This week in Ealing:

Licence Reviews for Southall Stores Raise Concerns Over Crime and Public Safety

Ealing Council's Licensing Sub-Committees have been busy reviewing premises licences for two businesses in Southall, highlighting ongoing concerns about crime, public safety, and the protection of children. The decisions made in these cases will directly impact the local environment and the well-being of residents.

AAK Superstore: Licence Review Amid Allegations of Illegal Working and Breaches

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Wednesday, 15 April 2026, to consider a review of the premises licence for AAK Superstore, located at 13 Dudley Road, Southall, Middlesex, UB2 5AS. The review was initiated by the council's Licensing Enforcement and Compliance team due to alleged breaches of licence conditions related to the prevention of crime and disorder.

The report detailed incidents where individuals were found working at the premises without the necessary documentation, raising serious questions about illegal employment. Specifically, on 28 October 2025, a male working behind the counter was found not to hold a personal licence, a breach of the premises licence. Further investigations on 29 November 2025, involving Immigration Enforcement, led to the detention of the same male, who admitted to working at the premises for six months without the right to work in the UK.

This is not the first time AAK Superstore has faced scrutiny. A previous review on 18 October 2023 resulted in a three-month licence suspension and the imposition of several conditions, including mandatory training for staff and a prohibition on a specific individual from managing the business. The current report indicated that some of these conditions may not have been met, and the alleged continued involvement of Mr. Kulwant Singh Bhatia in the business, despite previous prohibitions, is a significant concern. The committee was asked to consider options ranging from modifying the licence conditions to revoking it entirely. These decisions are crucial for ensuring that licensed premises operate lawfully and do not contribute to wider issues of crime and disorder.

The committee also considered a Panel Procedure Guidance Note, which sets out the rules for how these hearings are conducted. This ensures fairness and transparency in the decision-making process.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Goa Food & Wine: New Licence Application Faces Objections Over Community Impact

Also on Wednesday, 15 April 2026, a different Licensing Sub-Committee convened to consider a new premises licence application for Goa Food & Wine, located at 16 Dudley Road, Southall, UB2 5AR. The applicant, Mr Aleixo Bengito Sequeira, sought permission for the retail sale of alcohol for off-premises consumption. However, the application faced objections from both Karibu Community Homes and the Metropolitan Police Service, citing concerns related to the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, and the prevention of public nuisance.

The Metropolitan Police highlighted that Dudley Road is already a hotspot for ASB/crime and disorder, with issues of loitering, alcohol consumption, and public nuisance. They expressed concern that an additional off-licence would exacerbate these existing problems. Karibu Community Homes echoed these concerns, pointing to high alcohol admission rates in the Southall Green area and the potential for increased crime and risks to residents due to alcohol dependency. The report referenced Ealing Council's Statement of Licensing Policy[^1], which aims to promote the four licensing objectives, and noted that conditions imposed on licences must be appropriate to achieve these goals. The presence of a Public Spaces Protection Order[^2] in the area further underscores the existing challenges with anti-social behaviour.

The committee was tasked with weighing the applicant's request against the potential negative impacts on the local community, particularly for vulnerable residents. The decision will influence the character of the neighbourhood and the council's commitment to tackling alcohol-related harm.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Northfield Food & Wine: Residents Petition Against New Off-Licence

On Friday, 17 April 2026, another Licensing Sub-Committee considered a new premises licence application for Northfield Food & Wine, located at 16 Northfield Avenue, West Ealing, W13 9RJ. This application also faced objections, this time from local residents in the form of a petition.

The residents' concerns centred on the potential for increased anti-social behaviour, street drinking, noise disturbance, littering, and risks of underage or proxy sales. Given the premises' location in a predominantly residential area, these concerns are particularly pertinent to the quality of life for those living nearby.

While the applicant and the Walpole Residents' Association agreed on conditions regarding the storage of spirits and alcohol outside licensable hours, and the applicant and the Metropolitan Police agreed on conditions concerning disposable cups and alcohol decanting, the residents' petition indicates that these measures may not fully address their anxieties. The committee had to balance the applicant's right to trade with the community's desire for a peaceful and safe environment. The council's Statement of Licensing Policy[^1] was again a key document in guiding this decision, emphasising that conditions must be appropriate to promote the licensing objectives.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Licensing Committee Reviews Gambling Policy and Enforcement Activities

The Licensing Committee met on Wednesday, 15 April 2026, to discuss the renewal of the council's Gambling Licensing Policy, receive updates on general licensing matters, and review enforcement activities. This meeting is crucial for ensuring that gambling is regulated responsibly and that licensed premises comply with the law.

Gambling Licensing Policy Renewal

A significant item on the agenda was the renewal of the council's Statement of Gambling Licensing Policy for 2026–2029. This policy sets out how the council will manage applications under the Gambling Act 2005, aiming to prevent gambling from being a source of crime, ensure it is fair and open, and protect children and vulnerable people. The report indicated that statutory consultation on the draft policy had concluded, with amendments made based on feedback. A key development is the proposed creation of a Local Area Profile (LAP) to identify areas particularly vulnerable to gambling-related harm. The council's existing stance against issuing new casino premises licences was recommended for retention.

Licensing Updates and Enforcement

The committee also received an update on licensing policy and practice, including minor amendments to the Statement of Licensing Policy. The Mayor of London's proposed Strategic Licensing Policy, which aims for a more consistent approach across London, was also discussed.

An overview of licensing decisions and enforcement activities between January and March 2026 was presented. This included instances of premises operating without necessary licences for late-night refreshment, alcohol-led premises trading beyond permitted hours, and test purchase operations that identified underage alcohol sales. The report also detailed enforcement actions against counterfeit and illicit goods, and reviews of specific premises. Information on Welfare and Vulnerability Engagement (WAVE) and 'Ask for Angela' training for licensed businesses was also provided, highlighting the council's commitment to supporting responsible trading and public safety.

Link to Licensing Committee meeting

This week in Ealing:

Council Approves Freedom of the Borough for Five Individuals

Ealing Council convened on Wednesday, 25 March 2026, to consider a significant honour: the awarding of Freedom of the Borough status to five individuals. This prestigious title, granted under section 249(5) of the Local Government Act 1972, recognises those who have rendered eminent services to the borough.

The council's Civic Honours Committee had previously reviewed public nominations and proposed that Sarah Nathan, Eric and Jessica Huntley (as a posthumous joint award), Virendra Sharma, and Pragna Patel be recognised. The Local Government Act 1972 mandates that such awards require a specially convened Council meeting with at least two-thirds of members voting in favour. Ealing Council's own policy for awarding honorary freedom, agreed upon in May 2023, guided this nomination process. The decision to bestow this honour reflects the council's commitment to celebrating those who have made exceptional contributions to the Ealing community.

Link to Council meeting

Pension Fund Panel Reviews Investment Performance and Actuarial Valuation

The Pension Fund Panel met on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, to conduct a comprehensive review of the Ealing Pension Fund's performance, administration, and financial health. A key focus was the triennial actuarial valuation as of 31 March 2025, which revealed a positive shift from a deficit to a surplus in the Fund's funding position. This improved solvency is attributed to revised actuarial assumptions regarding investment returns, inflation, and demographics. The panel was tasked with considering and approving the draft Funding Strategy Statement (FSS) and proposed employer contribution rates for the period 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2029.

The meeting also covered the Pension Fund Performance Monitor Update for the quarter ending 31 December 2025. This report detailed the overall performance of the Fund's investments, including updates on specific holdings and progress on strategic asset allocation. An update on the administration of the Pension Fund by the Local Pensions Partnership Administration (LPPA) was also presented, reviewing performance against Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and addressing customer satisfaction and complaints. Furthermore, the panel considered the Pension Fund Budgetary Estimate and Work Plan for 2026-27, outlining priorities for sound governance, sustainable investment, and maximising returns. The panel also received training presentations from external specialists on infrastructure investment and the actuarial valuation outcomes.

Link to Pension Fund Panel meeting

Safer Neighbourhood Board Discusses Community Safety Initiatives

The Ealing Safer Neighbourhood Board convened on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, to discuss ongoing community safety projects and receive an update from the police. The meeting provided a platform for board members to engage with local policing efforts and address community concerns.

The agenda included an update on various projects aimed at enhancing safety within Ealing. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a police report, which included a question and answer session. This allowed board members to directly address policing matters and seek clarification on issues affecting the borough. Inspector Leigh Ballard was listed as an attendee, indicating their likely involvement in this segment. The board also reviewed and approved the minutes from its previous meeting held on 20 January 2026. The date for the next meeting was set for 28 April 2026.

Link to Ealing Safer Neighbourhood Board meeting

Other matters

• The Council met on Wednesday, 25 March 2026. The primary item on the agenda was the consideration of awarding Freedom of the Borough status to five individuals. Link to Council meeting

This week in Ealing:

Pub Licence Review Sparks Concerns Over Crime and Nuisance

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Wednesday, 18 March 2026, to consider a review of the premises licence for The Old Oak Tree pub, located at The Common, Southall, UB2 5PJ. The review was initiated by Ealing Council's Licensing Compliance and Enforcement Team due to serious concerns about the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, and the prevention of public nuisance.

Evidence presented to the committee included reports from Licensing Compliance & Enforcement Officer Robert Dear, detailing multiple visits where allegations and findings related to sexual entertainment, the presence of immigration offenders, and potential drug use were noted. Statements from Immigration Officers also highlighted encounters with individuals suspected of immigration offences and illegal working at the premises. Furthermore, Ealing Council's Environmental Health team received complaints about statutory noise nuisance caused by loud amplified music, often operating outside of licensable hours, and concerns regarding irresponsible management.

The potential outcomes for The Old Oak Tree are significant. The Sub-Committee could modify licence conditions, suspend the licence for up to three months, revoke it entirely, or leave it unchanged. This decision will directly impact the local community, affecting public safety and the environment around the pub. The committee was asked to consider these issues in light of Ealing Council's Statement of Licensing Policy, which guides the council's approach to regulating licensed premises to promote the four licensing objectives.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Children's Heart and Lung Services Face Temporary Relocation Amid Safety Concerns

The North West London Joint Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee (JHOSC) was scheduled to discuss significant planned changes to specialist children's heart, lung, and critical care inpatient services. The proposed temporary move of these services, currently delivered by Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust (GSTT), is a direct response to clinical risk escalation regarding the safety and sustainability of the paediatric cardiac surgical service.

The plan involves consolidating these critical services at the Evelina London Children's Hospital and St Thomas' Hospital site. The report highlighted that the current on-call rota for cardiac surgery is unsustainable beyond April 2026, necessitating this proactive step to prevent service collapse and meet mandated national Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) standards for co-location of services. This move, approved by NHS England as an essential safeguard, will impact young patients and their families who rely on these specialised services. While outpatient clinics and day-case procedures will not be affected, the relocation of cardiac surgery will also necessitate the temporary move of paediatric respiratory inpatients. The committee also reviewed the transformation of the Crystal House specialist learning disability Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) ward, which is moving towards a community-based support model due to low admissions and high costs.

Link to North West London Joint Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee (JHOSC) meeting

Ealing's Adult Mental Health Services Under Scrutiny: Funding Gaps and Crisis Pathway Challenges

The Health and Adult Social Services Scrutiny Panel met on Tuesday, 17 March 2026, to examine Ealing's adult mental health services. A key concern raised was that Ealing's community mental health centres (CMHTs) receive less core funding per capita compared to several other boroughs in North West London. This funding disparity could have a direct impact on the availability and quality of support for residents experiencing mental health challenges.

The panel reviewed the crisis pathway, highlighting the need for intensive support for a specific group of patients and the impact of the Right Care, Right Person (RCRP) initiative. Data presented indicated that Ealing had a notably high average time spent in the Emergency Department for mental health-related attendances, suggesting potential bottlenecks and delays in accessing appropriate care. The report also touched upon challenges within the crisis pathway, including bed availability and differing perspectives on community treatment thresholds.

The meeting also covered immunisation and screening programmes, noting downward trends in vaccination uptake for young children and adults, and below-average screening coverage for bowel and cervical cancer. The role of the voluntary and community sector in health services was also discussed, alongside updates on primary care access and the operating model for Integrated Care Boards.

Link to Health and Adult Social Services Scrutiny Panel meeting

Planning Committee Considers Acton Industrial Units and West Ealing Retail Development

The Planning Committee met on Wednesday, 18 March 2026, to consider three planning applications that will shape the borough's landscape.

New Industrial Units for Acton

The committee reviewed a full planning application for the demolition of existing buildings at 16 Eastman Road, Acton, W3 7YG and the erection of single-storey multi-let industrial and/or logistics units with associated office space, parking, and landscaping. The recommendation was to grant planning permission, subject to legal agreements and conditions. This development could bring new employment opportunities to the area.

Waitrose Site Redevelopment in West Ealing

A Section 73 application to vary conditions of a previous planning permission for a mixed-use development at Waitrose, 2 Alexandria Road, West Ealing, W13 0NL was also considered. The proposed amendments included design changes, relocation of the store's service yard, and revisions to the building's height and facades. The application sought to provide an additional 37 homes and revise the store entrance. The recommendation was to grant the variation of planning permission.

Landscaping for Northolt Development

Finally, the committee reviewed a reserved matters application for landscaping works at The Transport Yard in Northolt, UB5 4QH. This phase relates to the formation of the access road and adjacent landscaping, as required by the outline planning permission. The report recommended approving the application, subject to conditions.

Link to Planning Committee meeting

Other matters

• The Corporate Parent Committee met on Thursday, 19 March 2026. No summary or transcript was available for this meeting. Link to Corporate Parent Committee meeting

This week in Ealing:

Fire Safety Upgrades: Council Invests £8.4 Million in Fire Door Replacements

Ealing Council's Cabinet met on Wednesday, 11 March 2026, to approve a significant investment of £8.4 million over four years for the supply and installation of fire doors across the council's housing stock. This crucial initiative is a direct response to the ongoing commitment to resident safety, particularly in light of the Grenfell Tower disaster.

The programme will see a contractor appointed through a mini-competition under the Pretium's Building & Fire Safety Framework Agreement. The chosen contractor will be responsible for replacing and installing fire doors, adhering to stringent standards set by the council's Corporate Fire Safety Team. A key requirement will be the maintenance of 'Golden Thread' records, as mandated by the Building Safety Act 2022. This ensures that vital building information is kept up-to-date throughout a building's lifecycle, a critical element for fire safety management. The contract is planned for an initial two-year period, with an option to extend for a further two years, providing long-term security for this essential safety work.

Link to Cabinet meeting

Transport and Highways Programme: £7.4 Million for Safer Streets and Sustainable Travel

The Cabinet also approved the Ealing Transport and Highways Programme for 2026/27, allocating a capital budget of £7.409 million. This funding, drawn from Transport for London (TfL) Local Implementation Plan (LIP) funding, Department for Transport (DfT) highway improvement funding, HS2 Safety Scheme funding, and the Parking reserve, will drive a range of projects aimed at improving the borough's transport network.

Key initiatives within the programme include:

• Safer Corridors and Neighbourhoods: Enhancing safety on key routes and within residential areas.
• Cycle Network Development: Expanding and improving cycling infrastructure to encourage active travel.
• Bus Priority Schemes: Making bus journeys more reliable and efficient.
• Safer Streets Projects: Targeted interventions to improve road safety.

The programme also includes plans for new Controlled Parking Zones (CPZs) and a new Food Waste Collection project, funded by Defra grants. The overarching goal is to promote sustainable travel, enhance road safety, and improve the overall transport experience for residents.

Link to Cabinet meeting

Drug and Alcohol Treatment Services: Contract Renewal for Essential Support

The Cabinet discussed the commissioning of adult and young people's community drug and alcohol treatment services. A recommendation was made to directly award a five-year contract, with a two-year extension option, to Change Grow Live Services Limited (CGL). CGL has been providing these services since 2012 and has been deemed to be delivering them satisfactorily.

This direct award is proposed under the Health Care Services (Provider Selection Regime) Regulations 2023, recognising CGL's established track record. These services are vital for supporting vulnerable individuals in their recovery from drug and alcohol misuse, offering a range of interventions to address health inequalities within the borough.

Link to Cabinet meeting

Temporary Accommodation: Council Moves to Increase Supply

The Cabinet also considered proposals to increase the supply of temporary accommodation for homeless households. The plan involves entering into ten-year leases to secure up to 400 units, with a specific housing supply agreement to secure up to 200 units with the provider, Madison Brook.

This strategy aims to achieve significant cost reductions in the council's annual temporary accommodation budget while improving the quality of accommodation provided. By securing longer-term leases, the council can stabilise costs and claim housing benefit at the 2024 Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rates, thereby reducing subsidy loss. This is a critical step in addressing homelessness and ensuring that those in need have access to safe and stable housing.

Link to Cabinet meeting

Mount Vernon Cancer Centre Consultation Continues

The Mount Vernon Cancer Centre Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Friday, 13 March 2026, to review the ongoing public consultation for the reprovision of the Mount Vernon Cancer Centre. The consultation, which runs until 29 March 2026, seeks views on relocating the centre from Northwood to a new facility at Watford General Hospital.

The committee received an update on the consultation's progress, noting that while over 1,100 responses have been received, participation is not evenly distributed geographically or demographically. Efforts are underway to address under-representation and encourage broader engagement. Early feedback highlights travel and access as major concerns for those opposed to the move, while support is often linked to the prospect of a modern facility and co-location with acute services. The committee also discussed transport and access considerations, with a focus on ensuring the new centre is accessible to all patients, including those who do not drive or are unwell.

Link to Mount Vernon Cancer Centre Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting

Race Equality and Community Charter on Scrutiny Panel Agenda

The Strategy and Change Scrutiny Panel met on Thursday, 12 March 2026, to discuss progress on the Independent Race Equality Commission's (REC) work and the implementation of the Community Charter.

The REC update covered six priority areas: education, health, participation and democracy, policing, income and employment, and housing. Progress has been made in areas such as racial literacy in education and workforce diversity in health. However, challenges remain in educational attainment, exclusions, and leadership diversity. The panel also reviewed the Community Charter, which aims to foster genuine community participation and engagement in council decision-making. The Charter is underpinned by ten principles designed to ensure accessibility, inclusivity, and accountability.

Link to Strategy and Change Scrutiny Panel meeting

Greener Ealing Limited: Business Plan and Contract Review

The Shareholder Committee met on Wednesday, 11 March 2026, to review the business plan and financial performance of Greener Ealing Limited (GEL), the council's wholly-owned environmental services provider. The committee considered GEL's business plan for 2026/27, which projects an operating profit of £0.069 million before tax.

The committee also discussed a proposed variation to GEL's contract, which is intended to reflect a changed expenditure forecast. The report indicated that this variation would have no direct financial impact on the council, with all implications borne by GEL. The committee was recommended to agree that certain financial and business affairs information should not be published.

Link to Shareholder Committee meeting

Ken News & Off Licence Licence Review

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Wednesday, 11 March 2026, to consider a review of the premises licence for Ken News & Off Licence. The application for review was made by Ealing Council's Licensing Enforcement and Compliance team due to concerns related to the prevention of crime and disorder, and the protection of children from harm. The report pack detailed previous issues with the premises, including the seizure of illicit cigarettes and alleged sales of vapes without age verification. The committee had the power to modify the licence conditions, suspend, or revoke the licence.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting