This week in Kingston upon Thames:

Schools Forum Votes to Reduce Alternative Provision Places: Impact on Vulnerable Students

The Schools Forum voted on Monday to reduce the number of full-time equivalent (FTE) places commissioned at Malden Oaks, a Pupil Referral Unit (PRU) for secondary-aged students who cannot attend mainstream school. Link to the Schools Forum meeting This decision, driven by budget constraints, could significantly impact vulnerable students who rely on alternative provision.

• The forum considered three options for funding Malden Oaks, ultimately opting to reduce the number of commissioned places to 24 FTE, all funded by the High Needs Block (HNB).
• This decision means a reduction from the current 45 FTE places, potentially impacting the availability of respite places for students who need short-term support.
• Malden Oaks stated that they are experiencing financial pressure because they do not receive the same grant funding as most schools to support staff pay awards, pension increases and national insurance increases.

The report noted that Achieving for Children (AfC) have received assurance from Malden Oaks that costs are being kept as low as possible, but that due to the nature of the provision, this is difficult to confirm. AfC has commissioned an independent review by the Department for Education (DfE) to provide external scrutiny, with the results expected in the next few weeks.

This decision raises concerns about the potential impact on students who may need alternative provision in the future, particularly those at risk of permanent exclusion.

Council Debates Community Safety, Gambling Reform, and PCSO Support

The Council met on Tuesday to discuss motions relating to community safety, gambling reform, and support for Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs). Link to the Council meeting

• The council debated a motion regarding community safety, reaffirming its commitment to challenging discrimination and hatred, and promoting inclusion across the borough.
• A motion calling for support for national gambling reform and protection for Kingston residents was referred to the Licensing Committee.
• A motion regarding standing together against hate was referred to the Corporate and Resources Committee.
• A motion regarding recognising the contribution of Police Community Support Officers was referred to the People Committee.

These discussions reflect the council's priorities in addressing key issues affecting the community, from promoting inclusivity to tackling gambling-related harm.

Senior Staff Panel Interviews Director of Finance Candidates

The Senior Staff Panel met on Tuesday to interview candidates for the position of Director of Finance. Link to the Senior Staff Panel meeting The panel also considered excluding the press and public from part of the meeting, citing the confidential nature of the information to be discussed.

Exclusion of Press and Public

The panel considered excluding the public from the meeting, as detailed in the Public Reports Pack. According to the agenda, this is because:

The Panel is asked to exclude the public from the meeting under Section 100(A) (4) of the Local Government Act 1972 on the grounds that it is likely that exempt information, as defined in paragraph(s) 1, 2 and 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Act, would be disclosed and the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information.

Pension Board Reviews Investment Strategy and Risk

The Pension Board met on Thursday to discuss pension administration, governance, risk, and investment strategies. Link to the Pension Board meeting The board reviewed the performance and projects of the Shared Pensions Administration Service, considered the fund's risk register, and discussed the investment strategy following the 2025 triennial valuation.

Other Matters

• The Licensing Sub-Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday was cancelled. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting
• The Council considered recommendations from the Audit, Governance and Standards Committee regarding the appointment of Independent Persons. Link to the Council meeting
• The Council considered recommendations from the Audit, Governance & Standards Committee to extend the terms of Julian Adams and Manpreet Mahal, as Independent Members. Link to the Council meeting
• The Council considered the timetable of meetings for the 2026/27 Municipal Year. Link to the Council meeting
• The Council considered a report regarding the retention of the committee system governance arrangements. Link to the Council meeting

This week in Kingston upon Thames:

Surbiton Cycle Route Changes: Cyclists Win, Drivers Lose?

The Surbiton Neighbourhood Committee has recommended changes to the Ewell Road cycle route, prioritizing cyclists over drivers. Link to the Surbiton Neighbourhood Committee meeting The decision, made on Tuesday, aims to improve safety for cyclists but could impact local businesses and residents who rely on loading bays.

• The committee considered objections to the Experimental Traffic Management Order (ETMO) for the Ewell Road cycle route.
• Kingston Cycling Campaign (KCC) objected to long periods of parking and loading being allowed on the cycle path.
• The police raised concerns about cyclists being forced into the main carriageway when the loading bay is in use.

The committee recommended amending the restrictions at the loading bay to:

• Goods Vehicles Loading Only
• Monday to Sunday
• Midnight to 7am
• 10am to 4pm
• 7pm to Midnight
• Max stay 30 minutes, no return within 2 hours

This means no waiting or loading will be permitted by any other vehicle at any time. This decision could lead to safer cycling conditions but may also create challenges for businesses needing to load goods and residents seeking parking.

New Malden Zebra Crossings Approved: Safer Streets for Pedestrians

The New and Old Malden Neighbourhood Committee has approved the installation of new zebra crossings on Clarence Avenue and Coombe Lane West, aiming to improve pedestrian safety. Link to the New and Old Malden Neighbourhood Committee meeting The decision, made on Thursday, follows consultations and addresses concerns about road safety in these areas.

• A zebra crossing will be installed on Clarence Avenue outside number 74, with 67% of consultation respondents in support.
• A zebra crossing will also be installed on Coombe Lane West outside house numbers 54/56, with 60% of residents in support.
• Concerns were raised about potential traffic congestion and pollution, but the committee approved the crossings based on road safety audits and geometric layout.

These new crossings could make it safer and easier for pedestrians to cross these busy roads, particularly for children and the elderly.

Licensing Sub-Committee Considers Alcohol Licence Variation: Residents Fear Late-Night Nuisance

The Licensing Sub-Committee met to discuss an application for a variation of a premises licence for JL Enterprises on Malden Road, New Malden. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting The application seeks to extend the terminal hour for the off-sale of alcohol until 1 a.m. every day and update the floor plan.

• The Metropolitan Police objected to the extension, citing concerns about crime and disorder and public nuisance.
• Local residents also raised concerns about potential antisocial behaviour outside the premises.
• The applicant argued that the extension would allow for more sales and that they have addressed previous issues raised by the police.

The police argued that stores such as this one can act as a magnet for people leaving other licensed premises to top up their consumption, and that the type of client that looks for alcohol between 11 and 1 is more likely to be associated with antisocial behavior or even violence.

The decision, which will be confirmed later today, will determine whether the business can extend its alcohol sales hours, balancing economic interests with the concerns of local residents about potential disturbances.

Other Matters

• The New and Old Malden Neighbourhood Committee approved three applications for Neighbourhood Community Grant funding, including support for the Kingston Tamil Heritage Group, Kingston Giving, and Oxygen. Link to the New and Old Malden Neighbourhood Committee meeting
• The New and Old Malden Neighbourhood Committee discussed petitions relating to the PureGym swimming pool and the Springfield Disabled Resource Centre. Link to the New and Old Malden Neighbourhood Committee meeting
• The South of the Borough Neighbourhood Committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday 10 December 2025 was cancelled. Link to the South of the Borough Neighbourhood Committee meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• The Schools Forum will meet on Monday 15 December 2025 to discuss a funding model for secondary alternative provision places at Malden Oaks. Link to the Schools Forum meeting
• The Council will meet on Tuesday 16 December 2025 to discuss motions relating to community safety, gambling reform, and support for Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs). Link to the Council meeting
• The Pension Board will meet on Thursday 18 December 2025 to discuss pension administration, governance, and investment strategies. Link to the Pension Board meeting

This week in Kingston upon Thames:

Kingston Market Alcohol Sales Revoked: Protecting Children or Hurting Local Business?

Kingston Council's Licensing Sub-Committee has revoked the premises licence for Kingston International Market, citing failures to protect children from harm. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting The decision follows multiple failed test purchase operations where alcohol was sold to underage police cadets. This move could significantly impact the local business and its customers.

• The Metropolitan Police applied for the review after three failed test purchases involving 17-year-old police cadets.
• A licensing inspection revealed breaches, including a missing incident log and failure to display age verification notices.
• Trading Standards also raised concerns about staff knowledge of explosives precursors and poisons, and allergen information.

The Metropolitan Police sought full revocation, stating that it is not believed that any further conditions could be imposed .

Erdal Tutuman, the Premises License Holder, explained that his wife had been in a coma in Turkey for nine months, and that he had been travelling to see her every 11 days. He stated that he had a designated supervisor guiding through his family member, who was overlooking all the necessary issues.

Despite these circumstances, the committee decided to revoke the licence. Councillor Liz Green, Chair of the Health Overview Panel, stated that the Licensing Sub-Committee had decided to revoke the premises license, and that a full decision notice with full reasons would be provided within five working days.

This decision raises questions about balancing the protection of children with the livelihood of local businesses, especially in light of mitigating personal circumstances.

Cheatmeals Licence Approved With Conditions: Balancing Late-Night Refreshments and Resident Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee approved a new premises licence for Cheatmeals, located at 54 Fife Road, Kingston Upon Thames, but with modified hours and conditions. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting The decision balances the needs of a late-night business with concerns about noise and disturbance to local residents.

• Cheatmeals sought permission to sell alcohol and provide late-night refreshments until 4:00 AM daily.
• The sub-committee approved the licence with reduced hours for dining in: 1:00 AM Sunday-Thursday and 3:00 AM Friday-Saturday. Takeaway and delivery remain until 4:00 AM daily.
• Representations were received from the Metropolitan Police and the Council's environmental health officer, as well as local residents.

The police raised concerns about crime and disorder, while the environmental health officer focused on noise pollution. Residents cited potential disturbances from customers and delivery drivers.

Sarah Clover, barrister for the applicant, argued that the new national licensing policy framework prioritizes the health of businesses and the local economy. She also highlighted the company's experience operating late-night venues in London.

The sub-committee's decision reflects a compromise between supporting local businesses and protecting the quality of life for residents.

Pension Fund Performance and Risk Management Under Review

The Pension Fund Panel discussed investment strategy, governance, risk, and administration of the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames Pension Fund. Link to the Pension Fund Panel meeting The panel reviewed the fund's performance, budget, and risk register, and considered a new conflict of interest policy.

• The fund's assets were valued at £1,395m as of 30 September 2025, an increase of £61m over the previous quarter.
• The panel discussed a red risk relating to the failure of software provider Civica to provide software compliant with LGPS Regulations.
• The panel also discussed the appointment of a new tracing and mortality screening supplier, following the liquidation of the incumbent supplier.

These discussions are crucial for ensuring the long-term financial security of Kingston's pension fund and protecting the interests of its members.

Other Matters

• The Health Overview and Scrutiny Panel were scheduled to discuss the National 10 Year Health Plan, the move towards Neighbourhood Health, and public health matters in the borough, as well as receive a verbal update on the changes in law on the Mental Health Act. Link to the Health Overview and Scrutiny Panel meeting No video was provided.
• The Blue Badge Appeals Panel met on Friday 05 December 2025. Link to the Blue Badge Appeals Panel meeting No video was provided.
• The Planning Committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday 03 December 2025 was cancelled. Link to the Planning Committee meeting
• The Kingston and North Kingston Neighbourhood Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday 04 December 2025 was cancelled. Link to the Kingston and North Kingston Neighbourhood Committee meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• The Schools Forum will meet on Monday 15 December 2025 to discuss the budget and High Needs Budget. Link to the Schools Forum meeting
• The Council will meet on Tuesday 16 December 2025. Link to the Council meeting
• The Licensing Sub-Committee will meet on Tuesday 16 December 2025. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting
• The Pension Board will meet on Thursday 18 December 2025. Link to the Pension Board meeting

This week in Kingston upon Thames:

Council to Form Company for Temporary Housing: £278 Million Savings or Financial Risk?

Kingston Council is considering establishing a wholly-owned company to acquire 150 homes for temporary accommodation (TA), aiming to reduce reliance on expensive nightly-paid options and save £278 million over 40 years. The Corporate and Resources Committee will discuss the proposal on Thursday. Link to the Corporate and Resources Committee meeting

• The council would borrow funds to purchase the properties and lease them to the company, which would then lease them to homeless households at Local Housing Allowance rates.
• The council estimates a net present value of £47 million and a retained asset value of £100 million after 40 years.
• This move follows the July 2024 approval of a Temporary Accommodation Acquisitions Strategy, reflecting the increasing demand for TA across the country.

While proponents emphasize the potential cost savings and improved outcomes for vulnerable residents, critics may raise concerns about the financial risks associated with borrowing and managing a large property portfolio. This decision could significantly impact the lives of homeless families in Kingston, offering more stable and affordable housing options, but also carries potential financial implications for the council.

Inclusive Kingston Strategy: Aims for Equality Amidst Community Input

The Corporate and Resources Committee will also review the new Inclusive Kingston Strategy 2025-2029, alongside the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Annual Report 2025. Link to the Corporate and Resources Committee meeting

• The strategy builds on the previous Inclusive Kingston Strategy 2021-2025 and aims to create a borough where everyone feels they belong.
• It sets out four equality objectives: understanding community needs, tackling inequality, creating an inclusive and safe borough, and building an inclusive workplace.
• The strategy was drafted following engagement with over 700 residents, stakeholders, and staff.

This strategy aims to address systemic inequalities and promote inclusivity across Kingston. Its success will depend on effective implementation and ongoing engagement with diverse communities.

CCTV Upgrade and Control Room Relocation: Enhancing Public Safety or Costly Overhaul?

Kingston Council is planning to award a contract for the supply, installation, and relocation of the CCTV control room as part of a broader CCTV infrastructure upgrade project. The Corporate and Resources Committee will discuss the proposal on Thursday. Link to the Corporate and Resources Committee meeting

• The current CCTV infrastructure is nearing the end of its life and at risk of failure.
• The new CCTV control centre will be located at unit 6 of Kingsmill Business Park.
• The upgrade aims to enhance public safety and improve the council's ability to monitor and respond to incidents.

While proponents argue that the upgrade is necessary to maintain public safety and prevent costly breakdowns, critics may question the cost-effectiveness of the project and its potential impact on privacy.

Other Matters

• The Corporate and Resources Committee will consider a motion referred from Council regarding the Committee System versus Leader and Cabinet in Kingston, opposing the government's plans to abolish the committee system. Link to the Corporate and Resources Committee meeting
• The Corporate and Resources Committee will discuss the award of a contract to Amazon Web Services (AWS) for Cloud Data Centre Services. Link to the Corporate and Resources Committee meeting
• The Corporate and Resources Committee will receive a report on the revenue and capital monitoring forecast outturn positions for 2025/26 as at month 6 (30 September 2025). Link to the Corporate and Resources Committee meeting
• The Corporate and Resources Committee will receive a report regarding an urgent decision taken under Procedure Rule 30 relating to Cleaning Services for Corporate Sites Contract Modification with YBC Cleaning Services Ltd. Link to the Corporate and Resources Committee meeting
• The Corporate and Resources Committee will consider the proposed timetable of Committees, Panels and similar meetings for the 2026/27 Municipal Year. Link to the Corporate and Resources Committee meeting
• The South London Waste Partnership Joint Committee met on Wednesday 26 November 2025. Link to the South London Waste Partnership Joint Committee meeting No video was provided.
• The Blue Badge Appeals Panel met on Friday 28 November 2025 to consider an appeal against the refusal of a Blue Badge. Link to the Blue Badge Appeals Panel meeting No video was provided.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Health Overview and Scrutiny Panel will meet on Tuesday 02 December 2025 to discuss the National 10 Year Health Plan, Neighbourhood Health, and receive a verbal update on changes to the Mental Health Act and public health matters in the borough. Link to the Health Overview and Scrutiny Panel meeting
• The Licensing Sub-Committee will meet on Tuesday 02 December 2025 to review a premises licence and potentially exclude press and public from a portion of the meeting. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting
• The Licensing Sub-Committee will meet on Tuesday 02 December 2025 to consider an application for a new premises licence. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting
• The Pension Fund Panel will meet on Thursday 04 December 2025 to review the fund's investment strategy, performance, administration, governance, and budget. Link to the Pension Fund Panel meeting
• The Licensing Sub-Committee will meet on Tuesday 09 December 2025. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting
• The Surbiton Neighbourhood Committee will meet on Tuesday 09 December 2025. Link to the Surbiton Neighbourhood Committee meeting
• The New and Old Malden Neighbourhood Committee will meet on Thursday 11 December 2025. Link to the New and Old Malden Neighbourhood Committee meeting