This week in Southwark:

Canterbury Arms Licence Application Sparks Renewed Concerns Over Past Tragedies and Public Safety

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Thursday 16 April 2026 to consider a contentious application for a new premises licence for the Canterbury Arms public house, located at 2-4 Maddock Way, London SE17 3NH. The application, brought by Maurice Collins and Aidan Collins, sought to operate the premises as a public house with proposed hours for the sale of alcohol from 10:00 to 23:00 daily. However, the meeting agenda was dominated by significant objections from the Metropolitan Police, Southwark Council's Trading Standards, and five local residents, all raising serious concerns about the potential impact on licensing objectives, particularly in light of the premises' recent history.

The Metropolitan Police's objection centred on the requested hours exceeding those recommended in the Southwark Statement of Licensing Policy and the potential for increased crime and disorder. Their concerns are amplified by the fact that the premises recently underwent a summary review of its licence following a fatal incident, which ultimately led to the revocation of the previous licence. This history casts a long shadow over the current application, with residents echoing fears of a return to past problems.

Local residents submitted five objections, detailing a history of alleged anti-social behaviour, violence, drug dealing, and noise nuisance stemming from the premises' prior operation. Specific complaints included loud amplified music, karaoke, customers congregating outside, and the use of glassware. The proposed early start time for alcohol sales at 10:00 am was also a point of contention for those living nearby.

Southwark Council's Trading Standards initially raised concerns about protecting children from harm, but these were withdrawn after the applicant agreed to implement robust age verification measures, including a Challenge 25 policy and staff training. While these conditions aim to mitigate risks, the overriding concerns about the premises' past and its potential impact on the community remain at the forefront of discussions. The sub-committee's decision will have a direct bearing on the safety and peace of mind for residents in the vicinity.

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

This week in Southwark:

Late-Night Food Venues Face Scrutiny Over Extended Hours and Potential Nuisance

Southwark Council's Licensing Sub-Committee is set to consider applications to extend operating hours for two popular food establishments, German Doner Kebab and Subway. The decisions could have a significant impact on residents, particularly concerning noise, public safety, and the overall character of the affected neighbourhoods.

German Doner Kebab: Concerns Over Cumulative Impact in Borough High Street

The committee will review an application from West London Foods Ltd to extend the late-night refreshment and opening hours for German Doner Kebab at 222-224 Borough High Street, London, SE1 1JX. The proposal seeks to push late-night refreshment hours from 1 am to 2 am on Sundays to Thursdays, and from 2 am to 3 am on Fridays and Saturdays.

However, the council's licensing unit and environmental protection team have raised objections, stating that the proposed hours exceed the recommendations in the council's Statement of Licensing Policy (SoLP) for premises in this area. Councillor David Watson, the local ward councillor, has also objected, citing concerns about the Borough and Bankside Cumulative Impact Area (CIA). This CIA is designed to prevent further negative impacts on crime and disorder, public nuisance, and public safety. The report notes that the SoLP recommends closing times of midnight for restaurants and cafes from Sunday to Thursday, and 1 am on Fridays and Saturdays. The Environmental Protection Team also flagged potential breaches of planning permission regarding operating hours.

The outcome of this application will determine whether German Doner Kebab can operate later, potentially increasing noise and activity in an area already designated as having a high concentration of licensed premises.

Subway on Denmark Hill: Balancing Resident Needs with Late-Night Access

The sub-committee will also consider an application from Thiyana Limited to extend operating hours for Subway at 76 – 78 Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8RZ. The proposed variation would extend late-night refreshment hours from midnight to 1:30 am on Mondays to Wednesdays, and from 1 am to 2:30 am on Thursdays to Sundays.

The council's licensing unit has objected, arguing that the proposed hours exceed the SoLP recommendations for takeaways, which suggest closing times of midnight from Sunday to Thursday and 1 am on Fridays and Saturdays. However, unlike the Borough High Street application, the Camberwell CIA does not apply to takeaways.

In contrast, a local resident has supported the application, highlighting the benefit of extended hours for shift workers and essential workers. This resident stated their experience of the premises being well-managed and clean. The report indicates that Subway operates as a takeaway and does not sell alcohol. This application presents a balancing act between managing potential nuisance and providing essential services for those working unsociable hours.

Both applications fall under the Licensing Act 2003, which requires licensing authorities to promote four key objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of nuisance, and the protection of children from harm. The council's Statement of Licensing Policy (SoLP)[^1] provides guidance on how these objectives are to be promoted.

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

Student Accommodation and Playground Upgrades on the Agenda for Planning Committee

The Planning Committee (Major Applications) B met on Monday 23 March 2026 to discuss significant developments, including a proposal for student accommodation and the release of funds for vital playground improvements.

Student Housing and Commercial Space Proposed for Ilderton Road

A key item was the application for full planning permission at 301-303 Ilderton Road, London, SE15 1NW. The proposal includes the demolition of existing buildings and the construction of a 19-storey building to provide 241 bedspaces for purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) and flexible commercial floorspace at ground level.

The site is located within the Old Kent Road Opportunity Area, and the development aims to optimise brownfield land use. A notable aspect of the application is the proposed payment of £10,965,500 towards affordable housing, as on-site provision was deemed unfeasible due to site constraints. The design aims to reflect the area's industrial heritage. The committee considered impacts on daylight, sunlight, transport, and the environment. The provision of student accommodation can impact local housing markets and infrastructure, and the committee's decision will shape the future of this part of the Old Kent Road Opportunity Area.

Funds Released for Bethwin Road Adventure Playground

The committee was also set to consider the release of £242,117.18 from Section 106 agreements to fund much-needed improvements at Bethwin Road Adventure Playground. The existing play equipment was identified as a risk due to instability and rot, with some items already closed off.

The proposed improvements, guided by a Masterplan, aim to create an inclusive, accessible, and safe play space. This aligns with the Southwark Council Delivery Plan 2022–26, which prioritises high-quality local facilities and green spaces. The funds will contribute to refurbishing existing equipment and installing new adventure play features, such as a Tree Walk and a tree house. These improvements are crucial for the wellbeing of local children, providing them with a safe and stimulating environment for physical activity and social development.

Details on other planning applications, including those for LSE Bankside House and the London College of Printing and Graphic Art at Elephant and Castle, were listed as To Follow and were not available in the provided report pack.

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

Other Matters

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Thursday 26 March 2026. The committee considered applications for premises licences for Oscar's Barbershop in Camberwell Road and Clubhouse in Dulwich Village. Both applications involved representations from responsible authorities and other persons, raising concerns about potential increases in alcohol-fuelled anti-social behaviour and public nuisance. The committee's decisions will impact the licensing landscape in these areas.

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

This week in Southwark:

• The Overview & Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to review the council's performance against its Council Plan and discuss Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy funds.
• The Council Assembly approved the Statement of Licensing Policy and Pay Policy Statement, and debated a motion of no confidence in Sir Keir Starmer.
• The Cabinet approved variations to the Aylesbury Estate development agreement and contracts for mental health supported housing.
• The Planning Committee (Major Applications) A was scheduled to consider the release of Section 106 funds and major planning applications at St Mary Newington Close and Elephant Park.
• The Licensing Sub-Committee was scheduled to review premises licences for Exodus in Peckham and Bermondsey Arts Club.
• The Council Assembly met in extraordinary session to confer the Freedom of the Borough upon several recipients.
• The Joint IT Committee (Brent, Lewisham and Southwark) met to discuss shared ICT services, with Southwark Council formally notifying its intention to exit the partnership.
• The Health and Social Care Scrutiny Commission was scheduled to discuss the Safeguarding Adults Board report, a CQC report on adult social care, and the Asylum Road Care Home project.

Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Monday 16 March 2026

The Overview & Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to review the council's performance against its Council Plan 2022-2026, discuss the allocation of Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) funds, and consider its work programme.

The committee was due to hear from Councillor Sarah King, Leader of the Council, and Althea Loderick, Chief Executive, regarding the council's delivery against its Council Plan 2022–2026. The End of Term Report 2022-26 highlighted achievements across seven key goals, including building new council homes, improving school ratings, investing in community safety, supporting the economy, enhancing health and wellbeing services, promoting a healthy environment, and running a well-governed council. For instance, the council reported building 2,500 new council homes since 2022 and investing £250 million in housing improvements. In education, 99% of Southwark schools were rated Good or Outstanding by Ofsted.

The committee was also scheduled to discuss the allocation of Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) funds with Councillor Helen Dennis, Cabinet Member for New Homes and Sustainable Development. NCIL is a levy on new developments used to fund infrastructure. The report indicated that £20 million had been allocated to projects supporting the Southwark 2030 goals, benefiting areas such as the voluntary and community sector, council housing estates, and climate emergency initiatives.

Council Assembly - Wednesday 18 March 2026

The Council Assembly met on Wednesday 18 March 2026 to approve the council's Statement of Licensing Policy for 2026-2031 and the Pay Policy Statement for 2026/27. Key decisions were also made regarding member allowances and the calendar of meetings for the upcoming year, alongside a themed debate on creating a borough where everyone can succeed.

The Assembly debated the motion A borough where everyone can succeed, presented by Councillor Sarah King, leader of the council. An amendment proposed by Councillor David Watson, criticising the Labour administration's record on housing and crime, was lost. The substantive motion was carried.

Several motions were debated and carried, including one on tackling antisocial behaviour on Southwark's estates, which welcomed the council's investments in CCTV and community wardens. Another motion focused on protecting the Freedom Pass for older Londoners, with concerns raised about a Liberal Democrat councillor's comments. A motion expressing no confidence in Sir Keir Starmer was debated and lost.

In terms of reports for decision, the council agreed to changes in the allocation of seats on committees to reflect the political balance of the council. The Southwark Statement of Licensing Policy 2026-2031 was approved, setting out how the council will approach its licensing responsibilities. The annual pay policy statement for 2026/27 was also agreed, outlining the council's approach to senior officer pay. The member allowances scheme for 2026-2027 was approved, largely maintaining existing arrangements. The calendar of meetings for the 2026-27 municipal year was also agreed. The Assembly noted the schedule of special urgency and urgent implementation decisions taken over the past year, including contract awards for the Electrical Safety Programme and new council homes at Joan Street. Finally, two independent persons were appointed to advise the council on members' conduct.

Cabinet - Monday 16 March 2026

The Cabinet met on Monday 16 March 2026, approving a variation to the Development Partnership Agreement for the Aylesbury Estate renewal and noting the council's End of Term Report 2022-2026. The meeting also saw the approval of contracts for mental health supported housing provision and the procurement strategy for heating and water repairs.

A significant decision was the approval of a variation to the Development Partnership Agreement (DPA) for the Aylesbury Estate renewal. This variation will see developer Notting Hill Genesis (NHG) complete three phases of the estate renewal, while future phases will return to the council's control. Councillor Helen Dennis, Cabinet Member for New Homes and Sustainable Development, stated that while progress has been made, challenges remain, and the council will seek alternative delivery partners for future phases.

The Cabinet noted the council's End of Term Report 2022-2026, which detailed achievements in building council homes, investing in public spaces, and supporting residents through the cost-of-living crisis. Councillor Sarah King, Leader of the Council, presented the report, highlighting progress across six key goals.

Eight contracts were approved for the delivery of mental health supported housing provision, with an estimated maximum annual value of £1.95 million. Councillor Evelyn Akoto, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing, emphasised the importance of this provision in preventing crisis and promoting recovery.

The Cabinet also approved the procurement strategy for heating and water repairs, maintenance, refurbishment, and replacement works, along with a Communal Heating Major Works Framework. Councillor Portia Mwangangye, Cabinet Member for Council Homes, stated that this strategy aims to achieve better value for money.

A petition requesting more free parking and the removal of road restrictions in Dulwich Village to support local businesses was considered. Councillor John Batteson, Cabinet Member for Climate Emergency, Jobs and Transport, reinforced his commitment to working with local businesses.

The Corporate Parenting Annual Report 2025 was noted, detailing progress in supporting children in care and care leavers. Councillor Jasmine Ali, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children, Education and Refugees, highlighted collaborative efforts and support for care leavers accessing one-bed properties.

The Cabinet approved the acquisition of premises for the Elephant and Castle Health Centre, which will replace two GP surgeries. Councillor Stephanie Cryan, Cabinet Member for Equalities, Democracy and Finance, explained this was the best route to delivering a new health centre.

The Cabinet agreed to explore the feasibility of developing new Older People's Housing on sites at 1 Ann Moss Way and 153-159 Abbeyfield Road with United St Saviour's Charity. Councillor Helen Dennis expressed delight in bringing forward this proposal, aligning with the Older People's Housing Strategy.

Finally, the Cabinet accepted all recommendations made by the Housing Scrutiny Commission regarding the Chilton Grove estate, with Councillor Portia Mwangangye stating the council's commitment to improving communication and resident involvement. The council's response to recommendations from the Housing, Community Safety and Community Engagement Scrutiny Commission regarding the Southwark Community Safety Partnership was also noted.

Planning Committee (Major Applications) A - Tuesday 17 March 2026

The Planning Committee (Major Applications) A of Southwark Council met on Tuesday 17 March 2026 to discuss the release of Section 106 funds and several major planning applications.

The committee was scheduled to consider the release of £7,348,778.62 in Section 106 funds for nine key projects. These included allocations for an LGBTQ+ community space in Bankside Yards, refurbishment of the Southwark Pensioners Centre, enhancements for the Brunel Museum, improvements to Elephant and Castle Rail Station, and the fit-out of the Harold Moody Health Centre. Funds were also designated for public realm improvements at Peckham Square, new roofs for Bessemer Grange, Rye Oak, and Crampton Schools, and improvements to Friars Primary School and Tower Bridge and Snowsfields Schools. These projects align with the council's Southwark 2030 principles and other strategic goals.

The committee was also asked to approve the adoption of a Local Listed Building Consent Order (LLBCO) for the installation of solar panels on Grade II listed residential properties in the Sutherland Square and Liverpool Grove Conservation Areas. This pilot initiative aims to streamline the process for homeowners and support the council's commitment to carbon neutrality by 2030. Strict conditions are in place to preserve the character of the listed buildings.

Two major planning applications were scheduled for consideration:

• 42 St Mary Newington Close, Surrey Square, London SE17 2LP: This application proposed the demolition of the existing Almshouse Building and the erection of a replacement part 4-6 storey Almshouse Building to provide 71 new affordable homes for older people. The scheme aimed to replace the current 41-bedroom Almshouse with modern, energy-efficient accommodation and targeted Passivhaus accreditation.
• Plot H1 Elephant Park, Elephant Road, London, SE1: This application sought planning permission for a mixed-use development comprising shared living units, affordable housing (all social rent), and a new NHS Health Hub. The development was planned across three buildings, with the tallest being a 25-storey tower. Key aspects included 695 shared living units, 79 affordable homes, and a 2,279 sqm health hub. The proposal targeted BREEAM Excellent and significant carbon savings.

Licensing Sub-Committee - Thursday 19 March 2026

The Licensing Sub-Committee was scheduled to discuss two applications for the review of premises licences. One concerned Exodus, a venue in Peckham, following an incident of serious crime and disorder. The other related to Bermondsey Arts Club, where residents had raised concerns about persistent anti-social behaviour and disorder.

The committee was scheduled to consider a review of the premises licence for Exodus, located at 31 Peckham High Street, London SE15 5EB. This review was initiated by the Metropolitan Police Service following an incident on 21 February 2026 involving a serious crime of Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH). The police report detailed alleged operation outside licensed hours and a lack of presence from the designated premises supervisor. An expedited review had previously resulted in the interim suspension of the licence.

The committee was also scheduled to consider a remitted review of the premises licence for the Bermondsey Arts Club, located at 102a Tower Bridge Road, London SE1 4TP. This review was initiated by residents and supported by the Metropolitan Police Service, citing persistent anti-social behaviour, disorder, and alleged licence breaches. The premises licence holder had submitted proposed changes to operational procedures and new conditions to address concerns.

Council Assembly - Wednesday 18 March 2026

The Council Assembly met on Wednesday 18 March 2026 in an extraordinary session to confer the Freedom of the Borough upon individuals and organisations who have rendered eminent services to the borough. This honour is the highest accolade the council can bestow.

The Council Assembly considered and agreed nominations for the Freedom of the Borough award. The criteria for nomination allow for submissions from councillors, officers, MPs, outside organisations, and registered electors. Nominations are reviewed by the Constitutional Steering Panel before being presented to the Council Assembly. The decision to confer the Freedom of the Borough requires a resolution passed by at least two-thirds of the members present at a specially convened meeting. The presentation ceremony was scheduled to coincide with the Annual Council meeting, Mayor Making, and the Southwark Civic Awards at Southwark Cathedral on 20 May 2026. Conditions apply to awards conferred on organisations, ensuring the award does not grant any rights or privileges and requires prior council approval for any promotional use. The minutes confirm that the Council Assembly considered and agreed the nominations for the awards of Freedom of the Borough as set out in the closed report.

Joint IT Committee (Brent, Lewisham and Southwark) - Tuesday 17 March 2026

The Joint IT Committee of Brent, Lewisham, and Southwark councils met on Tuesday 17 March 2026 to discuss the performance of the Shared ICT Service and updates on cybersecurity. A significant item on the agenda was the formal notification from Southwark Council of its intention to exit the shared service partnership.

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the performance of the Shared ICT Service (STS) for November 2025 to February 2026, noting improvements in Service Level Agreement (SLA) performance. The report highlighted Southwark Council's formal notice to exit the partnership, with an intended completion date of 31 March 2028, and outlined the structured mobilisation process for this exit. The committee was also set to receive an update on the cyber security status, threats, and mitigation strategies for the Shared Technology Services, including information on 24x7 Security Operations Centre monitoring and ongoing engagement with Microsoft. Updates were also scheduled from the individual digital teams of Brent, Lewisham, and Southwark councils, covering their respective digital modernisation efforts, infrastructure upgrades, and cybersecurity measures.

Health and Social Care Scrutiny Commission - Tuesday 17 March 2026

The Health and Social Care Scrutiny Commission was scheduled to discuss the annual report of the Southwark Safeguarding Adults Board, the findings of a recent Care Quality Commission (CQC) report on adult social care in Southwark, and an update on the Asylum Road Care Home project.

The commission was scheduled to interview Anna Berry, Independent Chair of the Southwark Safeguarding Adults Board (SSAB), and review the board's annual report for 2024-2025. The report details the SSAB's vision to ensure adults at risk are safe and protected from harm. It highlights the work of partner organisations in safeguarding adults, including initiatives from the South East London Integrated Care Board (SEL ICB) and the London Ambulance Service (LAS).

The commission was also scheduled to review the Care Quality Commission (CQC) report on Southwark's local authority adult social care services, published on 27 February 2026. The report rates Southwark's adult social care as Good, noting strengths in person-centred care and committed staff, but also identifying areas for development such as longer waits for occupational therapy assessments and inconsistencies in carer support.

An update was scheduled regarding the Asylum Road Care Home project, detailing progress on design work following the approval to enter into a land transaction. The council is working with external specialists to ensure good design for residents with dementia.

This week in Southwark:

Late-Night Licence for Hayatt Sparks Concerns Over Noise and Anti-Social Behaviour

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Thursday 12 March 2026 to consider a controversial application to extend the operating hours of Hayatt, a restaurant and bar at 20-22 Camberwell Church Street, London SE5 8QU. The applicant, Sefatullah Rozikhel, sought to extend late-night refreshment hours to 4:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 3:00 am on Sundays, with corresponding extensions to the premises' opening hours. This proposal has ignited strong opposition from both the Metropolitan Police and the Council's Environmental Protection Team, who fear it will exacerbate existing problems in the Camberwell Cumulative Impact Area.

The Metropolitan Police, represented by PC Mark Lynch, argued that the requested hours significantly exceed policy recommendations and would likely lead to increased late-night anti-social behaviour and a greater demand on emergency services. Similarly, the Environmental Protection Team, represented by Raymond Binya, warned that the extended hours are highly likely to result in unacceptable noise disturbance from music, patrons, and external plant, citing ongoing resident concerns and previous noise complaints. Both authorities recommended refusal, highlighting that the application did not satisfactorily demonstrate it would not add to the cumulative impact in the area. This decision could have a direct impact on the quality of life for residents, potentially increasing noise pollution and the risk of disorder in an already sensitive neighbourhood.

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

Neighbourhood Funds Allocated to Boost Local Projects Across Southwark

Across several neighbourhood community meetings held this week, councillors have been allocating significant funds to a wide array of local projects. The Rotherhithe, Peckham, Borough and London Bridge, Old Kent Road, Nunhead and Peckham Rye, Bermondsey, Dulwich, and East Dulwich neighbourhoods have all seen discussions and recommendations for funding from the Cleaner Greener Safer (CGS) capital programme, the Neighbourhoods Fund (NsF), and the Devolved Highways Budget (DHB) for the 2026-27 financial year.

These initiatives are designed to empower local communities, improve the environment, and enhance neighbourhood infrastructure. The Cleaner Greener Safer programme, running since 2003, funds capital improvements such as park enhancements, playground upgrades, and lighting improvements. The Neighbourhoods Fund, a revenue fund, supports small-scale, community-led activities like events, workshops, and training, aiming to foster community cohesion and resident responsibility. The Devolved Highways Budget allows for local priorities in highway renewal and maintenance, including traffic calming and accessibility improvements.

The sheer volume and diversity of applications considered highlight the community's engagement and the wide-ranging needs within Southwark. Projects range from youth and children's programmes, community wellbeing initiatives, and environmental efforts to skills development, cultural events, and support for vulnerable groups. For example, in Peckham, applications included youth debate clubs, mental health support projects, community gardening, and initiatives for asylum seekers and refugees. In Old Kent Road, funding was sought for creative health hubs, wellbeing days for pupils, tailoring workshops, and community gardening programmes. These allocations demonstrate a commitment to investing in the fabric of local life, with the potential to significantly improve the daily experiences of residents.

You can find more details about the Rotherhithe Neighbourhood Community Meeting here. You can find more details about the Peckham Neighbourhood Community Meeting here. You can find more details about the Borough and London Bridge Neighbourhood Community Meeting here. You can find more details about the Old Kent Road Neighbourhood Community Meeting here. You can find more details about the Nunhead and Peckham Rye Neighbourhood Community Meeting here. You can find more details about the Bermondsey Neighbourhood Community Meeting here. You can find more details about the Dulwich Neighbourhood Community Meeting here. You can find more details about the East Dulwich Neighbourhood Community Meeting here.

Health and Wellbeing Board Tackles Joint Strategy, Neighbourhood Teams, and Air Quality

The Health and Wellbeing Board met on Thursday 12 March 2026 to discuss critical strategies for improving the health and wellbeing of Southwark residents. Key agenda items included the development of the Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2027-2032, progress on integrated neighbourhood teams, and an update on air quality.

The Board was presented with a development plan for the Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy, which will set priorities for the next five years. The progress of Integrated Neighbourhood Teams (INTs) was also reviewed, a crucial initiative aimed at improving local service delivery and health outcomes by bringing services closer to residents. This aligns with the council's Southwark 2030 vision of creating good lives together.

An update on the 'Healthy Communities' theme of the Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy action plan 2025-27 was also discussed, alongside a progress update on the Preventing Suicides in Southwark 2023-2028 plan. The Board was also asked to approve the Air Quality Annual Status Report 2024, a vital document given the significant public health implications of air pollution, which disproportionately affects vulnerable populations. These discussions underscore the council's commitment to proactive public health measures and addressing environmental factors that impact residents' lives.

You can find more details about the Health and Wellbeing Board meeting here.