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Merton: Off-licence decision, health, budget
This week in Merton:
Licensing Board Weighs Alcohol Sales in Mitcham Town Centre Amidst Public Safety Concerns
The Licensing Sub-Committee convened on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, to consider a contentious application for a new off-licence, VJ's Off Licence, at 256 London Road, CR4 3HD. This decision carries significant weight for the safety and well-being of residents in the Mitcham Town Centre, an area already designated as a Cumulative Impact Zone (CIZ) due to persistent issues with alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour.
The Application: A New Off-Licence in a Sensitive Area
The applicant, Mr Vijaykumar Patel, proposed to sell alcohol for off-site consumption between 09:00 and 22:30 daily. While Mr Patel presented a vision for a boutique artisanal deli
focusing on premium products, the Metropolitan Police Service lodged a formal objection. Their concerns, shared across all four licensing objectives[^3] – the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm – highlighted the ongoing challenges of street drinking, littering, and public urination in the area. Police Sergeant Matt Bower stated his professional opinion that granting the licence would exacerbate these problems and hinder the police's efforts to improve the community.
Mitigating Measures and Resident Concerns
In response to the police objection, Mr Patel offered a comprehensive list of 28 conditions to be included in the operating schedule. These included:
- Not stocking or selling alcohol above 7.5% ABV.
- Implementing a strict
Challenge 25
[^4] policy and maintaining a refusal register. - Displaying prominent signage against street drinking.
- Ensuring staff training on responsible alcohol sales.
- Maintaining CCTV with a 31-day retention period.
Despite these proposed measures, the proximity of the proposed premises to a rehabilitation facility and a food bank, which serve vulnerable individuals, raised further concerns about the potential impact on the community. The decision by the Licensing Sub-Committee will directly affect the daily lives of residents, potentially influencing the level of public nuisance and safety in Mitcham.
Health and Wellbeing Board Focuses on Healthier Environments and Better Care
The Merton Council Health and Wellbeing Board met on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, to discuss critical initiatives aimed at improving residents' health and the local environment. The meeting addressed the Merton Better Care Fund and the Healthy Places actions dashboard,
underscoring the council's commitment to proactive health and social care strategies.
Enhancing Local Environments for Better Health
A key focus was the Healthy Places actions dashboard,
which outlines steps being taken to create healthier living environments across Merton. These actions are designed to have a tangible impact on residents' daily lives, from improving air quality to increasing access to green spaces. The Board's input on these initiatives is crucial for ensuring they effectively meet the needs of the community, particularly for vulnerable groups who may be disproportionately affected by environmental factors.
Better Care Fund: Improving Health and Social Services
The Board also reviewed the Q3 report for the Merton Better Care Fund. This fund is vital for integrating health and social care services, aiming to provide more seamless and effective support for residents, especially the elderly and those with long-term health conditions. The report likely detailed progress in achieving these integration goals and the outcomes for those receiving care.
Overview and Scrutiny Committee Examines Budget, Temporary Accommodation, and Work Programme
The Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, to scrutinise the council's budget, its significant spend on temporary accommodation, and its future work programme. This committee plays a vital role in holding the council's executive to account and ensuring services are delivered effectively and efficiently.
Budgetary Pressures and Savings
The committee reviewed the council's budget, noting that further savings of £1.3 million were being discussed, bringing the total to £8.3 million. A significant challenge remains in identifying an additional £1.744 million before the February Budget Council. The committee heard that financial pressures, particularly in social care and temporary accommodation, are a borough-wide and national concern. While the Cabinet Member assured that the Budget Council would offer a full opportunity for scrutiny, concerns were raised about the pace of identifying savings and the potential impact on services.
The Cost of Homelessness: Temporary Accommodation Overspend
A major point of discussion was the substantial overspend of almost £7 million on temporary accommodation during 2024/25. The committee learned that the primary drivers for this increase include the end of assured short-hold tenancies, a rise in Section 21 evictions, and complex reasons for evictions by family and friends. The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 has also expanded the council's responsibilities in supporting those fleeing domestic abuse. While the anticipated Renters' Rights Act may reduce the need for temporary accommodation, uncertainty remains about its broader impact on the private rental market. This overspend directly impacts the council's ability to fund other essential services and highlights the ongoing crisis in housing affordability.
Shaping Future Scrutiny
The committee agreed on its work programme for the upcoming year and discussed potential topics for future review, including the Equality, Diversity & Inclusion strategy and the Scrutiny Annual Report. The committee also decided not to refer a previous decision back to Cabinet, provided an overarching Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was noted at the next Cabinet meeting. This decision-making process ensures that scrutiny functions effectively and that important issues are thoroughly examined.
Other Matters
Community Forums Discuss Local Issues
Several community forums took place this week, providing platforms for residents to engage with local councillors and police. The Raynes Park Community Forum on Thursday, March 12, 2026, was scheduled to discuss local policing, planning applications, and community projects. Similarly, the Morden Community Forum on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, was set to address housing delivery targets and a proposal for a new community garden. These forums are essential for ensuring local government remains connected to the needs and concerns of residents in their neighbourhoods.
Sustainable Communities Panel Reviews Regeneration and Housing
The Sustainable Communities Overview and Scrutiny Panel met on Monday, March 9, 2026, to review Merton's regeneration efforts and the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). The HRA is a critical financial account for local authorities managing their housing stock, and its review is vital for understanding investment in council housing and its impact on tenants. The panel also examined performance monitoring reports and the council's action log, ensuring accountability and progress on agreed actions.
View the Sustainable Communities Overview and Scrutiny Panel meeting details
View the Raynes Park Community Forum meeting details
View the Morden Community Forum meeting details
Upcoming Meetings
- The Joint Consultative Committee with Ethnic Minority Organisations is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 17 March 2026. View the agenda
- The Cabinet is scheduled to meet on Monday 16 March 2026. View the agenda
- The Development and Planning Applications Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday 19 March 2026. View the agenda
Merton Budget Decisions: Council Tax & Services at Stake
This week in Merton:
Council Debates Crucial Budget for 2026-27: Services and Council Tax on the Line
Merton Council convened on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, for a pivotal meeting to decide the borough's budget for the upcoming year and its financial strategy for the next four years. This is where the real impact on residents is felt, as decisions made here will directly influence the funding for essential services, from social care and education to waste collection and park maintenance. The Council meeting http://opencouncil.network/meetings/96808 also addressed the Pay Policy Statement, the Members Allowances Scheme, and the recruitment of Chief Officers.
The Budget: Balancing Needs and Resources
The core of the meeting was the presentation and debate of the Budget for 2026-27 and the Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for 2026-30. This is the council's financial roadmap, outlining how it plans to raise money through council tax and other sources, and how it will spend it on services. For residents, this means potential changes to council tax bills and, crucially, the level and quality of services they receive. Decisions on the budget can have a significant impact on vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income families, who often rely most heavily on council support.
The agenda included various supporting documents, such as the Council Budget Report Appendices and Sections FINAL, and amendments proposed by the Liberal Democrats Liberal Democrat Budget Amendment 2026 FC 2 and the Conservatives Conservative budget amendment. These amendments signal potential disagreements on how best to allocate resources and manage the council's finances.
Pay Policy and Councillor Allowances
The meeting also considered the Pay Policy Statement for 2026 ITEM 03. Pay Policy Statement 2026. This document sets out the council's approach to the pay of its senior staff, which can influence overall staff costs and, by extension, the resources available for frontline services. Alongside this, the Members Allowances Scheme for 2026-27 Members Allowances Scheme 202627 was reviewed, detailing the remuneration for councillors.
Chief Officers and Independent Person
Discussions also touched upon the recruitment of Chief Officers Full Council - Recruitmt of new chief officers 25Feb26, the senior leadership positions within the council, and the role of an Independent Person 260225 - Council - Independent Person, who provides an impartial perspective on council matters.
Wimbledon Community Forum: Local Updates and Resident Voices
The Wimbledon Community Forum met on Monday, February 23, 2026, to discuss local initiatives and provide a platform for residents to voice their concerns. While the meeting's information status is pending council publication, these forums are vital for connecting local government with the everyday realities of residents.
Love Wimbledon and the Merton Legacy Fund
The forum was scheduled to receive an update from Love Wimbledon, an organisation dedicated to improving the town centre. This would have provided insight into ongoing efforts to enhance the local economy and public spaces. Additionally, the Merton Legacy Fund, which supports community projects, was on the agenda. Decisions regarding this fund directly impact local charities and community groups working to improve the borough.
Open Forum for Residents
A key element of the forum was the open forum, offering residents a direct channel to raise issues and ask questions of their local representatives. This is a crucial mechanism for ensuring that the council remains responsive to the needs and priorities of the community.
Other Matters
The Development and Planning Applications Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday, February 26, 2026, was cancelled.
Upcoming Meetings
- The Mitcham Community Forum is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 03 March 2026. View the agenda
- The Children and Young People Overview and Scrutiny Panel is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 04 March 2026. View the agenda
- The Merton and Sutton Joint Cemetery Board is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 04 March 2026. View the agenda
- The Healthier Communities and Older People Overview and Scrutiny Panel is scheduled to meet on Thursday 05 March 2026. View the agenda
- The Sustainable Communities Overview and Scrutiny Panel is scheduled to meet on Monday 09 March 2026. View the agenda
- The Morden Community Forum is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 10 March 2026. View the agenda
- The Health and Wellbeing Board is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 10 March 2026. View the agenda
- The Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 11 March 2026. View the agenda
- The Raynes Park Community Forum is scheduled to meet on Thursday 12 March 2026. View the agenda
Merton Council: Budget, Climate & Community Funds
This week in Merton:
Council Cabinet Grapples with Budget and Climate Action
Merton Council's Cabinet met on Monday, February 16, 2026, to tackle crucial decisions impacting the borough's finances and environmental future. The meeting, which included discussions on the Budget 2026/27 and MTFS 2026-30 http://opencouncil.network/meetings/95986, and Merton's Climate Delivery Plan - Year 6, signals a busy period for council planning.
Financial Tightrope: Balancing the Books
The core of the Cabinet's financial discussions revolved around the council's budget for the upcoming year and its financial strategy for the next four years. This is not just about numbers on a page; it directly affects the services residents rely on. Decisions made here will shape funding for everything from libraries and parks to social care and waste collection. The Period 9 Financial Monitoring Report also provided an update on how the council is performing against its budget so far this financial year.
Climate Action: A Year of Progress and Future Plans
The Merton's Climate Delivery Plan - Year 6 report highlighted the council's ongoing commitment to tackling the climate emergency. Eleanor Stringer, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Civic Pride and Climate Change, would have been central to these discussions. These plans are vital for the long-term health and sustainability of our borough, impacting everything from air quality to flood resilience.
Community Funding and Local Initiatives
The Civic Pride Investing in Neighbourhoods and Community Climate Action Funds 2025 bid approvals were also on the agenda. This is where council funds are directed to support local projects that enhance our communities and tackle climate change at a grassroots level. These decisions directly impact the vibrancy and resilience of our neighbourhoods.
Sports Development and Local Events
A discussion on the Borough of Sport initiative, including a potential Merton half-marathon,
was also planned. Caroline Cooper-Marbiah, Cabinet Member for Sport and Heritage, would have been involved. Such events can boost community spirit and encourage healthy lifestyles, but also require careful planning and resource allocation.
Planning Regulations and Housing Changes
The meeting was also set to discuss Article 4 Directions, specifically concerning the extension of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) controls and borough-wide landlord licensing. This is a complex area of planning law that can significantly affect housing availability and the character of our neighbourhoods.
Fees and Charges Review
A review of Fees and Charges was on the agenda, meaning the cost of various council services could be adjusted. Stephen Alambritis MBE, Cabinet Member for Finance and Corporate Services, would have been involved. Any changes here can impact household budgets, particularly for those on lower incomes.
Technology and Council Operations
The Microsoft Enterprise Agreement was also listed for discussion, indicating a review of the council's technology infrastructure and software licensing.
Morden Community Forum Addresses Local Concerns
The Morden Community Forum met on Thursday, February 19, 2026, providing a platform for local residents to engage with council representatives. While the information status is pending scraping, these forums are crucial for understanding neighbourhood-specific issues and ensuring local voices are heard. Deputy Mayor Shuile Syeda was in attendance.
Other Matters
The Development and Planning Applications Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday, February 26, 2026, was cancelled.
Upcoming Meetings
- The Wimbledon Community Forum is scheduled to meet on Monday 23 February 2026. View the agenda
- The Merton and Sutton Joint Cemetery Board is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 24 February 2026. View the agenda
- The Council is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 25 February 2026. View the agenda
- The Mitcham Community Forum is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 03 March 2026. View the agenda
- The Children and Young People Overview and Scrutiny Panel is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 04 March 2026. View the agenda
- The Healthier Communities and Older People Overview and Scrutiny Panel is scheduled to meet on Thursday 05 March 2026. View the agenda
Merton Council Meeting: What happened?
This week in Merton:
Cabinet Meeting Held: Details Unavailable
The Cabinet met on Monday, December 15, 2025 http://opencouncil.network/meetings/89893. Unfortunately, no video or transcript of the meeting is currently available.
Merton Pension Fund Passes £1 Billion Amidst Volatility
This week in Merton:
Pension Fund Exceeds £1 Billion Amidst Market Volatility
The Merton Council Pensions Committee convened on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, to assess the fund's performance, investment strategies, and administrative effectiveness http://opencouncil.network/meetings/89011. A key highlight was the fund's growth to £1.021 billion, alongside discussions on investment performance and future strategies.
Fund Performance: A Mixed Bag
The committee reviewed the Merton Pension Fund's performance for the quarter ending September 2025, as detailed in the Merton Pension Fund Performance Report - Sept 2025.
- Growth: The fund's total assets increased by £33 million during the quarter, reaching £1.021 billion.
- Returns: The fund achieved an absolute return of +4.1%, outperforming its aggregate benchmark by 0.4% for the quarter.
- Longer-Term Lag: Over 12 months and 3 years, the fund's performance lagged behind its benchmark, with relative returns of -0.5% and -2.3% per annum, respectively.
- Actuarial Target: The fund outperformed the actuarial target over 3 months, 12 months, and 3 years.
The Quarterly Performance Review included analysis from Hymans Robertson, the fund's investment and performance consultants. Their Q3 2025 Investment Monitoring Report noted that global equities gained 8.1% due to easing trade tensions, Q2 corporate earnings, AI momentum, resilient growth data and the Federal Reserve's first rate cut of the year.
Behind Closed Doors: Public Excluded from Key Discussions
The committee resolved to exclude the public from discussions on the investment review update, quarterly fund and investment managers performance review, and pension administration performance report. This decision was justified under the Local Government Act 1972, citing the confidential nature of the information.
Other Matters
The agenda also included items such as future meeting dates, an investment review update, an update on pool engagement, and a review of pension administration performance. However, details of these discussions are not available due to the public exclusion.
Other Meetings
The Morden Community Forum scheduled for Tuesday, December 9, 2025, and the Development and Planning Applications Committee scheduled for Thursday, December 11, 2025, were both cancelled.
Upcoming Meetings
- The Cabinet is scheduled to meet on Monday 15 December 2025. View the agenda
Raynes Park Community Forum - Thursday 12 March 2026 6.30 pm
The Raynes Park Community Forum was scheduled to discuss local policing, planning applications, and updates on community projects. The meeting was also set to include an open forum for residents to raise concerns and updates from local councillors.
Licensing Sub-Committee - Wednesday 11 March 2026 3.30 pm
The Licensing Sub-Committee of Merton Council was scheduled to consider an application for a new premises licence for VJ's Off Licence, located at 256 London Road, CR4 3HD. The meeting's agenda focused solely on this application, with no other items scheduled for discussion.
Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Wednesday 11 March 2026 7.15 pm
The Overview and Scrutiny Committee of Merton Council met on Wednesday 11 March 2026 to discuss the council's budget and business plan, temporary accommodation spend, and the work programme. The committee resolved not to refer a previous decision back to Cabinet, provided an overarching Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was noted at the next Cabinet meeting.
North East Surrey Crematorium Board - Tuesday 10 March 2026 10.30 am
We have not been able to find a video broadcast of this meeting.
Morden Community Forum - Tuesday 10 March 2026 7.15 pm
The Morden Community Forum was scheduled to consider a report on the council's progress in delivering its housing targets and to discuss a proposal for a new community garden. The meeting was also set to include an update on local policing initiatives.
Health and Wellbeing Board - Tuesday 10 March 2026 6.15 pm
The Merton Council Health and Wellbeing Board is scheduled to consider updates on the Merton Better Care Fund and actions related to creating healthier environments. The meeting will also include discussions on the Health and Wellbeing Strategy.
Sustainable Communities Overview and Scrutiny Panel - Monday, 9 March 2026 - 7.15 pm
The Sustainable Communities Overview and Scrutiny Panel is scheduled to consider several key reports, including an update on Merton's regeneration efforts and a detailed look at the Housing Revenue Account. The panel will also review performance monitoring reports and the council's action log.
Healthier Communities and Older People Overview and Scrutiny Panel - Thursday 5 March 2026 7.15 pm
The Healthier Communities and Older People Overview and Scrutiny Panel of Merton Council was scheduled to discuss the impact of changes to the Integrated Care Board (ICB) on health and care systems, an action plan for healthy weight, and dementia care services. The panel was also due to review its work programme for the upcoming year.
Merton and Sutton Joint Cemetery Board - Wednesday 4 March 2026 2.00 pm
The Merton and Sutton Joint Cemetery Board met on Wednesday 04 March 2026 to review the council's operational and project activities at the Merton and Sutton Joint Cemetery (MSJC) and to approve financial estimates for the upcoming year. Key decisions included the approval of the client-side report, the adoption of three meetings per annum for the next financial year, and the setting of zero precepts for the financial year ending March 2027.
Children and Young People Overview and Scrutiny Panel - Wednesday 4 March 2026 7.15 pm
The Children and Young People Overview and Scrutiny Panel of Merton Council was scheduled to discuss childhood immunisations, the Corporate Parenting Annual Report for 2024/25, and the Education Standards Report, among other departmental updates and performance monitoring items. The meeting's agenda also included a review of the department's work programme.
Cabinet - Monday 16 March 2026 7.15 pm
The Cabinet of Merton Council is scheduled to consider a range of important strategies and programmes at its upcoming meeting. Key discussions are expected to focus on the council's approach to active travel, its fleet management, and significant capital investment in highways and flood risk management.
Joint Consultative Committee with Ethnic Minority Organisations - Tuesday 17 March 2026 6.00 pm
We do not yet have a summary for this meeting. Since it is in the future, this may be because we have not yet processed it. Please check back later.
Development and Planning Applications Committee - Thursday 19 March 2026 7.15 pm
The Development and Planning Applications Committee of Merton Council is scheduled to consider two planning applications for new developments. The committee will also review recent planning appeal decisions.
Annual Council, Council - Wednesday 20 May 2026 7.15 pm
We do not yet have a summary for this meeting. Since it is in the future, this may be because we have not yet processed it. Please check back later.