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Merton: Mitcham alcohol sales decision delayed
This week in Merton:
Licensing Sub-Committee Meeting Postponed: Key Decision on Alcohol Sales in Mitcham Delayed
A crucial meeting of the Licensing Sub-Committee, scheduled for Thursday, April 23, 2026, was postponed. The committee was set to consider a significant application to vary the premises licence for Friends Food & Wine, located at 172b Church Road, Mitcham, CR4 3BW. This decision held considerable weight for the local community, particularly concerning public safety and the prevention of alcohol-related disorder.
The Application: Extended Hours and Condition Changes
The applicant, Mr Velautham Sivakumar, sought to extend the hours for the sale of alcohol for consumption off the premises from the current 07:00 to 23:00 daily to a much later 07:00 to 01:00 the following day, seven days a week. Furthermore, the application proposed the removal of three specific conditions from the existing licence:
- No beers, lagers, or ciders above 6% ABV to be sold.
- No single cans or bottles of beer, lager, or cider to be sold.
- No spirits to be sold in bottles of less than 20cl.
These proposed changes are particularly concerning as the premises is situated within the Mitcham Cumulative Impact Zone (CIZ). Merton's Cumulative Impact Policy1 is specifically designed to address issues of crime, disorder, public nuisance, and public safety that arise from a high concentration of licensed premises.
Objections Raised: Police and Licensing Authority Concerns
Both the Licensing Authority and the Metropolitan Police Service submitted representations opposing the application. The Metropolitan Police argued that extending the hours and removing the existing conditions would directly undermine the licensing objectives, specifically the prevention of crime and disorder and the prevention of public nuisance. They highlighted that the current conditions were put in place to combat street drinking, anti-social behaviour, and crime, and their removal would likely lead to an increase in these issues. The police also pointed out that extending alcohol sales until 01:00 within a CIZ would coincide with peak policing demand and extend opportunities for vulnerable individuals to consume alcohol.
The Licensing Authority echoed these concerns, stating that the application failed to address the Cumulative Impact Policy. They noted that the applicant's justification for the changes, citing competition from neighbouring businesses, is not a relevant consideration for promoting licensing objectives. The authority concluded that this was an alcohol-led proposal that would deliberately add to the cumulative impact in the area by increasing the availability of alcohol often favoured by street drinkers.
Applicant's Case: Business Survival
The applicant's statement argued that the requested changes were essential for the business's survival and its ability to compete with other local premises. Mr Sivakumar stated that he had maintained a good record since becoming the licence holder and Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS), with no breaches of licensing objectives. He also indicated that a robust set of conditions would remain in place to promote the licensing objectives.
The Licensing Sub-Committee was scheduled to consider these competing arguments and determine the application. The potential outcomes could have significantly impacted the local environment, affecting the safety and well-being of residents, particularly those in the vicinity of the premises. The postponement means this decision, and its potential real-world consequences, are now delayed.
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Cumulative Impact Policy (CIP): A policy adopted by a local authority under the Licensing Act 2003. It identifies areas where the number of licensed premises is causing or is likely to cause a disproportionate level of crime, disorder, public nuisance, or harm to children. In such areas, the council may adopt a policy that applications for new licences or variations to existing licences that are likely to add to the cumulative impact will be refused unless the applicant can demonstrate that their proposals will not have such an effect. ↩
Merton Council approves net-zero fleet and active travel plans
This week in Merton:
- The Cabinet met to discuss the Merton Legacy Fund, the council's fleet strategy, and active travel plans.
- The Joint Consultative Committee with Ethnic Minority Organisations was scheduled to discuss the council's strategy for tackling Violence Against Women and Girls.
Cabinet - Monday 16 March 2026
The Merton Council Cabinet met on Monday 16 March 2026 to discuss a range of significant initiatives. Key decisions included the approval of the Merton Fleet Strategy 2026-2030, which aims to transition the council's vehicle fleet to net-zero emissions by 2030, and the adoption of Merton's first Walking, Wheeling & Cycling Strategy (WWCS) for 2026-2035, designed to promote active travel. The Cabinet also reviewed the Period 10 financial monitoring report for 2025/26 and considered capital expenditure for the Highways Capital Programme 2026/27.
Merton Legacy Fund Update
The Cabinet received an update on the Merton Legacy Fund, a £15 million initiative funded by capital receipts from the sale of CHAS in 2023. This fund is earmarked for major capital projects intended to leave a lasting legacy in Merton. The report indicated that a public vote had identified Breathing new life into public spaces
as the most popular theme. Projects under this theme include the development of rain gardens, enhancements to the Womble-themed library, additional street lighting, outdoor gyms, park playground upgrades, a pump track in Morden Park, a basketball court, and community co-designed park improvements. This fund represents a significant investment in enhancing the borough's public realm and community facilities.
Merton Fleet Strategy 2026-2030
A key decision was the proposed Merton Fleet Strategy 2026-2030. This strategy outlines the council's commitment to achieving net-zero emissions for its fleet by 2030. It encompasses council-owned vehicles, contract-operated service vehicles, and hired vehicles. The strategy includes a phased procurement plan for up to 147 vehicles between 2025 and 2030, with an approved capital allocation of £18.67 million. Crucially, it also addresses the development of essential charging infrastructure, with plans for new charging stations at the Civic Centre and the redevelopment of the Amenity Way depot. The Cabinet recommended the approval of the Fleet Strategy and the expenditure of £15,879,510 on fleet vehicles, a significant step towards environmental sustainability.
Walking, Wheeling & Cycling Strategy
The Cabinet was set to consider the adoption of Merton's first Walking, Wheeling & Cycling Strategy (WWCS) for the period 2026-2035. This strategy aims to make active travel a more appealing and accessible option for all residents. Developed through extensive public consultation, the strategy incorporates new action themes such as Safer walking, wheeling and cycling journeys
and Active Travel and Green Spaces.
A capital allocation of £1.8 million has been set aside within Merton's approved Capital Programme to support the initial three years of the strategy's implementation. This initiative aligns with national and local efforts to promote healthier lifestyles and reduce carbon emissions.
Highways Capital Programme 2026/27
The Cabinet was asked to approve capital expenditure of £5.316 million for the 2026/27 Highways Capital Work Programme. This programme focuses on carriageway and footway renewal, street lighting improvements, and works on bridges and structures. The report emphasised the importance of the highway network as Merton's most valuable asset. The proposed programme aims to shift towards a planned maintenance approach, moving away from reactive repairs, in line with the 'Well Managed Highway Infrastructure' Code of Practice and Merton's Highway Asset Management Plan. Funding for this programme includes Merton's capital allocation and £1.544 million from the Department for Transport (DfT) Highways Maintenance Block.
Local Flood Risk Management Strategy and Surface Water Management Plan
The meeting was scheduled to address the adoption of Merton's Local Flood Risk Management Strategy (LFRMS) and an updated Surface Water Management Plan (SWMP). These documents detail the council's approach to managing flood risk over the next decade. The LFRMS clarifies responsibilities for flood risk management, while the SWMP identifies areas vulnerable to surface water flooding and outlines actions to mitigate this risk, including the use of sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) and nature-based solutions. Both plans have been developed with input from public consultation.
Period 10 Financial Monitoring Report
The Cabinet received the period 10 financial monitoring report for 2025/26. The report indicated a forecast revenue underspend of £0.132 million, an improvement from the previous period. However, it also highlighted significant financial pressures, particularly in demand-led services such as adult and children's social care and homelessness, with substantial increases in temporary accommodation costs. The Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) remained in deficit, although government funding was announced to address high-needs deficits. The report also noted the potential impact of the Local Government Funding Review.
Joint Consultative Committee with Ethnic Minority Organisations - Tuesday 17 March 2026
The Joint Consultative Committee with Ethnic Minority Organisations of Merton Council was scheduled to discuss the council's strategy for tackling Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) and receive an update on immunisation uptake.
Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy
A significant portion of the scheduled discussion was dedicated to Merton Council's strategy for tackling Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG). The strategy outlines a vision to end VAWG through a multi-agency action plan, focusing on changing attitudes, improving safety, early identification, supporting victims, and holding perpetrators accountable. The report defined VAWG and acknowledged its various forms, including domestic abuse, sexual violence, and harmful practices. It detailed the national and regional context, referencing policies such as the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 and the cross-government strategy Freedom from Violence and Abuse.
The strategy also addressed the recognition and support of male victims of domestic abuse and highlighted the prevalence of VAWG in Merton. It outlined five partnership priorities: changing attitudes and behaviours, improving safety, early identification and help, supporting victims and their children, and holding perpetrators to account.
Immunisation Uptake
The committee was scheduled to receive a verbal update on immunisation uptake.
Minutes of Previous Meeting
The committee was also scheduled to review the minutes of its previous meeting, which included discussions on co-production strategies and child poverty.
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
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.
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.
Licensing Sub-Committee - Thursday 23 April 2026 11.00 am
This meeting has been postponed.
Development and Planning Applications Committee - Thursday, 19 March 2026 - 7.15 pm
This meeting has been cancelled.
Joint Consultative Committee with Ethnic Minority Organisations - Tuesday 17 March 2026 6.00 pm
The Joint Consultative Committee with Ethnic Minority Organisations of Merton Council was scheduled to discuss the council's strategy for tackling Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) and receive an update on immunisation uptake. The meeting's report pack also included information on the council's previous meeting minutes.
Cabinet - Monday 16 March 2026 7.15 pm
The Cabinet of Merton Council met on Monday 16 March 2026 to discuss a range of important issues, including the adoption of new strategies for walking, wheeling, and cycling, as well as flood risk management. The meeting also covered the council's financial performance, the highways capital programme, and updates on the Merton Legacy Fund.
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.
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.
Licensing Sub-Committee - Wednesday 11 March 2026 3.30 pm
The Licensing Sub-Committee of Merton Council met on Wednesday 11 March 2026 to consider an application for a new premises licence for VJ's Off Licence. The meeting's agenda focused solely on this application, with no other items scheduled for discussion.
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.
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.
Health and Wellbeing Board - Tuesday 10 March 2026 6.15 pm
The Merton Council Health and Wellbeing Board was scheduled to discuss the Better Care Fund Q3 report, updates on the Healthy Places priority of the Health and Wellbeing Strategy, and the annual public health report. The meeting also included a verbal update on joined-up services and the Health and Wellbeing Strategy's Year 2 actions.
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.
North East Surrey Crematorium Board - Tuesday 23 June 2026 10.30 am
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.
Key decisions
Award of the School Cleaning Contract(s) Key
Executive Director of Children, Lifelong Learning and Families · 3 Feb 2026
No upcoming key decisions in the next 60 days.