-work checking procedures. The licence holder's representatives argued the review application was flawed, citing a recent Supreme Court decision that impacted the validity of Civil Penalty Notices. They requested the application be dismissed.

• Why this matters: This case highlights the council's role in upholding licensing objectives, including the prevention of crime. The employment of illegal workers undermines fair competition and can be linked to exploitation. The Sub-Committee's decision will impact the operation of the business and send a message about compliance with immigration and employment laws.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Other Matters

The Scrutiny & Overview Committee met on Tuesday 22 September 2026. Discussions included a review of the Council Tax Support Scheme for 2027-28, the Executive Mayor's Delivery Plan 2026-30, and the Council's Scrutiny Work Programme. The committee also reviewed responses to previous recommendations.

The Planning Committee met on Thursday 24 September 2026. Key items included a pre-application presentation for the ambitious redevelopment of the Whitgift Centre and surrounding land, and decisions on planning applications for a micro hotel at Stoneham House and a retrospective HMO application at 22 Brighton Road.

The Planning Sub-Committee also met on Thursday 24 September 2026, granting permission for a new serviced apartment building at Stoneham House and a retrospective change of use for a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) at 22 Brighton Road.

Link to Scrutiny & Overview Committee meeting Link to Planning Committee meeting Link to Planning Sub-Committee meeting

This week in Croydon:

Council Grapples with Financial Sustainability and Audit Concerns

The Audit & Governance Committee met on Thursday 17 September 2026, facing stark realities about the council's financial health. A key takeaway from the meeting was the continued acknowledgement that the council's financial position remains unsustainable, with a significant reliance on government support. This has direct implications for the services residents receive, particularly those most in need.

Unsustainable Finances and a Grim Audit Outlook

The committee received a sobering update from external auditor Grant Thornton UK LLP, who anticipate issuing a disclaimed audit opinion[^1] for the 2025/26 accounts. This means the auditors cannot provide assurance over the council's financial statements, a situation that has persisted for several years. The report highlighted a growing Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) deficit, which had ballooned to £57.6 million by the end of the financial year. While management actions are being taken, including implementing recommendations from a CIPFA Diagnostic Review and working with the Department for Education on a Local SEND Reform Plan, the scale of the deficit raises concerns about future funding for schools and special educational needs support.

Furthermore, the Interim Auditor's Annual Report retained a statutory recommendation concerning financial sustainability, rating it as Red due to significant weaknesses. This continued reliance on Exceptional Financial Support from the government and a growing debt burden are critical issues that will inevitably impact the council's ability to fund essential services.

• Why this matters: An unsustainable financial position means difficult choices ahead. This could translate into reduced service provision, longer waiting times for support, or increased charges for residents. For vulnerable groups, such as those relying on schools or special educational needs services, these financial pressures could mean a significant reduction in the support they receive.

Link to Audit & Governance Committee meeting

Pension Fund Governance Strengthened Amidst Policy Overhauls

The Pension Committee met on Tuesday 15 September 2026, focusing on strengthening the governance and administration of the Croydon Pension Fund. The committee reviewed several key policy documents, including the Governance Strategy, Representation Policy, and Conflicts of Interest Policy, all updated to reflect new statutory requirements under the Local Government Pension Scheme (Amendment) (Governance) Regulations 2026.

The committee was recommended to approve these updated policies, which aim to ensure:

• Appropriate political balance and representation: The Representation Policy ensures the Pension Committee and Pension Board reflect the Council's current political balance.
• Clear management of conflicts: The revised Conflicts of Interest Policy details procedures for identifying, recording, and managing both individual and organisational conflicts.
• Robust data management: The updated Data Improvement Policy outlines the Fund's approach to managing and improving the quality of member and scheme data, a key requirement from The Pensions Regulator (TPR).

• Effective administration: The Pension Administration Strategy and Reporting Breaches of the Law Policy have been updated to align with regulatory expectations and ensure fair and consistent service delivery.

• Why this matters: Strong governance and clear policies are the bedrock of responsible financial management. For the Pension Fund, this means ensuring that members' pensions are secure and that the fund is managed efficiently and ethically. These updates are crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring long-term financial stability for pensioners.

Link to Pension Committee meeting

Housing Board Tackles Homelessness and Private Rented Sector Standards

The Housing Assurance Board met on Monday 14 September 2026, addressing critical issues in housing provision, including homelessness, temporary accommodation, and the regulation of the private rented sector. The Board received updates on efforts to reduce homelessness and improve housing conditions, with a particular focus on new licensing schemes for private landlords.

Key discussions included:

• Homelessness and Temporary Accommodation: The Board noted progress in reducing households in temporary accommodation, with Croydon achieving the largest decrease of any London borough in 2025. However, demand remains high, and a new Temporary Accommodation Strategy 2026-2030 is being developed to further reduce reliance on expensive temporary options.
• Private Rented Sector Licensing: New Additional and Selective Licensing schemes for the private rented sector are set to commence on 25 September 2026. These schemes, alongside a new enforcement policy, aim to improve housing conditions, raise tenant awareness of their rights, and reduce anti-social behaviour. The Council is expanding its private sector housing enforcement team to support these initiatives.

• Major Incident Response: The Board was assured that a recent major incident involving a power loss at a temporary accommodation block, which led to the decanting of 73 households, was managed effectively with no harm to residents. Affected households were successfully rehoused temporarily while investigations and repairs are underway.

• Why this matters: These discussions directly impact the lives of thousands of Croydon residents. The focus on reducing homelessness and improving temporary accommodation aims to provide more stable and secure housing for vulnerable individuals and families. New licensing schemes for private landlords are designed to protect tenants from poor conditions and unfair practices, ensuring a safer and more reliable private rented sector.

Link to Housing Assurance Board meeting

Other Matters

The Licensing Sub-Committee met twice this week. On Tuesday 15 September 2026, they considered a premises licence application for Hot Birdies Norbury Ltd at 1433 London Road, Norbury, which had received objections from local residents concerned about noise and disturbance. On Thursday 17 September 2026, the committee considered a premises licence application for Crystal Palace Football Club, which also attracted resident concerns regarding noise and public nuisance.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting on 15 September Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting on 17 September

This week in Croydon:

Adult Gaming Centre Seeks 24-Hour Operation Amidst Resident Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Thursday 10 September 2026 to consider a controversial application to extend the operating hours of the Admiral Casino at 6 Westow Hill, Upper Norwood, SE19 1RX. The applicant, Luxury Leisure, wants to move from its current 8 am to midnight operating hours to a full 24-hour service.

This proposal has ignited significant opposition from local residents, with fifteen Interested Parties lodging objections. Their concerns span all three licensing objectives under the Gambling Act 2005:

• Preventing gambling from being a source of crime or disorder: Residents fear increased pressure on local police, potential for domestic violence linked to gambling losses, and a rise in late-night disturbances, littering, and anti-social behaviour. There's also a worry about money laundering.
• Ensuring that gambling is conducted in a fair and open way: Some objectors question the design of gaming machines, suggesting they encourage addictive behaviour rather than fair play.
• Protecting children and other vulnerable persons from being harmed or exploited by gambling: A major concern is the normalisation of gambling, with fears that 24-hour access could prey on vulnerable individuals, leading to increased addiction and financial ruin, especially for those with impulsive behaviour disorders.

Luxury Leisure argues that the extension is consistent with licensing objectives, citing their responsible operating practices, accreditations, and the fact that planning permission for 24-hour operation has already been granted. They also note the absence of objections from Responsible Authorities, including the police.

• Why this matters: This decision directly impacts the character of Upper Norwood and the well-being of its residents. Allowing 24-hour gambling could exacerbate existing social issues and disproportionately affect vulnerable individuals, including those struggling with addiction or financial hardship. The council must weigh the applicant's commercial interests against the community's concerns for safety and well-being.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Deep Dive into Housing for Care Leavers Highlights Urgent Need for Strategy

The Corporate Parenting Board met on Wednesday 09 September 2026 to address critical issues facing children in care and care-experienced young people, with a particular focus on housing provision. Performance data revealed concerning gaps in health assessments for looked-after children and care-experienced young people, with only 83% of children in care receiving their annual health assessment and a mere 55% of care-experienced young people having up-to-date dental checks.

The meeting's Deep Dive into housing for care leavers underscored systemic challenges in providing a consistent and coordinated housing pathway. Issues identified include problems with accommodation availability, placement sufficiency, financial pressures, governance, and health integration.

To tackle these issues, the Board is recommended to endorse the development of a borough-wide Care Leavers Housing Strategy and pathway. This will involve establishing a cross-council implementation subgroup, bringing together representatives from Children's Services, Housing, Adult Social Care, Health, Commissioning, and Finance, along with external partners.

• Why this matters: This focus on care leavers' housing is vital. Young people leaving care are among the most vulnerable in our society, and a stable home is fundamental to their successful transition into adulthood. The current performance data suggests that many are not receiving the necessary health support, and the lack of a clear housing pathway could lead to instability, homelessness, and further negative outcomes. This strategy aims to provide a safety net and a foundation for these young people to thrive.

Link to Corporate Parenting Board meeting

Council Moves Towards Appointing Permanent Chief Executive

The Appointments & Disciplinary Committee met on Thursday 10 September 2026, with a key item on the agenda being the permanent appointment of a Chief Executive. The proposed salary package for this crucial leadership role is a spot salary of £275,000 per year, reflecting national pay awards.

The committee was set to consider candidates following an advertising period that closed on 4 September 2026. The recruitment process is a significant step in ensuring stable and experienced leadership for the council.

• Why this matters: The Chief Executive is the most senior officer in the council, responsible for implementing the council's strategy and managing its services. A permanent appointment brings stability and continuity, which is essential for effective governance and service delivery, especially during times of financial challenge and service transformation.

Link to Appointments & Disciplinary Committee meeting

Other Matters

The Licensing Sub-Committee also met on Thursday 10 September 2026. The meeting's summary indicates that the committee was scheduled to consider an application to vary a premises licence for an Adult Gaming Centre.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting