This week in Merton:

Café's Late-Night Alcohol Licence Sparks Resident Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Friday, 10 July 2026, to consider a new premises licence application for La Tazza Doro, a café and restaurant at 283 Kingston Road, London SW20 8LB. The application sought permission to serve alcohol for consumption on and off the premises from 10:00 to 22:00, with proposed opening hours of 08:00 to 22:30.

Noise, Nuisance, and Neighbourhood Impact

The proposal has generated significant concern among local residents. Daniel Hayden and Durga Gandhi, who live directly above the premises, have voiced worries about potential noise pollution. They highlighted the building's poor soundproofing and the risk of noise travelling from the café into their homes, drawing on past negative experiences with previous businesses at the location. Concerns were also raised about the potential for anti-social behaviour and street drinking, particularly if alcohol is sold for off-site consumption.

Jo Rooks also submitted an objection, citing potential disruption from noise, rubbish, and anti-social behaviour. She suggested the business should focus on its daytime café operations rather than extending into the evening with alcohol sales.

Applicant's Commitment and Council's Role

The applicant's representative stated that it was unfair to judge their business based on assumptions about previous tenants and emphasised their commitment to responsible operation. They also pointed out that if an alcohol licence were not granted, customers might bring their own alcohol, leading to less control over licensing objectives.

The sub-committee was tasked with determining the application by considering steps necessary to promote the four licensing objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm. This process involves weighing the applicant's proposals against the concerns raised by residents and the police, and deciding whether to grant the licence, potentially with conditions, or refuse it. The outcome could significantly impact the quality of life for residents living near the café.

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Council to Discuss Housing Acquisitions and Article 4 Direction

Merton Council's Cabinet is set to meet on Monday, 13 July 2026, with a critical agenda item focusing on acquiring properties to increase the supply of affordable housing. This initiative is a direct response to the growing crisis of homelessness and the reliance on expensive temporary accommodation.

Boosting Affordable Housing Stock

The council is seeking approval to acquire up to 125 homes during 2026/27 through purchases and long-term leases. This strategy is crucial for providing stable and suitable housing for residents at risk of homelessness. The move is supported by £20 million in capital funding and aims to reduce the council's dependence on costly nightly-paid temporary accommodation, which can have a detrimental impact on families and individuals, particularly children, by disrupting education and stability. The report highlights that structural pressures, including the end of 'no fault' evictions and economic uncertainty, are driving up demand for temporary housing.

Controlling Houses in Multiple Occupation

The Cabinet will also consider confirming an immediate Article 4 Direction for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) across 13 wards. This means that planning permission will now be required for any new HMOs in these areas. This policy change aims to address concerns about the cumulative impact of HMOs on neighbourhood character, amenities, and the availability of family homes. While intended to improve standards and community stability, it could also affect the availability and affordability of rental properties. The public consultation on this direction showed strong support from residents, with 82% favouring its permanent implementation.

Financial Updates and Service Reviews

The meeting will also cover the financial outturn for 2025/26, the budget for 2027/28, and the Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for 2027-31. These discussions are vital for ensuring the council's financial sustainability and its ability to deliver essential services. Additionally, the Cabinet will review changes to corporate printing and scanning services, with proposals for outsourcing expected to deliver significant cost savings and modernise operations. An update on the Crisis and Resilience Fund will also be provided, outlining how support will be delivered to residents facing hardship.

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Council to Debate Electoral Reform and Pesticide Use

Merton Council's Council meeting on Wednesday, 15 July 2026, will feature debates on significant policy issues, including electoral reform and the use of pesticides in public spaces.

Calls for Electoral Reform

A Liberal Democrat motion will propose supporting electoral reform, advocating for more proportional voting systems. The motion argues that such systems would ensure election results more accurately reflect votes cast, strengthen local democracy, and encourage collaborative decision-making. The council will be asked to write to local MPs and the Prime Minister to express its support for these changes. This debate touches upon fundamental principles of representation and how effectively residents' voices are heard in the political process.

Reducing Pesticide Use

Another Liberal Democrat motion calls for an end to the use of glyphosate-based pesticides in Merton's parks and open spaces. While acknowledging the council's intention to reduce their use by 2030, the motion urges a faster transition. This is driven by public concern and the need to protect biodiversity. The proposed motion seeks to end the routine use of these pesticides by the end of the 2027–28 financial year and calls for alternative weed-management methods to be implemented.

Protecting St Helier Hospital Services

A Labour motion will address concerns over potential changes to maternity and women's health services at St Helier Hospital. The motion expresses alarm at reports that the St George's, Epsom and St Helier University Trust may be considering temporary closures or reductions in these vital services due to estate condition issues. The council will be asked to reaffirm its opposition to any downgrading or closure of these services, which are essential for local residents, and to support calls for rigorous scrutiny and consultation.

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This week in Merton:

Council Scrutiny Panels Review Work Programmes and Cabinet Priorities

Merton Council's Overview and Scrutiny Committee, along with its specialist panels, met recently to review their work programmes and understand the priorities of Cabinet Members for the upcoming year. These meetings are crucial for ensuring that the council's services are effective, efficient, and responsive to the needs of residents, particularly vulnerable groups.

Children and Young People: A Focus on Support and Safeguarding

The Children and Young People Overview and Scrutiny Panel met on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, to delve into the work of the Children, Lifelong Learning & Families (CLLF) Department. The department's overarching goal is to provide integrated and preventative care for children and young people, ensuring families can access holistic support.

Key priorities discussed included:

• Tackling Child Poverty: A significant focus is on increasing family income and access to cost-of-living support through cross-council approaches. This is vital for families struggling financially, as poverty can have a profound impact on a child's development and well-being.
• SEND Reforms: The panel reviewed plans to implement government reforms for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), aiming to ensure high-quality support and reduce bureaucracy. This is critical for ensuring that children with additional needs receive the education and care they deserve.
• Safeguarding and Wellbeing: Updates were provided on Ofsted inspections, with discussions on safeguarding in schools and the implications of the new inspection framework. The Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act was also considered, focusing on child safety, online safeguarding, and provisions for free school meals and uniform costs.

The panel also reviewed its own work programme for 2026/27, identifying future topics such as child poverty, school place planning, and SEND reforms.

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Sustainable Communities: Housing, Transport, and Regeneration

On Wednesday, July 1, 2026, the Sustainable Communities Overview and Scrutiny Panel met to discuss Cabinet Member priorities related to transport, cleaner streets, housing, and sustainable development.

The panel reviewed its draft work programme for 2026/27, which included planned discussions on:

• Homelessness and Rough Sleeping: Scrutiny of the Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy is essential to ensure the council is effectively supporting those most in need. This directly impacts vulnerable individuals and families facing housing insecurity.
• Morden Regeneration: The panel will influence the vision for Morden's regeneration, a process that can significantly shape the local environment and community facilities.
• Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs): The effectiveness of current PSPOs, which are used to tackle anti-social behaviour, was to be reviewed.

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Healthier Communities and Older People: NHS Trust Performance and Dementia Care

The Healthier Communities and Older People Overview and Scrutiny Panel convened on Monday, June 29, 2026, to examine the performance of St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and discuss dementia care.

Key areas of focus included:

• St George's CQC Report and Maternity Services: The panel followed up on the Care Quality Commission's (CQC) report, focusing on the trust's delivery plan for 2026/27 and updates on maternity services. This is crucial for ensuring the safety and quality of care for patients, especially expectant mothers and their families.
• Impact of ICB Changes: The panel discussed how changes within the Integrated Care Board (ICB) might affect local health and care systems. This is important for understanding how services for residents, particularly older people and those with long-term conditions, will be delivered and funded.
• Dementia Care: A report on dementia care was presented, including films featuring residents with lived experience. Discussions covered memory services, carer support, and the importance of culturally sensitive support, including translation services for those who need them. This is vital for ensuring that individuals living with dementia and their carers receive appropriate and compassionate support.

The panel also reviewed its work programme for 2026/27, ensuring that future scrutiny efforts align with the most pressing health and care issues facing the borough.

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Overview and Scrutiny Committee: Broad Review of Council Priorities

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday, July 2, 2026, to review the work programmes of its various panels and receive updates from Cabinet Members. The committee's discussions covered priorities related to civic pride, climate change, enforcement, and community safety.

The committee reviewed the work programmes of the Children and Young People, Healthier Communities and Older People, and Sustainable Communities panels, ensuring a coordinated approach to scrutiny across the council. Discussions were also held with Councillor Eleanor Stringer, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Civic Pride and Climate Change, and Councillor Edith Macauley, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety, to understand their departmental priorities for the year ahead.

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This week in Merton:

Council Approves £1.75 Million CCTV Contract Extension, Boosting Enforcement Capabilities

Merton Council's Cabinet met on Monday, June 22, 2026, making key decisions that will impact public safety and council services. The most significant approval was a substantial £1.75 million variation to the contract for CCTV and Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) maintenance, extending the agreement with Tyco Integrated Fire and Security Ltd. until November 2027. This move brings the total contract value to £5.25 million and is crucial for maintaining statutory enforcement services, completing essential infrastructure upgrades, and enabling the installation of additional cameras.

Why This Matters: Keeping Streets Safe and Revenue Flowing

The extension of the CCTV and ANPR contract is vital for Merton's ability to enforce traffic regulations and maintain public safety. The original contract value was fully utilised due to increased operational demands and essential project work. Without this extension, the council risked disruption to its enforcement services, potentially leading to a loss of significant enforcement revenue and reduced network coverage. For residents, this means continued monitoring of public spaces and roads, which can deter crime and anti-social behaviour. For vulnerable groups, such as the elderly or those who feel unsafe in public spaces, the visible presence of CCTV can provide a greater sense of security.

The report presented to the Cabinet highlighted that the variation is funded from the existing CCTV and ANPR revenue budget, meaning no additional cost to the council's core funding.

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Leisure Services to Generate £250,000 Annually Through VAT Reclaim

In a move aimed at boosting council revenue, the Cabinet also approved a contract variation for leisure services with Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL). This change will see GLL act as the Council's agent in delivering leisure services, a structural shift that allows Merton Council to reclaim VAT on associated costs. This is projected to generate approximately £250,000 in additional revenue per year, with savings split equally between the council and GLL.

What This Means for You: No Change to Your Gym Membership

Crucially, this variation does not alter the existing contract length, which is set to end on November 30, 2030, nor does it change the range of services available to residents. The primary benefit is financial, allowing the council to reinvest funds into other services. This decision aligns with recent HMRC guidance and best practices within the leisure sector, demonstrating the council's commitment to efficient financial management.

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£95 Million Agency Worker Contract Awarded for Essential Staffing Flexibility

The Cabinet also approved the direct award of a new contract for agency workers, valued at approximately £95 million over five years. This contract, secured through the North East Procurement Organisation (NEPO) framework, will replace the current agreement with Comensura when it expires in December 2026. The NEPO framework was chosen for its cost-effectiveness, with an estimated saving of £140,000 over the contract's duration compared to other options.

Why Agency Staff Matter: Filling Gaps and Accessing Skills

Agency workers play a critical role in ensuring Merton Council can maintain service delivery, especially when facing recruitment challenges or requiring specialist skills. This contract ensures the council can continue to access temporary staff flexibly, which is essential for maintaining services that directly impact residents, from social care to administrative support. The contract includes embedded social value requirements, focusing on local employment, skills development, ethical recruitment, and environmental sustainability, demonstrating a commitment to broader community benefits.

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Other Matters

Joint Cemetery Board Discusses Financial Performance and Governance

The Merton and Sutton Joint Cemetery Board met on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, to review the financial performance of the cemetery for the 2025/26 financial year and to discuss governance arrangements. The board considered the appointment of a new treasurer, Gina James, who will take over from September 1, 2026. The accounts for 2025/26 showed a deficit of £195,755. The board also reviewed its Annual Governance Statement for 2025/26, which ensures the board's business is conducted lawfully and to proper standards. Discussions also touched upon the client and contractor report, with concerns noted regarding the transition of contracts for cemetery maintenance services. The board also prepared for the appointment of its Chair and Deputy Chair for the upcoming municipal year.

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Health and Wellbeing Board Focuses on Strategy and Integrated Care

The Health and Wellbeing Board convened on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, to review progress on the Health and Wellbeing Strategy and the Better Care Fund plan for 2026/2027. The board discussed the Year 2 action plan priorities for the strategy, which include initiatives under 'Start Strong' (focusing on children and young people), 'Focus on Prevention', 'Strong Communities', and 'Healthy Places'. The board also received an update on the development of joined-up services, including the design of integrated neighbourhood teams. The Better Care Fund plan for 2026/2027 aims to reduce emergency admissions for those aged 65+ and decrease the length of hospital discharge delays, promoting person-centred care and independence.

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North East Surrey Crematorium Board Meets

The North East Surrey Crematorium Board met on Tuesday, June 23, 2026. No further details are available at this time as the information status is pending council publication.

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Licensing Committee Meeting Cancelled

The Licensing Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday, June 25, 2026, was cancelled.

This week in Merton:

Pension Fund Investments Under Scrutiny Amidst Market Fluctuations

Merton Council's Pensions Committee met on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, to review the performance of the Merton Pension Fund's investments and to approve the audit plan for the upcoming year. The fund, which manages pensions for council employees and other eligible individuals, saw a slight decrease in its total assets over the quarter, highlighting the volatile nature of financial markets.

Investment Performance: Mixed Results Across Asset Classes

The committee received a detailed report on the fund's investment performance for the quarter ending March 2026. While the overall net return for the quarter was -0.5%, matching the benchmark, the fund has lagged its benchmark over a three-year period. This underperformance is a concern, as it directly impacts the long-term security of pension benefits.

Key observations from the investment report include:

• Global Equities: Some funds within this category, such as the LCIV Baillie Gifford Global Alpha Growth Paris Aligned Fund, significantly underperformed their benchmarks. This could mean a slower growth in the fund's value, potentially affecting future pension payouts.
• Emerging Markets: This mandate showed positive performance, outperforming its benchmark.
• Diversified Growth: This mandate continued to underperform its benchmark over the medium term, a trend that requires careful monitoring.
• Property and Infrastructure: These asset classes generally delivered positive returns, though specific mandates within these categories showed varied performance.
• Private Credit: This sector performed well, with all funds meeting or exceeding their benchmarks.

The report also noted that the fund's total assets decreased by approximately £1 million over the quarter, from around £1,047 million to £1,046 million. This fluctuation underscores the importance of robust investment strategies, particularly for ensuring the long-term solvency of the pension fund, which is crucial for the financial stability of those who rely on it.

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Audit Plan for 2025-2026: Focusing on Key Risks

The committee also reviewed the 2025-2026 Audit Plan presented by Ernst & Young LLP. This plan outlines the approach to auditing the pension fund, with a particular focus on areas identified as significant risks. These include:

• Valuation of Complex Investments: The fund holds substantial investments in Level 3 assets, which are difficult to value and require significant judgement from investment managers. As of March 31, 2025, these investments totalled £210 million. Inaccurate valuations could have a material impact on the fund's reported financial position.
• Management Override of Controls: This is a standard fraud risk that the audit will address through mandatory procedures.
• Actuarial Present Value of Promised Retirement Benefits: This relates to the accuracy of the actuary's estimations, which are vital for understanding the fund's liabilities.

The audit plan aims to provide assurance that the fund is being managed effectively and that its financial statements are accurate. This is essential for maintaining public trust and ensuring the security of pension entitlements.

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Planning Committee Considers New Developments and Article 4 Direction

Merton Council's Development and Planning Applications Committee met on Thursday, June 18, 2026, to consider a range of planning applications that will shape the borough's landscape and a significant policy change regarding Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs).

Redevelopment Proposals in Colliers Wood and Morden

The committee reviewed proposals for new residential and commercial developments, including:

• 70 Christchurch Road, Colliers Wood, SW19 2PB: An application to demolish the existing building and construct a five-storey development comprising commercial units and nine apartments. While recommended for approval, local residents raised concerns about the building's height, scale, and potential impact on parking and traffic. These developments can significantly alter the character of a neighbourhood and impact the quality of life for existing residents.
• 39 Florence Avenue, Morden, SM4 6EX: A proposal to demolish a bungalow and build two new semi-detached dwellings. Objections from residents and a former councillor focused on overdevelopment, harm to local character, and noise concerns. Such applications often spark debate about balancing the need for new housing with the preservation of existing neighbourhood amenity.

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Sports Facilities for Raynes Park

Plans for new all-weather sports facilities at Raynes Park Sports Ground, Taunton Avenue, Raynes Park were also discussed. The proposal includes a hockey pitch, padel courts, and cricket wickets. While aimed at enhancing sports provision, the application was brought to the committee because the Council is a landowner, highlighting the complex ownership structures that can influence planning decisions. Concerns were raised by sports governing bodies regarding the impact on existing facilities.

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Article 4 Direction for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)

A crucial policy discussion involved the confirmation of an immediate Article 4 Direction for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) across 13 wards. This direction means that planning permission will now be required for all new HMOs in these areas.

• Impact on Residents: This move is intended to improve standards in the private rented sector and address neighbourhood amenity concerns. For residents, this could mean a reduction in transient populations, improved property standards, and a more stable neighbourhood environment. However, it could also impact the availability of rental properties.
• Council's Responsibility: The council is liable for compensation claims for a 12-month period following the introduction of an immediate Article 4 Direction. This highlights the financial commitment involved in implementing such policy changes.

The public consultation for this direction ran from May 8 to June 19, 2026, and the report detailed the next steps, including recommendations to Cabinet and the full Council. This process demonstrates how local government uses planning powers to manage land use and address community needs.

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