This week in Richmond upon Thames:

New Cafes and Shops Face Scrutiny Over Alcohol Licences

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Wednesday, 8 April 2026, to consider applications for new premises licences for two local businesses: The Mirror Café in Richmond and Jays Food and Wine in Twickenham. These decisions have the potential to impact local amenity and public nuisance, particularly for residents living nearby.

The Mirror Café: Concerns Over Noise and Public Nuisance

An application for a new premises licence for The Mirror Café, located at 4 Church Court, Richmond, TW9 1JL, was discussed. The applicant, Evren Yazici, sought permission for the sale of alcohol and live music. The application was situated within the Richmond Town Centre Cumulative Impact Zone, an area where the council already has concerns about the concentration of licensed premises.

Three representations were received, raising significant concerns about potential public nuisance, noise disturbances, and the suitability of the premises for live music. Residents and local groups, including the Friends of Richmond Green, voiced worries about noise levels, particularly from live music and karaoke, and its impact on nearby residential homes. Concerns were also raised about the premises' capacity and fire safety.

Mr. Yazici clarified that the café would primarily operate as a food establishment with alcohol served alongside meals, and that any live music would be small-scale and indoors. The Sub-Committee was scheduled to consider granting the application with conditions, including a maximum capacity of 10 people in the basement, alcohol being ancillary to food, no live music, and a prohibition on delivery services. These conditions aim to mitigate the potential for public nuisance and ensure the café's operation is compatible with its surroundings.

Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting here.

Jays Food and Wine: Addressing Resident Concerns

The committee also considered an application for a new premises licence for Jays Food and Wine, located at 117 Nelson Road, Twickenham, TW2 7AZ. The applicant, Balbir Singh Kapoor, sought permission for the sale of alcohol for consumption off the premises.

While the Metropolitan Police agreed to conditions, one local resident, Mr. Pankaj Reddy, opposed the application. Mr. Reddy raised concerns about potential public nuisance from people drinking and shouting in front of the shops, particularly on Twickenham Stadium match days, and issues related to illegal parking.

In response, Mr. Kapoor, who has extensive experience in licensed retail, agreed to reduce the proposed hours for alcohol sale and closing time to 10 pm. He also highlighted the comprehensive conditions agreed with the Metropolitan Police, which included the installation of CCTV and restrictions on alcohol display. These measures are designed to prevent crime and disorder and protect children from harm, while also addressing the resident's concerns about public nuisance. The Sub-Committee was scheduled to consider granting the licence subject to these conditions.

Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting here.

This week in Richmond upon Thames:

Petition Challenges Plan to Reclaim Shacklegate Lane Allotment Land

The Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee met on Tuesday 24 March 2026, hearing a contentious petition about the council's plan to reclaim a portion of the Shacklegate Lane allotments for the expansion of Teddington Cemetery. The petition reflected significant public opposition, with 1,697 signatures submitted against the move. The committee also endorsed the future direction of the Culture Richmond strategy and approved initiatives for a low-waste future.

Shacklegate Lane Allotments: A Community's Green Lung at Risk

In a previous version, we incorrectly said that this committee meeting made the decision to proceed with reclaiming part of the Shacklegate Lane allotments for cemetery expansion. In fact, the meeting heard a petition asking the council to reconsider an earlier decision, discussed the issue, and then moved on without taking a vote on it.

The future of the Shacklegate Lane allotments was the subject of impassioned pleas from residents and local councillors. Mrs. Jane Cowling presented a petition urging the council to reconsider its decision. She highlighted the allotments' long history, their vital role as a green lung for the community, and the importance of local food production. This isn't just a piece of land, Mrs. Cowling stated, It's a living, breathing part of our community.

Councillor Chas Warlow, Deputy Leader of the Opposition, echoed these sentiments, arguing that the decision should be re-evaluated in light of the declared climate and nature emergency. He proposed exploring alternative burial solutions and preserving a portion of the allotments. Residents also pointed out that nearly half of recent burials have been for non-residents, questioning the urgency of the cemetery expansion.

Council officers, however, stressed the need for burial space, saying there was very little room left at Teddington Cemetery. They explained that while reusing old graves is a long-term goal, current legislation and practicalities make it a complex and time-consuming process. The committee was advised that a phased reclamation of the allotments was not feasible due to excavation and safety requirements. After hearing the petition and officers' responses, the committee moved on to the next agenda item.

Read more about the Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee meeting here.

Culture Richmond Strategy Gains Momentum

The committee received a positive update on the Culture Richmond strategy, a five-year framework designed to foster arts, culture, and creativity across the borough. Councillor John Coombs, Spokesperson for Arts, expressed his satisfaction with the progress made, particularly the establishment of a peer network for cultural organisations. This network, chaired by Paul Jennings, CEO of Habitats and Heritage, facilitates collaboration and shared learning among diverse cultural groups.

The strategy's impact is evident in initiatives like the partnership between Habitats & Heritage and a dance organisation, which explored environmental themes through performance. Joe Terrell, Head of School for Creative Industries at Harrow, Richmond and Uxbridge College, highlighted how these collaborations provide students with invaluable real-world experience and contribute to the borough's vibrant cultural life. The committee endorsed the strategy's proposed focus areas for the next five years, including strengthening creative industries and developing creative health programmes. The grant limit for the Challenge & Innovation Fund was also recommended to be raised from £3,000 to £5,000 to support more ambitious projects.

Roadmap to a Low Waste Future: New Services and Campaigns

Natasha Epstein, Director of Waste and Street Cleansing, presented the Roadmap to a Low Waste Future, outlining ambitious plans to reduce waste and improve recycling rates. Key initiatives include a new recycling and food waste service for flats above shops (FLASH), trials for collecting soft plastics, and enhanced communication campaigns. The committee was informed about upcoming Simpler Recycling regulations that will mandate separate collections for various materials.

Essential projects include the implementation of the FLASH service and trials for soft plastic collection, with options for residents to use their own bags being explored. Desirable projects include extending the spillage crew resource, a London-wide food waste reduction campaign (Eat Like a Londoner ), promoting home composting, and improving the collection of textiles and electrical items. The committee agreed to implement the proposed essential and desirable projects, signalling a strong commitment to a more sustainable future for the borough.

Read more about the Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee meeting here.

Education Committee Notes Strong School Performance and Post-16 Offer

The Education and Children's Services Committee met on Thursday 26 March 2026, reviewing the validated school test and exam results for the 2024-25 academic year. The committee noted the strong overall performance of pupils in Richmond upon Thames, with particular praise for early years and Key Stage 2 outcomes. However, the persistent attainment gap for disadvantaged pupils remains a key concern. The committee also confirmed that the post-16 education and training offer for young people aged 16 to 18 is suitable and sufficient, and approved the budget and strategic plan for Achieving for Children (AfC).

Attainment Gap for Disadvantaged Pupils Persists

The committee received a detailed report on the validated school test and exam results, which showed Richmond pupils performing exceptionally well, ranking first nationwide for the phonics screening test and for Key Stage 2 expected standards in reading, writing, and mathematics. Councillor Julia Cambridge, Chair of the committee, commended the efforts of pupils, teachers, and parents.

Despite these successes, the attainment gap for disadvantaged pupils remains a significant challenge. While disadvantaged pupils in Richmond perform better than their national counterparts, the gap between them and their non-disadvantaged peers locally is substantial. This is partly attributed to a higher proportion of disadvantaged pupils having Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND). The committee heard that targeted support and collaborative sessions are underway to address this, with a focus on early years development through the Best Start in Life strategy. Councillor Michael Butlin raised concerns about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on early years development, a point acknowledged by officers who are working to re-engage families and services.

Post-16 Offer Deemed Suitable and Sufficient

The committee endorsed the assessment that the post-16 education and training offer for young people aged 16 to 18, and up to 25 for those with SEND, is suitable and sufficient to meet the council's statutory responsibilities. The report highlighted a high rate of sustained education, training, and employment for young people in the borough, exceeding national rates.

The provision includes strong academic pathways through school sixth forms and Richmond upon Thames College, alongside an expanding range of vocational opportunities and apprenticeships. Efforts are being made to reduce the number of young people travelling outside the borough for post-16 education, with proposals for a new Post-16 Campus to enhance local provision. Councillor Zoe McLeod raised questions about how the offer prepares young people for future career needs in a changing world, with officers noting that vocational qualifications are adapting more quickly than traditional A-levels. The committee also discussed the importance of collaborative arrangements between schools to offer a wider range of subjects, particularly languages, and the role of careers advice in guiding young people towards suitable pathways.

Achieving for Children (AfC) Budget and Strategic Plan Approved

The committee approved the 2026/27 budget and Medium Term Financial Strategy for Achieving for Children (AfC), the organisation responsible for delivering children's services across Richmond, Kingston, and Windsor and Maidenhead. The proposed AfC budget for 2026/27 is £242.4 million, with Richmond's contribution being £95.5 million. The Medium Term Financial Strategy aims to ensure financial sustainability amidst escalating pressures in children's services, focusing on value for money and maximising resources for frontline services. The approved five-year Strategic Plan incorporates national reforms in children's social care, early help, SEND, and early years, with a focus on collaboration, sustainability, and inclusivity.

Read more about the Education and Children's Services Committee meeting here.

Richmond Burial Ground Trust Meeting Postponed

The Richmond Burial Ground Trust meeting, originally scheduled for Wednesday 25 March 2026, was postponed. The meeting was set to discuss plans for a new wildlife trail, the results of memorial stability testing, and the proposed work programme for the upcoming year. Further details will be provided once the meeting is rescheduled.

This week in Richmond upon Thames:

• The Planning Committee met to discuss the redevelopment of Clifford House and approved plans for 12 new residential units.
• The Transport and Air Quality Committee agreed to delegate authority for e-bike services to Forest Bikes and approved the final draft of the Transport Strategy to 2040.
• The Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) was scheduled to discuss the national curriculum for Religious Education and new guidance on Relationships, Sex and Health Education.
• The Quality Accounts Sub-Committee was scheduled to review the draft Quality Account for the Kingston and Richmond NHS Foundation Trust.

Planning Committee - Wednesday 18 March 2026

The Planning Committee met on Wednesday 18 March 2026 to consider the redevelopment of Clifford House, located at 424 Upper Richmond Road West, East Sheen, SW14 7JX. The committee resolved to delegate authority to the Head of Development Management to approve the application, subject to a Section 106 legal agreement and specified conditions.

The application proposed the erection of a part two, part three, and part four-storey building comprising 12 residential units. This revised scheme sought to increase the number of flats from the previously approved eight, achieved through greater massing of the rear wing and the loss of a ground-floor commercial unit (Class E).

Members noted that the site is a brownfield site, and the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) requires such sites to be given substantial weight for housing development. The loss of the Class E commercial unit was not considered a significant concern as the site is outside the town centre boundary.

A key area of discussion was the impact on neighbouring residential amenity. While the revised scheme was considered to cause modest additional harm to properties at 61 Clifford Avenue and 422 Upper Richmond Road West, the committee acknowledged that the owner of 61 Clifford Avenue had withdrawn their objections. The committee ultimately concluded that, on balance, the benefits of the scheme in terms of housing delivery outweighed the harms. The decision to approve the application, subject to a Section 106 Legal Agreement, will secure a carbon offset contribution, a late-stage viability review mechanism, and parking permit restrictions.

Transport and Air Quality Committee - Monday 16 March 2026

The Transport and Air Quality Committee met on Monday 16 March 2026, agreeing to delegate authority for the borough's hire e-bike services to Forest Bikes as a sole provider. The committee also approved the final draft of the Transport Strategy to 2040 and agreed design concepts for Phase 1 of the Hampton Court Road Cycle and Pedestrian Safety Improvements, approving their progression to informal consultation.

Petition for HGV Weight Restriction in Barnes

The committee considered a petition calling for a 7.5-tonne weight restriction for HGVs on The Terrace and High Street in Barnes. The petitioner argued that heavy vehicle traffic was causing danger, damage, and congestion. Council officers have begun considering options and aim to discuss them with ward councillors by the end of April, with community consultation planned after the May elections.

Ward Concern Regarding Controlled Parking Zones

Councillor Coombs raised a ward concern regarding the inclusion of Strathairn Avenue and Percy Road in the Whitton South Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ). A formal council consultation is requested for the next financial year, though it is likely to take place in the 2027-28 financial year, subject to other priorities.

Future E-bike Services

Following a procurement exercise, the committee recommended delegating authority to officers to award a contract to Forest Bikes as a sole provider for hire e-bike services. This decision was influenced by Forest Bikes scoring highest overall and offering a significantly larger contribution to public services compared to other bidders. The contract will be subject to completion and will aim to improve management and control of e-bike services in the borough.

Transport Strategy 2040

The committee reviewed the final draft of the Richmond upon Thames Transport Strategy to 2040. This strategy sets out a long-term vision for transport improvements, focusing on infrastructure stewardship, urban quality, safety, sustainable mobility, and accessibility. The committee approved the draft final version and the process for its publication.

Hampton Court Road Cycle and Pedestrian Safety Improvements (Phase 1)

The committee agreed to the design concepts for Phase 1 of the Hampton Court Road Cycle and Pedestrian Safety Improvements, which aims to enhance on-street cycle facilities and improve pedestrian crossings between Hampton Court Roundabout and Bushy Park. The committee also approved proceeding with informal consultation on Phase 1.

Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) - Thursday 19 March 2026

The Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) met on Thursday, 19 March 2026. Key topics scheduled for discussion included a review of the national curriculum for Religious Education (RE), updated guidance on Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE), and proposals for collaboration with the Richmond Faith and Belief Forum.

Curriculum and Assessment Review

The council was scheduled to consider the final report of the Curriculum and Assessment Review, which examined the national curriculum and statutory assessment system in England. The report highlighted inconsistencies in the quality of RE provision and recommended that RE should be integrated into the national curriculum.

RSHE Guidance

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to new guidance on Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE), set to be implemented from September 2026. A draft local briefing document, developed by the Richmond and Wandsworth public health team, was presented for review. This guidance places a stronger emphasis on pupil engagement, transparency with parents, and inclusivity.

Collaboration with Richmond Faith and Belief Forum

The council was scheduled to discuss a proposal for collaborative work with the Richmond Faith and Belief Forum (RFBF). The RFBF, a platform for local faith and belief groups, partnered with the London School of Economics Faith Centre and the Council's Climate Change team for an event exploring how faith communities can support Richmond's ambition to become a net-zero borough.

Nomination of Chair Update

The council was to receive an update on the process for nominating the Chair of SACRE. The authority decided to maintain the current process, meaning no changes would be made to the Terms of Reference regarding the nomination of the Chair.

SACRE and School Complaints

The meeting was scheduled to address the remit of SACRE concerning school complaints. The report noted that SACRE does not have the legal remit to consider individual complaints about schools, as these are the responsibility of the school's governing body and Headteacher.

NASACRE and Other Updates

The council was to receive updates on national RE news and developments from the National Association of SACREs (NASACRE).

Quality Accounts Sub-Committee - Monday 16 March 2026

The Quality Accounts Sub-Committee meeting was scheduled to discuss the draft Quality Account for the Kingston and Richmond NHS Foundation Trust for the 2025/2026 period. This document outlines the Trust's performance, achievements, and challenges, as well as its priorities for the upcoming year. The committee was expected to review this report to inform the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames' response. The Quality Account focuses on patient safety, clinical effectiveness, and patient experience, and sets out the Trust's quality priorities for 2025/26 and 2026/27.

This week in Richmond upon Thames:

Health and Wellbeing Board Tackles Preventative Care and Mental Health Strategies

The Health and Wellbeing Board met on Thursday, 12 March 2026, to discuss critical initiatives aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of Richmond residents. Key topics included the annual Director of Public Health Report, updates on the Joint Local Health and Wellbeing Strategy, and the South West London Mental Health Strategy. The Board also reviewed progress on the Frailty programme, highlighting the council's commitment to proactive and integrated care.

Healthy Schools Programme Celebrated in Director of Public Health Report

The Board received an update on the Richmond Annual Director of Public Health Report, presented through a compelling short film titled 'It Takes a Village'. This report showcases the achievements of the Healthy Schools Programme, a vital initiative that fosters health and wellbeing within educational settings and the wider community. The programme operates on a whole-school and community approach, acting as a crucial link between schools, public health services, and residents.

Currently, the programme is operating at full capacity, supporting 45 primary schools, 11 secondary schools, and three SEND schools in Richmond. Councillor Nancy Baldwin highlighted the programme's success but also raised the question of expansion. The report indicated that any growth would require additional funding or resources, a point that the Board was encouraged to support through further dissemination and championing of the programme. The film format was praised for its engaging approach, and the Board was urged to support its wider sharing to potentially attract further investment.

Joint Local Health & Wellbeing Strategy: Progress on Long-Term Conditions and Healthy Lifestyles

An update on the Joint Local Health and Wellbeing Strategy, '18 Steps to Health and Wellbeing', revealed positive progress in tackling long-term conditions and promoting healthy lifestyles. The strategy aims to improve residents' health, reduce inequalities, and empower communities through preventative measures.

Key achievements highlighted include:

• Diabetes Prevention: The National Diabetes Prevention Programme (NDPP) saw 335 referrals in the first half of the 2025/26 financial year. The 'Health in Your Hands' project specifically targeted deprived areas, delivering 255 health checks and referring 32 residents for further assessment. While Richmond's diabetes mortality rate is lower than the England average, the estimated prevalence of diabetes remains a concern.
• Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) Prevention: The NHS Health Check Programme completed 3,002 checks between April and December 2025, identifying new cases of hypertension and individuals at high risk of heart attack. The Stop Smoking Service has also seen success, with 133 individuals quitting smoking in the same period. Richmond has one of the lowest smoking prevalences in the country, though targeted efforts continue for priority populations.
• Physical Activity and Healthy Eating: The Fairer Access Scheme, which offers discounted access to activities, saw a 76.8% increase in membership between July 2024 and August 2025, reaching over 1,182 active members. A Community Sport & Physical Activity Network (CSPAN) has been launched to foster collaboration, with plans for significant investment in leisure facilities.
• Smoking Cessation: Richmond continues to be a leader in reducing smoking prevalence, with an ambition to achieve smokefree status by 2030. Despite low overall prevalence, targeted support remains crucial for long-term smokers and those in priority groups.
• Alcohol Harm Reduction: The number of adults successfully completing alcohol treatment increased from 65 to 94 between September 2023-August 2024 and September 2024-August 2025, indicating improved access to support services.
• Suicide Prevention: Bereavement support has been embedded in primary care, and integrated support for individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance misuse needs has been expanded.

Councillor Piers Allen, Chair of the Health and Wellbeing Board, noted the importance of these initiatives in building a healthier borough. The Board was encouraged to support the further dissemination of the Health and Wellbeing Strategy.

Read more about the Health and Wellbeing Board meeting here.

South West London Mental Health Strategy Focuses on Early Intervention and Equality

An update on the South West London Mental Health Strategy, now in its third year of implementation, highlighted a strong focus on prevention, early support, and addressing inequalities. The five-year plan aims to transform mental health services across the region, with key priorities for 2025-26 including enhanced support for children and young people, improved pathways for adults with severe mental illness (SMI), and strengthened community networks.

A critical aim of the strategy is to eliminate racial inequality in mental health services and reduce the mortality gap for individuals with SMI. The strategy employs a bio-psycho-social model, recognising the interconnectedness of biological, psychological, and social factors in mental health. Councillor Piers Allen emphasised the importance of this integrated approach in ensuring timely access to care and support for all residents.

Read more about the South West London Mental Health Strategy update here.

Frailty Programme Aims for Coordinated, Person-Centred Care

The Board received an update on the Frailty programme, a collaborative effort across Richmond and Kingston aimed at delivering coordinated, person-centred care for an ageing population. Richmond has been selected as one of seven national sites participating in the National Frailty Collaborative, testing innovative approaches to care delivery.

The programme focuses on a frailty-attuned care approach, requiring a shift in mindset among healthcare professionals to better support individuals experiencing frailty. Positive outcomes reported include reduced hospital admissions for identified frail individuals and improved quality of care in care homes. The Board was encouraged to note the programme's progress and its commitment to continuous improvement.

Read more about the Frailty programme update here.

Licensing Sub-Committee Considers Off-Licence Application

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Tuesday, 10 March 2026, to consider a new premises licence application for Jays Food and Wine, located at 117 Nelson Road, Twickenham, TW2 7AZ. The application proposed the sale of alcohol for off-premises consumption.

While the Metropolitan Police Authority did not object after the applicant agreed to a set of conditions, one local resident submitted a representation expressing concerns about potential increases in noise, litter, public drinking, and anti-social behaviour. The applicant, Mr. Balbir Singh Kapoor, who has extensive experience in licensed retail, agreed to reduce the proposed hours for alcohol sales and closing time to 10 pm to address these concerns. He also committed to implementing measures such as a Challenge 25 policy, CCTV, and staff training.

The Sub-Committee granted the licence, subject to the agreed conditions, aiming to balance the applicant's business needs with the community's concerns.

Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting here.