This week in Southwark:

Climate Resilience and Biodiversity: Council Tackles Extreme Weather and Nature Loss

The Environment Scrutiny Commission met on Wednesday 14 October 2026 to address critical environmental challenges facing Southwark. Discussions centred on the council's strategies for climate adaptation and resilience, progress on biodiversity enhancement, and the health impacts of active travel and access to nature.

Preparing for a Warmer Future: Climate Adaptation and Resilience

The commission received a stark update on the increasing risks posed by climate change, including extreme heatwaves and flooding. Officers highlighted that these hazards disproportionately affect the borough's most vulnerable residents and areas with higher levels of deprivation. The council's Climate Action Plan aims to integrate adaptation measures across key themes like buildings, transport, the natural environment, and public resources.

Councillor Catherine Dawkins raised concerns about ensuring schools, particularly those managed by multi-academy trusts, are equipped for climate resilience. Councillor Ruth Bannister questioned the energy efficiency of older council housing with district heating systems and the potential for solar panel installations. Councillor Graham Neale sought clarity on how success in climate adaptation is measured, requesting more specific targets.

Officers acknowledged the challenges, particularly around funding and the need for cultural change to embed climate considerations into all decision-making. They outlined ongoing work, including developing a Borough Action Plan with new metrics and integrating climate considerations into the Local Plan. The importance of collaboration with community groups was also stressed.

The real-world impact of these decisions is significant. Without robust adaptation measures, vulnerable residents could face increased health risks during heatwaves, and essential services could be disrupted by extreme weather. The council's commitment to embedding climate resilience across its operations is vital for protecting its residents and infrastructure.

Find out more about the Environment Scrutiny Commission meeting here.

Biodiversity Crisis: Progress and Persistent Challenges

An update on the Biodiversity Scrutiny Review revealed that while progress has been made on implementing recommendations, significant challenges remain. Of the 34 recommendations from the 2024 review, 10 were accepted and 24 partially accepted by Cabinet. One year on, seven recommendations are complete, 13 are ongoing, 10 are in progress, and four are still under consideration.

Community representatives voiced concerns about the severity of the biodiversity crisis, citing a significant decline in bird numbers in Dulwich. They questioned the practical implementation of green connectivity and the effectiveness of current management of Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINCs). Councillor Graham Neale specifically addressed the recommendation concerning vehicle footway crossovers (VFCs), arguing that the current response was insufficient.

Officers acknowledged feedback, noting limitations in officer capacity and resources. They committed to further engagement on VFCs and exploring the use of the voluntary sector for training. The development of measurable deliverables for the next iteration of the nature action plan was also highlighted.

The impact of biodiversity loss affects everyone, from the health of our local ecosystems to the quality of our green spaces. The council's commitment to enhancing biodiversity is crucial for maintaining a healthy environment for both people and wildlife.

Find out more about the Environment Scrutiny Commission meeting here.

Active Travel, Nature, and Well-being: A Missed Opportunity?

An item exploring the physical and mental health impacts of active travel and access to nature was noted as officers were unable to attend. Councillor Graham Neale emphasised the importance of framing these discussions around equity and the direct health benefits of physical activity in green spaces. Councillor Richard Leeming highlighted the link between cycling and mental health, advocating for closer collaboration with the NHS.

This missed opportunity means that crucial discussions about how to promote healthier lifestyles and improve mental well-being through accessible green spaces and active travel were not fully explored. The council's commitment to these areas is vital for the overall health and happiness of its residents.

Find out more about the Environment Scrutiny Commission meeting here.

Riverside Strategy and Work Programme

The commission also noted a report on the Thames and Local Rivers, with Councillor Margy Newens providing an update on the emerging Riverside Strategy. Concerns were raised about potential costs and the need for cross-borough coordination. Councillor Catherine Dawkins inquired about the scope of inter-council coordination, and Councillor Graham Neale suggested incorporating recommendations from the sustainable freight review regarding river transport.

The proposed work programme for the remainder of the year includes substantive reviews on waste, cleaner neighbourhoods, and a circular economy, as well as minor reviews on heat resilience and cool spaces. Other topics identified for review include balcony and plug-in solar, transport safety, resident parking permit charging, and food security.

Executive Decisions: Beormund School Expansion, Highways Contracts, and Climate Action

The Executive met on Tuesday 13 October 2026, making key decisions on education, infrastructure, and the council's climate response.

Beormund Special School Expansion Approved

The Executive approved proposals for the relocation and expansion of Beormund Special School. This significant investment will increase capacity from 35 to 56 pupils, providing a purpose-built facility designed to foster identity and belonging for children with social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs. The new school, set to open in January 2027, will feature bespoke therapy spaces, sensory rooms, and areas for children to regulate their emotions. This decision directly impacts vulnerable children, ensuring they receive specialist support in an environment that reflects the quality of the school's work and supports their long-term well-being.

Find out more about the Executive meeting here.

Highways Maintenance Contracts to be Re-tendered

The Executive approved the procurement strategy for new Highways Works Contracts. These contracts, split into two lots for reactive maintenance and planned improvements, aim to ensure value for money and attract specialist providers. The new contracts are expected to be in place by April 2028 and will run for an initial seven years, with a potential three-year extension. This decision will shape how essential road maintenance and improvements are delivered across the borough, impacting traffic flow, safety, and the overall quality of our streets.

Find out more about the Executive meeting here.

Climate Change Strategy: A Renewed Commitment

An update on the Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan was presented, highlighting that while borough-wide emissions reduced by 6% between 2023 and 2024, council operational emissions fell by 3%, but scope 3 emissions (through council purchasing) increased by 10%. The Executive noted the report and allocated leadership for the 29 actions within the Climate Action Plan to new executive members. Despite a significant budget gap, the council remains committed to tackling the climate crisis and advocating for necessary funding and powers from national government. This renewed commitment is crucial for addressing the escalating impacts of climate change, which disproportionately affect vulnerable communities.

Find out more about the Executive meeting here.

Ledbury Estate Renewal and Tustin Estate Renewal Progress

The Executive also noted updates on the Ledbury Estate Phase 2 appropriation and Phase 2b of the Tustin Estate Renewal. These projects are part of the council's ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality new council homes and improved public spaces, while preserving existing communities. The Ledbury Estate renewal will deliver 260 council homes for social rent, and the Tustin Estate renewal aims to maximise efficiency and value for money through updated delivery strategies. These developments are vital for providing much-needed affordable housing and improving living conditions for residents.

Find out more about the Executive meeting here.

Keyworker Housing Pipeline Sites Approved

Approval was given to progress two further Keyworker Housing developments at Rotherhithe New Road and Cherry Gardens Street. These sites will deliver approximately 380 Keyworker Housing units, with the council underwriting a portion of the preferred bidder's costs. This initiative is crucial for supporting key workers, who are essential to the functioning of our public services, by providing them with secure and affordable housing.

Find out more about the Executive meeting here.

Response to Housing Scrutiny Commission Accepted

The council's response to the Housing Scrutiny Commission's report was accepted, with six out of seven recommendations agreed. These focus on strengthening relationships with housing associations, improving oversight of major works, and ensuring residents have a key voice in departmental improvements. The council will identify a single point of contact for social landlord liaison and revitalise the Housing Association Forum. The recommendation to explore mechanisms for letting properties earmarked for demolition as permanent tenancies was not accepted due to legislative constraints. This demonstrates a commitment to learning from past issues and improving services for council home residents.

Find out more about the Executive meeting here.

This week in Southwark:

Major Development Approved at Bermondsey Place Despite Affordable Housing Concerns

The Planning Committee (Major Applications) A met on Tuesday 06 October 2026 and approved a significant development at Bermondsey Place, Phase 2 and 3, Malt Street, London, SE1 5AY. The decision grants permission for the demolition of existing buildings and the phased redevelopment to create 1,060 new homes, alongside substantial retail, leisure, commercial, and light industrial spaces. The project will feature eight buildings, with the tallest reaching 36 storeys.

However, the approval comes with a significant caveat: a reduction in affordable housing provision. The new plan offers 12% affordable housing by habitable room for Phases 2 and 3, a considerable drop from the 40% stipulated in the previous consent. Across all three phases of the development, this brings the total affordable housing to 17.9%. The applicant, Berkeley Homes, cited viability challenges, including increased finance costs and new building regulations, as reasons for this reduction. Independent valuers agreed that the scheme could not currently support higher levels of affordable housing.

To address this, a three-stage review mechanism is included in the Section 106 agreement. This will allow for potential increases in affordable housing if the development proves more profitable than anticipated over its 16-year construction period.

Despite the concerns about affordable housing, the committee noted that the approved scheme features reduced building heights compared to the previous consent, with the tallest building now 36 storeys instead of 44. The design was generally considered to be of high quality and in line with the draft Old Kent Road Area Action Plan's strategy for tall buildings, focusing on creating an attractive public realm with a new linear park and central square.

Objectors raised concerns about the impact on local infrastructure, the reduced affordable housing, and the overall scale of the development, particularly in light of the Bakerloo Line Extension project's uncertain future. However, council officers pointed out that the previous consent was not dependent on the Bakerloo Line funding and that the current proposal offers substantial regenerative benefits.

The planning permission is subject to numerous conditions covering construction management, noise mitigation, flood risk, energy efficiency, and public realm design. A Section 106 agreement will also secure contributions towards public open space, bus improvements, affordable workspace, and highway works, totalling an estimated £4.26 million, with a further estimated £26.9 million in Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL).

Find out more about the Planning Committee (Major Applications) A meeting here.

Extended Opening Hours for McDonald's on Walworth Road Refused Amidst Resident Concerns

The Planning Committee (Smaller Applications) met on Wednesday 07 October 2026 and refused an application to extend the opening hours of a commercial unit at 284-286 Walworth Road, London SE17, currently occupied by Poundland. The applicant, McDonald's Restaurants Ltd, sought to extend the hours from the current permitted 08:30 to 20:00 (Monday-Saturday) and 10:00 to 17:00 (Sunday/Bank Holidays) to 06:00 to 00:00 daily.

Despite officers recommending approval, citing the town centre location and the presence of similar hours in nearby establishments, the committee voted to refuse the application. The primary reason for refusal was the applicant's failure to demonstrate that delivery rider activity associated with the proposed extended hours could be accommodated without causing obstruction, congestion, and disturbance on the adjoining public highway. Concerns were also raised about adverse impacts on pedestrian movement, accessibility, and highway safety, contrary to planning policies.

The application had attracted significant local opposition, with 55 objections citing concerns about noise, anti-social behaviour, transport impacts from delivery drivers, and public health. Supporters, numbering eight, highlighted the potential benefits for the town centre's vitality and local economy.

During the meeting, objectors shared powerful accounts of the negative impacts experienced at a previous McDonald's site, detailing issues with delivery bikes blocking pavements, litter, noise, and anti-social behaviour. Councillors expressed reservations about the adequacy of the proposed management plans and the potential for the site to become a nuisance to residents living nearby. The committee also noted that while the application was for a variation of opening hours for a Class E unit, the practical implications for a fast-food operation were a key consideration.

Find out more about the Planning Committee (Smaller Applications) meeting here.

Pickfords Wharf Refurbishment Approved, Including Rooftop Extension and Café

The Planning Committee (Smaller Applications) also granted planning permission for the refurbishment of Pickfords Wharf, Clink Street, London SE1. The approved plans include a single-storey roof extension to provide communal office amenity space and a rooftop terrace, alterations to the façade with replacement windows, and the creation of a new 43 sqm café/retail unit at ground floor. Improvements to cycle access, end-of-journey facilities, and waste storage were also approved.

The proposal was met with 30 objections, primarily concerning noise and disturbance from the roof terrace, transport and servicing impacts on the constrained Clink Street, heritage and townscape issues, daylight and sunlight impacts, privacy, and the scale of the rooftop development. Supporters highlighted the retention and refurbishment of an existing building, reducing embodied carbon, and encouraging sustainable travel.

The committee heard that the roof extension had been significantly reduced in scale and set back to minimise visual impact. Conditions were recommended to restrict the hours of use for the terrace and café, and to require operational management plans for both the roof terrace and servicing. The café's opening hours will be restricted to 7am-10pm Monday-Saturday and 9am-9pm on Sundays and bank holidays. The committee voted to grant planning permission, subject to these conditions.

Find out more about the Planning Committee (Smaller Applications) meeting here.

Other Matters

Lower Road Project Progress and Future Plans

The Overview & Scrutiny Committee met on Monday 05 October 2026 and received an update on the Lower Road Project. The implementation of Cycleway 4 (C4) between Rotherhithe Roundabout and Evelyn Street has led to an 81% increase in cycling trips. While traffic volumes have decreased, congestion and bus journey times remain a challenge. The council is developing Phase 2 of the project to address these issues, considering options to improve bus reliability. A Lane Rental Scheme, charging £2,500 per day for works on Lower Road during peak times, will be introduced by spring 2027 to incentivise faster and more coordinated roadworks. The committee also discussed the council's work programme for 2026-27 and considered a call-in request regarding the Housing Allocations Scheme Review.

Find out more about the Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting here.

New Self-Storage Facility and Affordable Workspace Approved on Old Jamaica Road

The Planning Committee (Smaller Applications) also granted planning permission for the demolition of existing industrial units at Unit 23 and 24 Old Jamaica Business Estate, 24 Old Jamaica Road, London SE16 4AW, and the construction of a new commercial storage facility and affordable workspace. The revised scheme addresses previous concerns about design, massing, and height, with a reduced footprint and overall height. The development will provide 1,135 sqm of self-storage and 140 sqm of affordable workspace, to be offered at 25% below market rent for 30 years, supporting an estimated 18 on-site jobs.

Find out more about the Planning Committee (Smaller Applications) meeting here.

Coffee Kiosk Adjacent to Tate Modern Approved

Permission was granted for the erection of a single-storey coffee kiosk on the riverwalk adjacent to Tate Modern, Bankside, SE1. The kiosk, measuring approximately 3.5m x 3.5m, will replace an existing operation involving a converted taxi cab. The amended scheme relocates the kiosk to a set-back position, reducing its footprint and improving pedestrian flow. Concerns were raised by objectors regarding pedestrian congestion, litter, and heritage impacts, but the committee noted the kiosk is a temporary and reversible structure and its siting and design were considered acceptable.

Find out more about the Planning Committee (Smaller Applications) meeting here.

This week in Southwark:

Illicit Tobacco and Vaping Devices Seized: Quickstop Licence Under Review

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Thursday 1 October 2026 to consider a critical review of the premises licence for Quickstop, also known as S&R Supermarket, located at 285 Southwark Park Road, London SE16 3TP. This review was triggered by a Closure Order issued by Croydon Magistrates' Court, highlighting serious concerns about the sale of illicit products and the overall management of the premises.

The investigations, spanning from October 2025 to May 2026, uncovered a disturbing pattern of illegal activity, including the sale of counterfeit cigarettes, non-compliant vaping devices, and nicotine pouches. These activities not only undermine legitimate businesses but also pose significant risks to public health and safety. The report pack detailed multiple seizures of illegal goods and the apprehension of an individual found with a large quantity of illicit tobacco and vaping products.

The court's Closure Order, extended until December 2026, was issued due to findings that the premises were being used in a manner that resulted in, or was likely to result in, serious nuisance to the public, or that there had been, or was likely to be, disorder associated with its use. This underscores the direct impact such activities can have on the local community, creating an environment of disorder and potential harm.

While the Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) was not directly involved in the illicit sales, concerns were raised about their oversight and commitment to upholding licensing objectives. This raises questions about accountability and the effectiveness of management in preventing such serious breaches. The Licensing Act 2003¹ outlines four key licensing objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, the promotion of public safety, the prevention of nuisance, and the protection of children from harm. The findings at Quickstop directly challenge the promotion of all these objectives.

The sub-committee was tasked with considering the evidence and deciding on the future of the licence, with potential outcomes ranging from modifying conditions to revoking the licence entirely. This decision will have a direct impact on the availability of these illicit products and the safety of the local area.

Find out more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting here.

Upcoming Meetings:

• Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Monday 05 October 2026: This committee will discuss the Lower Road Project and agree its work programme for the upcoming year. Meeting details
• Planning Committee (Major Applications) A - Tuesday 06 October 2026: This committee will consider a significant development proposal at Bermondsey Place, Phase 2 and 3, Malt Street. Meeting details
• Planning Committee (Smaller Applications) - Wednesday 07 October 2026: This committee will consider a range of smaller planning applications across the borough. Meeting details
• Environment Scrutiny Commission - Wednesday 14 October 2026: This commission will convene to discuss environmental matters. Meeting details
• Executive - Tuesday 13 October 2026: The Executive will meet to discuss key council business. Meeting details

This week in Southwark:

Council Assembly Charts a New Course: Affordability, Safety, and Green Ambitions Take Centre Stage

The Council Assembly met on Wednesday 23 September 2026, marking a significant moment with the adoption of the new Joint Administration's ambitious plan for Southwark. This vision prioritises making the borough more affordable, safer, and environmentally sustainable, directly addressing the pressing needs of residents. The meeting saw the approval of several motions tackling critical local and national issues, from trans inclusion to the harsh realities of national austerity.

A Bold Vision for Southwark: Affordability, Safety, and Green Future

The Assembly adopted a motion that lays out the Joint Administration's core objectives: to create a Southwark that is more affordable, safer, and greener. This plan confronts stark realities: 43.3% of children live in poverty after housing costs, the climate crisis looms large, 23,000 households are on the social housing waiting list, and a concerning 41% of residents feel unsafe after dark. Compounding these issues is a £102 million funding gap, attributed to the Labour government's fair-funding review, and a low level of resident confidence, with only 40% feeling they can influence local decisions.

The Joint Administration, formed by the Green and Liberal Democrat groups following the 2026 local elections, inherits a challenging landscape. They have highlighted serious failings within the council's housing department, as noted by the Regulator of Social Housing. Their plan is built on three pillars:

• Affordable: This means tackling the cost of living crisis, boosting access to good jobs, increasing the availability of affordable homes, and actively reducing inequality.
• Safe: The focus here is on building communities where everyone feels secure. This involves supporting vulnerable residents, investing in young people, preventing crime, and ensuring public spaces are welcoming and well-maintained.
• Green: This pillar addresses the climate and nature emergencies head-on, aiming to improve daily life through warmer homes, lower energy bills, cleaner air, greener neighbourhoods, and a commitment to climate justice.

The administration highlighted early progress, including the launch of a uniform programme for families in need, an accelerated heatwave response, and a £600,000 investment in Night Time Patrols. Over the next four years, they pledge to develop a comprehensive Borough Action Plan focused on affordability, climate action, housing solutions, safety, clean streets, defending Southwark's interests, and fostering a more responsive and resident-shaped council. The ultimate aim is to make Southwark a place where people can thrive throughout their lives.

Find out more about the Council Assembly meeting here.

Standing Up for Southwark: A Call to Action Against Austerity

A powerful motion was passed criticising the Labour government's performance and demanding that Southwark Council stand up for its residents' interests. The motion detailed perceived failures of the Labour government, citing policy U-turns and issues ranging from arms sales to Israel to rising unemployment and the erosion of trans rights. A significant point of contention is the predicted £102 million financial black hole for Southwark, a direct consequence of austerity measures impacting inner London boroughs.

The motion highlighted that despite three of Southwark's five Labour MPs holding senior government positions, they have not publicly opposed these damaging austerity measures. The council is now calling on its leadership to seek an urgent meeting with the Prime Minister and for Southwark's MPs to publicly advocate for a re-evaluation of the Fair Funding settlement. This move signals a strong stance against national policies that disproportionately affect local services and residents.

Find out more about the Council Assembly meeting here.

Trans, Non-Binary, and Intersex Inclusion: Reaffirming Southwark's Commitment

Council Assembly unanimously passed a motion reaffirming Southwark's unwavering commitment to the inclusion of trans, non-binary, and intersex individuals. The motion acknowledged Southwark's status as a Borough of Sanctuary and stressed that recent legal judgments do not mandate the exclusion of trans people from services. It expressed deep concern that revised Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) guidance could negatively impact trans individuals, who already face compounded barriers to accessing services.

In response, the council has resolved to:

• Publicly reaffirm its commitment to inclusion.
• Commission a review of relevant policies to ensure robust protection against discrimination based on gender reassignment.
• Ensure comprehensive trans awareness training for all staff and elected members.
• Uphold self-identification as sufficient for accessing council facilities and services under normal circumstances.
• Prioritise the inclusion of non-gendered toilet and changing facilities in all new and refurbished council-owned buildings.

This decision underscores Southwark's dedication to creating an equitable and welcoming environment for all its residents.

Find out more about the Council Assembly meeting here.

Other Matters

Pension Fund Investment Performance and Responsible Investment

The Pensions Advisory Panel met on Wednesday 23 September 2026 to review the performance of the Southwark Pension Fund. The fund's market value increased to £2,643.6m by 30 June 2026, driven by strong equity markets, with a quarterly return of 9.1%. However, the year-to-date and three-year returns lagged behind their benchmarks. The panel received updates on investment performance, responsible investment initiatives, and governance matters, including the implications of new LGPS Regulations. A key focus was the progress on the Fund's Exclusions Framework, which aims to divest from companies involved in conflict zones and genocide. The panel also reviewed the proposed Business Plan and Training Strategy for the upcoming year, aiming to enhance governance and knowledge for those involved in pension fund decision-making.

Find out more about the Pensions Advisory Panel meeting here.

Kirkwood Local Off-Licence Application Considered

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Thursday 24 September 2026 to consider an application for a premises licence for Kirkwood Local, a convenience store and off-licence at 2 Kirkwood Road, London SE15 3XX. The application sought permission for alcohol sales until midnight. Following initial objections from the Metropolitan Police Service and the council's Licensing Authority regarding concerns about the proposed hours and the premises' history, the applicant agreed to amended hours and additional conditions. The report detailed a previous licence revocation at the premises due to illicit tobacco and counterfeit products, highlighting the importance of robust licensing controls to prevent crime and disorder and protect public safety.

Find out more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting here.