This week in Kingston upon Thames:

Late-Night KFC Opening Sparks Fierce Debate Over Noise and Nuisance

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider two controversial applications for new premises licences. The most heated discussion centred on an application for a KFC in Chessington, where residents voiced strong objections to proposed late-night opening hours for deliveries, citing concerns about noise, litter, and anti-social behaviour. The committee ultimately deferred a decision on this application, indicating a need for further deliberation. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

The KFC application at 2-4 North Parade, Chessington, KT9 1QF sought permission for late-night refreshments until 1am Monday to Thursday and 2am on Fridays and Saturdays, with delivery and collection services only after midnight. While the Metropolitan Police withdrew their initial objections after mediation, 15 residents submitted valid representations.

Concerns raised by residents and local councillors, including Councillor Barker, centred on the potential for noise from mopeds and delivery vehicles in a predominantly residential area that becomes very quiet after 11pm. David Williams, a resident, stated, Any disturbance in the street at all, it's very, very noticeable if you're a resident and trying to sleep. He added that the inherent noise of moped engines, particularly when accelerating, would be a significant disruption.

Veronica Whitehead, who lives opposite the proposed KFC, echoed these concerns, noting that even with windows closed, smells from the premises can be an issue. Stella Graham presented video footage from the World Cup period showing lights on and a driver collecting at 1:39 am, questioning the applicant's assurances about the premises appearing closed. Rochelle Cook highlighted ongoing litter problems around the existing KFC, with rubbish frequently blown into her garden.

Piers Warren, representing the applicant K & Z Newhaven Limited, argued that the proposed conditions, including drivers waiting inside the premises and a code of conduct, would mitigate noise and nuisance. He also pointed to the use of electric vehicles and the ability to ban drivers from using the platform if they breached the code of conduct. However, Councillor Barker countered that these measures were not realistic to enforce and that the test run during the World Cup was not representative of normal operating conditions. The committee's decision to defer the KFC application suggests these concerns will be a significant factor in their final judgment.

Pepe's Piri Piri Licence Granted with Amended Hours

In contrast, the Licensing Sub-Committee granted a new premises licence for Pepe's Piri Piri at 46 Tolworth Broadway, Tolworth, KT6 7HR. The applicant agreed to amended hours, with the premises operating as delivery-only after midnight and closing at 1:30 am from Sunday to Thursday, and 2 am on Fridays and Saturdays. While the Metropolitan Police initially raised concerns about crime and disorder, these were withdrawn after the applicant agreed to specific conditions. Two residents also raised concerns about public nuisance, but were unable to attend the hearing. The subcommittee granted the licence with these agreed conditions. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Council Meeting Scheduled for Monday 10 August

A meeting of the Council was scheduled for Monday 10 August 2026. Details regarding the agenda and any decisions made are pending publication by the council. Link to the Council meeting

Licensing Sub-Committee Meeting Cancelled

A Licensing Sub-Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday 11 August 2026 was cancelled. The agenda included an application for a new premises licence for Rasiga in New Malden, which had received representations from residents concerning public nuisance and protection of children from harm. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

This week in Kingston upon Thames:

Key Director Appointment Interviews Held Amidst Confidential Discussions

The Senior Staff Panel met on Monday 20 July 2026, with a primary focus on interviewing candidates for the critical role of Director of Planning and Infrastructure. This position is vital for shaping the borough's future development and ensuring essential infrastructure projects are managed effectively. The outcome of these interviews, and who will ultimately be appointed to this senior role, remains confidential for now. Link to the Senior Staff Panel meeting

The panel, comprising senior councillors including Councillor Andreas Kirsch (Leader of the Council), Councillor Emily Davey (Portfolio Holder for Housing), Councillor James Giles (Leader of the Kingston Independent Residents' Group), Councillor Sabah Hamed (Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Equalities), and Councillor Nicola Nardelli (Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Transport and Waste and Recycling), was tasked with assessing candidates for this high-stakes appointment. The meeting agenda included standard procedural items before moving to the interviews.

A significant portion of the meeting was also dedicated to considering the exclusion of the press and public. This was done under Section 100(A)(4) of the Local Government Act 1972, which allows for the exclusion of information that is likely to be exempt. The council stated that the public interest in maintaining this exemption outweighed the public interest in disclosure. This suggests that sensitive information regarding the recruitment process or other council business was discussed.

The Licensing Sub-Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday 21 July 2026 was cancelled. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

This week in Kingston upon Thames:

Climate Action Debate Stalls as Council Meeting Fails to Proceed

A crucial Council meeting scheduled for Tuesday 14 July 2026 was unable to proceed with its planned agenda, meaning key decisions on climate action, the Blue Badge appeals process, and health governance were postponed. The meeting was intended to address the urgent need for more government action on climate change, a review of the Blue Badge appeals process, and the re-establishment of the Health and Wellbeing Board. Link to the Council meeting

The most significant item on the original agenda was a motion calling for increased government action on climate change. Proposed by Councillor Mike Massimi, Portfolio Holder for Climate Action, Biodiversity and Regulatory Services, the motion highlighted the impacts of recent heatwaves and Kingston Council's commitment to tackling the climate emergency. It sought to lobby the government for increased funding to address climate change impacts on infrastructure, health, and green spaces. An amendment from Councillor James Giles, Leader of the Kingston Independent Residents' Group, aimed to add further resolutions, including the publication of a heat resilience action plan and a review of the tree planting programme. However, with the meeting unable to proceed, these important discussions and potential decisions were put on hold.

Blue Badge Appeals Process Under Review

The Council was also set to consider recommendations from the Corporate and Resources Committee regarding the Blue Badge appeals process. The proposal was to move away from the current member-led appeals panel to an outsourced, single-stage review. Proponents argued this would streamline the process and achieve efficiency savings. However, concerns were raised by opposition councillors, including Councillor James Giles, about a potential gap in service for disabled residents and the lack of consultation with relevant disability groups. Councillor Giles proposed an amendment to delay implementation and require a performance report, highlighting worries about fairness and continuity of service. The postponement of this decision means the future of the appeals process for Blue Badge holders remains uncertain.

Health Governance Changes Delayed

Changes to health governance, including the re-establishment of a separate Health and Wellbeing Board, were also on the agenda. The Corporate and Resources Committee had recommended this move to better align with national policy and ensure sufficient capacity for statutory responsibilities. Councillor James Giles had proposed an amendment to the board's membership to ensure better representation for opposition groups. The inability of the Council meeting to proceed means these important structural changes to how health and wellbeing are governed locally are now delayed.

Planning Committee Approves University Teaching Building, Refuses Care Home

The Planning Committee met on Thursday 16 July 2026 and made decisions on three significant planning applications. The committee approved the demolition of student accommodation at Middle Mill Halls of Residence, Portland Road to make way for a new five-storey teaching building for Kingston University. They also approved the removal of a condition restricting the use of two flats at 3 The Mall, Surbiton from being converted into Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). However, an application for an 80-bed residential care home at Hobkirk House, 109 Blagdon Road, New Malden was refused. Link to the Planning Committee meeting

Kingston University Expansion Moves Forward

The approval for Kingston University's new teaching building at Middle Mill Halls of Residence will see the demolition of existing student accommodation to make way for a 4,827sqm facility for the Kingston School of Art. While the application attracted significant objections from residents and the Kingston Town Society regarding the building's height, scale, and impact on heritage assets, officers recommended approval. They argued that the benefits of modernising the university's estate and future-proofing its educational facilities outweighed the low to moderate harm to heritage assets. The university stated the new building is essential for maintaining its status as a world-leading art school and will provide enhanced spaces for students and civic events.

HMO Restrictions Removed for Surbiton Flats

The committee voted to remove a condition that had previously prevented two new flats at 3 The Mall, Surbiton, from being used as Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). Officers argued the condition did not meet the necessary tests for planning conditions, citing a lack of evidence of over-concentration of HMOs in the area and the importance of HMOs for local housing needs. They also noted that the existing property was already licensed as a seven-person HMO without significant issues. Objectors, including Mr. Harry Wilder and Councillor Olly Wehring, argued that removing the condition undermined the council's previous decision and would lead to a loss of family housing, potentially increasing occupancy to 12 people without proper assessment. Despite these concerns, the committee approved the removal of the condition.

New Care Home Application Refused

An application for an 80-bed residential care home at Hobkirk House, New Malden, was refused by the Planning Committee. The application, which had been recommended for approval by officers, attracted significant public objection due to concerns about the building's height, scale, massing, design, and impact on neighbouring amenity, parking, and servicing. Residents argued the proposed building was too large and out of character with the surrounding residential area. Councillor Roger Hayes proposed refusal on grounds of excessive scale, discordant design, and negative impact on heritage assets, which was seconded by Councillor Ian George. The committee voted to refuse the application based on these grounds.

Former Councillors Honoured as Honorary Aldermen

A special meeting of the Council was held on Tuesday 14 July 2026 to confer the title of Honorary Alderman on two former councillors, Liz Green and Diane White. This honour recognises their significant service to the borough. Link to the Council meeting

Both former councillors have served for over 12 years and have indicated they will not seek re-election. The title of Honorary Alderman is a civic honour bestowed upon individuals who have rendered eminent service to the council. The formal installation will take place at the next council meeting on 13 October 2026.

Council Constitution Review Underway

The Constitution of Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames committee met on Friday 17 July 2026 to review the council's governing document. The Constitution outlines how the council operates, makes decisions, and engages with the public. The committee examined various parts of the document, including its introduction, articles, responsibility for functions, rules of procedure, codes of conduct, and members' allowances scheme. Recent revisions noted include updates related to the disestablishment of the Blue Badge Appeals Panel and the re-establishment of the Health and Wellbeing Board. Link to the Constitution of Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames meeting

This week in Kingston upon Thames:

Mental Health Act Reforms: A Major Overhaul for Patient Rights and Treatment

The Health Overview and Scrutiny Panel met on Thursday 9 July 2026 to discuss significant upcoming changes to the Mental Health Act 2025 and the Mental Capacity Act. These reforms, rolling out over the next decade, aim to modernise mental health legislation, giving patients greater autonomy and addressing inequalities. The impact on local services and residents, particularly vulnerable groups, is substantial. Link to the Health Overview and Scrutiny Panel meeting

Key changes to the Mental Health Act include:

• Stricter Detention Criteria: Individuals will only be detained if they pose a serious risk of harm and will benefit from hospital treatment. This aims to prevent unnecessary detentions.
• Focus on Community Support: People with autism or learning disabilities will no longer be detained under Section 3 of the Act unless they have a co-occurring mental illness. The focus will shift to community-based alternatives.
• Patient Choice: The Nearest Relative role is being replaced by a Nominated Person, allowing patients more say in who represents them. Patients can also create Advanced Choice Documents outlining future treatment preferences.
• Increased Advocacy: Independent Mental Health Advocates (IMHAs) will be automatically offered to patients, enhancing their rights and support.
• Safer Places of Safety: Police stations and prisons will no longer be used as places of safety for those in mental health crisis, directing individuals to health-based settings instead. This could increase demand on local crisis teams.

Officers from Adult Social Care and South West London and St George's Mental Health NHS Trust (SWLSTG) explained that these reforms require significant workforce training and potential expansion. The full impact and resourcing plans will become clearer as a new Code of Practice is developed.

Mental Capacity Act: Liberty Protection Safeguards Disrupted

The panel also received an update on changes to the Mental Capacity Act, specifically concerning the Liberty Protection Safeguards (LPS). A recent UK Supreme Court judgment has significantly altered the definition of deprivation of liberty. Previously, individuals lacking capacity could be deprived of their liberty even if content, based on the Cheshire West ruling. The new judgment requires a more nuanced, multifactorial assessment, allowing individuals to consent to their care arrangements if they express contentment and no objection, even if they lack legal capacity.

This change means Kingston Council and SWLSTG are adapting their processes, continuing to operate under existing safeguards while navigating the new ruling. The fundamental processes for supporting individuals with learning disabilities are expected to remain similar, with a continued multi-agency approach to safeguarding.

Christmas Tree Sales Approved for King Charles Road

The Licensing Sub-Committee granted a temporary street trading licence for the sale of Christmas trees on King Charles Road, Surbiton, from 27 November to 15 December 2026. The licence allows trading between 7am and 5pm daily on the grass area adjacent to Alexandra Recreation Playground. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

The applicant, Mr. Kyle Hyams of Coffee on the Corner Surbiton LTD, has operated this seasonal sale for several years, highlighting its community benefits, including charitable donations and the creation of a local tradition. Despite two objections from residents concerning safety and the appropriateness of commercial activity overlooking a play area, the subcommittee granted the licence. Mr. Hyams assured the committee that any Christmas lighting would be contained within private premises and that trees would not be stored overnight on public property. The decision was made after considering the council's street trading policy and the London Local Authorities Act 1990.

Major Redevelopments Approved by Planning Committee

The Planning Committee met on Wednesday 8 July 2026, approving three significant planning applications that will reshape parts of the borough. Link to the Planning Committee meeting

Surbiton Library to Get Greener with Air Source Heat Pumps

Permission was granted for the installation of three air source heat pumps at Surbiton Library. The pumps will be enclosed by railings on the rear roof, alongside the relocation of existing solar panels. An objection from a resident of the library's first-floor flats concerning potential noise was addressed by agreeing to an additional condition for a post-installation noise measurement at the flats themselves. This ensures residents receive the same protection as other neighbours.

Kingston Hospital Site to Become 150 New Homes

The former Regent Wing at Kingston Hospital will be demolished and redeveloped into 150 build-to-rent residential apartments. The approved scheme includes communal spaces, landscaping, and blue badge parking. A key aspect of the decision was the disapplication of the standard late-stage review for affordable housing contributions. Instead, the applicant will make a £2.25 million upfront payment, a move supported by officers as providing greater certainty and accelerating delivery. Councillor Roger Hayes proposed an amendment to the Section 106 agreement to bring forward the early-stage review to 18 months, ensuring timely construction. This development promises significant housing delivery, with a focus on sustainability and accessible design.

Mixed-Use Development at 7A The Triangle Approved

A new mixed-use building at 7A The Triangle, Kingston Upon Thames has been approved. The development will feature commercial space on the ground floor and 34 residential flats above, stepping from three to five storeys. The scheme is car-free, with extensive cycle parking and electric vehicle charging points. It includes significant public realm improvements and landscaping, removing a hostile boundary to the adjacent Dickeridge Road recreation ground. The development aims for a 68% carbon reduction beyond building regulations and a 63.17% biodiversity net gain. While the proposal offers no on-site affordable housing due to viability constraints, a £100,000 contribution towards enhancements at the Dickeridge Road recreation ground has been secured.

KFC Premises Licence Granted with Amended Hours and Conditions

The Licensing Sub-Committee granted a new premises licence for KFC at Dawson House, 131-135 High Street, New Malden, with amended hours and additional conditions. The application sought to extend late-night refreshments until midnight Sunday-Thursday and 1am Friday-Saturday, with a delivery and collection service only after midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Despite objections from residents and Councillor James Giles concerning noise, odour, litter, and potential crime and disorder, the subcommittee granted the licence. The granted hours for late-night refreshment are 11pm to midnight Sunday-Thursday, and 11pm to 1am Friday-Saturday. Crucially, after midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, the premises will operate as a delivery and collection service only, with no customer access.

Additional conditions were imposed, including:

• Delivery drivers to park at the front of the premises after 11pm and wait inside after midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
• Adherence to a code of conduct for delivery drivers to minimise noise and litter.
• Regular litter patrols in the final hour before closing.
• Extraction and ventilation systems to be maintained and attenuated.
• Foyer lights to be turned off after midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
• Maintenance of an incident log and CCTV system.
• Staff training on safety and policy.
• Provision of a direct contact number for residents to report concerns.

The decision reflects a balance between the applicant's operational needs and the council's commitment to preventing public nuisance and crime.

Blue Badge Appeals Panel Meets to Review Refusals

The Blue Badge Appeals Panel met on Friday 10 July 2026 to consider appeals against the refusal of Blue Badges. The panel reviewed four individual appeals in private due to the sensitive nature of the information involved. Link to the Blue Badge Appeals Panel meeting

The panel's role is to ensure the correct procedures were followed during the initial assessment and internal review stages. If procedural irregularities are found, cases are referred back for reassessment. If the process is deemed sound, the original decision is upheld. The panel also confirmed the minutes of its previous meeting.