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Sutton Council: Councillor Conduct, Flood Risk, and Derelict Pub

This week in Sutton:

Code of Conduct Complaint: Councillor Accused of Breaching Standards

The Code of Conduct Panel met to discuss complaints against Councillor Sheldon Vestey, Leader of the Labour Group, regarding alleged breaches of the council's Code of Conduct. The complaints, submitted by Councillor Tim Crowley, Councillor Nick Mattey, and an anonymous complainant, accuse Councillor Vestey of social media misconduct, disclosing confidential information, and misusing council resources.

  • The allegations: The complaints allege that Councillor Vestey violated the code by making inappropriate social media posts, revealing confidential information, and using council email for unsubstantiated allegations against another councillor.
  • The investigation: An investigation found that Councillor Vestey could reasonably be regarded as being in breach of paragraphs 3, 6 and 14 of the Code of Conduct in relation to the complaint submitted by Councillor Tim Crowley and Councillor Nick Mattey, and paragraph 3 of the Code of Conduct in relation to the complaint submitted by the anonymous complainant.
  • Potential consequences: If found in violation, Councillor Vestey could face actions ranging from training to censure, removal from committees, or withdrawal of council facilities.

This case raises important questions about the standards of conduct expected of elected officials and the consequences of failing to meet those standards. The panel was scheduled to consider excluding the press and public from the meeting, citing the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in paragraph 1 Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972.

Read the full report pack for the Code of Conduct Panel meeting.

River Wandle Flood Investigation: Properties at High Risk

The Hackbridge, St Helier and The Wrythe Local Committee discussed the findings of an investigation into flooding that occurred on 23 September 2024, along the River Wandle. The report revealed that several properties are at high risk of flooding, highlighting the vulnerability of residents in the area.

  • The damage: Nine properties reported internal flooding, with roadway flooding at Goat Road.
  • The risk: The flood event had an estimated return period of 1 in 75 years for the area of 157-171 Goat Road, with a watermark indicating a flood event equivalent to a 1 in 100 year event, inclusive of a 27% allowance for climate change.
  • The response: The Environment Agency requested the removal of a downed tree and cleared some vegetation on the banks. They also reviewed recorded flood levels and lowered the flood warning service thresholds.

The report emphasized the need for sustainable drainage and permeable surfaces to mitigate flood risk, particularly given the flashy nature of the River Wandle. The report outlined the powers and duties of Sutton Council and the Environment Agency in relation to flood risk management, including regulating ordinary watercourses under the Land Drainage Act 1991.

Read the full report pack for the Hackbridge, St Helier and The Wrythe Local Committee meeting.

HG Wells Pub Site: Significant and Serious Concerns Found

The North Cheam, Stonecot and Worcester Park Local Committee discussed the status of the former HG Wells pub site at 101 Cheam Common Road, acknowledging residents' concerns about public nuisance, health and safety, and unauthorised activities.

  • The issues: A joint inspection found significant and serious concerns, including fire safety deficiencies, lack of safety certification, poor living conditions, and external issues like accumulated soft furnishings.
  • The action: The property owner was served with a Preliminary Improvement Notice under the Housing Act 2004 and a warning of a Community Protection Notice.
  • The future: The council is encouraging a potential residential housing development on the site, stressing the importance of bringing the site into permanent productive use and ensuring any scheme is in keeping with the neighbouring housing.

This situation highlights the challenges of managing derelict properties and the council's role in ensuring the safety and well-being of residents.

Read the full report pack for the North Cheam, Stonecot and Worcester Park Local Committee meeting.

Pension Fund Performance and Future Plans

The Pension Board convened to discuss pension administration performance, projects, governance, and risk. A key focus was on addressing the backlog of pension administration cases and preparing for the national Pensions Dashboard.

  • Administration improvements: The board noted a significant reduction in outstanding processes, with a target to clear the backlog of overdue cases by the end of July 2025.
  • Pensions Dashboard progress: The national Pensions Dashboard, a government initiative to allow pension savers to view all their pensions online through one central platform, was progressing. The staging date for connecting to the Pension Dashboard for the Local Government Pension Scheme was 31 October 2025.
  • McCloud Remedy challenges: The board acknowledged the challenges of implementing the McCloud Remedy, which addresses age discrimination in public service pension schemes. There is a strong likelihood that the council will not be fully compliant by the statutory deadline of 31 August 2025.

The board also reviewed the fund's risk register, with a red rating assigned to the risk of software provider failure potentially leading to non-payment or incorrect payment of member benefits. The board reviewed the finance and investment papers for the Pension Committee meeting which was held on 24 June 2025, and discussed a petition calling for the council to review its investment strategy and divest from companies operating in the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT).

Read the full transcript of the Pension Board meeting.

Council Debates Green Spaces, Cost of Living, and Mitcham Common

Sutton Council met to discuss a range of issues, including the protection of green spaces, support for residents facing financial hardship, and Parkinson's awareness.

  • Green space protection: A motion to protect Sutton's green belt and metropolitan open land sparked a debate about balancing development needs with environmental preservation. An amendment was carried, with the council resolving to take all reasonable steps to oppose building on the green belt.
  • Cost of living support: A motion focused on supporting residents through the cost of living crisis led to a discussion on the role of the council and the need for national policy reforms. An amendment was carried, with the council resolving to continue promoting available support to residents and call on the government to reverse cuts to public spending.
  • Mitcham Common: A motion to address the deterioration of Mill Green on Mitcham Common was defeated, following a debate about funding responsibilities and the role of the Mitcham Common Conservators.
  • Parkinson's awareness: A motion to support Parkinson's Awareness Day received unanimous support, with councillors sharing personal stories and highlighting the importance of raising awareness and supporting those affected by the condition.

The council also addressed questions on housing repairs, electric vehicle charging points, and the future of Healthwatch.

Read the full report pack for the Council meeting.

Other Matters

  • Local Funding Update: The Hackbridge, St Helier and The Wrythe Local Committee was scheduled to receive an update on local funding grants for 2025/26. The following organisations/events were listed to have been granted funding:
    • Radio St Helier - Live from the Care Home: £350.00
    • Carshalton Little League: £1,100.00
    • St Helier Charitable Foundation: £1,100.00
    • The Friends of Sutton Park - Landscape Artist of the Year: £190.00
    • Jigsaw4u - Helping Hands: £750.00
    • Horizon Church Sutton - Summer Fun Day: £600.00
    • Sutton Community Champions - Riverside Community Day: £850.00
    • Sutton Men In Sheds: £610.00
    • Friends of Poulter Park & Revesby Wood - Go Wild in the park: £950.00
  • Community Showcase: The Hackbridge, St Helier and The Wrythe Local Committee was scheduled to hear community showcases from two local organisations: 219 (Sutton & Cheam) Squadron, Royal Air Force Air Cadets, and Radio St Helier.
  • Crime and Community Safety: The North Cheam, Stonecot and Worcester Park Local Committee was scheduled to receive an update on crime and community safety from local police officers.
  • Funding Opportunities: The North Cheam, Stonecot and Worcester Park Local Committee was scheduled to receive information about funding opportunities in Sutton and beyond, including the Neighbourhood Fund, the Sutton Community Fund, Local Committee Funding, and Public Realm funding.
  • Pension Board Work Programme: The Pension Board was scheduled to note the proposed work programme, including discussions on pension administration performance, projects, governance, and risk at future meetings.

Upcoming Meetings

Subject: Popeyes Licence: Late Nights or Resident Nuisance in Sutton?

This week in Sutton:

Popeyes Licence Sparks Nuisance Fears: Late-Night Chicken or Resident Nightmare?

A new premises licence application for Popeyes at 137-143 High Street, Sutton, SM1 1JH, is raising concerns about potential public nuisance. The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Monday to consider the application, which seeks permission to provide late-night refreshment (indoors and outdoors) from 11 PM to 3 AM, seven days a week.

  • The concerns: While the Metropolitan Police withdrew their objection after Popeyes amended their operating schedule, the Council's Environmental Health (Pollution Control) Lead Officer's concerns remained regarding the prevention of public nuisance.
  • Delivery dilemma: The restaurant plans to close to the public at 1 AM, but continue late-night refreshment via delivery service only between 1 AM and 3 AM, raising questions about noise from delivery vehicles and potential gatherings outside.
  • What's at stake: This decision could impact residents living near the High Street, potentially leading to increased noise and disruption during late-night hours.

The sub-committee must balance the needs of a business with the well-being of the community, considering the potential for public nuisance. The Licensing Sub-Committee was asked to consider the application, taking into account the representations received and any evidence presented at the hearing. The report pack outlined several options for the sub-committee:

  • Grant the application as requested.
  • Grant the application subject to conditions for the promotion of the licensing objectives1.
  • Exclude any of the licensable activities from the scope of the licence.
  • Reject the application.

In making their decision in respect of the application, the Sub-Committee must have regard to Statutory Guidance and the Councils' own Statement of Licensing Policy as well as to the representations made and the evidence heard. However, the Sub-Committee must disregard any representations that do not relate to the promotion of the licensing objectives.

AA Committee Report - Popeyes

Read the full report pack for the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting.

Dementia Strategy Aims to Improve Lives: Will it Deliver for Sutton Residents?

The Health and Wellbeing Board met on Monday to discuss a new joint dementia strategy for Sutton, aiming to improve the experiences and outcomes of people living with dementia and their carers.

  • The goal: The strategy establishes a commitment to shared outcomes by the strategy partners, to improve the experiences and outcomes of people living with dementia and those who care for them.
  • Key priorities: The strategy focuses on prevention, timely diagnosis and support, carer support, promoting a dementia-friendly borough, end-of-life care, and effective commissioning.
  • Challenges ahead: The report pack notes that 45% of dementia cases can be avoided, but it remains to be seen how effectively the strategy will address prevention and early intervention.

The strategy includes a high level delivery plan, with a commitment to develop this with stakeholders and those with lived experience to form a detailed delivery plan against which progress by the strategy partners can be measured and reported. The report pack also includes a quote from Denise, a Sutton resident with lived experience of dementia.

This strategy represents a significant step towards supporting those affected by dementia in Sutton, but its success will depend on effective implementation and collaboration between partners.

Read the full report pack for the Health and Wellbeing Board meeting.

Charity Sector Under Strain: Review Highlights Funding and Collaboration Gaps

Sutton's charity, community, and faith sector is facing significant challenges, including fragmented collaboration, financial strain, and volunteer recruitment difficulties. The Health and Wellbeing Board discussed the findings of Evolving Our Ecosystem, a review of the sector, at their meeting on Monday.

  • Key findings: The review highlights a number key findings, based on the research and feedback from participants:

    • Fragmented Collaboration: Despite Sutton's vibrant ecosystem, collaboration across charities, the NHS, and council structures is often fragmented. Many organisations operate in silos, with limited peer engagement or coordinated planning.
    • Financial Strain: Rising costs, restricted funding, and inflation severely challenge financial sustainability. Over 40% of organisations reported income shortfalls, and many lack reserves to weather unexpected crises.
    • Volunteer Recruitment and Retention: Recruitment difficulties, shifting demographics, and post-pandemic challenges have reduced volunteer availability. Retention issues stem from unclear roles, insufficient recognition, and increasing financial pressures.
    • Leadership Burnout and Staffing Issues: Many organisations face leadership burnout, staffing shortages, and an inability to offer competitive pay or development opportunities. Smaller charities, in particular, struggle with capacity and expertise gaps.
    • Infrastructure Limitations: Access to affordable spaces, sector-wide advocacy, and skills development for trustees and staff remain underdeveloped. Infrastructure organisations play a vital role but need to enhance clarity, engagement, and proactive advocacy.

  • Recommendations: The report makes a number of recommendations about how partners can work together to support and empower Charity, Community and Faith organisations in Sutton:

    • Foster Collaboration and Build Networks: Develop thematic forums and peer-led networks to share resources, address challenges, and drive strategic collaboration. Introduce formal collaboration structures with skilled facilitation to foster trust and inclusivity.
    • Strengthen Financial Resilience: Advocate for full-cost recovery models that reflect true delivery costs, including inflation and overheads. Equip organisations with the skills to calculate and present robust funding models confidently.
    • Support Volunteers and Staff: Invest in volunteer recruitment campaigns, matching platforms, and retention strategies. Provide emotional support, training, and leadership opportunities for volunteers. Expand capacity-building initiatives for staff, focusing on governance, financial management, and wellbeing.
    • Maximise Community Assets: Promote strategic use of council-owned properties through community asset transfers and streamlined access processes. Establish a transparent mapping system for available spaces to improve accessibility.
    • Enhance Infrastructure Support and Advocacy: Clarify the roles of infrastructure organisations and address perceived overlaps. Advocate for systemic change by promoting fair funding practices and challenging inequities. Engage underrepresented groups and expand proactive outreach efforts
    • Encourage Long-Term Planning: Advocate for longer-term funding cycles to reduce instability and support strategic planning. Offer guidance to organisations on adapting to operational realities and exploring partnerships or mergers where appropriate.

  • The challenge: The report highlights the need for stronger collaboration and financial support to ensure the sustainability of Sutton's vital charity sector.

The report pack also includes the Sutton Charity and Public Sector Partners Framework 2025 to 2028, setting out a number of commitments for all partners in order to support closer working and more effective collaboration between Charity, Community and Faith organisations and public sector partners.

Read the full report pack for the Health and Wellbeing Board meeting.

Other Matters

  • Sutton Housing Partnership Update: The Carshalton and Clockhouse Local Committee received an update from Sutton Housing Partnership (SHP) on major works, energy efficiency initiatives, and housing regulation updates in Clockhouse. More information is available from the Carshalton and Clockhouse Local Committee meeting.
  • Adult Safeguarding Panel: The Carshalton and Clockhouse Local Committee discussed the Adult Safeguarding Multi Agency Panel, which aims to improve outcomes for vulnerable adults through joined-up working between various agencies. More information is available from the Carshalton and Clockhouse Local Committee meeting.
  • Audit and Governance Committee Meeting: The Audit and Governance Committee met to review the council's governance, risk management, and audit processes. The committee discussed the annual reports on governance, risk management, human resources, and treasury management, as well as the operation of the code of conduct and member development. More information is available from the Audit and Governance Committee meeting.

Upcoming Meetings

  1. The licensing objectives are: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm. ↩

Sutton Council: Tree Saved, Violet Close Approved, & Historic Homes

This week in Sutton:

Tree Saved by Casting Vote: Resident's Light Loss Ignored?

A copper beech tree at 52 Tewkesbury Road will be protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO), despite objections from the homeowner who claimed it blocked sunlight and posed a safety risk. The Planning Committee voted to grant the TPO, with Councillor Jayne McCoy using her casting vote after a tie.

  • The heart of the issue: Mr. Mark Lake, the homeowner, argued the tree was too big for the plot and caused constant issues like pigeon droppings and blocked sunlight. He presented a petition with 24 signatures from neighbors who didn't object to its removal.
  • Conflicting views: Some councillors sympathized with Mr. Lake, with Councillor Patrick Magnus calling it a resplendently beautiful tree, but it's in the wrong place and Councillor Eric Allen, an insurance underwriter, expressing concerns about insuring the property due to the tree's size.
  • Council's stance: Other councillors emphasized the tree's amenity value and the importance of preserving green spaces, particularly in areas with limited tree cover. Councillor Kelter Cumber noted the lack of trees in the St. Helier estate.
  • The deciding factor: Councillor McCoy acknowledged that houses could have been purchased without trees, and that social housing states tend not to have any street trees, but ultimately voted to grant the TPO, stating that the houses could have been purchased without trees.

This decision highlights the tension between individual property rights and the council's commitment to preserving the environment, raising questions about whether residents' concerns are being adequately addressed.

Read the full discussion in the Planning Committee meeting.

Violet Close Development Approved: Traffic Lights and Bin Hikes on the Horizon?

Plans for nine new homes on land to the rear of Violet Close have been approved, but residents are raising concerns about increased traffic, bin collections, and potential management fees. The Planning Committee granted planning permission for the development, which includes a traffic light system on the access road and a communal bin storage area.

  • Traffic Troubles: The development will include a traffic light system on the access road, which Councillor Patrick Magnus questioned, asking if there was really no other way to manage traffic than permanent traffic lights.
  • Bin Collection Chaos? The proposed bin collection system, which involves residents moving bins to a central holding area for collection, sparked confusion and concerns about costs. Councillor Richard Clifton said his understanding was that every week these bins are going to be hauled up the road to this bin collection point, and that the occupants of these properties will need to pay a sum annually in order to pay for that.
  • Management Fee Fears: Councillor Trish Fivey raised concerns about potential extortionate amount of fees charged by the management company, to which the applicant, Mr. Asim Shaikh, responded that if the management fees are excessive, people won't pay to live there.
  • Applicant's Perspective: Mr. Asim Shaikh, the applicant, stated that he wanted to provide a solution that works for the council, and is happy to do whatever works in this room to push the site forward.

This development raises questions about the balance between providing new housing and ensuring a positive quality of life for existing and future residents.

Read the full discussion in the Planning Committee meeting.

Stone Court and Stone Court Cottage to Become Residential Units: Historic Buildings Get a New Lease of Life

Stone Court and Stone Court Cottage, locally listed buildings in the Carshalton Village Conservation Area, will be converted into six self-contained residential units. The Planning Committee approved the application, which aims to bring the vacant buildings back into use.

  • Preserving History: Councillor Short, a ward councillor, stated that the application really brings this building back into use in a sustainable way for the future and goes to immense lengths to preserve the exterior of the building.
  • Addressing Concerns: The application received three letters of objection, with concerns including that the car park boundary won't blend in with Grove Park, a lack of light in flats 108 to 115 Mill Lane, increased noise from parking area, bin storage too close to neighbours, how Flat 1 will get access when the park is locked, and increased traffic and parking overspill.
  • Benefits of the Conversion: The existing office space has been vacant for six years and is no longer required. The conversion is seen as a way to preserve the historic buildings and provide much-needed housing.

This decision highlights the council's commitment to preserving local heritage while addressing the need for new housing in the borough.

Read the full discussion in the Planning Committee meeting.

Other Matters

  • Victoria Avenue Extension Approved: The Planning Committee approved an application for a single-storey side and rear extension at 28 Victoria Avenue. The application was referred to the committee because the applicant is connected with the council. There had been no objections. More information is available from the Planning Committee meeting.
  • Sutton Housing Partnership Update: The Sutton South, Cheam and Belmont Local Committee received an update from Sutton Housing Partnership (SHP) on major works, common issues raised by residents, and how the organisation resolves these issues. SHP’s presentation slides in the reports pack set out their purpose and priorities, stating that they aim to build a productive partnership with and ambition for residents based upon mutual trust and confidence, with every home a platform for household success. More information is available from the Sutton South, Cheam and Belmont Local Committee meeting.
  • Local Funding Approved: The Sutton South, Cheam and Belmont Local Committee discussed an update on local funding, including a grants update. The committee awarded £7,000 to local organisations and events. More information is available from the Sutton South, Cheam and Belmont Local Committee meeting.
  • Licensing Sub-Committee Meeting: The Licensing Sub-Committee was scheduled to meet to discuss a new premises licence application for B and W Food and Wine, located at 575 London Road, North Cheam SM3 9AE, and to review the Licensing Hearing Procedures. No transcript was provided. More information is available from the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting.
  • Licensing Sub-Committee Meeting: The Licensing Sub-Committee was scheduled to convene to discuss licensing procedures and a new premises licence application for Pepes Piri Piri Sutton, 503 London Road, North Cheam, SM3 8HS. No transcript was provided. More information is available from the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting.

Upcoming Meetings

Sutton E-Bikes Under Review: Plus KFC, Waste & Pension Divestment

This week in Sutton:

E-Bike Scheme Faces Scrutiny: Will Sutton Keep the Wheels Turning?

Sutton's e-bike scheme is up for renewal, but not without questions about its impact on pedestrians and parking. The Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee discussed the future of the dockless e-bike service provided by Forest at their meeting on Thursday.

  • The good: Since the scheme's launch, e-bikes have become increasingly popular, with nearly 24,000 rides taken in May 2025 alone, saving an estimated 3.3 tons of carbon.
  • The bad: Obstructive parking and footway blockages have been persistent issues, raising concerns about accessibility for pedestrians, especially those with disabilities.
  • The solution? Transport for London (TfL) is offering funding for boroughs to create designated on-road parking areas for e-bikes, which could help alleviate parking problems. The committee delegated authority to the Strategic Director of Environment Housing and Neighbourhoods to appoint a dockless e-bike service provider for the borough, following a competitive tender process carried out jointly with the London Borough of Kingston.

The council's corporate plan emphasizes sustainable transport choices, but the success of the e-bike scheme hinges on addressing its negative impacts on vulnerable groups.

Read the full discussion in the Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee meeting.

Waste Contracts Extended: A Step Towards a Greener Sutton?

Sutton is extending its contracts for food and green waste treatment, aiming to minimize waste and promote a circular economy. The Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee approved a three-year extension to contracts with Bio Collectors Ltd and Suez Recycling and Recovery Ltd for handling and treating food and garden waste.

  • Why it matters: This decision ensures continuity of service and aligns with the council's Environment Strategy[^3] and Climate Emergency Response Plan[^4].
  • Legislative compliance: The extension also helps Sutton comply with upcoming changes in the government's Resource and Waste Strategy for Simpler Recycling[^11], which aims to eliminate food waste to landfill by 2030.
  • No carbon impact: According to the report pack, extending the contracts has no negative impact on carbon emissions associated with the services.

By extending these contracts, Sutton is taking steps to meet its environmental goals and reduce its impact on the planet.

Find out more at the Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee meeting.

KFC's Late-Night Bid Sparks Nuisance Concerns

A new premises licence application for the KFC restaurant at 200-202 High Street, Sutton, SM1 1NR, is raising concerns about potential public nuisance. The Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to discuss the application, which seeks permission to provide late-night refreshments from 11 PM to 2 AM, seven days a week, at their meeting on Thursday.

  • Police satisfied: The Metropolitan Police initially raised concerns but withdrew their objection after the applicant, TRC Realty Limited, agreed to amend their operating schedule, including enhanced CCTV and staff training.
  • Noise worries: However, the Council's Pollution Control Team maintains its objection, arguing that the application doesn't adequately address the prevention of public nuisance, particularly noise from vehicles, doors, and people congregating outside.
  • What's at stake: This decision could impact residents living near the High Street, potentially leading to increased noise and disruption during late-night hours.

The sub-committee must balance the needs of a business with the well-being of the community, considering the potential for public nuisance.

Read the full report pack for the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting.

Pension Fund Under Pressure: Petition Calls for Divestment from Occupied Palestinian Territories

Sutton Council's Pension Committee is facing a petition demanding a review of its investment strategy and divestment from companies operating in the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT). The committee was scheduled to discuss the petition at their meeting on Tuesday.

  • The demand: The petition calls for the council to identify and divest from companies that supply the Israeli military or operate within the OPT, citing concerns about human rights violations and international law.
  • Financial implications: As of March 31, 2025, the fund had £6.49 million invested in companies listed by organizations that identify companies allegedly involved in human rights violations related to the Israeli occupation, representing 0.67% of the total fund value.
  • Fiduciary duty: The report pack noted that the fund has a fiduciary duty[^1] to act in the best financial interests of its beneficiaries, and that investment decisions should primarily be driven by value, risk, and yield.

The committee is considering reviewing its Responsible Investment Policy and providing annual reporting on its stewardship activity, balancing ethical concerns with its financial responsibilities.

More details are available in the Pension Committee meeting.

Other Matters

  • Crematorium Board Updates: The North East Surrey Crematorium Board discussed updates to its constitution, a surveyor's report, and a treasurer's report. The board also approved a revised design for the Tree of Life Fountain, with a budget cost of £50,000. More information is available from the North East Surrey Crematorium Board meeting.
  • Wallington Wines Licence: The Licensing Sub-Committee considered an application for a new premises licence for Wallington Wines Limited, located at 150 Stafford Road, Wallington. The report pack indicated that the Metropolitan Police initially raised concerns but withdrew their objection after the applicant agreed to amend their operating schedule. However, eight representations were received from other parties, raising concerns related to the four licensing objectives. More information is available from the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting.

Upcoming Meetings

Sutton schools face funding crisis, Wallington late-night licence approved

This week in Sutton:

Kanteen Gets the Green Light: Late-Night Refreshments Approved in Wallington

The Licensing Sub-Committee has granted a new premises licence to Kanteen, a restaurant at 185 Stafford Road, Wallington, SM6 9BT, allowing them to sell alcohol and offer late-night refreshments. This decision, made on Tuesday, means Kanteen can now serve alcohol with meals and stay open until 1 AM daily.

  • What's the buzz? Kanteen, known for its North Indian cuisine, previously operated a bring your own bottle policy. Now, they can sell beers and wines directly to customers.
  • Concerns addressed: While the Metropolitan Police initially raised concerns, they withdrew their objection after Kanteen agreed to amend their operating schedule. However, the Council's Environmental Health (Noise Pollution) Officer maintained their representation regarding the prevention of public nuisance, and four representations were also received from other parties, raising concerns about potential public nuisance.
  • Conditions apply: The licence comes with strict conditions, including CCTV, responsible alcohol display, operation as a restaurant, restrictions on delivery times, and a Challenge 25 policy[^4]. The outside seating area must not be used after 11 PM. [^4]: The Challenge 25 scheme requires individuals who appear to be under 25 to provide identification to prove they are over 18 when buying alcohol.
  • Why it matters: This decision impacts local residents, balancing the needs of a local business with concerns about noise and public nuisance. The conditions aim to mitigate potential disruptions.

For more details, you can read the full minutes of the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting.

Council Finances: Underspend Masked by Schools Funding Crisis

Sutton Council's Strategy and Resources Committee met on Monday and noted a complex financial picture. While the council's general fund saw an underspend of £0.687m, this was overshadowed by a significant £9.182m overspend in the dedicated schools grant1. This means a £10.573m deficit is carried forward into the next financial year.

  • The good news: The general fund underspend was attributed to improved positions in corporate costs and movements in Environment, Housing & Neighbourhoods (EH&N) services.
  • The bad news: The Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) overspend is linked to increasing numbers of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and rising costs for school placements.
  • Why it matters: This financial strain could impact vital services for children with special educational needs, potentially leading to longer waits for support and reduced resources. The council noted that Sutton would have been invited into the Safety Valve programme[^2] but the government had stopped allowing local authorities to join the programme. [^2]: The Safety Valve programme is a scheme whereby the government pays down deficits based on a local area achieving certain financial targets.

You can find more information in the Strategy and Resources Committee meeting.

Local Projects Get a Boost: Sutton Committee Funds Community Initiatives

The Sutton Local Committee met on Thursday and approved £7,000 in funding for ten local organisations and events. These grants aim to support community activities and enhance local life in the Sutton area.

  • Who benefits? Projects receiving funding include the Manor Park Village Fete, the Dr George Rice Community Garden, the Sutton Older Hong Kongers Group, and several Friends of Parks groups.
  • Youth voices heard: The committee also hosted a youth takeover, providing a platform for young people to share their concerns and ideas about mental health, safety, and inclusion.
  • Why it matters: These small grants can make a big difference in local communities, supporting events and initiatives that bring people together and improve quality of life.

Learn more about the funded projects and the committee's discussions at the Sutton Local Committee meeting.

Other Matters

  • Bandon Hill Cemetery: The Bandon Hill Cemetery Joint Committee elected Councillor Edward Joyce as Chair and Councillor Sam Martin as Vice Chair. They also approved £18,800 for fence repairs following complaints from residents on Queenwood Avenue and Rookwood Avenue. More information is available from the Bandon Hill Cemetery Joint Committee meeting.

Upcoming Meetings

  1. Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) is funding allocated to local authorities to support education-related services for children and young people. ↩

Recent meetings
Committee

Code of Conduct Panel - Thursday, 17th July, 2025 9.15 am

The Code of Conduct Panel met to consider the outcome of code of conduct investigations. The panel was scheduled to discuss complaints made against Councillor Sheldon Vestey and determine what actions, if any, to take. The meeting was also scheduled to consider excluding the press and public from the meeting.

July 17, 2025
Hackbridge, St Helier and The Wrythe Local Committee

Hackbridge, St Helier and The Wrythe Local Committee - Thursday, 17th July, 2025 7.00 pm

The Hackbridge, St Helier and The Wrythe Local Committee met on 17 July 2025 to discuss the findings of a flood investigation, local funding updates, and to hear community showcases from the 219 (Sutton & Cheam) Squadron, Royal Air Force Air Cadets and Radio St Helier. The committee was also scheduled to address public questions.

July 17, 2025
Pension Board

Pension Board - Thursday, 17th July, 2025 10.00 am

The Sutton Council Pension Board met to discuss pension administration performance and projects, governance and risk, and to review the pension committee papers. The board noted the improved performance of the benefits team, particularly in reducing the backlog of outstanding cases. They also discussed challenges related to the McCloud remedy[^2] project and the government's consultation on access and fairness within the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).

July 17, 2025
North Cheam, Stonecot and Worcester Park Local Committee

North Cheam, Stonecot and Worcester Park Local Committee - Tuesday, 15th July, 2025 7.00 pm

The North Cheam, Stonecot and Worcester Park Local Committee met on 15 July 2025 to discuss community safety, funding opportunities, and the status of the former HG Wells pub site. The committee also planned to hear a presentation from the Royal British Legion Social Club Worcester Park about their services.

July 15, 2025
Council

Council - Monday, 14th July, 2025 7.00 pm

The Sutton Council meeting on 14 July 2025 included discussion of a range of local issues, including the protection of green spaces, support for residents facing financial hardship, and the deterioration of Mill Green. Councillors also approved the Scrutiny Committee Annual Report 2024/25 and discussed the Finance and Performance Quarter 4 Outturn 2024/25.

July 14, 2025
Audit and Governance Committee

Audit and Governance Committee - Thursday, 10th July, 2025 7.00 pm

The Audit and Governance Committee for Sutton Council met on 10 July 2025 to review the council's governance, risk management, and audit processes. The committee was scheduled to discuss the annual reports on governance, risk management, human resources, and treasury management, as well as the operation of the code of conduct and member development. They were also scheduled to review the external audit plan and internal audit activity.

July 10, 2025
Carshalton and Clockhouse Local Committee

Carshalton and Clockhouse Local Committee - Tuesday, 8th July, 2025 7.00 pm

The Carshalton and Clockhouse Local Committee met to discuss a range of local issues, including updates from the Sutton Housing Partnership, budget considerations, and local funding allocations. The committee also planned to hear a community showcase from the Carshalton Beeches Wellbeing Group.

July 08, 2025
Licensing Sub-Committee

Licensing Sub-Committee - Monday, 7th July, 2025 2.00 pm

The Sutton Council Licensing Sub-Committee met on 7 July 2025 to discuss licensing procedures and a new premises licence application. The application was for a new licence for Popeyes, 137-143 High Street, Sutton, SM1 1JH, and would allow the provision of late night refreshment. Councillors were also scheduled to review the Licensing Sub-Committee's hearings procedure.

July 07, 2025
Health and Wellbeing Board

Health and Wellbeing Board - Monday, 7th July, 2025 6.30 pm

The Sutton Council Health and Wellbeing Board was scheduled to meet on 7 July 2025 to discuss a new joint dementia strategy, changes to the Integrated Care Board, the state of the charity sector, and an update on the Better Care Fund.

July 07, 2025
Licensing Sub-Committee

Licensing Sub-Committee - Friday, 4th July, 2025 10.30 am

The Licensing Sub-Committee met to discuss licensing hearing procedures and a new premises licence application. The application was for a premises on London Road, North Cheam. The sub-committee was scheduled to consider an application for a new premises licence for Pepes Piri Piri Sutton.

July 04, 2025
Upcoming meetings
Senior Officer Appointment Committee

Senior Officer Appointment Committee - Monday, 21st July, 2025 9.00 am

July 21, 2025