This week in Southwark:

Housing Standards Under the Microscope: Council Pushes to Improve Tenant Services

The Housing Scrutiny Commission met on Tuesday 14 July 2026 to assess the progress of the Good Landlord Plan (GLP), a critical initiative aimed at rectifying serious shortcomings in the council's housing services. The plan is a direct response to a C3 grading from the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) in November 2024, which flagged significant issues in meeting required Consumer Standards. This grading came after the tragic death of Awaab Ishak and the Grenfell Tower fire, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety and living conditions for all residents.

The GLP touches on every aspect of housing management, from the physical condition of homes to the responsiveness of repairs and the quality of customer service. The update presented to the commission revealed a mixed picture:

• Better Homes: While the stock condition survey programme has exceeded targets and the estimated decency rate for council homes stands at 92%, challenges persist in areas like domestic electrical testing and smoke alarm installation. Efforts are underway to improve access for essential safety checks, a crucial step in preventing future tragedies.
• Better Estates: The council is working to improve estate inspections, tackle anti-social behaviour with new procedures and training, and enhance resident engagement. A new model for housing service delivery is being developed to improve the tenant experience, and a trauma-informed approach is being rolled out for frontline staff.
• Better Repairs: Repairs completed on the first visit have reached 85%, with overall satisfaction at 90%. However, the report noted that stage two complaints require improvement, with a backlog of 154 overdue complaints at the end of June 2026. Additional staff have been brought in to address this, and a review of complaints processes is ongoing.
• Better Customer Service: While stage one complaints have seen reduced response times, the backlog in stage two complaints indicates a need for more robust systems. A new Customer Excellence training programme is being delivered to staff, and a new Repairs Policy is being developed following resident consultation.
• A Stronger Voice for Residents: The council has allocated significant funding – £1.3 million – to support resident involvement activities, with £100,000 specifically for a reward and recognition scheme for residents serving on Landlord Services Improvement Boards. This investment aims to empower tenants and ensure their voices are heard in shaping housing services.
• New Homes: The delivery of new council homes is progressing, though risks remain regarding market demand for private sales and redevelopment uncertainties. A new allocations policy and a new choice-based lettings system have been implemented.

The GLP is directly linked to the council's Southwark 2030 Strategy goal of Decent Homes for All and is essential for complying with the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023. Failure to meet these standards could result in sanctions from the Regulator of Social Housing, impacting the quality and safety of homes for thousands of residents.

The commission also discussed potential topics for its future work programme, but the decision was deferred to allow new councillors to familiarise themselves with their roles and for strategic priorities to be clarified.

You can find more details about the Housing Scrutiny Commission meeting here.

Council's Financial Health and Governance Under Scrutiny

The Audit, Governance and Standards Committee met on Monday 13 July 2026 to review critical reports on the council's financial management, fraud prevention, and governance structures. These discussions are vital for ensuring public funds are managed responsibly and that the council operates with integrity.

Tackling Fraud and Improving Systems

The committee reviewed the year-end report for the Corporate Anti-Fraud Team (CAFT) and Special Investigations Team (SIT), which detailed investigations into areas like homelessness applications, housing waiting lists, and Blue Badge fraud. These teams detected £2.2 million in fraud during the 2025-26 period, demonstrating their crucial role in protecting public money.

A significant update was provided on the Southwark360 programme, the ambitious project to replace the council's outdated SAP Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. The current SAP system, in use since 1999, is nearing the end of its support life. The new system aims to improve reporting, mobile accessibility, and adaptability to legislative changes. The programme remains on budget, with a focus on successful implementation and user adoption.

External Audit and Internal Assurance

The committee also examined the external audit plans for Southwark Council and the Pension Fund for the year ending 31 March 2026, prepared by KPMG. These plans outline the scope and approach for auditing the council's financial statements and assessing its arrangements for Value for Money (VfM). Key audit risks identified include the valuation of fixed assets and management override of controls.

The internal audit progress report for 2025-26 highlighted the completion of numerous audits across various council functions, from IT security to procurement and temporary accommodation. The overall opinion for internal audit work in 2025-26 was Generally satisfactory with improvements required in some areas, indicating that while controls are largely effective, specific improvements are needed in areas such as Nursing & Residential Care and IT Application – Mosaic. The committee also approved the internal audit plan, strategy, and charter for 2026/27, ensuring continued independent assurance.

Governance and Compliance

The draft Annual Governance Statement for 2025-26 was presented, outlining the council's review of its internal control systems. The statement confirmed the council's compliance with the CIPFA Financial Management Code, with a 'low risk' rating for overall financial sustainability, though higher-risk areas such as the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) reserves were noted. The committee also discussed the formation of sub-committees for standards and civic awards, and reviewed the proposed work programme for the upcoming year.

You can find more details about the Audit, Governance and Standards Committee meeting here.

Other Matters

Licensing Sub-Committee Meeting Cancelled

The Licensing Sub-Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday 16 July 2026 was cancelled. The meeting was due to consider an application to vary the premises licence for Premier Express at 12 Dunton Road. The application sought to remove conditions related to seasonal variation hours for alcohol sales and, more controversially, to remove a condition restricting the sale of high-strength alcohol. Representations had been received from the Metropolitan Police and Trading Standards, who objected to the removal of the high-strength alcohol restriction due to concerns about street drinking and anti-social behaviour.

You can find more details about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting here.

This week in Southwark:

Major Redevelopment Plans for Abbey Street and Funds for Lavender Pond Improvements

The Planning Committee (Major Applications) A met on Tuesday 7 July 2026 to consider two significant items: the release of funds for public open space improvements at the Lavender Pond and Nature Reserve, and a major planning application for a new tall building at 177 Abbey Street.

Enhancing Lavender Pond and Nature Reserve

The committee was set to consider the release of £194,670.34 for much-needed improvements to the Lavender Pond and Nature Reserve. These funds, accrued from Section 106 contributions – payments made by developers to offset the impact of their projects – are earmarked for upgrading this vital public space. The proposed enhancements aim to improve infrastructure, increase visibility, accessibility, and safety, while also boosting biodiversity and its potential as an educational resource. This aligns with the council's Southwark 2030 goals for a healthier environment and improved well-being for residents.

New Tall Building Proposed for Abbey Street

A substantial planning application for a new building at 177 Abbey Street, SE1 2AN was also on the agenda. The proposal includes a 21-storey building designed to house a community facility on its lower floors and 152 affordable keyworker homes above. All homes would be 100% affordable, with rents set at London Living Rent levels. A significant portion of these homes, 19 units, are specifically designed to be wheelchair accessible, addressing a critical need for inclusive housing.

The development also promises considerable public realm enhancements, including over 700 square metres of publicly accessible open space and the planting of 16 new trees. The project aims for a car-free approach for residents, prioritising sustainable transport. The design incorporates sustainability measures, including a biosolar roof and extensive green infrastructure, targeting a 78% improvement in CO2 emissions compared to current building regulations.

The report highlighted extensive community consultation, with an addendum suggesting further engagement with the Arnold Estate Tenants and Residents' Association regarding the management of the new community facility. This development, while promising new homes and community space, will be closely watched for its impact on the local area and its contribution to the council's housing targets.

You can find more details about the Planning Committee (Major Applications) A meeting here.

Licensing Sub-Committee Meeting Cancelled

The Licensing Sub-Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday 9 July 2026 was cancelled. The meeting was due to consider a Temporary Event Notice for an event at The Queens Walk. The Metropolitan Police had lodged an objection to the notice on grounds of public safety and the prevention of crime and disorder, citing concerns that free music events could attract larger crowds and potentially strain emergency services.

You can find more details about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting here.

Other Matters

Ship Aground Public House Licence Review

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Friday 10 July 2026 to consider a summary review of the premises licence for the Ship Aground Public House, located at 33 Wolseley Street, SE1 2BP. This review was initiated by the Metropolitan Police following an incident on 8 July 2026, where officers reportedly found a quantity of suspected class A drugs and a firearm on the premises. The police requested the suspension of the licence as an interim step to prevent further harm, citing serious crime and disorder concerns. The sub-committee was to consider interim steps pending a full review hearing scheduled for 4 August 2026.

You can find more details about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting here.

This week in Southwark:

New Arts Centre for Kingswood House Faces Licensing Hurdles Amidst Resident Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Thursday 2 July 2026 to consider a new premises licence application for Kingswood House, located at Seeley Drive, London SE21 8QN. The applicant, HH Kingswood Limited, aims to transform the venue into a Community arts centre, culture hub, and events venue. However, the proposal has drawn objections from local residents and the Member of Parliament for Dulwich and West Norwood, Helen Hayes MP, raising concerns about potential noise and public nuisance.

The proposed operating hours are extensive, with the venue intending to host plays, films, live and recorded music, and dance performances from Sunday to Tuesday between 09:00 and 23:00, and Wednesday to Saturday from 09:00 to 00:00. Late-night refreshment is sought until midnight on Wednesdays to Saturdays, and alcohol sales are proposed to continue until 23:30 on those nights. A special request for extended hours on New Year's Eve was also made.

The core of the objections from seven interested parties, including MP Helen Hayes, centres on the licensing objectives of preventing crime and disorder and preventing public nuisance. Residents are worried about the impact of amplified music and patrons gathering outside the venue, particularly given its residential setting. Some representations suggest the requested hours exceed the council's licensing policy and call for stricter controls.

The report pack noted the venue's previous licence history, which had been held by Kingswood Arts CIC before lapsing due to administration. The sub-committee was tasked with balancing the applicant's vision for a vibrant community arts space against the legitimate concerns of neighbours regarding noise and disturbance. The council's Statement of Licensing Policy 2026-2031 was a key document in this consideration, guiding the committee on operating hours and the prevention of nuisance.

You can find more details about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting here.

Alleyn's School Expansion Plans Approved, Garage Demolition and Replacement Gets Green Light

The Planning Committee (Smaller Applications) met on Tuesday 30 June 2026 and considered two planning applications, one for a significant expansion at Alleyn's School and another for the demolition and replacement of a garage at 67A Upland Road.

New Education Building for Alleyn's School

The committee reviewed a proposal to demolish the existing dining hall at Alleyn's School, located on Townley Road, and replace it with a new part one, two, and three-storey education building. This new facility will house dining halls, classrooms, meeting rooms, breakout spaces, an assembly hall for 220 pupils, an energy centre, and a roof terrace. Crucially, the school stated there would be no increase in the number of pupils.

The demolition of the current 1960s dining hall was deemed necessary due to its limited architectural quality and inability to meet modern energy and space standards. The replacement building is designed to be fully electric, contributing to the school's decarbonisation efforts. Despite concerns from objectors about overdevelopment, impact on residential character, and loss of amenity, the report highlighted that the design was arranged to minimise visual bulk and that the overall height would align with existing school buildings. A Community Use Agreement will be secured via a Section 106 agreement to ensure the new facilities can be hired by the wider community.

You can find more details about the Planning Committee (Smaller Applications) meeting here.

Garage Demolition and Ancillary Accommodation at 67A Upland Road

The committee also considered a full planning application for the demolition of an existing garage at 67A Upland Road, Southwark SE22 0DA and the construction of a two-storey building to provide ancillary accommodation to the host dwellinghouse at No. 67C Upland Road.

While neighbours raised concerns about enclosure, overdevelopment, and loss of daylight, the assessment concluded that the use of the garage as ancillary to the main dwelling was acceptable. A unilateral undertaking will ensure the site remains linked to the primary dwelling and does not function as a separate unit. The design of the proposed structure was considered to have an impact on the streetscape but was deemed compatible with the varied character of the locality. A green roof is included, which will provide visual relief and aid in reducing surface water runoff.

You can find more details about the Planning Committee (Smaller Applications) meeting here.

Health and Social Care Scrutiny Commission Meeting Held

The Health and Social Care Scrutiny Commission met on Wednesday 1 July 2026. No transcript or video was provided for this meeting.

You can find more details about the Health and Social Care Scrutiny Commission meeting here.

This week in Southwark:

Local Market Trader Faces Licence Revocation Over Alleged Racist Abuse

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Thursday 25 June 2026 to consider a serious allegation that could lead to the permanent revocation of a market trading licence. The case involves alleged abusive and racially aggravated behaviour by a trader, identified as Trader A, at Pitch 35, North Cross Road, London SE22, towards another trader, Trader B, on Saturday 4 April 2026.

The report pack detailed that Trader A is accused of using racially offensive language and engaging in threatening and aggressive behaviour. Such actions, if proven, represent a serious breach of licence conditions and could lead to the trader losing their livelihood. The council's Markets Policy, adopted in 2017, aims to maintain a balance of markets and ensure consistent operation, and this incident directly challenges those principles.

The sub-committee had the power to revoke the licence, not revoke it, or add special conditions. The report highlighted that market trading licences granted under the Food Act 1984 do not offer traders a right of appeal at the magistrates' court, meaning a revocation would be final in that regard, though subject to judicial review. The incident was reported by a member of the public and Trader B, leading to an investigation that included interviews with Trader A, Trader B, and a witness. Trader A was suspended with immediate effect on 17 April 2026.

The potential revocation underscores the council's commitment to ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all traders and visitors within its markets. The decision will also impact the availability of pitches, with any vacant pitch to be advertised and re-licensed according to council policy.

You can find more details about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting here.

Overview & Scrutiny Committee Tackles NHS Performance and Committee Structures

The Overview & Scrutiny Committee convened on Monday 22 June 2026 to review important aspects of council oversight and public services. Key discussions included the performance of the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLaM) and the establishment of committee memberships and work programmes for the upcoming municipal year.

SLaM's CQC Inspection Highlights Need for Improvement

A significant part of the meeting involved a presentation from the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLaM) regarding their recent Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection. While the Forensic pathway received a Good rating, the inspection found that Community Adults, Acute Adults, and Crisis services all require improvement. The Well-Led assessment also indicated a need for enhancement.

The inspection report identified several areas for attention, including:

• Documentation: Issues with seclusion documentation and care plans.
• Training: Compliance with mandatory training for staff.
• Patient Care: Concerns around privacy and dignity, risk assessments, and waiting times.

SLaM has submitted an action plan to the CQC, detailing steps to address these findings. For Southwark's Crisis Services, this includes implementing a swing bed model and improving restraint technique compliance. For Community Adults services in Southwark, actions focus on enhancing care plans and risk assessments. In Acute Inpatients Adults services, improvements are targeted at observation processes and safeguarding training. These improvements are crucial for ensuring vulnerable residents receive timely and effective mental health support.

Committee Memberships and Work Programmes for 2026-27

The committee also addressed the organisation of its own oversight functions for the year ahead. Discussions included noting updated committee and commission memberships and reconsidering the appointment of the Chair and Vice-Chair for the Housing Scrutiny Commission.

The committee agreed that it was too early to finalise detailed work programmes for the year, given the new administration and councillors familiarising themselves with their roles. The period until the October meetings will be used for information gathering to identify potential scrutiny topics. Residents are encouraged to suggest topics via the council's participation platform.

A proposal was also discussed to rename the Health and Community Safety Scrutiny Commission to the Health, Adult Social Care, and Community Safety Scrutiny Commission to better reflect its remit, particularly concerning adult social care.

You can find more details about the Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting here.

Council Meetings Cancelled

Two council meetings scheduled for the past week were cancelled:

• Planning Committee (Major Applications) B on Wednesday 24 June 2026.
• Executive on Monday 22 June 2026.

No further information was provided regarding the reasons for these cancellations.