This week in Hillingdon:

Council Approves Planning Applications Amidst Busy Committee Schedule

The Hillingdon Planning Committee met on Tuesday, 14 July 2026, approving ten planning applications, primarily for residential developments and extensions. One application for a two-storey building containing five self-contained flats at 44 Murray Road, Northwood, was deferred for a site visit, indicating a need for further on-site assessment before a decision could be made.

The approved applications included a variety of projects across the borough. Notably, at 54 High Street, Ruislip, permission was granted for the conversion of commercial space into five residential units, a move that could contribute to the borough's housing stock. Similarly, at 266-278 Yeading Lane, Hayes, a significant development will see the construction of a two-storey upward extension to create 14 new residential units, alongside enhancements to existing shopfronts. These developments have the potential to reshape local streetscapes and provide much-needed homes.

Other approvals included extensions to existing properties, such as a first-floor rear extension at 15 Kewferry Road, Northwood, and the conversion of a garage to habitable use at 8 Kiln Way, Northwood. The committee also approved plans for a partial change of use and new bedrooms at the Premier Inn in Uxbridge, and a mixed-use sustainable vehicle parking facility and food and beverage unit at the former NCP Car Park on Bath Road, Sipson. The Hayes Hawks BMX Track will also see new floodlighting installed.

These decisions demonstrate the council's ongoing role in shaping the borough's built environment, balancing development needs with community impact.

Link to the Hillingdon Planning Committee meeting

Council's Financial Health and Fraud Prevention Under Scrutiny

The Audit, Finance & Performance Committee convened on Wednesday, 15 July 2026, to review the council's financial performance, counter-fraud efforts, and audit processes. The meeting provided a detailed look at the council's financial standing for the 2025/26 financial year and its strategies for managing risk and preventing fraud.

A key report presented was the Counter Fraud Annual Report 2025/26. This report highlighted the significant impact of the Counter Fraud Team (CFT), which achieved approximately £12.7 million in financial benefits during the year. The team's focus on housing fraud, social care, and revenues demonstrates a commitment to protecting public funds. The CFT's recognition with a Local Excellence award underscores their effectiveness.

The committee also received an update on the External Audit Process for the 2025/26 Accounts. This discussion highlighted the national backlog in local government audits, which has led to Disclaimer Opinions for Hillingdon Council for the past three years. While the Pension Fund has maintained unqualified audits, the ongoing delays in auditing the main council accounts are a concern for transparency and accountability. The report detailed key risks being assessed, including management override of controls and fraud in revenue and expenditure recognition, which directly impact the integrity of financial reporting.

The Budget Outturn for 2025/26 revealed an overall overspend of £28.985 million. While this figure indicates financial challenges, a positive movement of £7.763 million from the previous month's forecast suggests some efforts to manage the budget are yielding results. The report also detailed the financial positions of the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG), the Housing Revenue Account (HRA), and the Capital Programme.

The Risk Assurance Annual Report 2025/26 indicated a positive trend with a decrease in the total number of recorded risks and a reduction in red-rated risks. Similarly, the Internal Audit Annual Report 2025/26 showed an improvement in assurance opinions, with 60% of reviews resulting in a SUBSTANTIAL or REASONABLE assurance opinion. However, 36% of reviews still resulted in LIMITED opinions, and one received NO assurance, highlighting areas where internal controls may need strengthening.

These discussions are crucial for ensuring the council's financial stability and for safeguarding public money, particularly impacting services relied upon by vulnerable residents.

Link to the Audit, Finance & Performance Committee meeting

Other Matters

This week in Hillingdon:

Council Approves West London Waste Plan and Revises Petition Scheme Amidst Resident Concerns

The Council met on Thursday, 9 July 2026, to make significant decisions on waste management, resident engagement, and the borough's finances. While the West London Waste Plan was approved for consultation, changes to the residents' petition scheme sparked strong opposition from Labour councillors, who argued they would make it harder for residents to voice concerns.

West London Waste Plan Moves to Public Consultation

The Council moved forward with the West London Waste Plan, authorising its publication and consultation. This plan sets out a framework for waste management across West London until 2041, aiming to ensure appropriate facilities and policies are in place for sustainable waste management. Councillor Wayne Bridges, Cabinet Member for Residents Services, stated that the current plan, adopted in 2015, was outdated. The updated plan is intended to support the Council's green ambitions and safeguard essential waste infrastructure. The decision means residents and stakeholders will have the opportunity to provide their input before the plan is submitted for independent examination.

Link to the Council meeting

Petition Scheme Overhaul Faces Opposition

A significant debate arose over the proposed revisions to the Council Residents' Petition Scheme. Councillor Steve Tuckwell, Leader of the Council, presented the changes, which include updated thresholds for signatures and a shift from automatic cabinet member hearings to written responses or site visits. Councillor Tuckwell argued these changes would streamline the process and allow the council to act at pace.

However, Councillor Gursharan Mand, Deputy Leader of the Labour Group, strongly opposed the revisions. He argued that the increased thresholds for petitions—from 20 to 50 signatures for local petitions and from 100 to 500 for borough-wide petitions—create a much higher barrier for residents. He expressed concern that this would make it harder for small communities, less organised groups, older residents and those without strong digital networks to get their voices recognised. Councillor Mand also criticised the removal of automatic cabinet member hearings, stating that a public hearing offers greater transparency and accountability than a private written response. The Labour Group highlighted that other Labour-led boroughs have modernised their petition schemes without reducing resident access.

Despite the opposition, the revised scheme was approved following a recorded vote. The Council stated the changes aim to streamline resident requests, remove unnecessary time barriers, and allow council service areas to act at pace.

Link to the Council meeting

Budget for 2026/27 Approved Amidst Financial Scrutiny

The Council approved the General Fund revenue budget, Housing Revenue Account, and Capital Programme for 2026/27. Councillor Eddie Lavery, Cabinet Member for Finance, presented the budget, which includes setting the Hillingdon element of Council Tax at £1,534.95 for a Band D property. The budget also incorporates the use of up to £62.0 million in Exceptional Financial Support to balance the 2026/27 budget.

The Labour Group moved an amendment, citing continued material risk associated with delivering the financial plans due to a lack of robust contingency planning and oversight. They argued the budget relied on critical assumptions without sufficient governance. Supporters of the budget defended it as achievable and highlighted the Council's commitment to low fees and charges, as well as investments in services and housing. The amendment was defeated, and the budget was approved.

Link to the Council meeting

Questions from the Public Address Transport, Fly-Tipping, and Local Services

Several residents raised concerns during the public questions session:

• Electrification of Transport: A resident questioned the purchase of 32 new diesel vehicles for the Council fleet, given the climate emergency declaration. Councillor Wayne Bridges, Cabinet Member for Residents Services, explained that while a fully electric fleet is the long-term goal, practical and financial challenges remain. He stated that savings from the recent procurement would be reinvested in upgrading charging infrastructure.
• Fly-Tipping Enforcement: A resident highlighted a disparity in fly-tipping enforcement compared to other London boroughs. Councillor Adam Bennett, Cabinet Member for Community, Environment & Enforcement, assured that the issue is being addressed through intelligence-led operations and stronger investigations, with vehicles used by offenders being seized and crushed.
• Uxbridge Post Office: Concerns were raised about the closure of the Uxbridge Post Office. Councillor Bridges confirmed that agreement had been reached in principle for a temporary post office to operate from the Civic Centre campus, adjacent to the new Uxbridge Library.
• Waste and Recycling Centres: A question was raised about the proposed closure of the Tavistock Road Civic Amenity site and its impact on residents in Yiewsley and West Drayton, who would face longer travel times. Councillor Bridges referred to previous answers detailing improvements to household waste and recycling services across the borough.

Link to the Council meeting

Petition Hearings Address Road Safety and Parking Concerns

Two petition hearings were held on Wednesday, 8 July 2026, addressing resident concerns about road safety and local parking.

Harlington Road Zebra Crossing Investigation

A petition requesting a zebra crossing on Harlington Road was discussed. Concerns were raised about the safety of children crossing the road due to the proximity of several schools. Councillor Wayne Bridges, Cabinet Member for Residents Services, agreed to have officers investigate the feasibility of a zebra crossing or other appropriate measures. He stated, I will confirm that I would like officers to take this away and look at it in further detail. Come back to me with what the options are.

Link to the Petition Hearing - Residents Services meeting

Kingshill Avenue Parking Scheme to Undergo Consultation

A petition requesting a Stop and Shop parking scheme on Kingshill Avenue in Charville was also considered. Shopkeepers and residents highlighted issues with long-term parking by non-shoppers, which negatively impacts local businesses. Councillor Bridges decided to proceed with an informal consultation to gather further feedback from residents and businesses on the proposal for pay and display meters. He noted the petition's scale, with over 300 signatures, as a strong indicator of community support.

Link to the Petition Hearing - Residents Services meeting

Residents' Services Committee Reviews CCTV and Parking

The Residents' Services Select Committee met on Tuesday, 7 July 2026, to discuss the Council's CCTV service, review the draft Parking Annual Report, and consider future policy reviews.

CCTV Service Overview

The committee received an overview of the Council's CCTV service, which operates nearly 3,000 cameras across the borough. The report detailed how this network is used to deter crime and anti-social behaviour, with a control room operating 24/7. The financial implications, including contributions from the Uxbridge Business Improvement District (BID), were also discussed.

Parking Annual Report for 2025/26

The draft Parking Annual Report for 2025/26 was reviewed, detailing permit issuance, parking restriction suspensions, and Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs). The report provided information on how parking income is used and how the Council manages parking to support road safety and minimise congestion.

Policy Review and Cabinet Forward Plan

The committee also discussed potential policy review topics and reviewed the Cabinet's latest Forward Plan, which outlines upcoming key decisions. The committee's work programme for the year was also considered.

Link to the Residents' Services Select Committee meeting

Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education Discusses New Syllabus

The Hillingdon Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (HSACRE) met on Wednesday, 8 July 2026, to discuss updates on religious education and collective worship in the borough's schools. A key focus was the development and launch of a new Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education.

The meeting included discussions on membership and the council's constitution, national and local updates on RE initiatives, and the development of support materials for the new syllabus. The proposed Hillingdon flower model, a pedagogical approach for RE, was also to be discussed. The council reviewed its Action Plan for 2025-2026 and confirmed dates for future meetings.

Link to the Hillingdon Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education meeting

This week in Hillingdon:

Marriage Approval Revoked Over Unauthorised Venue Use

The Registration & Appeals Committee met on Thursday, 2 July 2026, to consider the proposed revocation of a marriage approval for Abshar Grand Suites, located at Hillingdon House, Wren Avenue, Uxbridge UB10 0FD. This decision carries significant weight for couples planning their special day and for the venue itself.

The core of the issue lies in an Enforcement Notice served by the council's Planning Service on 19 July 2023. This notice highlighted the unauthorised use of the premises as a banqueting and events venue, including for wedding and civil ceremony functions. An appeal against this notice was dismissed by the Planning Inspectorate on 17 October 2025, with the Inspector concluding that the venue's use caused unacceptable harm, including noise, disturbance, and highway issues, making it incompatible with its residential location.

The council argued that these planning findings directly contradict the requirements of Schedule 1 of the Marriages and Civil Partnerships (Approved Premises) Regulations 2005[^1], which mandates that approved premises must be suitable for proceedings of a dignified and seemly character.

Representations were made by Greater London Solicitors Ltd on behalf of the Marriage Approval Holder, Mr Said Waliullah Belal Tabibi. They contended that planning breaches do not automatically invalidate a marriage approval and that the regulations primarily govern the proceedings of solemnising marriages, not broader operational aspects.

The officer's report noted that while planning and marriage approval regimes are distinct, the factual findings from the planning inspectorate regarding noise and disturbance were considered relevant to the suitability of the premises. The committee was to make a recommendation regarding the revocation of the Marriage Approval.

Link to the Registration & Appeals Committee meeting

This week in Hillingdon:

Council Faces Scrutiny Over Health Service Performance and Budget Pressures

The Children, Families, Health & Care Select Committee met on Tuesday, 23 June 2026, to review the performance of vital health services across the borough and to examine the council's budget monitoring. The discussions highlighted significant pressures on health trusts and the council's finances, with potential implications for residents, particularly vulnerable groups.

Health Trusts Report on Service Delivery and Challenges

The committee was scheduled to receive updates from several key health organisations, painting a picture of both progress and persistent challenges:

• Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust (CNWL) was expected to detail the expansion of Urgent Community Response (UCR) teams and the establishment of a Hospital at Home function. Updates on the Lighthouse service, supporting mental health crisis patients, and progress in reducing waiting lists for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) were also anticipated. However, the ongoing demand on these services means that for some, timely access to support remains a critical concern.
• The Hillingdon Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (THH) was set to report on a decrease in Accident and Emergency (A&E) attendances and improved performance metrics. However, the upcoming merger of Hillingdon Hospital with other NHS trusts and the new hospital development signal a period of significant change, the full impact of which on patient care is yet to be seen.
• Healthwatch Hillingdon (HH) was to present feedback from residents on their experiences with GPs and health partners, with issues like telephone wait times and appointment clarity expected to be raised. These are direct concerns for individuals trying to access essential healthcare.
• Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals (RBH) were scheduled to provide an update on patient care, focusing on waiting times and performance. Challenges in cardiac surgery and lung cancer treatment, alongside pressure on diagnostics, indicate that specialist care pathways may face continued strain.
• North West London Integrated Care Board (NWL ICB) was to update on discharge targets and efforts to reduce hospital admissions. Discussions on universal care plans for care home residents and progress on mental health referral forms for children and young people are crucial for ensuring coordinated and effective care for those most in need.

Budget Overspend and Financial Risks Highlighted

The committee was also scheduled to review the Month 10 budget monitoring report, which indicated a significant overspend. This raises concerns about the council's financial stability and its ability to fund essential services.

• Adult Social Care Pressures: The report was expected to detail pressures in adult social care, including rising care home costs and home-to-school transport expenses. These costs directly impact the council's ability to provide support for elderly residents and those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
• Home-to-School Transport Funding: A particular point of discussion was the charging of home-to-school transport costs for children with an Education and Health Care Plan (EHCP) to the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG). This could have financial implications for the DSG, potentially affecting other educational provisions.
• ICB Funding Dispute: The budget position and the impact of a dispute with the North West London Integrated Care Board (ICB) regarding funding allocation were also on the agenda, highlighting potential disagreements over resource distribution that could affect service delivery.

The committee's role in scrutinising these issues is vital for ensuring that the council's financial decisions are sound and that services for residents, especially the most vulnerable, are protected.

Link to the Children, Families, Health & Care Select Committee meeting

Council's Annual Performance and Budget Outturn Reviewed

The CABINET met on Thursday, 25 June 2026, to review the council's annual performance and the draft outturn for the 2025/26 budget. While the council reported strengths in several service areas, significant financial challenges remain.

Annual Performance Report Shows Strengths and Challenges

The Annual Performance Report for 2025/26 highlighted areas where Hillingdon Council is performing well, including road maintenance, recycling rates, early years education, and adult social care. Councillor Richard Mills, Deputy Leader of the Council, noted that Hillingdon continues to outperform London averages in many key services and maintains the lowest council tax in North West London.

However, the report also acknowledged ongoing challenges:

• Homelessness Pressures: The council is facing increasing pressures related to homelessness and temporary accommodation, reflecting wider housing supply issues across London.
• SEND Services Demand: Demand for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) services is rising, placing strain on resources.
• Anti-Social Behaviour: Anti-social behaviour and crime remain persistent concerns for residents.

The report's findings are intended to shape future priorities and investment, with a commitment to addressing these challenges.

Link to the CABINET meeting

Budget Outturn Reveals Overspend but Improved Financial Control

Cabinet approved recommendations concerning the Council Budget for 2025/26, which reported an overspend of £29 million. Despite this figure, Councillor Steve Tuckwell, Leader of the Council, highlighted an improvement of approximately £7.7 million compared to earlier in the year. This improvement was attributed to:

• Clear Political Leadership: A determined focus on financial control by the current administration.
• Departmental Underspends: Savings achieved in various departments.
• Additional Funding: Receipt of extra public health funding.
• Tighter Financial Management: Strengthened corporate oversight of spending.

The Dedicated Schools Grant deficit has reduced, and the Housing Revenue Account remains stable with a £15 million reserve. The capital programme continues to show strong delivery. Cabinet agreed to 14 recommendations, including noting the General Fund Overview, Revenue Outturn, and Capital Outturn positions, and approving the carrying forward of capital budgets and the acceptance of significant grant funding.

Pete Carpenter, Deputy Chief Finance Officer, described the report as a further step in the council's financial recovery, noting that while reserves are rebuilding, they remain below the London average. This indicates that while progress is being made, continued vigilance and careful financial management are essential to ensure the long-term sustainability of council services.

Link to the CABINET meeting

Local Plan and Waste Plan Consultations to Commence

Cabinet also approved the undertaking of public consultations for the Local Plan and the West London Waste Plan.

Local Plan Scoping Consultation

A public scoping consultation on the Local Plan will commence on 9 July and run until 21 August. This consultation is a legal requirement and aims to gather views on land to be considered for the Local Plan and how residents wish to be consulted. Councillor Nick Denys, Cabinet Member for Planning, Housing & Property, emphasised the importance of this plan in shaping Hillingdon's future growth and development, aligning with ambitions for residents to live active, healthy, and sustainable lives.

Link to the CABINET meeting

West London Waste Plan Consultation

Cabinet recommended to Full Council the authorisation of the publication and consultation of the Proposed Submission (Regulation 19) West London Waste Plan. This plan, developed collaboratively with neighbouring boroughs, aims to ensure a coordinated approach to waste management. Councillor Denys noted that the proposed sites for Hillingdon remain unchanged from the existing plan, with two previously proposed new sites rejected due to unsuitability.

Link to the CABINET meeting

Other Matters

Standards Committee Discusses Member Complaint

The Standards Committee met on Wednesday, 24 June 2026. The committee was scheduled to consider a complaint lodged against an elected Member of the Council concerning an alleged breach of the Code of Conduct for Members and co-opted members. This item was to be considered in private. The committee also approved the minutes of previous meetings.

Link to the Standards Committee meeting