This week in Croydon:

Council Extends Highways Contract Amidst Environmental Enforcement Drive

This week, Croydon Council's Scrutiny Streets & Environment Sub-Committee met to discuss crucial updates on the council's highways maintenance contract and its ongoing efforts to combat environmental crime. The committee also reviewed the council's financial performance.

Highways Maintenance Contract: A Year's Extension

The committee received an update on the highways maintenance contract with FM Conway. The current contract, initially awarded in 2018, is proposed for a further one-year extension, taking it to September 2027. This extension is conditional on negotiating further savings and performance improvements with FM Conway. The council is using this extended period to prepare for a new procurement process, aiming to award a new contract in summer 2027.

Concerns were raised about the quality of pothole repairs, with assurances given that new contract specifications will be more robust. Discussions also covered the maintenance of gullies, with plans to improve programming and potentially clear them during road resurfacing. The council is exploring new ways to address blocked gullies, including the possibility of lifting vehicles if necessary. The Highways Capital Programme for 2026-27 includes significant funding to address backlogs in gully cleansing.

The council believes this extension poses no significant risks and will allow for proper planning and de-risking of the procurement process for a new contractor. While improvements in Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) have been noted, the council is seeking further enhancements and the ability to assign financial penalties for quality failures.

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Environmental Crime: A Zero-Tolerance Approach

The committee also heard about the council's strengthened approach to environmental crime, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy and a move towards an intelligence-led, proactive model. This includes increased enforcement capacity, the introduction of a Community Compliance Team, and enhanced data intelligence. The Love Clean Streets app is now integrated with Veolia, allowing for direct dispatch of crews to clear fly-tips.

Significant efforts are being made to address fly-tipping, with the council being proactive in clearing incidents. The council is also increasing its CCTV coverage, with 19 cameras deployed on housing estates and five mobile cameras in hotspot locations, with plans to procure five more. A new environmental enforcement webpage, tentatively named Dump Busters, is being developed to publicise ongoing investigations and seek public assistance.

The council is also working to improve trade waste compliance through a digital process and collaborating with housing colleagues to address waste issues on estates. The effectiveness of CCTV is being reviewed, with a focus on unmarked vehicles for covert surveillance and the use of images to identify offenders.

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Financial Performance: Projected Underspend

The committee reviewed the Period 8 Financial Performance Report for the 2025-26 financial year. The report indicated a forecast underspend of £25.7 million for the General Fund revenue budget, an improvement of £1.3 million since Period 7. This underspend is contributing to the council's Stabilisation Plan targets. The council is forecast to achieve £26.3 million of its Stabilisation Plan target and £21.8 million of its Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) savings.

The report detailed variances across different directorates, with the Sustainable Communities, Regeneration & Economic Recovery directorate forecasting an underspend of £0.6 million. This underspend is partly attributed to savings in street lighting costs, which have been achieved through changes to LED lanterns and extended periods of reduced light brightness.

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Cabinet Approves New Property Licensing Schemes and EV Charging Strategy

The Cabinet met on Wednesday, 25 March 2026, to approve significant new schemes aimed at improving housing standards and promoting sustainable transport. The decisions have direct implications for private landlords, tenants, and all residents looking to embrace electric vehicles.

Private Sector Property Licensing: Raising Standards for Tenants

The Cabinet unanimously approved the implementation of a new selective licensing scheme across 14 wards and a borough-wide additional Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licensing scheme. This move is designed to tackle poor housing conditions, ineffective management, and anti-social behaviour within the private rented sector.

The schemes, which will be self-funded through licence fees, will require landlords to meet clear conditions on safety and management, from gas and electrical compliance to tackling overcrowding. Councillor Lynne Hale, Cabinet Member for Homes, emphasized that the schemes are evidence-led and targeted, aiming to protect vulnerable residents and create a level playing field for responsible landlords. While the selective scheme covers 14 wards, the council has stated that all wards will be kept under review, and statutory powers will continue to be used where necessary.

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Electric Vehicle Charging Strategy: A Fairer Network for All

The Cabinet also unanimously approved the commencement of a public consultation on Croydon's draft Electric Vehicle Charging Point Strategy. This strategy aims to expand the borough-wide EV charging network, ensuring it is fair, accessible, and meets growing demand. With over 400 public charging points already in place, the strategy outlines a plan to increase this to around 4,200 by 2035.

Executive Mayor Jason Perry highlighted that the strategy aligns with his business plan for a cleaner, safer, and healthier borough. Councillor Scott Roche, Cabinet Member for Streets and Environment, stressed the focus on fairness, ensuring all parts of Croydon benefit from improved charging access, and a blended delivery model to maximise private investment. The strategy will guide the placement of charging points, prioritising areas with high demand and limited off-street parking, and will be shaped by public consultation.

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Highways Capital Programme: Increased Investment in Road Maintenance

The Cabinet unanimously approved the 2026/27 Highways Capital Programme, totalling £17.6 million – an increase of £5 million from the previous year. Councillor Scott Roche emphasized the programme's focus on planned maintenance to reduce future costs and improve road quality. The programme includes investment in resurfacing, patching, drainage, flood alleviation, and bridge maintenance, aiming to make roads safer, more reliable, and resilient.

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Financial Performance: Continued Underspend

The Cabinet noted the Period 9 financial performance report, which indicated a forecast General Fund underspend of £26.2 million against the 2025-26 budget. Councillor Jocelyn Cummings, Cabinet Member for Finance, highlighted the council's continued financial control and close management of budgets, noting that many other London boroughs are forecasting overspends. The report also confirmed a forecast underspend in the General Fund capital programme and a break-even position in the Housing Revenue Account. The financial impact of the recent decision to remove Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) was discussed, with a refund scheme now live.

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This week in Croydon:

Health and Social Care Under the Spotlight: From Business Plans to Preventative Deaths

This week, the Scrutiny Health & Social Care Sub-Committee met to review the Executive Mayor's Business Plan, focusing on how health and social care services are working to keep residents healthier and safer. They also examined the council's response to reports that aim to prevent future deaths, and heard from Healthwatch Croydon about how residents' views are shaping adult social care.

Progress on Health and Adult Social Care Priorities

The Sub-Committee reviewed progress against the Croydon Executive Mayor's Business Plan 2022-2026, specifically looking at how the council is supporting residents to lead healthier and independent lives for longer. This includes efforts to promote independence and safety, and to reduce health inequalities by working with health services and the voluntary, community, and faith (VCFS) sector.

Key initiatives discussed include:

• Resident Voice: The Croydon Adult Support Service Users Panel has been reformed into a resident voice group, actively shaping procurement tenders.
• Reablement Services: A pilot programme is moving to business as usual, with plans for borough-wide expansion to help people regain independence after illness or injury.
• Integrated Care: Croydon is participating in the National Neighbourhood Health Implementation Programme, establishing Integrated Neighbourhood Teams to coordinate care.
• Mental Health Support: The borough is working with the South West London Integrated Care Board on a cross-borough Mental Health Strategy and has refreshed its Multi-Agency Self-Harm and Suicide Prevention Strategy and Action Plan 2025–2028.

The report highlighted the adoption of the new Adult Social Care and Health (ASCH) Strategy for 2026-2030, which was informed by extensive engagement with over 850 residents. This strategy aims to provide more joined-up services and improve resident health outcomes.

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Pension Fund Navigates Audit Challenges and Medium-Term Planning

The Pension Committee met on Tuesday, 17 March 2026, to address the financial health of the Croydon Pension Fund. A key concern was the audit findings for the 2024/25 financial year, which resulted in a disclaimer of opinion due to national audit timetables and prior year challenges. This means the auditor could not provide a definitive opinion on the financial statements.

Funding Strategy and Audit Concerns

The committee adopted the Fund's Funding Strategy Statement (FSS), a crucial document outlining how pension liabilities will be met. This statement is reviewed every three years as part of the triennial valuation process. While the consultation with employers on the draft FSS was generally positive, the audit report for the 2024/25 financial year highlighted several disclosure misstatements and management recommendations. This situation underscores the ongoing need for robust financial controls and accurate record-keeping to ensure the long-term security of pensions for council employees.

Medium-Term Business Plan and Operational Updates

A draft Business Plan for 2026-2029 was presented, outlining the Fund's strategic direction and work programme. The plan acknowledges significant legislative changes impacting pension funds, including proposed regulations on pooling and investment.

Updates on administration performance showed that while most Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) were met, there were challenges with deferred benefit calculations. The team is also working on the McCloud remedy and preparing for upcoming legislative changes that could impact staffing resources. The report also detailed the Fund's investments, showing a market value of £2.17 billion and a quarterly return of 2.7% as of 31 December 2025.

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Corporate Parenting Board Focuses on Housing for Care Leavers and Youth Voice

The Corporate Parenting Board met on Wednesday, 18 March 2026, to discuss vital support for children in care and care-experienced young people. A major focus was on improving housing options and ensuring their voices are heard in shaping services.

Enhancing Housing for Care Leavers

The Board reviewed the progress of the Corporate Parenting Housing Subgroup, highlighting efforts to create a range of housing options and improve standards. This includes:

• Care Leavers App: Local Offer : A digital tool to provide information and support.
• Croydon House Project: A partnership with the National House Project to develop new housing opportunities.
• Joint Protocol: A commitment to collaboration between housing and children's social care services.

While progress is being made, challenges remain, including managing legacy rent arrears and securing sufficient joint resources to support young people transitioning from temporary accommodation. The aim is to ensure care leavers have access to safe, stable, and appropriate housing.

Amplifying Youth Voice

The Board also received updates from the Children's Participation Team and the Children in Care Council. These groups play a crucial role in ensuring that the views and experiences of children in care directly inform service development and delivery. Initiatives like the 'Amplified by Care Experience' project and training for Independent Visitors are vital for empowering young people and ensuring their rights and needs are met.

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Planning Sub-Committee Considers New Housing and Children's Home Proposals

The Planning Sub-Committee met on Thursday, 19 March 2026, to consider two significant planning applications. One proposed new residential dwellings in the rear garden of a property, while the other sought to change the use of two houses into residential care homes for children.

New Dwellings at 1 Oak Gardens

The committee considered a proposal for three new two-storey dwellings on land to the rear of 1 Oak Gardens. The application recommended granting planning permission, subject to a Section 106 agreement that would secure contributions towards sustainable travel and provide car club memberships. While the proposal involved subdividing an existing garden, officers deemed the design and materials appropriate for the area. Concerns raised by residents about overdevelopment and loss of privacy were addressed through recommended conditions, including obscure glazing for windows and the removal of permitted development rights.

Children's Homes on Cobden Road

An application to change the use of 18 & 18A Cobden Road, Croydon SE25 5NX from dwelling houses to two residential care homes for children, each accommodating two children, was also considered. The recommendation was to grant permission, subject to a Section 106 agreement to prioritise local need. Despite the loss of one dwelling, significant weight was given to the identified need for such facilities within the borough. The report detailed how the proposed homes would meet space standards and be regulated by Ofsted. Conditions were recommended to ensure an operational management plan covering security, staffing, and complaints.

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Licensing Committee Reviews Cumulative Impact Policy and Street Trading

The Licensing Committee met on Monday, 16 March 2026, to review the borough's Cumulative Impact Assessment (CIA) and consider several street trading applications. The CIA is crucial for managing the density of licensed premises and their potential impact on the community.

Cumulative Impact Assessment Review

The committee discussed the outcome of a consultation on the review of the CIA. Based on updated data and consultation responses, the Licensing Authority maintained its opinion that granting further authorisations for off-licence alcohol sales in cumulative impact areas 1-5 would be inconsistent with licensing objectives. This means that new premises seeking to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises in these areas will face significant hurdles. The committee agreed to this opinion and authorised officers to publish the CIA, which will be incorporated into the Council's Statement of Licensing Policy. This policy directly impacts the availability of late-night refreshment and alcohol sales, affecting the character of local high streets and residential areas.

Street Trading Applications

Four applications for street trading designation and licences were considered:

• 312 London Road, Croydon CR0 2TJ: Application for luggage bags and shopping trolleys.
• 40-42 London Road, Croydon, CR0 2TA: Application for fruit and vegetables display.
• 8 Brigstock Parade, London Road, Thornton Heath, CR7 7HW: Application for luggage bags and shopping trolleys.
• 77-79 Mitchley Avenue, South Croydon, CR2 9HN: Application for tables and chairs outside a restaurant.

For all applications, officers confirmed no objections from responsible authorities, and measures were in place to ensure pedestrian access. These decisions directly influence the vibrancy and accessibility of our streetscapes.

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Health and Wellbeing Board Tackles Children's Development, Family Hubs, and Parental Mental Health

The Health and Wellbeing Board met on Wednesday, 18 March 2026, to discuss a range of initiatives aimed at improving the health and well-being of Croydon's residents, with a particular focus on children, young people, and families. Key decisions included noting the progress on the Good Level of Development strategy, the adoption of a new Family Hubs model, and the endorsement of strategies for infant feeding and parental mental health.

Supporting Children, Young People, and Families

The Board received an update on the Good Level of Development (GLD) strategy, which aims to ensure 78.3% of children in Croydon achieve a good level of development by the end of their reception year by 2028. While Croydon is currently at 70.4%, progress is being made, though deeper system change is needed to meet the target. The strategy will focus on areas with lower outcomes, such as Old Coulsdon and Selhurst, and will support parents as their child's first educator.

The Family Hubs Model and Children's Centres report outlined the transition from a 0-5 age range for children's centres to a 0-19 (or 25 with SEND) Family Hubs model. This expansion is supported by £6.2 million in grant funding. The model will feature three main Family Hubs, with outreach hubs based at former children's centres, and information hubs in existing community venues like libraries and GP surgeries. This approach aims to provide a one-stop shop for families, offering a range of services in accessible locations.

The Infant Feeding Strategy 2024-2029 and Parental Mental Health Strategy 2024-2029 were presented, having already received Executive Mayoral approval. These strategies aim to improve breastfeeding rates, reduce health inequalities, and enhance parental mental health support. Key themes include supporting parents, ensuring they are prepared with information and skilled staff, fostering partnerships across sectors, and creating accessible local services.

An update on the Croydon Health and Wellbeing Survey for School-Age Children and Young People (2024/25) revealed a mixed picture. Positively, students reported an increased sense of wellbeing, with 85% reporting good general health. However, concerns were raised about bullying (28% of pupils) and discrimination (30% of secondary school pupils). Actions are being taken to address these findings, including targeted support for girls' self-esteem and initiatives to combat bullying and discrimination.

Better Care Fund and Public Health

The Better Care Fund 2025-2026 Quarter 3 Submission was ratified, confirming that Croydon is on track to meet all its targets for funding and key performance indicators.

The Director of Public Health Annual Report 2025/26, titled Health is everyone's business, was noted. The report advocates for a Health in All Policies (HiAP) approach, emphasising that health is shaped by a wide range of factors beyond clinical care, such as housing, education, and the environment. Recommendations include establishing a formal HiAP Framework for Croydon Council and embedding these principles within the One Croydon Alliance.

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This week in Croydon:

Housing Assurance Board Grapples with Homelessness Crisis and Temporary Accommodation Strain

The Housing Assurance Board met on Monday, 9 March 2026, to confront the escalating challenges of homelessness and the strain on temporary accommodation within the borough. The meeting provided a stark overview of the demand for housing services, the complexities of managing temporary accommodation, and the critical need for improved customer experience.

Homelessness Demand Soars, Temporary Accommodation Overwhelmed

Croydon is facing an unprecedented surge in homelessness applications, with a significant increase in households seeking support. The council is struggling to meet this demand, leading to a substantial number of households being placed in temporary accommodation. This situation is exacerbated by the high cost of housing in London, with many boroughs placing residents in Croydon, further intensifying pressure on the council's resources.

The board heard that actions are being taken to manage this demand, including promoting self-service housing options and implementing an appointment only service. However, the sheer volume of need means that the council is often forced to find suitable accommodation outside of Croydon, a move that can be overwhelming for families who are trying to stay close to jobs, schools, and support networks. Currently, around 30% of households in temporary accommodation are located outside the borough.

The report highlighted that the council is working to improve its homelessness services, with a restructured service and a refreshed Homelessness Must Sleepers strategy. Efforts are also underway to improve relationships with the voluntary and charity sectors, creating a more collaborative approach to tackling homelessness.

Customer Experience in Housing Services Needs Urgent Attention

A significant concern raised during the meeting was the poor customer experience within homelessness services. Residents have reported a lack of direct contact, long waiting times for appointments, and unsatisfactory telephone response times. This is leading to frustration and distress for individuals already in a vulnerable situation.

In response, the council has implemented a new service operating model with face-to-face appointments and reduced waiting times. Staff training is also ongoing to improve service delivery. However, the scale of the problem suggests that more needs to be done to ensure a consistently positive and supportive experience for those seeking housing assistance.

National Strategy Offers Framework, but Local Delivery is Key

The board also received a briefing on the UK Government's A National Plan to End Homelessness. This strategy aims to make homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurring by focusing on prevention and addressing root causes. While the national strategy provides a valuable framework, the real impact will depend on effective local implementation and sufficient resources to meet the growing demand in Croydon.

The discussions underscored the immense pressure on housing services and the direct impact on vulnerable residents. The council's ability to effectively manage demand, improve customer experience, and secure adequate housing solutions will be crucial in addressing the ongoing homelessness crisis.

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Audit & Governance Committee Reviews SEND Budget Overspend and Financial Monitoring Improvements

The Audit & Governance Committee met on Thursday, 12 March 2026, to delve into critical financial matters, including a diagnostic review of the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) budget overspend and improvements to revenue and capital monitoring. The committee also reviewed the Internal Audit Plan and the Corporate Risk Register, highlighting the council's ongoing efforts to strengthen its financial governance and risk management.

Addressing the SEND Budget Overspend

A key focus was the Diagnostic Review of SEND budget overspend 2024-25, commissioned from the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA). This review aimed to pinpoint the causes of the overspend and identify lessons for future financial management. The report indicated that the council has accepted all 23 recommendations from CIPFA and has begun implementing them. Issues identified included problems with the Synergy IT system, inconsistent processes, and challenges in financial forecasting, particularly concerning SEND placements. These recommendations are vital for ensuring that resources are allocated effectively and that vulnerable children with SEND receive the support they need without the council facing unsustainable financial pressures.

Enhancing Financial Monitoring and Controls

The committee received updates on improvements to revenue and capital monitoring, stemming from external reviews by Worth Technical Accounting Solutions and PwC. The council has made significant progress in implementing recommendations related to financial governance, staff training, and the Oracle Improvement Programme. The aim is to ensure more robust financial oversight and better budget management, which directly impacts the services available to residents.

Internal Audit and Corporate Risk Management

The committee reviewed the proposed Internal Audit Annual Plan, Strategy, and Charter for 2026/27, ensuring alignment with national standards. This plan will guide the internal audit function in scrutinising key financial systems and corporate risks, including information governance and cyber security. The Corporate Risk Register was also reviewed, providing an overview of the council's strategic risks. By scrutinising these areas, the committee plays a vital role in ensuring the council operates efficiently and effectively, safeguarding public funds and services.

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Licensing Sub-Committee Considers Controversial Fast-Food Premises Licence Application

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Thursday, 12 March 2026, to consider a contentious application for a premises licence for a fast-food outlet at 152 Wickham Road, Croydon, CR0 8BF. The application, which sought permission for late-night refreshment extending into the early hours of the morning, had attracted significant opposition from local residents.

Residents Raise Concerns Over Noise, Nuisance, and Anti-Social Behaviour

The application for Morleys Fried Chicken generated 42 representations from local residents and Councillor Sue Bennett, all centred on the four licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm. Residents expressed deep concerns about potential increases in noise from late-night patrons, littering, and anti-social behaviour, particularly in an area predominantly residential streets. The proposed operating hours were seen as incompatible with the character of the neighbourhood, which already faces parking pressures.

The applicant proposed measures such as CCTV, staff training, and incident registers to mitigate these concerns. However, the sheer volume of objections highlights the significant impact such a licence could have on the quality of life for those living nearby. The sub-committee's decision will weigh the applicant's proposals against the community's concerns, with a direct bearing on the peace and safety of the local area.

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Ethics Committee Recommends Reappointment of Independent Person and Reviews Complaints

The Ethics Committee met on Wednesday, 11 March 2026, to discuss matters of ethical conduct within the council. The committee recommended the reappointment of Ashok Kumar as an independent person for a further two-year term, ensuring continued experienced oversight. They also reviewed declarations of gifts and hospitality, noting the importance of transparency for councillors.

Annual Ethics Complaints Report Shows Stable Trends

The committee reviewed the annual report on ethics complaints for 2025, which detailed 17 complaints received. While this is an increase from the previous year, it remains significantly lower than in 2022. The majority of complaints related to councillors not responding to correspondence in a timely manner, a common issue given the volume of communication councillors handle. Importantly, of the complaints that proceeded to assessment, no breaches of the Code of Conduct were found, indicating a generally high standard of ethical behaviour among councillors.

Social Media Conduct and Council Standards Under Scrutiny

Recent developments in ethical standards were also discussed, including proposed government changes to the standards and conduct framework for local authorities. These proposals aim to strengthen the framework, potentially introducing a mandatory code of conduct, a right to review of standards committee decisions, and powers for councils to suspend elected members for serious breaches. The committee was reminded of the importance of councillors' conduct on social media, even in private groups, citing a Tameside case where councillors faced investigation for their involvement in a WhatsApp group. This serves as a crucial reminder that all conduct, whether public or private, can have implications for public trust and the reputation of the council.

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Appointments & Disciplinary Committee Approves Director Appointments and Salary Packages

The Appointments & Disciplinary Committee met on Wednesday, 11 March 2026, to approve the appointment of two key director-level positions: Director of Culture and Community Safety, and Director of Streets and Environment. The committee agreed to the proposed salary packages for both roles, which fall within the council's Chief Officer Grades, and resolved to proceed with the selection process.

Key Leadership Roles Filled

The appointment of a Director of Culture and Community Safety is crucial for stabilising leadership within the Sustainable Communities Directorate. This role oversees vital public-facing services, including violence reduction, community safety, libraries, and emergency planning. Similarly, the appointment of a Director of Streets and Environment is essential for providing continuity and leadership in operational services that directly impact residents' daily lives, from waste management to highway maintenance.

The agreed salary packages reflect the responsibilities of these senior positions and are in line with national pay awards. The council's commitment to filling these roles permanently underscores its focus on effective leadership and service delivery across critical areas of council operation.

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Other Matters

Scrutiny Children & Young People Sub-Committee Discusses Public Health Nursing and Education Standards

The Scrutiny Children & Young People Sub-Committee met on Tuesday, 10 March 2026, to review key services for the borough's young people. Discussions included the Public Health Nursing transformation programme, which aims to reduce health inequalities and improve workforce efficiency. An update on education standards for 2024/25 highlighted both successes, such as strong performance at Key Stage 2, and areas for improvement, particularly at Key Stage 4. The committee also received updates on Youth Engagement Services and the performance dashboard for early help and children's social care, underscoring the council's commitment to supporting children and young people across various service areas.

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Health & Wellbeing Board Meeting Moved

The Health & Wellbeing Board meeting scheduled for Wednesday, 11 March 2026, has been moved. Further details on the rescheduled date will be provided once confirmed.

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This week in Croydon:

Council Approves Budget with Tax Rise Amidst Financial Challenges

The Council met on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, to make critical decisions on the borough's budget for the upcoming financial year, 2026-27. The meeting saw the approval of a 4.99% increase in Council Tax, which includes a 2% levy specifically for adult social care. This decision comes as the council grapples with significant financial pressures, including a substantial debt burden and rising demand for essential services.

The budget proposals, which were debated extensively, aim to balance the need for savings with the commitment to maintaining vital services for residents. The council's Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for 2026-30 outlines proposed savings of £34 million in 2026-27, intended to be delivered through the Future Croydon transformation programme.

However, the council's financial stability remains a key concern. The budget relies on Exceptional Financial Support (EFS) from the government, a measure that allows the council to capitalise certain historic revenue pressures while it restructures and reduces its debt. While the EFS figure for 2026-27 has been revised downwards, its continued necessity underscores the ongoing financial challenges.

The impact of these decisions is significant, particularly for vulnerable groups. The Council Tax increase, while necessary to fund services, places an additional financial burden on households, especially those on lower incomes. The 2% levy for adult social care aims to address the growing demand and complexity of needs within this sector, which directly affects older residents and those with disabilities.

During the debate, councillors from different parties voiced their concerns and perspectives. The Executive Mayor, Jason Perry, highlighted the progress made in stabilising the council's finances and restoring services, stating, This budget keeps that momentum going, it protects the progress we have made and it builds upon it. We cannot risk going backwards, we must keep moving forward.

In contrast, the Leader of the Opposition, Councillor Stuart King, criticised the administration's financial management, arguing that Jason Perry has failed. Failed to fix the finances as he said he would. He pointed to the council tax increase and the continued reliance on exceptional financial support as evidence of these failures.

The budget also includes plans for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA), with a proposed 4.8% increase in social rents. This is intended to support planned capital investments in the housing stock, including major repairs and building safety works. The council's Capital Programme also outlines significant projected expenditure over the coming years, financed largely through borrowing.

The meeting also saw the approval of the Croydon Pay Policy Statement for 2026-27 and the Members' Scheme of Allowances for 2026/27.

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Licensing Sub-Committee Considers Premises Licence Review Amidst Immigration Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Tuesday, 24 February 2026, to consider an application for the review of a premises licence for Kongunadu Restaurant at 129 Cherry Orchard Road, Croydon, CR0 6BE. The review was initiated by the Home Office Immigration Enforcement Licensing Compliance Team, citing concerns related to the prevention of crime and disorder.

The core of the review stemmed from an enforcement visit that identified an individual working illegally at the premises. This led to a civil penalty of £40,000 being issued to Kongunadu Restaurant Ltd for employing someone without the right to work in the UK, a penalty that remained outstanding.

The Home Office argued that the failure to conduct mandatory employment checks allowed for an unfair competitive advantage and deprived the UK economy of tax revenue. The report also noted that the worker claimed to receive free food and rent in exchange for work, raising concerns about labour exploitation.

The sub-committee had the power to modify licence conditions, suspend the licence, or even revoke it entirely. The Home Office Immigration Enforcement recommended revocation, stating that lesser actions would be insufficient as a deterrent. This case highlights the intersection of licensing regulations with immigration law and the council's role in upholding both to prevent crime and disorder.

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Audit & Governance Committee Approves 2024-25 Accounts, Marking a Significant Financial Milestone

The Audit & Governance Committee met on Monday, 23 February 2026, to approve the 2024-25 Statement of Accounts, including the Pension Fund accounts. This approval marks a significant achievement for the council, as it is the first time in several years that the accounts have been prepared and approved within statutory timeframes.

The committee received the auditor's Audit Findings Reports and Audit Opinions, and delegated authority to the Section 151 Officer to sign the Letters of Representation and the accounts themselves, with any non-material amendments. This move signifies a crucial step in rebuilding financial assurance for the council.

The report highlighted that the council's total usable reserves stood at £259.2 million as at 31 March 2025. While this represents a decrease from the previous year, the ability to present audited accounts within the legal timeframe is a testament to improved financial management processes. The committee also noted the challenges posed by national delays in local government audits and the implications of backstopped disclaimers for previous financial years.

The council has outlined plans for improvement in 2025-26, focusing on areas such as the reconciliation of feeder systems to the general ledger and improving data completeness. These efforts are vital for ensuring transparency and accountability in the council's financial dealings, ultimately benefiting residents by providing greater confidence in how public funds are managed.

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Other Matters

The Council Tax Setting Committee was scheduled to meet on Thursday, 26 February 2026. However, as the Council meeting on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, approved the budget and Council Tax, this committee's role in setting the final calculation will now be handled by the Council itself.

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