This week in Hounslow:

Licensing Panel to Hear Gunnerbury Park Event Concerns Amidst Policy Review

The Licensing Panel is set to convene on Friday, 27 March 2026, to address a significant review of the premises licence for Gunnersbury Park, Popes Lane, London, W3 8LQ. The review has been initiated by the Gunnersbury Park Garden Estate Residents Association, who have raised serious concerns that the licence holder has failed to uphold the four crucial licensing objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm.

This decision carries substantial weight for residents living near the park. The residents' association has garnered support from 105 local residents and one ward councillor, submitting detailed grounds for review. They are pushing for amendments to noise limits, greater transparency and monitoring, restrictions on set-up and breakdown times, and stronger environmental and heritage protection measures. Concerns also extend to access, congestion, and policing. The sheer volume of resident objections highlights a deep-seated community concern about the impact of park events on their daily lives and the local environment.

The panel will also consider the Hounslow Statement of Licensing Policy 2020-25, which guides the council's approach to licensing. This policy aims to balance the promotion of the licensing objectives with the desire to foster a vibrant local economy. The panel's decision on the Gunnersbury Park licence could set a precedent for how future event applications are handled, directly impacting the balance between community amenity and the use of public spaces for large-scale events.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Licensing Panel meeting papers.

Overview and Scrutiny Committee to Examine Resident Experience and Emergency Preparedness

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee will meet on Thursday, 26 March 2026, to scrutinise how the council is performing in key areas affecting residents' daily lives. A significant focus will be on the Resident Experience Service, with the committee reviewing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and new targets. The aim is to ensure services are continuously improving, accessible, and responsive to resident needs, particularly through digital channels. This is vital for ensuring that all residents, including those who may be less digitally savvy or face other barriers, can access the support and services they require.

The committee will also examine the council's preparedness for emergencies. As a Category 1 responder under the Civil Contingencies Act 2004, Hounslow Council has statutory duties to manage risks, maintain emergency plans, and communicate effectively with the public during crises. The report will detail the council's resilience arrangements, which are crucial for protecting residents and ensuring the continuity of essential services during unforeseen events. This scrutiny is particularly important for vulnerable populations who may be disproportionately affected by emergencies.

Furthermore, the committee will review the outcomes of deep-dive investigations by various Scrutiny Panels. These include the Children and Young People Scrutiny Panel's work on the Families First Partnership Programme, the Health and Adults Care Scrutiny Panel's examination of pressures in adult social care, and the Housing and Environment Scrutiny Panel's investigation into land ownership. The recommendations from these panels, which have been accepted by Lead Members and senior officers, aim to drive improvements in these critical service areas.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting papers.

Chiswick Area Forum Discusses Council Budget and Local Concerns

The Chiswick Area Forum met on Tuesday, 17 March 2026, to discuss the council's budget, hear from local police, and learn about community initiatives. A key agenda item was an overview of the Hounslow Council's financial position and the 2026/27 budget-setting process. Councillor Shantanu Rajawat, Leader of the Council, and Jake Bacchus, Executive Director of Finance & Resources and Section 151 Officer, were expected to present on the council's statutory requirement to set a balanced budget.

The discussion was set to cover the General Fund, which finances day-to-day services like social care, libraries, and waste management. The significant demand pressures on services, particularly adult social care, were to be highlighted. The council's income streams, including Council Tax and government grants, were to be detailed, alongside the potential for council tax increases. A major focus was to be on Fair Funding 2.0, a national reform of local government funding expected to benefit Hounslow. Despite proposals for approximately £26 million in savings and efficiencies, the aim was to continue investing in frontline services. These budget decisions directly impact the level and quality of services available to all residents, especially those who are most reliant on council support.

The forum also included an update from the local police and an introduction to the community organisation Abundance London. An open forum allowed residents to raise local concerns, with issues such as abandoned e-bikes, recycling from flats above shops, and the ongoing requests for step-free access at Turnham Green Station being on the agenda. These resident-led discussions are crucial for ensuring local needs are heard and addressed by the council.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Chiswick Area Forum meeting papers.

Cabinet Approves Major Regeneration Projects and Service Commissioning

The Cabinet met on Monday, 16 March 2026, to make key decisions on regeneration, housing, and essential services. A significant approval was given to the Charlton House and Albany Estate Regeneration Delivery Plan, which will see the direct delivery of 182 homes for Council rent, alongside ground-floor commercial space. This project is a vital step in providing much-needed affordable housing for residents.

The Cabinet also approved the Convent Way Delivery Strategy, opting for a contractual development partnership to redevelop the estate. This strategy includes an allocation of up to £1.68 million for technical advisors and consultants, and the potential use of compulsory purchase powers to secure vacant possession of the site. These decisions are crucial for revitalising housing stock and improving living conditions for residents in these areas.

In terms of service provision, the Cabinet authorised the procurement of Extra Care housing services and catering for one extra care scheme, with a total budget of over £40 million. They also authorised the procurement of Learning Disability Supported Living services, with a contract value of over £36 million. These significant investments underscore the council's commitment to providing essential support for older residents and those with learning disabilities, ensuring they receive high-quality care and accommodation.

The Cabinet also noted updates on the Digital Strategy, SEND and Alternative Provision Programme, and the Hounslow School Organisation Plan. The approval of the Hounslow Flood Alleviation Programme Strategic Business Case and the North West Hounslow Stansfield Road Outline Business Case signals a commitment to improving flood resilience across the borough, which is vital for protecting homes and infrastructure.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Cabinet meeting papers.

Licensing Panel Reviews Premises Licence for Trishul Groceries

The Licensing Panel met on Wednesday, 18 March 2026, to consider a review of the premises licence for Trishul Groceries, located at 2-6 Clayponds Lane, Brentford. The review was initiated by Trading Standards following allegations of alcohol being sold to minors on multiple occasions.

The report detailed two specific incidents: one on 25 May 2023, where alcohol was allegedly sold to a 14-year-old, and another on 30 October 2025, involving the sale of alcohol to a 15-year-old. These incidents raise serious concerns regarding the licensing objectives of public safety and the protection of children from harm. The potential outcomes for the licence holder, as outlined in the Licensing Act 2003, include modification of licence conditions, suspension, or even revocation of the licence. This decision directly impacts the responsible sale of alcohol in the community and the safety of young people.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Licensing Panel meeting papers.

This week in Hounslow:

Street Trading Licence Sparks Resident Concerns Over Noise and Safety

The Licensing Panel met on Tuesday, 24 February 2026, to consider an application for a temporary street trading licence for Everyday Fruits & Veggies on High Street, Hounslow, TW3 1HB. The application, a renewal from Y.M.F.G GROUP LTD, sought permission to sell fruit and vegetables from a stall measuring 8 metres by 4 metres, operating daily from 9 am to 7 pm.

However, the application was not without controversy. The Licensing Enforcement Team raised concerns about public nuisance and safety, citing issues with noise from goods transportation, the use of pallet trolleys on the highway, and alleged improper storage of goods at a nearby premises. These concerns were echoed by two residents who also objected, detailing worries about noise, obstruction, health and safety, and food safety, including the potential attraction of rodents and foxes.

The panel had the option to grant the licence in full or part, with or without additional conditions, or to refuse it. The outcome of this decision directly impacts the local environment and the daily lives of residents living and working near the proposed trading spot. The council's Street Trading Policy, adopted in 2011, provides the framework for such decisions, aiming to balance consumer choice with the need to prevent obstruction and nuisance.

The meeting also included a review of the council's Street Trading Policy and the procedure for conducting panel hearings, ensuring transparency and fairness in decision-making processes.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Licensing Panel meeting papers.

Housing Estates and Work Programme on the Horizon for Scrutiny Panel

The Housing and Environment Scrutiny Panel met on Thursday, 26 February 2026, to chart its course for the coming year and to delve into issues surrounding the council's housing estates. The panel focused on developing effective recommendations and identifying key topics for its 2026/27 work programme.

This forward-looking discussion is crucial for ensuring that the panel's efforts are directed towards the most pressing issues affecting residents' homes and the local environment. Previous discussions by the panel have highlighted significant challenges, including difficulties in identifying land ownership and persistent problems with fly-tipping on unadopted land. These issues directly impact the quality of life for residents and the overall upkeep of neighbourhoods. The panel's work in this area is vital for holding the council accountable for maintaining safe and well-managed housing and public spaces.

The agenda also included a review of previous work and minutes, providing continuity and context for ongoing scrutiny efforts. The panel's previous work has touched upon the complexities of land registry data and the challenges of enforcing regulations on private land, demonstrating a commitment to tackling deep-rooted local problems.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Housing and Environment Scrutiny Panel meeting papers.

Schools Face Financial Scrutiny Amidst Budget Discussions

The Schools Forum met on Monday, 23 February 2026, to address the financial landscape for Hounslow's schools, with a particular focus on the Early Years and High Needs budgets for the upcoming academic year. The forum reviewed the Q3 Financial Monitoring for 2025/26 and received updates on the 2026/27 Fair Funding Settlement.

A key concern was the provisional High Needs budget for 2026/27, which indicated a projected deficit of £3.44 million (£83.37 million required against £79.93 million available). This shortfall could have significant implications for the support provided to children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), potentially impacting the resources available for their education and development. The report highlighted that increased costs were partly due to the technical roll-in of the Core Schools Budget Grant, alongside projected placement numbers and inflationary pressures.

Discussions also covered proposed hourly rates for Early Years provision for 2026/27, following a consultation with providers. These decisions directly affect the affordability and accessibility of childcare for families across the borough. The forum also received an update on the SEND and Alternative Provision Improvement Programme, underscoring the council's ongoing commitment to supporting vulnerable young people.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Schools Forum meeting papers.

Chief Officer Employment Panel Meets to Appoint Executive Director

The Chief Officer Employment Panel convened on Thursday, 26 February 2026, to discuss the appointment of a new Executive Director Place. This is a critical senior leadership role within the council, responsible for overseeing a broad range of services and strategic development.

The panel reviewed candidate information for this significant appointment. Due to the sensitive nature of the discussions, the press and public were excluded from this agenda item, in accordance with Paragraph 1 of Part I of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972. The appointment of a strong leader in this area is vital for ensuring the council can effectively plan and deliver services that meet the needs of Hounslow residents.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Chief Officer Employment Panel meeting papers.

This week in Hounslow:

New West London Alliance to Drive Regional Growth and Collaboration

Councillor Shantanu Rajawat, Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Strategy, Resources and External Affairs, has made a decision to adopt updated functions and procedure rules for a new West London Alliance Joint Committee (WLAJC). This significant move establishes a formal collaborative body comprising representatives from the boroughs of Barnet, Brent, Ealing, Harrow, and Hounslow.

The WLAJC is set to replace the existing West London Economic Prosperity Board and will focus on advancing shared objectives for inclusive and sustainable growth across the sub-region. Its core purpose is to improve outcomes for residents and secure long-term sustainability by working closely with government bodies, health and education providers, employers, and business organisations.

Key functions of the WLAJC will include:

• Agreeing on funding applications and bids to external bodies for projects aligned with the alliance's goals.
• Providing direction on the allocation of secured funding.
• Approving procurement routes for jointly commissioned services to achieve cost savings or enhance service standards.
• Acting as a recipient for devolved powers and funding streams relevant to the sub-region.

Councillor Rajawat is proposed to be Hounslow Council's representative on this new Joint Committee. The establishment of the WLAJC aims to provide a clearer decision-making framework, moving away from previous arrangements where decisions were made by Ealing Council on behalf of all members. This initiative is governed by legislation including the Local Government Act 1972, the Local Government Act 2000, and The Local Authorities (Arrangements for the Discharge of Functions) (England) Regulations 2012. The committee is expected to meet quarterly, with meetings generally held in public.

This development is crucial for Hounslow as it signals a commitment to regional cooperation, which can unlock greater opportunities for investment, job creation, and improved public services for residents. By pooling resources and expertise, the participating boroughs aim to achieve more than they could individually.

You can find more details about these decisions in the Cabinet Member Single Member Decision meeting papers.

Senior Leadership Appointment for Strategy and Transformation

The Chief Officer Employment Panel met on Thursday 19 February 2026 to discuss the appointment of a new Executive Director for Strategy and Transformation. This is a critical role within the council, responsible for guiding the organisation's strategic direction and driving forward transformative initiatives.

The panel reviewed documents related to this appointment, with the press and public excluded for this agenda item due to the likely disclosure of exempt information, in accordance with Paragraph 1 of Part I of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972. The appointment of a strong leader in this area is vital for ensuring the council can effectively adapt to changing needs and deliver efficient, forward-thinking services to residents.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Chief Officer Employment Panel meeting papers.

Pension Fund Panel Reviews Performance and Investment Strategy

The Pension Fund Panel met on Wednesday 18 February 2026 to conduct a comprehensive review of the Hounslow Pension Fund. The meeting covered a wide range of topics essential for the sound financial management of the fund, which provides retirement income for many former council employees.

Key discussions included:

• Annual Business Plan 2025/26: The panel reviewed the proposed work programme for the Pension Fund Panel, including training updates for members and officers.
• Quarterly Overview: An update on the fund's investment valuation, administrative matters, and financial performance for the third quarter of the financial year 2025/26 was presented. As of December 2025, the fund's net assets were valued at £1,478.7 million.
• Administration Performance: A report from the West Yorkshire Pension Fund detailed the performance of the administration service, highlighting areas of strength and areas needing improvement, such as the handling of death processes.
• Risk Register: The panel reviewed the updated risk register, identifying key risks in funding, investment, cyber security, administration, resources, and regulatory compliance.
• Funding Strategy Statement (FSS): The final FSS was presented for approval, outlining how the fund will ensure sufficient assets to meet its liabilities.
• Investment Strategy: Discussions included the Investment Adviser's Quarterly Report, pooling arrangements, and a review of the overall investment strategy, including potential asset allocation changes.

The effective management of the Pension Fund is crucial for ensuring the long-term financial security of its members and for the council's overall financial stability.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Pension Fund Panel meeting papers.

This week in Hounslow:

Council Faces Tough Choices on Budget and Services Amidst Rising Costs

The Cabinet met on Tuesday, 10 February 2026, to grapple with the proposed budget for 2026-27, a decision that will shape the services Hounslow residents receive for the next year. The proposed budget includes a Council Tax increase of 4.99%, comprising a 2% Adult Social Care precept and a 2.99% general increase. This rise, while aimed at addressing rising costs and demand for services, will place an additional financial burden on households across the borough, particularly impacting those on fixed incomes or struggling with the cost of living.

The council is facing significant financial pressures, including the impact of austerity, inflation, and increased demand for services. To balance the books, the council has identified £26.1 million in savings proposals for delivery in 2026/27. The implications of these savings for frontline services, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and those with disabilities who rely heavily on council support, will be a key concern for residents.

The Cabinet also reviewed the Hounslow Companies Business Plan for 2026-27, which aims to improve efficiency and financial sustainability across the Lampton Group of companies. While the plan projects the group moving into profit in the coming years, the immediate focus on cost-saving measures within the council's core budget will be closely watched.

Furthermore, the procurement of essential adult social care services, specifically homecare, was on the agenda. The proposed model of tendering for 12 providers across the borough with a flat hourly rate aims to ensure service resilience and choice. However, the report notes that this procurement is not expected to yield direct cost savings, highlighting the ongoing challenge of balancing service quality with financial constraints.

The financial monitoring update for 2025-26 Q3 indicated a forecast General Fund revenue budget overspend of £6.8 million, despite an improvement since the previous quarter. This overspend is attributed to ongoing pressures in demand-led services like Adult and Children's Social Care and Temporary Accommodation, underscoring the critical need for the proposed budget to address these challenges effectively.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Cabinet meeting papers.

Licensing Panel Weighs Resident Concerns Over Sipsmith Premises Licence

The Licensing Panel met on Monday, 09 February 2026, to consider a contentious application for a premises licence for Sipsmith Limited at 83 Cranbrook Road, Chiswick. The application, which sought permission for the supply of alcohol for consumption on and off the premises, drew significant attention due to 41 representations from interested parties raising concerns about potential increases in crime, disorder, and public nuisance.

The proposed operating hours and conditions were designed to promote the four licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm. However, the sheer volume of objections from local residents highlights a deep-seated concern within the community about the potential impact of extended licensing on their quality of life.

The police did not make a representation, agreeing to the applied-for hours and conditions. However, the panel had to consider the weight of resident objections against the applicant's proposals and the police's stance. The outcome of this decision will be closely watched by residents and businesses in the area, as it touches upon the delicate balance between economic activity and community well-being.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Licensing Panel meeting papers.

Lampton Group's Future Direction Under Scrutiny

The Shareholder Committee met on Tuesday, 10 February 2026, to review the Lampton Group's Business Plan for 2026-2029. This plan is crucial for the future of the council's wholly-owned companies, which deliver a range of services from waste collection to leisure centre management. The plan aims to enhance operational efficiency, financial sustainability, and customer focus.

Key to the plan is the ambition for the Lampton Group to break even in 2026/27 and move into profit in the following years. This financial recovery is vital for ensuring these companies can continue to provide essential services and contribute to the council's overall financial health. The plan outlines strategic themes including financial sustainability, efficiency, continuous improvement, customer focus, and staff development.

The committee's review of this plan is essential for ensuring that these companies are well-managed, deliver value for money, and align with the council's corporate priorities. The success of this business plan will directly impact the quality and cost of services residents receive.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Shareholder Committee meeting papers.

Other Matters

The Licensing Panel meeting scheduled for Thursday, 12 February 2026, was cancelled.