This week in Kensington and Chelsea:

Notting Hill Carnival Alcohol Sales Face Further Restrictions Amid Safety Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee is set to review a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for All Saints Church during the Notting Hill Carnival¹, following objections from the police and the Noise and Nuisance Team. This decision could significantly impact the atmosphere and accessibility of the Carnival, particularly for smaller vendors and community groups.

• Public Safety Concerns: The police and Noise and Nuisance Team cite concerns about public safety, prevention of crime and disorder, and the potential for increased congestion in an already crowded area.
• Church Opposition: Father Charles Card-Reynolds from All Saints Church has stated that the Parochial Church Council has not granted permission to anyone to use the church land for trading during the Carnival.
• Licensing Policy: The council's Statement of Licensing Policy emphasises the importance of balancing commercial interests with the need to protect residents from public nuisance and ensure public safety.

The sub-committee will consider the objections and determine whether to issue a counter notice, effectively banning alcohol sales at the church.

Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting.

Diana Restaurant/Cafe Faces Licence Revocation Over Illegal Workers and Health Violations

The Licensing Sub-Committee met to consider an application from the Home Office Immigration Enforcement Team to review the premises licence of the Diana Restaurant/Cafe at 5/6 Wellington Terrace, Notting Hill Gate. The Home Office requested that the licence be revoked, citing the employment of illegal workers and violations of the Health Act 2006.

• Illegal Workers: Between September 2019 and December 2024, seven illegal workers were encountered at the premises during three inspections by the Home Office Immigration Enforcement Team.
• Health Violations: During a multi-agency operation on 9 May 2025, customers were found smoking shisha in the basement area, in contravention of the Health Act 2006, and 45 unlabelled tubs of shisha tobacco were seized.
• Labour Exploitation: The Home Office Immigration Enforcement Team argued that workers admitted to being compensated with food instead of monetary payment, raising concerns about labour exploitation.
• Police Support: PC Ian Davis, a Police Licensing Officer, submitted a representation on behalf of The Metropolitan Police on the grounds of prevention of crime and disorder, noting that the premises had been in breach of section 8 of The Health Act 2006, which focuses on the duty to prevent smoking in smoke-free places.

The solicitor acting for the licensee proposed a three-month suspension to implement measures to address the issues. The sub-committee was asked to consider the representations and take steps necessary for the promotion of the licensing objectives, including potentially revoking the licence.

Read more about the meeting.

Eldon House Redevelopment Approved Despite Affordable Housing Concerns

The Planning Committee approved the application for the demolition of the existing five-storey building at Eldon House, 90 Sloane Avenue, and the erection of a six-storey building with retail space and 24 residential homes. However, the decision was not without controversy, as the development will not include any affordable housing.

• No Affordable Housing: Despite adding four homes, the Eldon House redevelopment will not include any affordable housing, with the developer claiming the project is not financially viable.
• Section 106 Agreement: An early and late-stage review mechanism will be included in the Section 106 agreement to capture any potential future profits for affordable housing in the borough.
• Public Art Contribution: Due to site constraints, a financial contribution towards public art or cultural activities within the borough will be secured, overseen by the council's culture team and in consultation with the community.

The decision highlights the challenges the council faces in securing affordable housing contributions from developers while navigating financial constraints and competing priorities.

Read more about the Planning Committee meeting.

Children and Young People's Plan and Work Programme Discussed

The Family Services Select Committee was scheduled to discuss the Children and Young People's Plan and to review its work programme for the coming year.

• Children and Young People's Plan: The committee was scheduled to discuss the Bi-Borough Children and Young People's Plan (CYPP) Two-Year On report, which assesses the progress of Children's Services against the priorities outlined in the plan since its launch in 2023.
• Work Programme: The committee was also scheduled to discuss its work programme for the 2025/2026 municipal year, setting out the proposed priorities for the committee.

Read more about the Family Services Select Committee meeting.

Housing Performance Report Highlights Challenges and Progress

The Housing & Communities Select Committee considered the Housing and Social Investment Annual Performance Report for 2024-2025, revealing both progress and ongoing challenges in the council's housing services.

• Temporary Accommodation: Councillors noted a reduction in the number of households in temporary accommodation, but also an increase in the cost of temporary accommodation.
• Anti-Social Behaviour: Concerns were raised about the number of evictions for antisocial behaviour, which had increased from one in March 2024 to nine in March 2025.
• Void Properties: Concerns were raised about the number of void properties, and the amount of money lost due to voids.

The committee also discussed the Lancaster West Refurbishment report and the Select Committee Work Programme for 2025/26.

Read more about the Housing & Communities Select Committee meeting.

Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below:

• Investment Committee - Monday 07 July 2025 - To review the pension fund's performance, strategy and policies.
• Planning Applications Committee - Tuesday 08 July 2025 - To discuss planning applications for properties across the borough.
• Leadership Team - Wednesday 09 July 2025 - To discuss the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Update, the Treasury Management Outturn Report, the Housing Management Performance, and the new Housing Strategy.
• Pension Board - Wednesday 09 July 2025 - To review pension fund policies, discuss investment performance, and consider the fund's business plan.
• Licensing Sub-Committee - Thursday 10 July 2025
• Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 15 July 2025
• Full Council - Wednesday 16 July 2025
• Licensing Sub-Committee - Thursday 17 July 2025 - To consider an application for a new premises licence for the Ricco Lounge & Club.

This week in Kensington and Chelsea:

Council Faces £1.75 Million Hit on Housing Project Amidst Financial Scrutiny

The Planning Committee is set to review plans for Elden House on Sloane Avenue, but a report reveals the council will miss out on £9.7 million in affordable housing contributions, settling for a £1.75 million deficit¹ after an independent review. This decision comes as the Audit and Transparency Committee scrutinizes the council's financial risks and spending, raising questions about how the council balances development with community needs.

• No Affordable Housing: Despite adding four homes, the Elden House redevelopment will not include any affordable housing, with the developer claiming the project is not financially viable.
• Design Concerns: The Council's Conservation and Design Team has objected to the design, citing its impact on the Grade II listed Michelin House.
• Financial Risks: The Audit and Transparency Committee reviewed the council's risk management, including financial risks and the sustainability of the Housing Revenue Account (HRA).

This situation highlights the challenges the council faces in securing affordable housing contributions from developers while navigating financial constraints and competing priorities.

Read more about the Planning Committee meeting and the Audit and Transparency Committee meeting.

Notting Hill Carnival Preparations Intensify Amidst Safety and Funding Concerns

As the Notting Hill Carnival approaches, the council is grappling with ensuring a safe and enjoyable event for all. The Licensing Sub-Committee has been busy reviewing Temporary Event Notice (TEN) applications, while the Environment Select Committee has scrutinised the council's funding arrangements for the Carnival.

• Safety First: The Licensing Sub-Committee has taken a cautious approach to TEN applications, with objections often citing concerns about public safety, prevention of crime and disorder, and the potential for increased congestion.
• Financial Burden: The Environment Select Committee noted that the council spends approximately £1 million on facilitating the Carnival, while receiving around £300,000 in income from street trading licences.
• Organiser Challenges: Concerns have been raised about the organisers' ability to meet new safety recommendations due to funding shortfalls.

The council is working to balance the economic and cultural benefits of the Carnival with the need to protect residents and ensure a safe environment for all attendees.

Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meetings and here and the Environment Select Committee meeting.

Council Grapples with Housing Crisis and Pension Fund Investments

The Leadership Team is exploring innovative solutions to address the borough's housing crisis, including a proposed arrangement with the RBKC Pension Fund to increase the supply of temporary accommodation.

• Temporary Accommodation Costs: The council currently has around 2050 households in temporary accommodation, with approximately 80% of placements located outside of Kensington and Chelsea.
• Pension Fund Investment: The Leadership Team is considering a proposal to set up a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) company to facilitate the proposed pension fund financing structure.
• Ethical Concerns: Some residents have raised concerns about the ethics of using pension funds to invest in temporary accommodation, arguing that it could be seen as profiting from homelessness.

This initiative highlights the council's efforts to find creative solutions to address the housing crisis and provide more stable and affordable accommodation for vulnerable residents.

Read more about the Leadership Team meeting.

Other Matters

• Lancaster West Estate Refurbishment: The Housing & Communities Select Committee will receive feedback on the Lancaster West Refurbishment project, following concerns raised by residents about the scope, costs, and impact of the works. More information here.
• Family Services Priorities: The Family Services Select Committee will discuss the Children and Young People's Plan and agree on its work programme for the coming year, focusing on early intervention, safeguarding, and support for vulnerable young people. More information here.

Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below:

• Investment Committee - Monday 07 July 2025
• Planning Applications Committee - Tuesday 08 July 2025
• Leadership Team - Wednesday 09 July 2025
• Pension Board - Wednesday 09 July 2025
• Licensing Sub-Committee - Thursday 10 July 2025

This week in Kensington and Chelsea:

School Funding Faces Scrutiny Amidst Deficit Concerns

The Schools Forum met this week to grapple with a £3.287 million deficit in the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) ¹, sparking debate about funding priorities and the impact on vulnerable students. The forum's decisions could directly affect the resources available for schools, special needs support, and early years education.

• Deficit Recovery: The forum discussed plans to address the deficit, including a planned £896,000 contribution from high needs funding.
• Early Years Overspend: An overspend of £260,000 on early years deprivation payments due to system errors raised concerns about potential clawbacks from providers. One forum member voiced concern that if schools have relied on that, with very tight budgets, I think they should be allowed to.
• High Needs Funding Boost: Despite the deficit, the forum agreed to increase top-up funding for Ormiston Kensington Queensmill (OKQ), a special school for autism, to £32,700, acknowledging the increased demand for places.
• Sixth Form Struggles: The forum noted with concern the difficulties facing St Charles' Sixth Form College, which is experiencing a funding gap due to an increase in student numbers.

The forum's discussions highlight the complex challenges of balancing budgets while ensuring adequate support for all students, particularly those with special needs and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Read more about the Schools' Forum meeting.

Portobello Road Restaurant Faces Licensing Challenge

A Licensing Sub-Committee meeting focused on an application for a shadow licence ² for a restaurant at 222 Portobello Road, raising concerns about noise and nuisance for local residents. The Ladbroke Association objected to some of the proposed closing hours, arguing that they should align with the majority of licensed establishments on Portobello Road, which cease selling alcohol and close to the public by 24:00.

• Residential Concerns: The Ladbroke Association emphasized that Portobello Road is a residential street and residents should not be subjected to late-night noise from hospitality establishments.
• Volunteered Steps: The applicant, Larchbury Limited, volunteered a number of steps to promote the licensing objectives, including displaying notices requesting patrons to respect local residents and limiting the number of customers in the basement.
• Previous Complaints: The report pack revealed that one noise/nuisance complaint had been received in the preceding 24 months, indicating a history of potential issues at the premises.

This case highlights the ongoing tension between supporting local businesses and protecting the quality of life for residents in busy areas like Portobello Road.

Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting.

Notting Hill Carnival Temporary Event Notices Spark Debate

The Licensing Sub-Committee grappled with several Temporary Event Notice (TEN) applications for the Notting Hill Carnival, with objections raised by the police and the Noise and Nuisance Team. These decisions could significantly impact the atmosphere and accessibility of the Carnival, particularly for smaller vendors and community groups.

• Public Safety Concerns: Objections often cited concerns about public safety, prevention of crime and disorder, and the potential for increased congestion in already crowded areas.
• Insufficient Information: Many applications were criticised for lacking detailed risk assessments and event management plans, raising doubts about the organisers' ability to manage potential issues.
• Street Trading Violations: PC Tom Stewart of the Metropolitan Police noted that one applicant appeared to be selling alcohol from a private address into the public highway, which requires a street trading licence that the council typically does not grant during Carnival.

These cases highlight the council's commitment to ensuring a safe and enjoyable Carnival experience for all, even if it means restricting certain activities.

Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meetings and here.

Council Constitution Changes Aim to Streamline Procedures

The Administration Committee discussed changes to the council's constitution, including revisions to the standing orders regarding petitions and questions to lead members. These changes could impact how residents and councillors engage with the council and hold it accountable.

• Petition Process Clarified: Revised wording was proposed for Standing Order 10 to ensure that councillors presenting petitions have the full petition ready to hand in, preventing the use of this provision to publicise petitions still in the signature collection phase.
• Question Limits Imposed: A 150-word limit was proposed for questions to lead members to prevent lengthy statements and allow for more comprehensive responses.
• Delegated Authority: An amendment was proposed to allow the Chief Executive to delegate their decision-making authority to a named Executive Director during periods of absence, ensuring continuity of authority within the council.

These changes aim to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of council meetings and decision-making processes.

Read more about the Administration Committee meeting.

Environment Committee Focuses on Carnival Funding and Budget Scrutiny

The Environment Select Committee convened to discuss several key issues, including support for the Notting Hill Carnival, a breakdown of the council's budget, and the committee's work programme for the upcoming year. The committee's discussions could impact the council's environmental policies, funding priorities, and the overall quality of life for residents.

• Carnival Funding: The committee scrutinised the council's arrangements for the Notting Hill Carnival 2025, noting that the council spends approximately £1 million on facilitating the carnival, while receiving around £300,000 in income from street trading licences.
• Budget Breakdown: The committee reviewed the budgeted net expenditure on services under its remit for the financial year 2025/26, including waste collection, street cleansing, environmental health, and planning.
• Work Programme: The committee confirmed their scrutiny priorities for the municipal year 2025/2026, including a report on progress towards securing fairer funding for Notting Hill Carnival, budget scrutiny, and Net Zero.

Read more about the Environment Select Committee meeting.

Adult Social Care Committee Examines Dentistry, Pharmacies, and Community Health

The Adult Social Care & Health Select Committee met to discuss dentistry and oral health, community pharmacies, and the pharmaceutical needs assessment (PNA). Councillors agreed to the scrutiny priorities for the municipal year, and to develop a detailed work programme. The committee's discussions could impact access to healthcare services, particularly for vulnerable populations.

• Dentistry Access: The committee discussed measures to address oral health issues in children and adults, with a focus on prevention and early intervention.
• Pharmacy Challenges: The committee received an update on community pharmacies, including the national contract, closures, and the Pharmacy First service.
• Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment: The committee considered an updated Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment (PNA), which assesses the pharmaceutical needs of the borough and informs decisions about the provision of pharmacy services.

Read more about the Adult Social Care & Health Select Committee meeting.

Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below:

• Planning Committee - Tuesday 01 July 2025 - To discuss planning application PP/24/05976 for Elden House, 90 Sloane Avenue.
• Housing & Communities Select Committee - Wednesday 02 July 2025
• Family Services Select Committee - Thursday 03 July 2025
• Licensing Sub-Committee - Thursday 03 July 2025 - To discuss an application for a review of the premises licence for Diana Restaurant/Cafe, located at 5/6 Wellington Terrace, Notting Hill Gate.

This week in Kensington and Chelsea:

Notting Hill Carnival Alcohol Sales Face Stricter Scrutiny

The Licensing Sub-Committee is taking a firm stance on Temporary Event Notices (TENs) ¹ for alcohol sales during the upcoming Notting Hill Carnival, with several applications facing objections from the police and the council's Noise and Nuisance Team. These decisions could significantly impact the atmosphere and accessibility of the Carnival, particularly for smaller vendors and community groups.

• Public Safety Concerns: Objections often cite concerns about public safety, prevention of crime and disorder, and the potential for increased congestion in already crowded areas.
• Insufficient Information: Many applications are criticised for lacking detailed risk assessments and event management plans, raising doubts about the organisers' ability to manage potential issues.
• Community Impact: The council's Statement of Licensing Policy emphasises the importance of balancing commercial interests with the need to protect residents from public nuisance and ensure public safety.

All Saints Church Faces Alcohol Ban

A TEN submitted by Mr Andrew Francis to sell alcohol at All Saints Church during the Carnival was met with objections from both the police and the Noise and Nuisance Team. PC Tom Stewart of the Metropolitan Police argued that the location was in a highly congested area and that alcohol sales would likely increase crime and disorder. Mr Philip Richardson, representing the Environmental Health Noise and Nuisance Team, echoed these concerns, citing the potential for public nuisance and safety risks. The Licensing Sub-Committee was asked to consider the objections and potentially issue a counter notice, effectively banning alcohol sales at the church.

Stall on Silchester Road Under Review

Another TEN, submitted by Ms Monique Walsh-Jemmott for a stall on Silchester Road to sell alcohol during the Carnival, is also under scrutiny. Julian Trill, Team Manager of the Noise and Nuisance Team, raised concerns about insufficient information in the plan and risk assessment, particularly regarding stall dimensions, location, and crowd management. Mr Trill also highlighted the potential for noise nuisance from background music drawing crowds to the stall. The sub-committee has the option to reject the TEN, allow the event to proceed, or impose conditions from an existing licence.

GT Flex Roadshow Meeting Cancelled

A meeting to discuss a TEN submitted by Mr Gregory Thomas for the GT Flex Roadshow on Middle Row was cancelled. The TEN requested permission to provide sales of alcohol and regulated entertainment for up to 499 people. Objections from the police and the Noise and Nuisance Team cited concerns that the TEN, risk assessment, and event management plan had not been approved by Notting Hill Carnival Limited.

These cases highlight the council's commitment to ensuring a safe and enjoyable Carnival experience for all, even if it means restricting certain activities.

Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meetings, here, and here.

Planning Committee to Review Key Developments

The Planning Applications Committee is set to review a range of significant development proposals across the borough, including projects in Notting Hill Gate, Kensington High Street, and White City. These decisions will shape the future of these neighbourhoods and impact residents' quality of life.

• Street Hubs Spark Debate: Applications to replace existing InLink units with Street Hub 3 units at 50 Notting Hill Gate and Kensington High Street are facing objections from the Kensington Society and the Pembridge Association, who are concerned about the impact on the streetscape and the lack of public benefit.
• Campden Hill Road Air Conditioning: A retrospective application for air conditioning units at 156 Campden Hill Road has also drawn objections, despite the report stating that the development does not cause material harm to the building or surrounding area.
• Imperial White City Underpass: The committee will consider an application for the construction of a new underpass between Imperial White City Campus and Latimer Road, a project that spans both Kensington and Chelsea and Hammersmith and Fulham.

These are just a few of the many planning applications that the committee will be reviewing, with a focus on balancing development with the need to preserve the character of the borough and ensure good living conditions for residents.

Read more about the Planning Applications Committee meeting.

Police Report Highlights Budget Challenges and Crime Trends

The Overview & Scrutiny Committee received a report from the Metropolitan Police, providing an overview of police activity in the borough, crime data, and the police's priorities. The discussion revealed both successes and challenges in maintaining safety and security in Kensington and Chelsea.

• Budget Constraints: Chief Superintendent Christina Jesser highlighted that recent funding increases may only cover staff pay, posing challenges for the coming financial year.
• Crime Statistics: While some crimes, like theft from motor vehicles and burglary, have decreased, others, such as theft from person and shoplifting, have seen marked increases.
• Community Engagement: Superintendent Ellen Renauden emphasised the importance of relationships with the local authority and business improvement districts, noting that Kensington and Chelsea are leading the way in London regarding these relationships.
• Bicycle Theft Concerns: Councillor Huxley raised concerns about the lack of proper investigation into bicycle, scooter, and motorbike thefts.
• Parks Police Cuts: Concerns were raised about the loss of 44 police officers from the Royal Parks, although Superintendent Renauden stated that there would be a small uplift of 14 officers dedicated to neighbourhood policing around the central Royal Parks.

The committee also discussed lessons learned from a Councillor Call to Action in Earl's Court, the Medium Term Financial Strategy, and the Committee's work programme.

Read more about the Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting.

Bluebird Chelsea Faces Scrutiny Over Licence Application

The Licensing Sub-Committee met to consider an application from The Bluebird Store Limited for a new premises licence for Bluebird Chelsea, 350 Kings Road. The application sought to consolidate two existing licences and extend licensable activities to the front courtyard, raising concerns from local residents about noise and disturbance.

• Courtyard Concerns: Residents expressed concerns about the expansion of licensable activities to the external courtyard, potential noise disturbance, and the removal of existing licensing conditions.
• Capacity and Management: Councillor Toby Benton questioned the capacity of the courtyard and the number of people permitted to be outside after 11pm. Ms Lisa Sharkey, representing the applicant, stated that the fire risk assessment capacity for the courtyard was 120 people, and that the number of 35 people permitted outside after 11pm was agreed with the authorities and residents.
• Conditions and Amendments: The sub-committee discussed a number of proposed conditions, including CCTV coverage, staff training, incident logs, and signage. A key point of discussion was the closing time of the external courtyard, with the sub-committee ultimately accepting a compromise that the courtyard would be closed and cleared of customers by 11pm.

The sub-committee did not make a final decision at the meeting, but will announce a summary determination within five working days.

Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting.

Cadogan Arms Seeks Licence Extension Amid Police Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee also considered an application from The Cadogan Pub Limited to vary the premises licence for The Cadogan Arms, 298 King's Road. The application requested an extension to the hours for the sale of alcohol, but faced objections from the police.

• Economic Factors: Luke Alford, legal advisor for the applicant, cited the difficult economic climate for hospitality businesses and argued that a modest extension would help the business to thrive.
• Police Objection: PC Ian Davis of the Metropolitan Police objected to the application on the grounds of crime and disorder and public nuisance, arguing that granting the extension would set a precedent and create a destination location.
• Residential Impact: Councillor Dori Schmetterling raised concerns about the residential environment and the potential for noise and disturbance with extended hours.

The committee discussed a number of proposed conditions, including those related to SIA security officers, admittance/readmittance, outside drinking, meetings with residents, and staff training. The sub-committee did not make a decision at the meeting, but will announce a summary determination within five working days.

Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting.

Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below:

• Schools' Forum - Monday 16 June 2025
• Administration Committee - Monday 16 June 2025
• Environment Select Committee - Tuesday 17 June 2025
• Adult Social Care & Health Select Committee - Wednesday 18 June 2025
• Licensing Sub-Committee - Thursday 19 June 2025 - To consider an application by Larchbury Limited for a new premises licence for Basement and Ground Floor, 222 Portobello Road, London, W11 1LJ.
• Licensing Sub-Committee - Thursday 19 June 2025 - To consider an application by Freshley Made LTD for a new premises licence for 240 Portobello Road, London, W11 1LL.
• Full Council - Wednesday 25 June 2025
• Audit & Transparency Committee - Monday 23 June 2025
• Planning Applications Committee - Tuesday 24 June 2025
• Licensing Sub-Committee - Thursday 26 June 2025