Subscribe to updates

You'll receive weekly summaries like the ones below about this council every week.

If you have any requests or comments please let us know at community@opencouncil.network. We can also provide custom updates on particular topics across councils.

Please note, emails for this council have been paused whilst we secure funding for it. We hope to begin delivering them again in the next couple of weeks. If you subscribe, you'll be notified when they resume. If you represent a council or business, or would be willing to donate a small amount to support this service, please get in touch at community@opencouncil.network.

AI Generated

Weekly updates

Richmond Council Boosts Cost of Living Support and Grants Barnes Green Licence

This week, Richmond upon Thames Council held four meetings.

Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE)

The Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) met on Thursday, 27 June 2024. The main focus was planning SACRE's work for the coming year, reviewing its website, and discussing how to teach about non-religious worldviews in Richmond's schools.

Forward Plan for SACRE

The committee discussed its forward plan, which includes tasks such as organising an annual conference for teachers, developing a new syllabus for Religious Education, and reviewing the way Religious Education is taught in the borough's schools. The main priority for the year ahead is to produce guidance for schools on teaching about non-religious worldviews. They also agreed to rename the 'Religious Education' syllabus to 'Religion, Worldviews and Values'.

SACRE Website Review

A report on the SACRE website review revealed that the website was not as user-friendly as it could be. Some members felt the language used was too formal. The committee agreed to set up a working group to address these issues.

We need to make sure that the language we use is appropriate for the audience and reflects our values.

Sentientism

The committee received a report on 'Sentientism', which is the view that all sentient beings deserve moral consideration. They agreed to develop teaching resources on Sentientism for use in schools.

The basic idea is that suffering is bad and well-being is good, regardless of species, sex, race, sexual orientation, gender identity or anything else.

Schools Forum

The Schools Forum also met on Thursday, 27 June 2024. The forum received presentations on the Dedicated Schools Grant, school budgets, and funding for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Dedicated Schools Grant

The Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) is the main source of funding for schools in England. The forum discussed updates on the DSG, including the in-year financial position and the projected outturn position for 2023/24. Members expressed concern about the in-year pressures facing schools.

High Needs Block

The forum reviewed the financial position of the High Needs Block, which funds education for pupils with SEND. The report showed an overspend of £5.921m for 2023/24, attributed to increased demand for SEND services, a national shortage of specialist SEND teachers, rising costs of independent special schools, and uncertainty about the operation of the safety valve system.

The new Safety Valve Agreement must adequately reflect the needs of Richmond children and young people with SEND.

School Resource Planning (SRP)

The forum received a presentation on the School Resource Planning process, discussing the funding formula used to allocate funding to schools. They agreed to consult on two options to allocate additional funding to support the implementation of the new Mainstream Core Standards for SEND.

Scheme for Financing Schools

The forum discussed proposed changes to the Scheme for Financing Schools, including changes to funding for pupils with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). They agreed to consult on these proposed changes.

Alternative Provision

The forum received a presentation on alternative provision, noting the importance of providing high-quality alternative provision for pupils unable to attend mainstream schools.

Licensing Sub-Committee

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Monday, 24 June 2024, to discuss an application for a new premises licence for Barnes Green. The committee decided to grant the licence, subject to conditions.

Application for a New Premises Licence for Barnes Green

The application by the Barnes Community Association was to allow the BCA to continue holding its established annual calendar of events on the green, including Barnes Fair, Barnes Food Fair, Barnes Christmas Festival, and the BCA/OSO Outdoor Stage.

Arguments in Favour

John McNeilly, speaking for the applicant, highlighted the BCA's 50-year history of holding community events on Barnes Green and assured that each event management plan would protect the Licensing Objectives.

Each application to Richmond Council Parks team includes a full event management plan, site plan and risk assessment.

Arguments Against

Local residents, represented by Gillian Lewis and Christine Dodgson, raised concerns about the potential impact on their quality of life, including noise, litter, and light pollution.

There was no consideration on the long-term permanent impact on the quality of life of residents in the area.

The Sub-Committee's Decision

The Sub-Committee granted the licence, noting that concerns could be addressed through the conditions attached to the licence and that the green is owned by the council.

Due diligence would be given to the upkeep of the park and regard for wildlife as each event would need to be approved by the Council’s Parks department.

Finance, Policy and Resources Committee

The Finance, Policy and Resources Committee met on Monday, 24 June 2024, and agreed to increase the amount of money allocated to the Council's Cost of Living support fund. They also noted the performance of the Council's finances for the year ending 2023/24.

Cost of Living Support Update

The committee received a report proposing that an underspend on the Council's Household Support Fund be allocated to the Richmond Support and Advice Service to continue providing residents with support with the cost of food and energy.

This will allow the service to continue to meet existing demand and respond flexibly and proactively to emerging needs over the coming months.

The report explained that £285,000 remained unspent from the Council's allocation from the Government's Household Support Fund, and the Council expects to receive a further £1.14m from the government.

Richmond 2023-24 Outturn

The committee reviewed the financial performance of the Council for the year ending 2023-24, showing an underspend of £4.8m against the General Fund budget, largely due to increased interest receivable from the Bank of England base rate increases. The Council spent £58.9m on capital projects, with significant investments in a new leisure centre at Moor Lane, Twickenham, and in schools.

These meetings highlight the council's ongoing efforts to improve religious education, manage school funding, support community events, and provide financial assistance to residents. The decisions made this week will have lasting impacts on the community, particularly in terms of educational inclusivity, financial support, and community engagement.

Richmond Council Approves New Green Space Management and Youth Service Strategy

This week, Richmond upon Thames Council held four meetings.

The first was the Licensing Sub-Committee on Monday, 10 June 2024. Unfortunately, the transcript for this meeting was not available, so details on the discussions and decisions made are not provided.

The second meeting was the Transport and Air Quality Committee, also on Monday, 10 June 2024. This meeting focused on the progress of cargo bike initiatives, the strengthening of the Transport Strategy Service, and the committee's forward plan.

Key Decisions and Discussions

Cargo Bikes Initiative: The committee reviewed the annual update on cargo bike activity in the borough. The report highlighted the usage and carbon emission reductions from the Community Cargo Bike scheme. Notably, cargo bike parking locations near schools are set to be installed in May, and a cargo bike festival is planned for later in the year. Tim Lennon from the Richmond Cycling Campaign suggested several improvements, including removing the requirement for residents visiting the Townmead Road Reuse and Recycling Centre with a cargo bike to pre-book a time slot, providing route ideas, and engaging with local businesses and inclusive cycling organisations like Wheels for Wellbeing.

The committee resolved to:

  1. Note the progress in providing and encouraging greater use of cargo bikes.
  2. Agree in principle to setting aside space in a council car park for freight consolidation.
  3. Delegate the response to the government’s consultation on amending legislation affecting electrically assisted pedal bikes to the Interim Director of Place, in consultation with the Chair of the Committee.

Transport Strategy Service: The committee endorsed the strengthening of the Transport Strategy Service and recommended to the Finance, Policy and Resources Committee the approval of a revenue budget addition of £94,500 in 2024/25 and £126,000 in 2025/26. This decision aims to manage new work streams such as school streets, electric vehicles, and bike hangar programmes.

Forward Plan: The Director of Environment and Community Services presented the Forward Plan, which included an evaluation of the gully trials and a review of bus services. The committee noted the Forward Plan.

For more details, you can refer to the Public reports pack and the Minutes 23042024 Transport and Air Quality Committee.

The third meeting was the Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee on Wednesday, 12 June 2024. This meeting covered the procurement of a green space management contract, the Richmond Road (East Twickenham) Conservation Area Appraisal, and the tender for a litter enforcement contract.

Key Decisions and Discussions

Green Space Management Contract: The committee approved the tendering of a new green space management contract for Richmond's 128 parks and open spaces. The contract, conducted jointly with Wandsworth, aims to protect these spaces while retaining the sovereign identities of both councils. Although a fully electric fleet is not feasible, tenderers will be asked to consider reducing carbon emissions.

Richmond Road (East Twickenham) Conservation Area Appraisal: The committee approved the draft appraisal for public consultation and delegated authority to make non-material changes and approve the final version if no substantive issues arise during the consultation.

Litter Enforcement Contract: The committee approved the tendering of a new concession contract for littering and fly-tipping enforcement services for up to three years, with an option to extend for two more years. This contract is part of a joint effort with Wandsworth and aims to be cost-neutral while maintaining staffing levels.

Forward Plan: The committee noted ongoing work with the Thames Landscape Strategy and the Thames Estuary 2100 Plan to build riverside strategies. An update will be provided in September 2024.

For more details, you can refer to the Minutes 16042024 Environment Sustainability Culture and Sports Committee.

The fourth meeting was the Education and Children's Services Committee on Thursday, 13 June 2024. This meeting focused on educational outcomes, the Home to School Travel Policy, and the Youth Service Strategy.

Key Decisions and Discussions

Educational Outcomes: The committee noted the educational outcomes for the academic year 2022-2023. Highlights included all Richmond schools being rated good or above by Ofsted, above-average attainment results, and significant decreases in suspension rates for Children Looked After (CLA).

Home to School Travel Policy: The committee approved the amendment to the Home to School Travel Policy, enabling eligible children in shared custody arrangements to receive travel assistance from both home addresses.

Youth Service Strategy 2024 to 2028: The committee approved the Youth Service Strategy for 2024 to 2028, which aims to support young people in participating in developmental activities that combine enjoyment, challenge, learning, and achievement.

Forward Plan: The committee noted the current list of items on the Forward Plan for Committee business and added the following items for the Autumn:

  • Digital Transformation Report
  • Annual Report of the Kingston and Richmond Safeguarding Children's Partnership (KRSCP) 2023-24

These meetings highlight the council's ongoing efforts to improve transport and air quality, manage green spaces, enforce litter regulations, and enhance educational and youth services. The decisions made this week will have lasting impacts on the community, particularly in terms of environmental sustainability, educational outcomes, and the inclusivity of council decision-making.

Critical Discussions on Cancer Treatment Services and Licensing in Richmond upon Thames

This week, Richmond upon Thames Council held two meetings.

The first was the Adult Social Services, Health and Housing Committee on Tuesday, 28 May 2024. The meeting focused on the reconfiguration of specialist cancer treatment services for children in South London and much of South East England. Key points of discussion included the risks associated with moving clinicians from St. George's to Evelina, the transport issues for patients, and the potential impact on local health services.

Councillor Bennett raised concerns about the risk assessment, stating:

There didn't seem to be any risk assessment of, I mean, there was sort of talk about mitigation and various things, but I didn't really think there was a good, what is the risk of this whole thing? (Councillor Bennett)

The committee also discussed the transport issues, with suggestions such as using Ubers or specialist drivers to mitigate the stress of travel for patients and their families. The potential impact on St. George's ability to retain staff and deliver specialist paediatric oncology services was another significant concern.

Councillor Bennett further emphasized the importance of a thorough risk assessment:

I do think the one about the clinicians moving from the Georgia setup to the Evelina setup is a big risk. And they really have to be very clear that that risk, that they assess that risk, that they talk to the staff, that they're convinced. (Councillor Bennett)

The committee resolved to request the Secretary of State to call in the decision to NHS England, highlighting the need for a comprehensive evaluation of the risks and the impact on local health services.

The second meeting was the Licensing Sub-Committee on Thursday, 30 May 2024. Unfortunately, the transcript for this meeting was not available, so details on the discussions and decisions made are not provided.

This week's meetings highlight the council's focus on healthcare and the importance of thorough risk assessments and transport solutions in the reconfiguration of specialist services. The discussions underscore the need for careful consideration of the impact on local health services and the well-being of patients and their families.

Honouring Legacy and Embracing New Leadership: Key Highlights from Richmond upon Thames Council Meetings

This week, Richmond upon Thames Council held two significant meetings, both on Tuesday, 14 May 2024.

The first Council meeting was held to honour two former councillors, Martin Ellingorn and Geoffrey Samuel, by awarding them the title of honorary alderman posthumously. The meeting began with a prayer for Jeffrey and Martin, acknowledging their service and dedication to the community. Councillor Roberts moved the motion to honour Martin Ellingorn, highlighting his 40 years of service, particularly in the environment committee, and his extensive knowledge of planning, law, and custom. Councillor Needham Watts seconded the motion, sharing personal anecdotes about Martin's mentorship and friendship.

Councillor Roberts then moved the motion to honour Geoffrey Samuel, noting his long tenure since the 1950s and his various roles, including Deputy Leader and lead member for Finance. He praised Geoffrey's dedication to the borough and his ability to command budget meetings. Councillor Fries seconded the motion, emphasizing Geoffrey's adherence to process and his impact on council operations. Both motions were agreed upon, and the Chief Executive signed the documents to admit Martin Ellingorn and Geoffrey Samuel as honorary aldermen. The meeting concluded with the presentation of mementos to their families and a final round of applause in their memory.

The second Council meeting focused on the election of the new Mayor and Deputy Mayor for the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, along with a vote of thanks to the retiring Mayor and other formalities.

  1. Election of the Mayor: Councillor Richard Pine was elected as the new Mayor. Councillor Roberts proposed the motion, and Councillor Fries seconded it. Richard Pine's wife, Helen Pine, was named his consort. Councillor Kouldev Sarah was appointed as the Deputy Mayor, with Kashmir Unweight as the Deputy Mayor's consort. Reverend Jeffrey Hopkins Williams was named the chaplain for the year.

  2. Retiring Mayor's Address: The retiring Mayor, Councillor Suzette Nicholson, gave a speech reflecting on her year in office. She thanked her Deputy Mayor, Fiona Sachs, and her consort, Richard, as well as her own consort, her husband John, who was absent due to illness. She also expressed gratitude to various council staff and drivers who supported her. She highlighted her engagements with local charities, events, and the community, including the Twin City visits, lifeboat naming ceremony, and addressing pollution in the Thames.

  3. Vote of Thanks to Retiring Mayor: Councillor Roberts and Councillor Fries expressed their gratitude to Suzette Nicholson and Fiona Sachs for their service. They praised Suzette's dedication, especially in balancing her duties despite personal challenges, and her faith-driven approach to her role.

  4. New Mayor's Charities: Richard Pine announced his chosen charities for the year: Homestart Richmond upon Thames, which supports families with young children, and Richmond Borough Mind, which assists people with mental health issues. He also mentioned that the Civic Service would be held in the autumn at St Mary's Church in Twickenham.

  5. Formalities and Announcements: The meeting proceeded with formalities such as the signing of minutes, declarations of interest, and the election of the Leader and Deputy Leaders of the Council. Councillor Gareth Roberts was re-elected as the Leader, and Councillors Needham Watts and Millard were elected as Joint Deputy Leaders. The appointments to committees and outside bodies were agreed upon, and the Member's Allowance Scheme for 2024-25 was retained as per the previous year.

  6. Acknowledgment of Service: The Council thanked Mike Gravitt for his 24 years of service and agreed on the appointments of John Evans and Kathy Potter to their respective roles, anticipating a potential general election.

The meeting concluded with a prayer led by Reverend Geoffrey Hopkins Williams, focusing on gratitude for the borough and its contributors, and prayers for the new Mayor and Deputy Mayor.

These meetings highlight the council's efforts to honour past contributions, ensure smooth transitions in leadership, and maintain continuity in their operations. The recognition of former councillors Martin Ellingorn and Geoffrey Samuel underscores the value placed on long-term service and dedication to the community. The election of new leaders and the acknowledgment of outgoing ones reflect the council's commitment to both tradition and progress.

Key Decisions This Week: Education, Transport, and Sustainability in Richmond upon Thames

This week, Richmond upon Thames Council held three significant committee meetings, each addressing crucial aspects of community life and infrastructure.

The Education and Children's Services Committee met on Monday to discuss several key issues, including the Education Outcomes report and the Home to School Travel Policy. The committee approved an amendment to the travel policy to allow travel assistance from both parents' addresses in shared custody situations. This decision could lead to increased operational costs and requires careful monitoring to assess its financial and social impacts. The committee also approved the Youth Service Strategy for 2024-2028, focusing on enhancing mental health support and addressing risky behaviors among youth. This strategy aims to improve overall youth well-being and reduce incidents of substance abuse and mental health issues.

On Tuesday, the Transport and Air Quality Committee convened to discuss the guinea trials and the review of bus services. The council confirmed that all necessary permissions for the guinea trials were in place, allowing them to proceed. This decision reflects a focus on practical evaluation over preliminary detailed reporting, which could impact the transparency and preparedness perceived by the council members. Additionally, a separate discussion was planned to gather insights and suggestions before finalizing any changes to the bus services, indicating an inclusive approach to decision-making.

The Finance, Policy and Resources Committee met on Thursday and discussed several important items, including community fund allocations and decarbonization improvements to the Twickenham Civic Centre. The committee decided on the allocation of community funds, focusing on projects that met pre-set criteria. Despite a passionate appeal from Teddington Theatre Club for funding for LED stage lights, the request was denied due to insufficient funds and failure to meet the criteria. The committee also approved a budget for the next phase of decarbonization and improvements at the Twickenham Civic Centre, aiming to enhance energy efficiency and improve the work environment.

These meetings highlight the council's ongoing efforts to address educational needs, environmental sustainability, and community involvement in decision-making processes. The decisions made this week will have lasting impacts on the community, particularly in terms of educational outcomes, environmental sustainability, and the inclusivity of council decision-making.

Recent meetings
Committee

Schools Forum - Thursday, 26 September 2024 1.30 pm

We have not been able to find a video broadcast of this meeting.

September 26, 2024
Committee

Finance, Policy and Resources Committee - Thursday, 19 September 2024 7.00 pm

The notes from this meeting have not yet been summarised.

September 19, 2024
Committee

Planning Committee - Wednesday, 18 September 2024 7.00 pm

The notes from this meeting have not yet been summarised.

September 18, 2024
Committee

Adult Social Services, Health and Housing Committee - Tuesday, 17 September 2024 7.00 pm

The notes from this meeting have not yet been summarised.

September 17, 2024
Committee

Transport and Air Quality Committee - Monday, 16 September 2024 7.00 pm

The notes from this meeting have not yet been summarised.

September 16, 2024
Licensing Sub-Committee

Licensing Sub-Committee - Friday, 13 September 2024 10.30 am, WITHDRAWN

The notes from this meeting have not yet been summarised.

September 13, 2024
Education and Children's Services Committee

Education and Children's Services Committee - Thursday, 12 September 2024 7.00 pm

The notes from this meeting have not yet been summarised.

September 12, 2024
Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee

Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee - Wednesday, 11 September 2024 7.00 pm

The notes from this meeting have not yet been summarised.

September 11, 2024
Health and Wellbeing Board

Health and Wellbeing Board - Monday, 2 September 2024 1.30 pm

The notes from this meeting have not yet been summarised.

September 02, 2024
Licensing Sub-Committee CANCELLED

Licensing Sub-Committee - Thursday, 22 August 2024 10.30 am

This meeting has been cancelled.

August 22, 2024
Upcoming meetings

No meetings found.