This week in Hillingdon:

Children's Services Face Budget Pressures Amidst Rising Demand

The Children, Families and Education Select Committee met on Tuesday, 14 April 2026, to review the council's budget and spending, school admissions, educational standards, and the strategy for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and Alternative Provision (AP). A significant concern raised was a £6.1 million pressure within Children's Services, primarily driven by increased demand in social care, mother and baby placements, and asylum costs.

Budgetary Challenges in Children's Services

The committee noted the 2025/26 Month 10 budget monitoring position, which revealed a substantial financial pressure within Children's Services. This pressure is largely attributed to an increase in the need for placements for mothers and babies and rising asylum costs. The Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG)[^2] is also forecasting an in-year deficit of £9.2 million. While a government grant is expected to cover 90% of the High Needs-related DSG deficit, this is contingent on the approval of a local SEND reform plan. Despite these pressures, savings targets for the year have been met.

The real-world impact of these budgetary pressures could mean longer waits for essential support for vulnerable children and families. The council's ability to manage these increasing demands will be crucial for ensuring the well-being of the borough's youngest residents.

School Admissions and Standards: A Mixed Picture

The committee received an update on school admissions, noting a decrease in in-year applications, partly due to a reduction in families being placed in hotel accommodation. For secondary school allocations for September 2026, 67.13% of Hillingdon applicants received their first preference.

The Annual Standards of Education Report for 2024-25 highlighted that 93% of Hillingdon's schools are rated as good or better. However, Key Stage 2 combined reading, writing, and maths outcomes remain below national and regional benchmarks, with writing identified as a priority for improvement.

SEND and Alternative Provision Strategy: Progress and Challenges

An update on the SEND and Alternative Provision (AP)[^6] Strategy 2023-2028 revealed progress in areas such as mainstream inclusion and the development of the Local Offer (HELLO)[^7]. However, challenges persist, particularly concerning neurodevelopmental waiting times and data integration. The strategy aims to ensure children and young people with SEND and those accessing AP are supported to lead happy and fulfilled lives in inclusive communities, aligning with the principles of the Equality Act 2010[^5].

The committee also noted the Cabinet's Forward Plan, with the Fostering Review final report scheduled to go to Cabinet on 23 April 2026.

Link to the Children, Families and Education Select Committee meeting

Petition Hearing Addresses Parking and Traffic Concerns in Ruislip and Eastcote

A Petition Hearing was held on Tuesday, 15 April 2026, where Councillor Steve Tuckwell, Cabinet Member for Planning, Housing & Growth, heard from residents regarding parking and traffic issues in Ruislip and Eastcote. The hearing addressed petitions concerning residents' parking schemes, traffic calming measures, and one-way systems.

Residents' Parking Scheme for Hale End Close, Hume Way, and Eastcote Road

A petition signed by 21 residents requested the introduction of a residents' permit parking scheme for Hale End Close, Hume Way, and Eastcote Road in Ruislip. Petitioners highlighted the persistent occupation of parking spaces by non-residents, causing significant stress and difficulty for residents, particularly the elderly and vulnerable. A key request was for the scheme to be introduced at minimal or no cost to residents. The report noted that Eastcote Road is a busy distributor road, and no residents from this road had signed the petition, making on-street parking recommendations unlikely. The cost of permits, set by full Council, ranges from £92.40 for the first permit to £259.00 for subsequent permits. Councillor Tuckwell was to meet with the petitioners to discuss the matter further.

Traffic Calming Measures for Clifton Gardens

A petition with 55 signatures called for traffic calming measures in Clifton Gardens to reduce vehicle speeds, especially concerning nearby schools. The report indicated that while there was one recorded collision in the last five years, official data may not capture all incidents. The potential for traffic calming measures to impact parking and increase noise was noted. The recommendation was for Councillor Tuckwell to meet with the petitioners and consider commissioning traffic surveys. The Council's Road Safety and School Travel Team (STaRS)[^5] will continue to engage with local schools on their travel plans.

Newnham Avenue One-Way System Petition

A petition regarding the introduction of a time-limited one-way system on Newnham Avenue, Eastcote, was also scheduled for consideration. However, no detailed report pack was available for this item at the time of the meeting.

The outcomes of these hearings will directly impact the daily lives of residents by influencing traffic flow, parking availability, and overall neighbourhood safety.

Link to the Petition Hearing - Cabinet Member for Planning, Housing & Growth meeting

This week in Hillingdon:

Pension Fund Surges into Surplus, Investment Strategy Shifts Towards Green and Private Assets

The Pensions Committee met on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, to review the Hillingdon Pension Fund's financial health, revealing a significant turnaround. The fund has moved from a substantial deficit to a healthy surplus, prompting a review and approval of updated investment strategies that lean towards greener and private market assets.

Triennial Valuation Shows Strong Financial Recovery

The triennial valuation of the Hillingdon Pension Fund, as of 31 March 2025, presented a remarkably positive picture. The fund has moved from a deficit of £167 million in 2022 to a surplus of £211 million, with its funding level rising from 88% to an impressive 118%. This turnaround is largely attributed to higher assumed future investment returns. As a result, the report indicated a decrease in the average total employer contribution rate, a welcome development for participating employers.

The committee was set to approve the draft Triennial Valuation Report and the Funding Strategy Statement[^6], which outlines how the council manages the fund to ensure liabilities are met and to maintain long-term solvency.

Investment Strategy Embraces ESG and Private Markets

In line with evolving investment landscapes and the Fit for the Future legislation, the committee was also reviewing and set to approve an updated Investment Strategy Statement (ISS)[^7]. Key changes include:

• Full Asset Pooling: Reflecting the transition to full asset pooling with the London Collective Investment Vehicle (LCIV)[^3] from 1 April 2026.
• UK Residential Housing: Introducing UK residential housing for its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG)[^4] impact.
• Increased Private Market Allocation: Boosting allocations to private equity and private credit.
• Adjusted Equity Mix: Rebalancing the fund's equity holdings.

These changes are forecast to increase the modelled investment return from 9.1% to 9.4%.

Responsible Investment Policy Strengthened

An updated Responsible Investment (RI) Policy for 2026 was also on the agenda. This policy reinforces the fund's commitment to climate action and stewardship, introduces explicit exclusions for controversial weapons, and aligns with frameworks like the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)[^9] and Net Zero pathways. The policy prioritises SDGs related to Climate Action, Decent Work and Economic Growth, Good Health and Wellbeing, and Reduced Inequalities. A target allocation of 5% to impact investments[^10] has also been introduced.

Fund Performance and Risk Management

Updates on investment performance showed the funding level had fallen slightly to 127% by 31 December 2025, with liabilities increasing but assets also rising. The fund's investment performance for the quarter ending 31 December 2025 was reported as 2.8%, slightly outperforming its benchmark. While some fund managers performed strongly, others were noted for underperformance, requiring observation.

The committee also reviewed the Pension Fund's Risk Register, with seven risks remaining open and actively managed, including cybersecurity and liquidity risks.

Link to the Pensions Committee meeting

Religious Education Syllabus Update and Interfaith Initiatives on the Agenda

The Hillingdon Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (HSACRE) met on Wednesday, 25 March 2026, to discuss the development of the Hillingdon Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education (RE) and to review local and national updates impacting RE provision.

New RE Syllabus Focuses on Enquiry and Diverse Worldviews

A significant focus of the meeting was the Agreed Syllabus Conference, which aimed to finalise support materials for the new RE syllabus. This syllabus, designed to promote high-quality RE in Hillingdon schools, adopts a flower model for learning and encourages enquiry-based approaches. It emphasises exploring meaningful questions and developing pupils' ways of knowing through engagement with diverse religious and non-religious worldviews. The intention was to launch the new syllabus by the end of the academic year, providing a modern framework for teaching RE.

Interfaith Dialogue and Local RE Provision

The council also received updates on local RE provision and interfaith activities. This included discussions on the Interfaith Calendar and the status of RE in schools. A planned Interfaith Dialogue Event for January 2026, intended to explore responses to religious persecution, was also noted. These initiatives are vital for fostering understanding and respect among different faith communities within the borough.

National RE Trends and Action Plan Progress

Updates on national RE initiatives from NASACRE and developments regarding RE Hubs were also on the agenda, keeping the council informed of broader sector trends. Progress on the HSACRE Action Plan for 2025-2026 was reviewed, though a note was made about an outstanding budget request impacting the submission of invoices.

Link to the Hillingdon Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education meeting

Health and Social Care Committee Reviews Partner Performance and Forward Plans

The Health and Social Care Select Committee met on Thursday, 26 March 2026, to receive updates from key health partners and to scrutinise the council's forward plans for health and social care services.

Health Partner Updates and Service Scrutiny

The committee received comprehensive updates from Healthwatch[^1], Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust (CNWL)[^2], and The Royal Brompton Hospital (RBH)[^3]. These presentations provided insight into the performance and service delivery of these vital organisations within Hillingdon. Additionally, a report on the North West London (NWL) Annual Plan and Hillingdon Annual Report was presented, offering a broader overview of regional and local health strategies. These updates are crucial for the committee's statutory health scrutiny functions, ensuring that local health priorities and inequalities are effectively addressed.

Cabinet Forward Plan and Work Programme

The committee reviewed the Cabinet Forward Plan, allowing them to scrutinise upcoming decisions and policy developments. This process provides an opportunity for the committee to offer input before decisions are finalised. The committee also discussed its own Work Programme, planning future in-depth reviews and witness sessions on specific topics within adult social care and health, ensuring its scrutiny activities remain aligned with the council's strategic priorities.

Link to the Health and Social Care Select Committee meeting

This week in Hillingdon:

• The Petition Hearing - Cabinet Member for Community & Environment met to discuss locking the gates of Fassnidge Park due to anti-social behaviour.
• The Health and Wellbeing Board was scheduled to discuss the draft Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy and the Better Care Fund Plan.
• The Licensing Sub-Committee was scheduled to consider a new Premises Licence for Home Bargains in Uxbridge.
• The CABINET met and approved the Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy and the Housing Forward Investment Programme.

Petition Hearing - Cabinet Member for Community & Environment - Tuesday 17 March 2026

The Cabinet Member for Community & Environment, Councillor Wayne Bridges, held a petition hearing to consider a request to lock the gates of Fassnidge Park in Uxbridge each evening. Residents submitted the petition due to concerns about anti-social behaviour (ASB), including late-night noise, vandalism, and drug activity, which they stated was significantly impacting the local community and safety. Petitioners highlighted that six crimes had been reported in the park in the past year, including a serious sexual assault, and that police advice recommended locking the park. They argued that the council's current policy of keeping parks unlocked, a cost-saving measure of approximately £35,000 annually, was not suitable for an urban park in a densely populated area. Proposed solutions included automated locking, improved fencing, and emergency signage, as well as manual or volunteer-led schemes.

Councillor Tony Burles, the Ward Councillor for Uxbridge, supported the petition, emphasising the need to prioritise resident safety and noting the park's central location attracted late-night gatherings. He also mentioned that previous locking arrangements had been effective.

Jordan Groves, Head of Waste and Green Spaces, explained that the decision to cease locking park gates was a cost-saving measure and that many councils were adopting a similar approach without seeing an increase in ASB.

Councillor Bridges noted a discrepancy between the data presented and the petitioners' accounts. Consequently, he determined that a decision could not be made until the statistics had been verified. He instructed officers to obtain further data from the police and to explore the feasibility of a voluntary gate-locking scheme. The petition and the council's current policy were noted, and attendees were assured that the lead petitioner would be kept updated.

The Cabinet Member resolved to:

• Note the petition received requesting that the gates of Fassnidge Park be locked each evening.
• Consider the request made by residents.
• Note the Council's current policy position on park locking and the associated financial/operational implications.
• Instruct officers to seek additional data from the police and any supporting statistics before a full determination could be made.

Health and Wellbeing Board - Wednesday 18 March 2026

The Health and Wellbeing Board meeting, scheduled for 18 March 2026, was set to discuss several key updates concerning the health and wellbeing of Hillingdon residents.

The Board was scheduled to receive an update on the consultation and engagement process for the draft Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2026-2031. This strategy, developed by the Hillingdon Health and Care Partnership (HHCP), aims to outline partner ambitions for supporting residents' health and wellbeing needs. It is structured around four life-course outcomes: Best Start in Life, Live Well, Age Well, and Healthy Places, and identifies seven high-impact programmes. The report detailed the approach taken for resident and staff engagement, with the results of this consultation scheduled to be reported back to the Board in June 2026.

An update on the planning requirements for the 2026/27 Better Care Fund (BCF) Plan was also scheduled. The BCF aims to support Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) and local authorities in delivering more integrated and preventative care. The report detailed the framework for 2026/27, focusing on improving joint commissioning of integrated neighbourhood teams and ensuring BCF-funded services support those with frailty. The minimum value of the BCF for 2026/27 was noted as £43,482,688. The Board was asked to note the content of the report and endorse the plan approval arrangements.

The Board was also scheduled to receive an overview of progress against its five strategic priorities: Best Start in Life, Live Well, Age Well, Healthy Places, and Equity & Inclusion, as part of the Integrated Health and Wellbeing Performance Report. The report highlighted improvements in winter resilience and mental health crisis response, though it indicated that emergency demand and bed days remained above operational targets.

Finally, a report was scheduled to brief the Board on challenges in delivering Occupational Therapy (OT) statutory contacts for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) as outlined in their Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCPs). A recovery plan to address this backlog, including commissioning additional capacity from the independent therapy market, was to be detailed.

Licensing Sub-Committee - Monday 16 March 2026

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Monday 16 March 2026 to consider an application for a new Premises Licence for Home Bargains, located at Unit 2, Harefield Road, Uxbridge UB8 1ZZ. The application, submitted by T.J. Morris Limited, sought authorisation for the sale of alcohol for consumption off the premises, with proposed hours from 07:00 to 23:00, seven days a week.

Objections to the application were received from a local resident, Nicholas Johnson, and from the North Uxbridge Residents' Association (NURA). Mr. Johnson expressed concerns that the proposed alcohol sales times, particularly on Sundays, were too late and could lead to increased noise and anti-social behaviour. He suggested that alcohol sales should be restricted to match the opening hours of the adjacent Aldi store. NURA also requested that trading hours be limited to mitigate the possibility of public nuisance.

The report noted that no representations had been received from any responsible authorities. The applicant's agents had proposed to amend the application to seek permission to sell alcohol between 08:00 and 22:00 every day, including Sundays, to align with the trading hours of nearby premises.

The committee's decision would be guided by the Licensing Act 2003 and Hillingdon's Statement of Licensing Policy, focusing on the four licensing objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm.

CABINET - Thursday 19 March 2026

The Cabinet of Hillingdon Council met on Thursday, 19 March 2026, approving several key strategies and programmes.

The Cabinet approved the Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy 2026-2030. Councillor Steve Tuckwell, Cabinet Member for Planning, Housing and Growth, presented the strategy, highlighting a significant increase in homelessness contacts, with over 7,300 households approaching the Council for assistance in 2024/25, a 47% rise on the previous year. Over 1,600 households are currently living in temporary accommodation. The strategy prioritises prevention, resident-focused services, early intervention, and improved access to safe and sustainable housing. It aims to manage demand and control financial pressures associated with temporary accommodation without introducing new direct costs.

The Cabinet also agreed to the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Works to Stock Programme for 2026/27, allocating approximately £45 million for essential upgrades and improvements to the Council's housing stock. Councillor Jonathan Bianco, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Corporate Services & Property, outlined the investment, which includes nearly £31 million for direct capital works, over £10 million for the Green Homes Initiative, and more than £4 million for HRA adaptations to support residents with disabilities. The programme will involve extensive roofing works, window replacements, and the renewal of kitchens and bathrooms.

The continuation and development of substance misuse and stop smoking services for 2026-2029 were also approved. Councillor Jane Palmer, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, presented the report, noting that these services are funded entirely by the ring-fenced Public Health Grant. Authority was delegated to the Corporate Director of Adult Social Care and Health and the Director of Public Health to develop delivery plans and commissioning arrangements.

The Cabinet received the monthly budget monitoring report for January 2026, which indicated a broadly stable financial position with an in-year overspend of £36.3 million on the General Fund, primarily driven by service pressures in children's services, adult social care, and housing, as well as financing costs. The report noted that 48% of the savings programme is banked or on track for delivery. The Cabinet agreed to a virement of £3,696k from the Madison Brook Residential Property Acquisitions budget to the In-House team's capital budget and agreed to put planned fee increases for the Imported Food Office on hold pending a review.

The Cabinet also noted reports that would be considered later in private session, including proposals for the Dynamic Purchasing System for Temporary Accommodation Placements, extensions to the Fleet Maintenance & Repair Contract, Home Care, Extra-Care and Reablement Services Contracts, and a new Fuel Contract for the Council's Fleet.

This week in Hillingdon:

Council Committee Tackles Community Safety and Enforcement

The Residents' Services Select Committee met on Tuesday, 10 March 2026, to discuss critical issues impacting community well-being, including community cohesion, the Safer Hillingdon Partnership, and the enforcement of public spaces protection orders and street trading regulations. The committee also reviewed budget reports and its forward plan.

Strengthening Community Cohesion and Safety

The committee was scheduled to delve into community cohesion initiatives, a vital area that underpins the safety and harmony of our neighbourhoods. This discussion, falling under the remit of the Cabinet Member for Community & Environment, aimed to assess how the council is fostering positive relationships and addressing anti-social behaviour. The report, Community Cohesion select committee report 2026, provided the basis for this important conversation.

A significant portion of the agenda was dedicated to the Safer Hillingdon Partnership. As a statutory committee, the Residents' Services Select Committee has the crucial role of scrutinising the work of this partnership, which is responsible for tackling crime and disorder across the borough. The committee reviewed reports such as the Res Services Committee Crime and Safer Hillingdon Partnership Report Feb 26 and the Police Resident Services Select Committee Report March 2026_. This scrutiny is vital for ensuring that the partnership effectively protects residents and addresses their safety concerns.

Enforcement of Public Spaces Protection Orders and Street Trading

The committee also examined the enforcement of Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs), street trading regulations, and the issuing of fixed penalty notices. These measures are in place to maintain the quality of our public spaces and ensure fair trading practices. The supporting documents, including the Select Committee Standard Report - PSPOs Illegal Street Trading and its appendices, provided the details for this discussion. Effective enforcement of these regulations directly impacts the daily experience of residents, from the cleanliness of streets to the prevention of nuisance.

The committee also reviewed its budget and spend reports, as well as its forward plan and work programme, ensuring its activities align with the council's priorities and resident needs.

Link to the Residents' Services Select Committee meeting

Council Appoints Interim Head of Human Resources

The Appointments Committee met on Wednesday, 11 March 2026, to appoint an interim Head of Human Resources. Peta Newlin was appointed to this critical role, which will oversee the council's human resources functions. The decision was made during a private session, as is common for personnel appointments. The meeting was held at the Civic Centre in Uxbridge, UB8 1UW.

Link to the Appointments Committee meeting

Children's Services and Education Plans Under Review

The Children, Families and Education Select Committee convened on Thursday, 12 March 2026, to discuss key aspects of the borough's educational provision and support for children. The agenda included plans for school places, a proposal to amalgamate two primary schools, and a review of fostering services.

Ensuring Sufficient School Places and School Amalgamation

A significant focus was the School Organisation Plan for 2025 to 2026, which outlines how the council will ensure enough school places are available for all children in Hillingdon. This is a vital task for supporting families and ensuring access to education. The committee also examined a proposal to amalgamate Whitehall Infant School and Whitehall Junior School. This potential change to the local educational landscape was supported by extensive documentation, including the statutory proposal and details of the consultation process. Such decisions can have a profound impact on pupils, staff, and the wider community, and require careful consideration of all factors.

Fostering Services Review

The committee also reviewed the final report on fostering services. This review is essential for ensuring that children in the council's care receive the best possible support and a stable home environment. The recommendations from this review will aim to enhance the effectiveness of the council's fostering arrangements.

Discussions also covered the council's budget and spending in relation to children's services, the minutes of the Corporate Parenting Panel, and the committee's forward plan and work programme.

Link to the Children, Families and Education Select Committee meeting

Planning Committee Considers Local Development Proposals

The Hillingdon Planning Committee met on Wednesday, 11 March 2026, to consider several planning applications, including proposals for residential development and extensions. These decisions directly shape the physical environment of our neighbourhoods.

Residential Development in Pinkwell and Wood End

A key item was an outline planning permission request for land at HPH2, HPH5, and Multistorey Car Park in Pinkwell. This application sought permission for residential development, new public realm, and associated facilities. The committee also considered an application under Section 73 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990¹ for land at Avondale Drive in Wood End. This application proposed variations to an existing permission, including changes to the number of homes, parking arrangements, and the creation of new public spaces. These developments can significantly impact local infrastructure, traffic, and the character of the areas.

The committee also reviewed an application for a single-storey extension at 4 Napier Close, West Drayton.

Link to the Hillingdon Planning Committee meeting