This week in Southwark:

Council Tax Set to Rise by Nearly 5% Amidst Budget Pressures

Southwark Council residents will face an increase in their council tax for the 2026-27 financial year, with a total rise of 4.99% approved. This decision, made by the Council Tax Setting Committee on Friday 27 February 2026, includes a 2.99% increase for the council's local services and a further 2% for the Greater London Authority (GLA) precept. For a Band D property, this means an annual increase of £89.36, bringing the total council tax bill to £1,967.26.

The increase comes as the council grapples with significant financial pressures, including rising costs for temporary accommodation and ongoing demands on adult social care. While the Council Assembly, meeting on Wednesday 25 February 2026, approved a balanced budget for 2026-27, it also highlighted a cumulative Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) gap of £80.94 million. The budget includes an additional £2.6 million allocated to temporary accommodation, funded by the Final Local Government Finance Settlement.

The decision to raise council tax will disproportionately affect vulnerable residents, including those on low incomes and fixed incomes, who may struggle to absorb the additional cost. While the council's manifesto pledges a commitment to supporting residents, particularly during the cost of living crisis, the approved increase raises concerns about affordability for many households.

An amendment proposed by Councillor Victor Chamberlain, which sought to provide council tax reductions and increase the cost of living fund, was lost. Similarly, an amendment by Councillor James McAsh for a pilot scheme offering free bus travel to young adults was also defeated.

You can find more details about the Council Tax Setting Committee meeting here. You can find more details about the Council Assembly meeting here.

Children in Care Face Increased Substance Misuse Risks, Corporate Parenting Committee Hears

The Corporate Parenting Committee met on Wednesday 25 February 2026 to discuss critical issues affecting children in care and care leavers. A stark report highlighted an increase in substance misuse among looked-after children in Southwark, with the borough's figures significantly exceeding national averages. This trend poses a serious risk to the well-being and future prospects of these vulnerable young people, who are already navigating complex challenges.

The committee reviewed an annual report on corporate parenting, which outlines the council's commitment to acting in the best interests of children in care. However, the substance misuse report indicated a need for enhanced interventions and better data quality to effectively support these young people. The report recommended reviewing the parity of support for children placed outside the borough and actively monitoring emerging substance trends.

Further discussions covered the adoption annual report, which noted a decline in children being matched with adoptive carers, and an update on foster care recruitment. The committee also heard from Speakerbox, Southwark's Children in Care Council, about their vision for the future and the standards of care within the fostering service. The development of the new Corporate Parenting Strategy for 2026-2030, developed with input from care-experienced young people, aims to address these challenges and ensure better outcomes for all children in care.

You can find more details about the Corporate Parenting Committee meeting here.

Climate Action and Local Economy Take Centre Stage at Scrutiny Commission

The Environment, Community Safety and Engagement Scrutiny Commission met on Monday 23 February 2026 to discuss the council's progress on its Climate Emergency Action Plan and to interview the Cabinet Member for Clean Air, Streets and Waste. The discussions underscored the council's commitment to environmental sustainability and its efforts to improve services that directly impact residents' daily lives.

An update on the Climate Action Plan revealed a streamlined approach, with actions now focused on five key themes: Buildings and energy; Transport and streets; Natural environment; Greener economy; and People and resources. The plan aims to achieve the 2030 carbon neutrality goal and enhance the borough's resilience to climate change impacts. Initiatives like the introduction of a climate budget and the Southwark Green Investment programme are central to this strategy.

The commission also heard from Councillor James McAsh, the Cabinet Member for Clean Air, Streets and Waste, about recycling performance and efforts to tackle fly-tipping. The report on recycling and food waste indicated a positive trend, with an expected recycling rate for 2025/26 between 35.5% and 36.0%. The successful rollout of the food waste collection service was highlighted as a key achievement.

Additionally, the commission received a presentation from Tideway on the environmental enhancements resulting from the London super sewer project and heard from Play England about national developments in children's play. These discussions reflect the council's broad engagement with environmental and community well-being initiatives.

You can find more details about the Environment, Community Safety and Engagement Scrutiny Commission meeting here.

Planning Committee Considers Business Estate Redevelopment and Shared Living Proposals

The Planning Committee (Smaller Applications) met on Tuesday 24 February 2026 to consider two significant planning applications. One proposal involved the redevelopment of a business estate to include a commercial storage facility and affordable workspace, while the other focused on creating purpose-built shared living units.

Old Jamaica Business Estate: Affordable Workspace and Amenity Concerns

The committee reviewed plans for Unit 23 and 24 Old Jamaica Business Estate, which proposed a new commercial storage facility and affordable workspace. While the application aimed to deliver much-needed workspace, it also faced objections from residents concerned about the development's impact on the local residential character, amenity, and safety. Issues raised included the building's height and bulk, potential noise from loading bays, and air quality impacts. The report detailed the applicant's strategy for affordable workspace, proposing 10% of the gross internal area at a discounted rent. The committee had to weigh the economic benefits against the potential disruption to nearby residents.

Tanner Street: Shared Living and Heritage Considerations

The committee also considered proposals for 47-49 Tanner Street, which aimed to redevelop the site to provide purpose-built shared living units. Located within the Bermondsey Street Conservation Area, the application required careful consideration of its impact on the heritage asset and the surrounding townscape. Concerns raised by neighbours included the design quality, potential noise and overlooking, and transport impacts. The report detailed two schemes, A and B, with Scheme B developed to comply with existing covenants on the site. The committee's decision would determine the future of this site, balancing the need for new housing with the preservation of local heritage.

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

Other Matters

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Thursday 26 February 2026. The details of this meeting are pending council publication. You can find more details about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting here.

Upcoming Meetings

• Constitutional Steering Panel - Monday 02 March 2026
• Audit, Governance and Standards (Civic Awards) Sub-Committee - Monday 02 March 2026
• Health and Social Care Scrutiny Commission - Monday 02 March 2026
• Licensing Sub-Committee - Tuesday 03 March 2026
• Planning Committee (Major Applications) B - Tuesday 03 March 2026
• Camberwell Neighbourhood Community Meeting - Tuesday 03 March 2026
• Walworth Neighbourhood Community Meeting - Tuesday 03 March 2026
• Housing Scrutiny Commission - Thursday 05 March 2026
• Pensions Advisory Panel - Thursday 05 March 2026
• Licensing Sub-Committee - Thursday 05 March 2026
• Borough and London Bridge Neighbourhood Community Meeting - Tuesday 10 March 2026
• Nunhead and Peckham Rye Neighbourhood Community Meeting - Tuesday 10 March 2026
• Old Kent Road Neighbourhood Community Meeting - Tuesday 10 March 2026
• Peckham Neighbourhood Community Meeting - Tuesday 10 March 2026
• Bermondsey Neighbourhood Community Meeting - Wednesday 11 March 2026
• Dulwich Neighbourhood Community Meeting - Wednesday 11 March 2026
• East Dulwich Neighbourhood Community Meeting - Wednesday 11 March 2026
• Rotherhithe Neighbourhood Community Meeting - Wednesday 11 March 2026
• Licensing Sub-Committee - Thursday 12 March 2026
• Health and Wellbeing Board - Thursday 12 March 2026

This week in Southwark:

Licensing Sub-Committee Meeting Cancelled: Peckham Palais Licence Application Postponed

The Licensing Sub-Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday 19 February 2026, which was set to consider a significant application for a premises licence for Peckham Palais, has been cancelled. This means the decision on whether Peckham Palais can operate with the proposed licensable activities, including the sale of alcohol and late-night refreshment, is now postponed.

The application, submitted by Background Bars Limited, had attracted considerable attention, with representations from four responsible authorities and twenty-six from other persons supporting the application. Key concerns raised by authorities included potential public nuisance and crime and disorder, particularly given the premises' location within the Peckham Cumulative Impact Area. The report pack indicated that the proposed operating hours exceeded those recommended in the Southwark Statement of Licensing Policy 2021-2026.

The cancellation means that the sub-committee will not be able to deliberate on the proposed conditions and representations at this time. Further information on when this application will be reconsidered will be provided as it becomes available.

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

Upcoming Meetings

• Environment, Community Safety and Engagement Scrutiny Commission - Monday 23 February 2026
• Planning Committee (Smaller Applications) - Tuesday 24 February 2026
• Corporate Parenting Committee - Wednesday 25 February 2026
• Council Assembly - Wednesday 25 February 2026
• Education and Local Economy Scrutiny Commission - Thursday 26 February 2026
• Audit, Governance and Standards (Civic Awards) Sub-Committee - Monday 02 March 2026
• Camberwell Neighbourhood Community Meeting - Tuesday 03 March 2026
• Planning Committee (Major Applications) B - Tuesday 03 March 2026
• Walworth Neighbourhood Community Meeting - Tuesday 03 March 2026
• Pensions Advisory Panel - Wednesday 04 March 2026
• Planning Committee (Smaller Applications) - Wednesday 04 March 2026 (Cancelled)
• Housing Scrutiny Commission - Thursday 05 March 2026

This week in Southwark:

Council Approves New Housing Strategy for Older Residents Amidst Growing Needs

Southwark Council's Cabinet has given the green light to the Older People's Housing Strategy 2026-2036, a crucial plan designed to address the evolving housing needs of the borough's ageing population. This strategy comes at a time when the pressures on adult social care and social housing are intensifying, driven by an increasing number of older residents and rising living costs. The plan prioritises three core areas: improving access to suitable and affordable housing, ensuring timely and accessible support for independent living, and making it easier for older people to downsize.

The strategy acknowledges the critical need for more specialist housing options, such as flexi-care schemes and almshouses, and commits to ensuring all council homes for older people meet the Decent Homes Standard. This is a significant step towards ensuring dignity and security for our older residents, many of whom may be vulnerable and reliant on adequate housing and support. The strategy was developed following extensive consultation with older residents, their families, and housing providers, aiming to reflect their lived experiences and priorities.

You can find more details about the Cabinet meeting here.

Council Pushes Ahead with Ambitious New Homes Programme

Southwark Council continues its drive to build new council homes, with an update presented to the Cabinet on the Southwark Construction New Homes Programme. The council is a leading local authority in this area, having started over 3,169 new council homes and nearly 3,900 new homes in total across its current programmes. The report highlights that 82% of new home starts are council homes, and 87% of completions are also council homes, demonstrating a strong commitment to providing social housing.

Key construction milestones, including topping out ceremonies and demolition works, were noted. The council's proactive approach to securing external funding, such as bids for the Social and Affordable Homes Programme, underscores its dedication to delivering these vital homes. The report also emphasises adherence to the Charter of Principles for resident engagement, ensuring that residents have a voice in shaping their new homes and communities. Furthermore, new homes are being designed to meet stringent environmental standards, contributing to the council's climate emergency commitments.

You can find more details about the Cabinet meeting here.

Council to Dispose of Westminster Bridge Road Property

The Cabinet has approved the disposal of the council's freehold interest in the vacant former office building at Westminster Bridge Road, London, SE1 7XW. The property is in poor condition and requires substantial investment, with no current operational need for the council. Selling the property via auction is seen as the most effective way to secure the best value for the council within the current financial year.

The capital receipt generated from this sale will support the Council's Capital Programme and help alleviate significant revenue pressures associated with holding the vacant property, including costs for security and business rates. This decision also paves the way for a much-needed redevelopment of the site, which has been a long-standing concern for the local community.

You can find more details about the Cabinet meeting here.

Better Repairs Programme Aims to Modernise Housing Services

Southwark's approach to improving its repairs service is being modernised through the Better Repairs Programme. This initiative responds to challenges identified by residents, staff, and the Regulator of Social Housing, aiming to ensure repairs are completed correctly and on time, improve communication, and foster a culture of accountability.

Key features of the programme include:

• Neighbourhood-based repairs teams: Bringing services closer to residents.
• Skilled workforce: Ensuring operatives have the right skills and sufficient time to complete jobs effectively.
• Data and technology: Leveraging modern tools to streamline operations.
• Focus on right first time : Reducing the need for repeat visits.

The programme is projected to deliver significant financial savings, which can be reinvested into improving the condition of homes. The report highlights that the drivers for change include resident feedback, complaint analysis, and the need to comply with Awaab's Law¹.

You can find more details about the Cabinet meeting here.

Council to Meet Enhanced Biodiversity Reporting Requirements

Southwark Council has committed to meeting the enhanced Biodiversity Duty reporting requirements introduced by the Environment Act 2021. The Cabinet approved the council's first statutory Biodiversity Duty report for submission to the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).

The report details Southwark's actions to conserve and enhance biodiversity, including habitat creation in parks, biodiversity net gain in new developments, and community engagement projects. The council's significant investment in biodiversity, including the Southwark Biodiversity Fund, was also noted. This commitment is vital for protecting local wildlife and natural habitats, contributing to a healthier environment for all residents.

You can find more details about the Cabinet meeting here.

School Admission Numbers to be Adjusted Amidst Falling Demand

The Cabinet has agreed to proposed admission arrangements for Southwark Community Primary Schools for September 2027 onwards, including adjustments to published admission numbers (PANs). Notably, PANs are proposed to be reduced at Keyworth Primary School (from 60 to 30) and Phoenix Primary School (from 90 to 60).

These reductions are school-led requests to better match falling pupil demand and ensure the schools' organisational and financial viability. This reflects a challenging climate of declining school rolls across the borough. The arrangements continue to prioritise children with an Education, Health and Care Plan, followed by looked-after children, siblings, and then distance from the school, ensuring fairness and continued support for vulnerable pupils.

You can find more details about the Cabinet meeting here.

Council Presents Balanced Budget for 2026-27 Amidst Financial Pressures

Southwark Council's Cabinet has considered the Policy and Resources Strategy report, which presents a balanced budget for the 2026-2027 financial year and an update to the Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS). Despite significant pressures, including rising temporary accommodation costs, a balanced budget has been presented without further departmental reductions, largely due to savings identified through the organisation-wide transformation programme.

However, the report highlights the impact of the government's Fair Funding Review, which, while modernising the funding model, provided no new resources, leading to redistribution challenges. The council's own taxbase forecasts are lower than government assumptions, creating a cumulative gap. The Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget also remains under significant financial pressure due to historic rent caps and increased costs, with rents set to increase by 4.8% and service charges by an average of 7.45%.

The Budget Equality Analysis Report 2026-27 identified potential negative impacts for certain protected characteristics due to fee increases, particularly for those on lower incomes. Mitigation measures include signposting to existing support schemes and concessions.

You can find more details about the Cabinet meeting here.

Other Matters

The Audit, Governance and Standards Committee met on Tuesday 3 February 2026. The committee was scheduled to discuss a new member induction and development programme, an update on variable service charges, the council's corporate risk management framework, and reports on the operational use of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (RIPA), whistleblowing complaints, and the committee's own work programme. Details of this meeting can be found here.

The Environment, Community Safety and Engagement Scrutiny Commission met on Tuesday 3 February 2026. Key discussions included measures to tackle phone snatching, particularly by individuals using electric bikes, and an annual interview with the Police Borough Commander. The commission also reviewed the Cabinet's response to a scrutiny review on the physical and mental health and wellbeing impacts of active travel and access to nature. Details of this meeting can be found here.

The Housing Scrutiny Commission met on Wednesday 4 February 2026. The commission was scheduled to review the performance and communications of social landlords operating in Southwark and to discuss potential recommendations for the Cabinet. The commission also considered its work programme for the 2025-2026 municipal year. Details of this meeting can be found here.

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Thursday 5 February 2026. The committee was scheduled to consider applications for the review of premises licences for Pizza Hut at 35 Vestry Road and Blue Istanbul Supermarket at 234 Southwark Park Road. Details of this meeting can be found here.

The Education and Local Economy Scrutiny Commission met on Thursday 5 February 2026. The commission was scheduled to discuss its work programme and receive updates on pupils affected by school closures and an interview with a provider of services for children with special educational needs and disabilities. Details of this meeting can be found here.

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Friday 6 February 2026. Details of this meeting can be found here.

Upcoming Meetings

• Planning Committee (Major Applications) A - Tuesday 10 February 2026 (Cancelled)

This week in Southwark:

Late-Night Licences for New Venues Raise Public Nuisance and Safety Concerns

Southwark Council's Licensing Sub-Committee is set to consider applications for new premises licences that could significantly impact local communities. The decisions made will shape the late-night economy and have direct consequences for residents, particularly concerning noise, safety, and the overall character of neighbourhoods.

Shrimp and Wings: Late Hours and Resident Objections

The sub-committee will review an application for Shrimp and Wings, located at 127 Queens Road, London SE15 2ND. The applicant seeks permission to sell alcohol from 7 am to midnight daily, with late-night refreshment and recorded music extending to 11:30 pm.

While initial objections from Trading Standards and the Metropolitan Police Service were withdrawn after conditions were agreed, five representations from other persons remain. These objectors are primarily concerned about:

• Public Nuisance: The potential for noise disturbance from the venue, especially given its proximity to residential properties.
• Crime and Disorder: Fears that extended operating hours could lead to an increase in anti-social behaviour.

The council's Statement of Licensing Policy¹ guides decisions on such applications, aiming to uphold the four licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of nuisance, and protection of children from harm. The outcome of this application will determine whether the business can operate with extended hours, and the impact this will have on the surrounding residential area.

Flavr Street Food & Bar: Cumulative Impact and Resident Concerns

Another significant application is for Flavr Street Food & Bar, situated at Arch 37, America Street, London SE1 0NJ. This venue, a food hall and bar within a railway arch, proposes operating hours until 1 am on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, with recorded music and entertainment extending to these times.

This application has generated considerable interest, with representations from responsible authorities and seventeen from local residents. While the police and Trading Standards have withdrawn their objections after agreeing on conditions, the Environmental Protection Team and residents' concerns remain. Key issues include:

• Public Nuisance: Potential noise pollution from the venue and its patrons.
• Crime and Disorder: Fears of increased activity in the late-night economy.
• Residential Amenity: The impact on nearby residential properties, particularly given the proposed late hours.

Crucially, Flavr Street Food & Bar is located within the Borough and Bankside Cumulative Impact Area (CIA)². This designation means the council has a special policy to address the cumulative impact of licensed premises on licensing objectives. The proposed hours exceed those stipulated in existing planning permission for the arches, which were set to protect residential properties. The decision here will weigh the economic benefits of a new venue against the potential for increased disruption in an area already under scrutiny for its density of licensed premises.

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

Licensing Committee to Review Cumulative Impact Areas and Late-Night Levy

The Licensing Committee is set to convene on Thursday 29 January 2026 to undertake a crucial review of the borough's licensing framework. The discussions will focus on the Statement of Licensing Policy, the designation of Cumulative Impact Areas (CIAs), and the future of the Late-Night Levy (LNL). These decisions have far-reaching implications for businesses, residents, and the overall management of Southwark's night-time economy.

Revising the Statement of Licensing Policy 2026-2031

The committee will consider a revised Statement of Licensing Policy, which guides how the council handles licensing applications under the Licensing Act 2003. The proposed policy aims to be clearer and more accessible, incorporating updated guidance on various licensing matters. The review process has included public consultation, ensuring that resident and business feedback is considered. The policy's effectiveness is vital for ensuring that new and existing licensed premises contribute positively to the community without undermining the four licensing objectives.

Redrawing Cumulative Impact Areas

A significant agenda item is the review of Southwark's CIAs. These are areas where a high concentration of licensed premises is believed to be causing problems related to crime, disorder, nuisance, and public safety. The review proposes:

• Retaining Borough & Bankside as a CIA: This area, known for its density of licensed venues, will continue to be subject to stricter licensing policies.
• Designating Elephant & Castle as a new CIA: This reflects growing concerns about the impact of licensed premises in this rapidly developing area.
• Removing Peckham and Camberwell from CIA status: This decision suggests that the situation in these areas has improved, potentially allowing for more flexibility in licensing.

These changes will directly affect how new licences are granted and how existing ones are managed in these designated zones, with the aim of preventing further negative impacts on residents and businesses.

The Future of the Late-Night Levy

The committee will also discuss the Late-Night Levy (LNL), a fee charged to premises selling alcohol between midnight and 6 am. The LNL is intended to fund additional policing and related services in the late-night economy. The council is considering whether to maintain, extend, or remove the levy. Recent legislative changes offer more flexibility, allowing for targeted application and the inclusion of late-night refreshment premises.

Consultation responses indicate significant opposition to extending the LNL to late-night refreshment businesses, with concerns about the financial burden on these establishments. The committee's decision will impact the financial viability of late-night businesses and the resources available for managing the night-time economy.

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

Health and Social Care Commission to Discuss Menopause, Nursing Homes, and Toilet Access

The Health and Social Care Scrutiny Commission met on Tuesday 27 January 2026 to address critical issues affecting the health and wellbeing of Southwark residents. The discussions covered the impact of menopause, standards for nursing care homes, and the fundamental issue of access to public toilets.

Menopause Support and Awareness

The commission received a presentation on menopause from Mr Haitham Hamoda, a Consultant Gynaecologist and Clinical Lead for the Menopause Service at King's College Hospital. Mr Hamoda, also an Honorary Senior Lecturer at King's College London and a Trustee of the British Menopause Society, provided expert insight into the condition. This was followed by an update from the local NHS on current practices and support available for menopause in Southwark. Addressing menopause is crucial for supporting the health and productivity of a significant portion of the population, particularly women in the workforce.

Nursing Care Home Space Standards

Dr Martin Quirke, a Senior Architect and Lecturer in Design for Ageing and Dementia at the University of Stirling, presented on nursing care home space standards. Ensuring adequate and appropriate space within care homes is vital for the dignity, comfort, and safety of residents, especially those with complex health needs. This discussion is essential for maintaining high standards of care for vulnerable older adults in the borough.

Update on Access to Toilets

The commission also received an update on the ongoing issue of access to toilets. This is a fundamental public health and dignity issue, particularly for individuals with certain medical conditions, older people, and those with disabilities. Ensuring accessible and sufficient public toilet facilities is a key aspect of creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all residents.

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

Other Matters

The Council Assembly Business Panel met on Tuesday 27 January 2026. Details of this meeting can be found here.

The Licensing Sub-Committee also met on Tuesday 27 January 2026. Details of this meeting can be found here.

The Planning Committee (Major Applications) B meeting scheduled for Wednesday 28 January 2026 was cancelled. Information about this meeting can be found here.

Upcoming Meetings

• Cabinet - Monday 02 February 2026
• Audit, Governance and Standards Committee - Tuesday 03 February 2026
• Environment, Community Safety and Engagement Scrutiny Commission - Tuesday 03 February 2026
• Housing Scrutiny Commission - Wednesday 04 February 2026
• Education and Local Economy Scrutiny Commission - Thursday 05 February 2026
• Licensing Sub-Committee - Thursday 05 February 2026
• Planning Committee (Major Applications) A - Tuesday 10 February 2026