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Weekly updates
Greenwich Tackles Violence Against Women, Eyes Finance Overhaul
This week in Greenwich:
Council Tackles Violence Against Women, Eyes Procurement Overhaul
This week, the Royal Borough of Greenwich focused on combating violence against women and girls and streamlining its procurement processes. The Cabinet approved a new strategy to address male violence, while the General Purposes Committee discussed hiring a new Head of Procurement to oversee a major financial system upgrade.
Greenwich Takes Aim at Male Violence Against Women and Girls
The Cabinet approved a comprehensive strategy to end male violence against women and girls, shifting the focus from supporting victims to tackling the root causes. The Cabinet meeting took place on Wednesday.
- Focus on Accountability: Councillor Rachel Taggart-Ryan, Cabinet Member Community Safety and Enforcement, emphasized the need to hold men accountable for their actions and challenge misogyny. > We need an approach that focuses on stopping people from committing violence and holding men accountable for their violence. We need to acknowledge this disproportionality to understand why we are focusing on male violence.
- Key Objectives: The strategy outlines objectives such as male accountability, allyship, prevention, victim support, and policy changes.
- Action Plan: An action plan is being developed to address male psychological safety, including online radicalisation and coercive norms.
This strategy signals a significant shift in the council's approach to tackling violence against women and girls, prioritizing prevention and accountability.
Procurement Chief to Lead Financial System Upgrade
The General Purposes Committee discussed the recruitment of a new Head of Procurement to lead the council's Financials System replacement project. The General Purposes Committee meeting took place on Wednesday.
- Interim Hire: The council plans to hire an interim Head of Procurement while the current head focuses on the system upgrade.
- Salary Range: The committee was asked to approve a salary range of £96,049 - £107,175 for the interim position.
- Procurement Act 2023: The new Head of Procurement will be responsible for ensuring compliance with the Procurement Act 2023.
This move highlights the council's commitment to modernizing its financial systems and ensuring efficient procurement practices. The Procurement Act 2023 aims to simplify and streamline public procurement processes, promoting transparency and value for money.
Other Matters
- Safeguarding Children: The Cabinet noted the Greenwich Safeguarding Children Partnership Annual Report 2024/25, emphasizing the importance of inter-agency cooperation in protecting children.
- Budget Monitoring: The Cabinet noted the 2025 - 2026 Quarter 2 Budget Monitor, indicating positive progress in bringing expenditure in line with the budget.
- Infrastructure Funding: The Cabinet approved the publication of the Infrastructure Funding Statement for 2024-25, outlining how developer contributions are being used to invest in local infrastructure.
- Health and Wellbeing: The Health and Wellbeing Board was scheduled to review the Public Health Addictions Profile and the Royal Greenwich Addictions Strategic Plan 2026-2029.
- Planning Decisions: The Planning Board considered several planning applications, including proposals for new sporting facilities, residential developments, and changes to existing buildings.
Upcoming meetings:
- Licensing Sub-Committee A - Tuesday 09 December 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/89057
- Schools Forum - Wednesday 17 December 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/89060
- Licensing Review Sub-Committee - Monday 08 December 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/89046
- Pension Board - Monday 08 December 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/89042
- Local Planning Committee - Tuesday 09 December 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/89052
- Pension Fund Investment & Administration Panel - Monday 08 December 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/89038
Greenwich HMOs Approved, Food Insecurity Report Released
This week in Greenwich:
HMOs Approved Despite Resident Concerns, Public Health Report Highlights Food Insecurity
Greenwich Council addressed key issues this week, including approving Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) despite local objections, and discussing a concerning report on food insecurity and health inequalities in the borough.
Planning Committee Approves HMOs in Eltham and Plumstead
The Local Planning Committee approved applications for two properties to become HMOs, despite objections from local residents. The Local Planning Committee meeting took place on Tuesday.
Eltham HMO Approved Amidst Concerns Over Family Homes and Parking
The committee approved the change of use of 47 Arbroath Road, Eltham, to a five-bedroom HMO, including a single-storey rear extension. This application had previously been refused, and an appeal dismissed, due to concerns about the size of the extension.
- Resident Opposition: Councillor Charlie Davis, Deputy Leader of the Opposition, spoke against the application on behalf of local residents, citing concerns about the loss of family homes, the impact on the nearby Progress Estate Conservation Area[^1], and parking pressures. [^1]: Conservation areas are designated to protect places of special architectural or historic interest.
- Parking Concerns: Residents also raised concerns about parking congestion and the lack of consideration for elderly residents.
- Applicant Response: Joel Stern, representing the applicant, SAM Planning Services, stated that the current proposal addressed the concerns raised in the previous appeal decision.
- Committee Approval: Despite the objections, the committee approved the application, arguing that there were no valid planning grounds to refuse it, and that HMOs provide a vital form of housing.
Plumstead HMO Approved With Management Plan Condition
The committee also approved the change of use of 32 Roydene Road, Plumstead, to a six-bedroom HMO, including a loft conversion and rear extension.
- Existing HMOs: Councillor Patricia Greenwell noted the number of HMOs already in the area.
- Committee Approval: The committee approved the application, subject to conditions, including a management plan and EV charging point.
These decisions highlight the ongoing debate about balancing the need for housing with the concerns of residents about the impact of HMOs on their communities.
Health Panel Examines Food Insecurity and Health Inequalities
The Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Panel discussed the council's food response and the Director of Public Health’s annual report, focusing on health inequalities. The Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Panel meeting took place on Thursday.
Director of Public Health Annual Report Highlights Health Disparities
The Director of Public Health Annual Report, entitled Working together for fairer, healthier lives for all: Understanding health inequalities in Royal Greenwich, highlights the variations in health outcomes across the borough.
- Health Equity Approach: The report calls for a health equity approach, emphasizing that everyone in Greenwich deserves to live the healthiest life possible.
- Key Principles: The report outlines key principles to support a health equity approach: taking a life course approach, neighbourhood-based working, proportionate universalism[^2], and a wider public health workforce. [^2]: Proportionate universalism is an approach to designing and delivering services that aims to reduce health inequalities by providing support to everyone, but with a particular focus on those who are most disadvantaged.
- Recommendations: The report sets out key recommendations to support a Greenwich system-wide approach to increasing health equity and reducing health inequalities, including finding and engaging with those most at risk, influencing policymakers, and operationalizing a health equity approach.
Council's Food Response Addresses Food Inequalities
The Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Panel received an update on work to address food inequalities and the development of a borough-wide food strategy.
- Food Access: The report notes that access to healthy, safe, and nutritious food is a key building block of health, but that for too many residents this is challenging to achieve.
- Council Approach: The report sets out the council's approach to tackling food inequalities in Greenwich, including infant nutrition, food insecurity, education, community, food environments, and weight management.
- JSNA Findings: Emerging key findings from the draft Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA)[^3] include:
[^3]: The Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA) is a process used by local authorities and their partners to understand the current and future health and wellbeing needs of their local population. This helps them to plan and commission effective services to meet those needs.
- Food insecurity in Greenwich is increasing.
- Residents in Charlton, Shooters Hill, Middle Park, south Woolwich, and Plumstead have comparatively decreased access to both physical grocery stores and online food deliveries.
- Poorer residents are likely to pay more for their food and have higher travel costs.
- 27% of Year 4 and 6 pupils, 24% of Year 8 and 10, and 26% of Years 12+ students indicated there were days in their last school holiday period where they did not get enough to eat.
- Recommendations: Draft recommendations include the creation of a council-chaired food partnership and a borough-wide Food Strategy.
This report underscores the growing challenge of food insecurity in Greenwich and the council's efforts to address it.
Audit Panel Reviews Finances and Risk
The Audit and Risk Management Panel met to review internal audit and anti-fraud performance, consider treasury management and capital updates, and evaluate their own effectiveness. The Audit and Risk Management Panel meeting took place on Wednesday. No video was provided.
Upcoming meetings:
- Licensing Sub-Committee A - Tuesday 09 December 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/89057
- Health and Wellbeing Board - Tuesday 02 December 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/88087
- Planning Board - Tuesday 02 December 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/88090
- General Purposes Committee - Wednesday 03 December 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/88098
- Council - Wednesday 03 December 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/88102
- Pension Fund Investment & Administration Panel - Monday 08 December 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/89038
- Licensing Review Sub-Committee - Monday 08 December 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/89046
- Pension Board - Monday 08 December 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/89042
- Local Planning Committee - Tuesday 09 December 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/89052
- Schools Forum - Wednesday 10 December 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/89060
Greenwich Waterfront Demolition Approved; Height Concerns Raised
This week in Greenwich:
Greenwich Council Approves Waterfront Demolition Amidst Height Concerns
Greenwich Council's Cabinet and Planning Board made key decisions this week, including approving the demolition of the Woolwich Waterfront Leisure Centre and an amended planning application for land bound by Vincent Road, Wilmot Street and Woolwich New Road. These decisions have sparked debate about balancing development with community needs and preserving local heritage.
Waterfront Leisure Centre to be Demolished for Housing Development
The Cabinet agreed to demolish the Woolwich Waterfront Leisure Centre to make way for a residential development. The Cabinet meeting took place on Wednesday.
- New Homes: The council will select a residential development partner to build new homes on the site.
- Procurement: The council will conduct a below threshold works contract procurement in accordance with the Procurement Act 2023 to select a demolition contractor, and a formal above threshold public works contract procurement in accordance with the Act to select a residential developer partner.
- Budget Approved: The Cabinet approved a budget to cover the costs of the demolition and development, including security for the site while it remains under council ownership.
This decision marks a significant change for Woolwich, replacing a public amenity with residential housing.
Planning Board Approves Amended Development Amidst Height and Heritage Concerns
The Planning Board approved an application to amend a previously approved planning permission for land bound by Vincent Road, Wilmot Street and Woolwich New Road. The Planning Board meeting took place on Tuesday.
- Increased Height and Density: The amended proposal includes increasing building heights, the number of residential units, and reducing commercial space.
- Social Housing: The applicant is now delivering 100% social rented housing, representing 34% of the total, an increase from the previously consented 30%.
- Loss of Heritage: The amended proposal includes the demolition of the Bull Tavern, a locally listed building, with a replacement ground floor facade for block A designed to hint at elements of the former pub.
Community Concerns
The Sikh Temple, which neighbours the development site, raised concerns about fire safety, acoustics and access. Jaginda Singh Chana, representing the local Sikh community and the Sikh temple, expressed concerns about the proximity of block E to the temple, particularly regarding fire safety and potential noise complaints. He also objected to the change of use of Mason's Hill road, which he said would impact noise levels and traffic volume.
Councillor Concerns
Councillor David Gardner, Deputy Mayor, expressed concern about the loss of the Bull Tavern and the lack of a community space within the development. He asked for assurance that any facilities within the development would be tenure blind. Councillor Patricia Greenwell expressed concerns about the height and massing of the buildings and their impact on the surrounding area. She also raised concerns about the impact of the development on the Sikh temple.
Council Response
Joe Higgins, unnamed officer of the council, stated that the buildings would be constructed using non-combustible materials and that the access arrangements were consistent with the previously approved scheme. He also noted that the buildings would be designed with sound insulation to mitigate noise disturbance. Councillor Calum O'Byrne Mulligan, Cabinet Member Climate Action, Sustainability and Transport, welcomed the increase in social housing and the efforts to increase greening. He also emphasised the importance of continued engagement with the temple.
This decision highlights the ongoing debate about balancing development with community needs and preserving local heritage.
Rethinking the Riverside: Thames Path Improvements Proposed
The Organisation and Communities Scrutiny Panel considered the findings and recommendations of the Rethinking the Riverside - A Review of the Thames Path Cover Report. The Organisation and Communities Scrutiny Panel meeting took place on Thursday. The report identifies challenges such as inconsistent surfacing, poor lighting and fragmented ownership, but also highlights the Thames Path's potential. The report recommends a borough-wide Thames Path Strategy, improved design standards, enhanced community engagement, and stronger integration with planning and regeneration frameworks.
Other Matters Discussed
- Customer Service Performance: The Organisation and Communities Scrutiny Panel considered a report on customer service performance, noting a rise in contact volumes and some decline in performance metrics due to vacancy levels.
- Members Casework Performance: The Organisation and Communities Scrutiny Panel considered a report on members casework performance, noting an increase in casework requests and a reduction in open casework numbers.
- Local Plan Consultation: The Cabinet recommended to the full council that it approve the draft Local Plan and draft Integrated Impact Assessment for public consultation. The Local Plan is a document that sets out the council’s planning policies and proposals for the development and use of land in the borough over a 15-year period.
- School Place Planning: The Cabinet agreed to use the former Gallions Mount Primary School site on Purrett Road for the development of the primary phase of Rowan Wood School, a new special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) all-through free school.
- Leaseholder Repayment Options: The Cabinet agreed to changes to leaseholder repayment options for capital major works, with a stepped repayment period based on the value of the invoice.
- DG Cities Annual Plan: The Cabinet approved the DG Cities Annual Plan 2024-25. DG Cities is a company wholly owned by the Royal Borough of Greenwich that provides smart city solutions to local authorities and other organisations.
Upcoming meetings:
- Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Panel - Thursday 27 November 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/87215
- Health and Wellbeing Board - Tuesday 02 December 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/88087
- Planning Board - Tuesday 02 December 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/88090
- Cabinet - Wednesday 03 December 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/88094
- General Purposes Committee - Wednesday 03 December 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/88098
- Council - Wednesday 03 December 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/88102
- Local Planning Committee - Tuesday 25 November 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/87199
- Audit and Risk Management Panel - Wednesday 26 November 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/87208
Greenwich approves developments, festival licence sparks noise fears
This week in Greenwich:
Greenwich Faces Tough Choices on Planning and Licensing
This week, Greenwich Council grappled with key decisions on planning applications and licensing, sparking debate about balancing development with community needs. From residential developments to festival licenses, the council weighed the potential impacts on residents, local amenities, and the borough's overall character.
Planning Committee Approves Residential Developments Amidst Local Objections
The Local Planning Committee convened to discuss several planning applications, including proposals for residential developments at Wyndcliff Road, Mcleod Road and West Hallows. The Local Planning Committee meeting took place on Tuesday.
Wyndcliff Road Development Sparks Privacy Concerns
The committee considered a request to grant full planning permission for the demolition of outbuildings and the construction of two dwellings to the rear of 53 Wyndcliff Road, London, SE7 7LP.
- Officer Recommendation: Despite receiving 34 objections from neighbouring properties, the planning officer recommended approval, subject to conditions.
- Resident Concerns: Objectors cited concerns about loss of privacy, overdevelopment, loss of trees, inadequate access for emergency vehicles, and increased parking pressure.
- Committee Decision: The committee approved the application, stating that the development was considered acceptable subject to conditions.
This decision highlights the tension between the need for new housing and the concerns of existing residents about the impact on their quality of life.
Mcleod Road HMO Proposal Raises Strain on Amenities
The committee considered a request to grant full planning permission for the change of use of 103 Mcleod Road, Abbey Wood, London, SE2 0BW from a single-family dwellinghouse to a 6-bed, 6-person house in multiple occupation (HMO).
- Officer Recommendation: Despite receiving three objections from neighbours, the planning officer recommended approval, subject to conditions.
- Resident Concerns: Objectors cited concerns about strain on local amenities, overconcentration of HMOs, crime and disruption, and exacerbation of existing problems such as noise and parking.
- Committee Decision: The committee approved the application, stating that the development was considered acceptable subject to conditions.
This decision raises questions about the cumulative impact of HMOs on local communities and the council's approach to managing their proliferation. This debate echoes similar discussions in previous meetings, such as the Council meeting on Wednesday 5 November 2025, where councillors grappled with the complexities of HMO planning decisions.
West Hallows Extension Approved Despite Design Concerns
The committee considered a request to grant full planning permission for development at 43 West Hallows, Eltham, London, SE9 4EY.
- Officer Recommendation: Despite receiving four objections from neighbours, the planning officer recommended approval, subject to conditions.
- Resident Concerns: Objectors cited concerns that the development was essentially identical to previously refused proposals, would ruin a nice view, would result in unacceptable impacts on the amenity enjoyed by neighbouring properties, and was overly large, contrary to design guidance, poorly designed and unacceptable in design terms.
- Committee Decision: The committee approved the application, stating that the development was considered acceptable subject to conditions.
This decision raises questions about the council's approach to design guidance and the extent to which it takes into account the views of local residents.
Labyrinth Festival Licence Application Sparks Noise Concerns
The Licensing Sub-Committee C convened to consider a licensing application for the Labyrinth Festival at the Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, SE10 9NN. The Licensing Sub-Committee C meeting took place on Wednesday.
- Application Details: The application sought to authorise several licensable activities, including plays, films, live music, recorded music, performance of dance, and anything of a similar description, as well as the supply of alcohol.
- Resident Concerns: Residents objected to the proposed extension of the event from six to nine days, citing significant disruption from noise, crowd dispersal, anti-social behaviour, and litter during the 2025 event.
- Community Safety Concerns: The Council's Community Safety & Integrated Enforcement Division sought the imposition of conditions relating to noise management, including a noise limit of 65dB LAeq 15 mins1, management of speaker direction, resident letter drops, and post-event reporting of noise readings and complaints. The decision on this application will have a significant impact on local residents, balancing the economic and cultural benefits of the festival with the potential for noise and disruption.
Scrutiny Panel Examines Support for Children and Young People
The Children and Young People Scrutiny Panel met to discuss national reforms to children's social care, annual reports on corporate parenting, the Independent Reviewing Officer service, and school admissions, as well as the Virtual School Headteacher's annual report. The Children and Young People Scrutiny Panel meeting took place on Wednesday.
National Children's Social Care Reforms (Families First)
The panel considered an update on the council's preparation for national reforms to children's social care, known as Families First. The National Childrens Social Care Reforms Families First report noted that the Families First Partnership programme aims to create a more integrated, family-focused system that delivers timely and effective support, reduces escalation, and improves outcomes for children and families. The reforms are linked to the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill, and local authorities have until April 2026 to implement the changes.
Corporate Parenting Annual Report 2024-25
The panel reviewed the Corporate Parenting Annual Report 2024-25, which highlights the work of Royal Greenwich Children's Services and its partners in supporting children in care and care leavers. The report covers education, health, placement stability, emotional well-being and future planning.
Annual Report of the Independent Reviewing Officer Service 2024-25
The panel considered the Annual Report of the Independent Reviewing Officer Service 2024-25. Independent Reviewing Officers (IROs) are qualified social workers who monitor the cases of children in care to ensure that the local authority is acting as a good corporate parent2.
School Admissions Annual Report 2025
The panel considered the School Admissions Annual Report 2025. Royal Greenwich has a legal duty to ensure that enough school places are available at all education levels to meet the needs of local residents. Parents can apply for a place in any mainstream school, and local authorities cannot prioritise their own residents.
Virtual School Headteacher's Annual Report for the 2024-2025 Academic Year
The panel considered the Virtual School Headteachers Annual Report for the 2024-2025 Academic Year. The Virtual School provides support to children in care, children previously looked after, and children known to social care.
Flood Risk and Estate Regeneration Under Transport Panel Spotlight
The Transport and Place Scrutiny Panel convened to discuss flood risk management and estate regeneration in the Royal Borough of Greenwich. The Transport and Place Scrutiny Panel meeting took place on Thursday.
Estate Regeneration
The panel received an update on the council's approach to estate regeneration. The report pack included an overview of the policy framework, current and planned regeneration schemes, and how the council was intending to work with residents and stakeholders to deliver improvements to housing estates.
Flood Risk Strategy and Surface Water Management Plan
The panel considered an update on the council's Flood Risk Strategy and Surface Water Management Plan. The report pack stated that a Local Flood Risk Management Strategy (LFRMS) is a statutory document under the Flood and Water Management Act and is a requirement of a Lead Local Flood Authority (LLFA).
Upcoming meetings:
- Planning Board - Tuesday 18 November 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/86539
- Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 18 November 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/86542
- Cabinet - Wednesday 19 November 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/86544
- Organisation and Communities Scrutiny Panel - Thursday 20 November 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/86546
- Local Planning Committee - Tuesday 25 November 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/87199
- Audit and Risk Management Panel - Wednesday 26 November 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/87208
- Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Panel - Thursday 27 November 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/87215
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LAeq is the equivalent continuous sound level. It is a single value of sound level for any desired duration, which includes all of the time-varying sound over that duration. ↩
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Corporate parenting is the term used to describe the collective responsibility of local authorities and their partner agencies to provide the same level of care and support to children in care as a reasonable parent would. ↩
Greenwich Traffic Scheme Debated, Markets Reviewed, ASB Tackled
This week in Greenwich:
Greenwich Council Reviews Markets and Small Parades Amidst Economic Challenges
The Inclusive Economy and Culture Scrutiny Panel met to discuss the borough's markets and small parades, key contributors to the local economy, particularly for vulnerable groups. The panel considered the progress of the Market Improvement Plan and the management of small parades, acknowledging the challenges faced by traders and the need for strategic interventions. The Inclusive Economy and Culture Scrutiny Panel meeting took place on Thursday.
Revitalizing Markets: Balancing Tradition and Modernization
The panel reviewed the progress of the Market Improvement Plan, focusing on infrastructure improvements, trader mix, footfall trends, and collaboration with stakeholders.
- Beresford Square Market's Recovery: Beresford Square Market has shown strong recovery and growth since reopening in June 2025, with rising visitor numbers, especially on weekends. The market currently operates with 49 pitches and high demand from prospective traders.
- Youth Enterprise Programme: The Youth Enterprise Programme, in collaboration with the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Academy of Success, and Berkeley Homes, will provide training for young entrepreneurs aged 18 to 25. Ten entrepreneurs will debut their business ideas at the new chalet-style Christmas stalls in Beresford Square in December.
- Modernizing Fee Structures: The council is exploring modernizing its fee structure, including differential pricing by commodity, peak and off-peak tariffs, premium pitch zones, loyalty and multi-day discounts, and events integration. > Benchmarking against other London boroughs highlights opportunities to modernise our fee structure, optimise space utilisation, and strategically integrate events to boost income while maintaining accessibility.
This modernization aims to boost income while maintaining accessibility for traders and customers.
Supporting Small Parades: Addressing Neglect and Promoting Vibrancy
The panel also considered a report on small parades management, recognizing that these neighbourhood shopping areas have not received the same level of attention as town centres and high streets.
- Identifying Neighbourhood Parades: The report identifies 34 neighbourhood parades across the borough, outside of high streets and designated town centres.
- Challenges and Opportunities: The report highlights that neighbourhood parade businesses often face constraints related to available premises and changing consumer behaviour.
- Intervention Strategies: The report considers interventions to improve parades, including public realm improvements, accessibility enhancements, and policies to support independent businesses.
The report highlights that Hillreach, Woolwich and Wickham Lane, Plumstead appear to have challenges or issues.
Future Focus: Business Improvement Districts and Night Time Enterprise Zones
The panel also discussed future town centre work, focusing on establishing Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) in each of the main town centres. The panel will also consider the scope of reports for their next meeting, including updates on the Greenwich Supports Strategy, performance review for Welfare Rights & Advice provision, and Night Time Enterprise Zones.
Scrutinizing Anti-Social Behaviour, Tenancy, and Building Safety
The Housing and Neighbourhoods Scrutiny Panel convened to discuss critical issues affecting residents, including anti-social behaviour, the Rethinking Tenancy programme, and resident engagement in high-rise building safety. The Housing and Neighbourhoods Scrutiny Panel meeting took place on Wednesday.
Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour: A Community-Focused Approach
The panel discussed the council's approach to tackling antisocial behaviour (ASB) across the borough. The panel may make recommendations to the Executive1, if necessary.
Rethinking Tenancy Programme: Improving Housing Management
The panel received a report on the progress of Phase One of the council's Rethinking Tenancy programme. The report pack does not elaborate on what the Rethinking Tenancy programme is.
High-Rise Building Safety: Ensuring Resident Engagement
The panel received an update on how the council is meeting requirements for resident engagement in high-rise buildings, ensuring residents have knowledge of their building and how to stay safe within it.
Traffic Scheme Sparks Debate: Overview & Scrutiny Committee Weighs In
The Overview & Scrutiny Call-in Sub-Committee convened to consider the call-in of the Leader of the Council's decision regarding the West & East Greenwich Neighbourhood Management Trial Scheme. The Overview & Scrutiny Call-in Sub-Committee meeting took place on Thursday.
- Call-in Grounds: Councillors Charlie Davis, Matt Hartley, Lakshan Saldin and Tamasin Rhymes requested the call-in, raising concerns about traffic reduction, air quality improvement, safety improvement, disproportionate negative impact, and public opposition.
- Alternative Decisions Sought: The councillors sought deferral of the final decision, agreement to end the Experimental Traffic Regulation Order (ETRO), or inclusion of exemptions for all Greenwich residents if the scheme continued.
- Council's Response: The Director of Communities and Environment and Central argued that the scheme had delivered reductions in motorised traffic and that air quality had not deteriorated significantly. The council was committed to exploring targeted mitigation measures for affected boundary roads.
The Sub-Committee had the option to note the decision, refer it back to the Cabinet, or refer it to the Full Council if the decision was considered contrary to the Council's Policy Framework.
Upcoming meetings:
- Local Planning Committee - Tuesday 11 November 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/85449
- Licensing Sub-Committee C - Wednesday 12 November 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/84647
- Children and Young People Scrutiny Panel - Wednesday 12 November 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/85451
- Transport and Place Scrutiny Panel - Thursday 13 November 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/85454
- Cabinet - Wednesday 19 November 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/86544
- Planning Board - Tuesday 18 November 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/86539
- Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 18 November 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/86542
- Organisation and Communities Scrutiny Panel - Thursday 20 November 2025 - http://opencouncil.network/meetings/86546
-
In UK politics, the Executive usually refers to the Cabinet. ↩
Local Planning Committee - Tuesday, 9th December, 2025 6.30 pm
The Greenwich Council Local Planning Committee met to discuss several planning applications, including changes of use for properties to become houses in multiple occupation (HMOs)[^2], and the amalgamation of commercial units. Councillor Gary Dillon, Chair of Planning, was scheduled to chair the meeting.
Licensing Sub-Committee A - Tuesday, 9th December, 2025 6.30 pm
The Royal Borough of Greenwich Licensing Sub-Committee A met to consider an application to vary the premises licence for The Ship Public House at 205 Plumstead Common Road. The application requested the removal of a condition preventing patrons from taking drinks outside and the addition of off-sales of alcohol. Councillors Jit Ranabhat, Cathy Dowse and Ann-Marie Cousins were scheduled to be in attendance.
Pension Board - Monday, 8th December, 2025 12.00 pm
The Royal Borough of Greenwich Pension Board met on Monday 8 December 2025 to discuss several items, including the fund's valuation results, fund manager performance, and funding strategy. The board also considered revisions to its terms of reference and conflict of interest policy, and reviewed the pension fund risk register. Members were also scheduled to receive training on climate analytics and a presentation on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors from the London Collective Investment Vehicle (LCIV).
Pension Fund Investment & Administration Panel - Monday, 8th December, 2025 10.30 am
The Pension Fund Investment & Administration Panel are scheduled to meet to discuss the Royal Borough of Greenwich Pension Fund's [^2] investment strategy, funding, and performance. They will also receive an update on the London Collective Investment Vehicle (LCIV).
Licensing Review Sub-Committee - Monday, 8th December, 2025 6.30 pm
The Licensing Review Sub-Committee was scheduled to convene on 8 December 2025, to review the premises licence for The Borough Hall, following an application made by Councillor Pat Slattery. The application cited concerns relating to public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm. The sub-committee was expected to consider modifications to the licence, the exclusion of licensable activities, the removal of the designated premises supervisor (DPS), a licence suspension of no more than three months, or a revocation of the licence.
General Purposes Committee - Wednesday, 3rd December, 2025 6.00 pm
The General Purposes Committee convened to discuss and approve the salary ranges for two key Chief Officer positions: the Interim Head of Procurement and the Director of Place and Growth. The committee agreed to the recommendations outlined in the reports, authorising the Chief Executive to establish appointment panels for these roles in consultation with party group leaders.
Cabinet - Wednesday, 3rd December, 2025 2.00 pm
The Royal Borough of Greenwich's cabinet approved a strategy to end male violence against women and girls, noted a report on safeguarding children, and reviewed the council's budget and finances. The cabinet also agreed to publish the Infrastructure Funding Statement on the council website.
Council - Wednesday, 3rd December, 2025 7.00 pm
Royal Greenwich Council met in December 2025 to discuss a range of issues, including approving a draft local plan for consultation, adopting a revised licensing policy, and addressing community safety and road repairs through dedicated motions. Councillors also noted updates on treasury management and strategic risks.
Planning Board - Tuesday, 2nd December, 2025 6.30 pm
The Planning Board met to discuss eight planning and licensing applications, approving all of them with amendments to some conditions. The most significant decisions concerned a new community sports facility in Eltham, and a large mixed-use development in Woolwich.
Health and Wellbeing Board - Tuesday, 2nd December, 2025 10.30 am
The Royal Borough of Greenwich's Health and Wellbeing Board was scheduled to meet on Tuesday, 2 December 2025, to discuss a range of health-related issues. Key items on the agenda included a review of the Public Health Addictions Profile and the Royal Greenwich Addictions Strategic Plan 2026-2029, as well as a review of the board's forward work plan.