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Sutton Council: Energy, Housing & Children's Services Updates

This week in Sutton:

Council Companies Navigate Growth and Financial Realities

Sutton's wholly-owned companies are charting courses through expansion and financial adjustments, as detailed in the recent Sutton Shareholdings Board meeting on Tuesday 10 March 2026. The board reviewed the business plans and budgets for three key entities: Sutton Decentralised Energy Network (SDEN), Cognus Limited, and Sutton Living Limited (SLL).

Sutton Decentralised Energy Network (SDEN): Balancing Growth with Billing Errors

SDEN, responsible for providing low-carbon energy, is pushing ahead with ambitious expansion plans, including connecting new developments like the Clarion Housing Lavenders project. However, the company recently discovered an undercharging error that affected customers between April and December 2025. This means some residents will see a balancing amount on their bills to recover the shortfall, though SDEN has committed to flexibility for those facing financial difficulties.

The company is also progressing with a significant heat source transfer from the Beddington landfill gas site to the Viridor Beddington Energy Recovery Facility, a move that will enable them to utilise waste heat more effectively. This project has secured additional funding from the Green Heat Network Fund, a positive step for future expansion. Despite the billing issue, SDEN's pricing policy aims to remain competitive with fossil fuel suppliers, with a modest 3.4% increase planned for April 2026.

  • Impact on Residents: While SDEN aims to provide affordable, low-carbon energy, the billing error means some households will face unexpected additional charges. The council's commitment to flexibility is crucial for vulnerable residents.
  • Future Outlook: The successful funding for the heat source transfer and ongoing expansion plans signal SDEN's commitment to a greener energy future for Sutton.

You can find more details in the minutes of the Sutton Shareholdings Board meeting.

Cognus Limited: Strong Performance and Financial Turnaround

Cognus Limited, which provides essential education support services, is demonstrating a remarkable financial turnaround. The company is projecting an operating surplus of £429,000 for the year ending March 2026, a significant improvement from the previous year's deficit. This success is attributed to strong trading income and the effective management of services, despite ongoing pressures in SEND and therapies.

The business plan highlights achievements across various teams, including:

  • Virtual School: Strong outcomes for Children Looked After (CLA) and Previously Looked After (PCLA) children, with high post-16 destination rates.
  • School Admissions: Sutton residents continue to secure their first-preference school places, with no unplaced pupils on National Offer Days.
  • SEND Service: Despite increased demand, Cognus is meeting statutory timescales for EHCP assessments and annual reviews, exceeding national benchmarks.

The company is also expanding its support for vulnerable children, including taking on responsibility for the participation service and implementing the children in care council. This initiative aims to increase opportunities for children in care, building on successful programmes like the Turing grant-funded trip to Canada.

  • Impact on Children and Families: Cognus's services are vital for ensuring children receive the support they need to thrive, from early years to post-16 education. The focus on SEND and vulnerable children is particularly important for ensuring equitable outcomes.
  • Financial Stability: The improved financial position strengthens Cognus's ability to deliver essential services and invest in future improvements.

More information can be found in the minutes of the Sutton Shareholdings Board meeting.

Sutton Living Limited (SLL): Shifting Focus to Affordable Housing Acquisitions

Sutton Living Limited (SLL) is undergoing a strategic shift, moving from new build development to acquiring and managing affordable rented homes. This pivot directly supports the council's goal of reducing homelessness and reliance on temporary accommodation. SLL has already delivered its 100th property and has a substantial pipeline of acquisitions, funded through various grants, including the Local Authority Housing Fund (LAHF).

The company is also progressing towards becoming a Registered Provider (RP), a move that will unlock access to further grant funding and enhance its ability to deliver affordable housing. While the Grove development, a new build project, is facing financial challenges and delays, SLL's core strategy is now firmly focused on acquisitions.

  • Impact on Homeless Households: By acquiring and managing affordable homes, SLL directly addresses the critical need for stable housing for those experiencing homelessness, providing long-term solutions and significant savings for the council's homelessness budgets.
  • Future of Housing: The focus on acquisitions and the pursuit of RP status signal a proactive approach to increasing the supply of affordable housing in Sutton.

Details of these plans are available in the minutes of the Sutton Shareholdings Board meeting.

North East Surrey Crematorium Board Reviews Operations and Finances

The North East Surrey Crematorium Board met on Tuesday 10 March 2026 to review operational performance and financial matters. The Surveyor's report indicated that cremation numbers are currently below the revised target for the financial year, a trend attributed to a national increase in direct cremations. Despite this, the crematorium and grounds are reported to be in good repair, and emissions reports are satisfactory.

The board considered updates on several projects, including the Main Drive Pedestrian Pathway and the Tree of Life fountain refurbishment. Approval was sought for the contractor appointment for the fountain project, and the feasibility of installing PV panels on the Remembrance Building roof is being explored.

Financially, the Treasurer's report highlighted a revised budget for 2026/27 reflecting the anticipated reduction in cremation activity. This has led to a proposed decrease in the distribution of surplus balances. The report also detailed performance against the Management Agreement Annual Budget for 2025/26, forecasting an overall underspend.

  • Community Impact: While cremation numbers may be lower, the board's focus on maintaining the crematorium and grounds ensures a dignified and well-kept facility for bereaved families.
  • Financial Prudence: The board's careful review of budgets and financial performance demonstrates a commitment to responsible management of the crematorium's resources.

You can find more information in the North East Surrey Crematorium Board meeting summary.

Licensing Sub-Committee Considers New Premises Licence

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Thursday 12 March 2026 to consider a new premises licence application for Foodland, located at 702 London Road, North Cheam. The application seeks permission to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises between 08:00 and 23:00 daily. The committee also reviewed the procedure for licensing sub-committee hearings.

  • Local Impact: Decisions on premises licences can affect local communities, influencing noise levels, public safety, and the character of an area. The committee's deliberations will consider these factors in relation to the Foodland application.

Further details can be found in the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting summary.

Upcoming Meetings

Sutton's children's services boost, START rated good

This week in Sutton:

Children's Services and Family Support Take Centre Stage

The People Committee met on Thursday 26 February 2026, with a key focus on enhancing support for children and families across the borough. The committee discussed the development of the Day Services Commissioning Strategy and received an update on Sutton's Family Hubs and Best Start in Life Offer.

Boosting Early Years Development: Sutton's Family Hubs and Best Start in Life

Sutton Council is doubling down on its commitment to giving every child the best possible start in life. The committee heard how plans are underway to expand the borough's Family Hubs network, aiming to significantly improve the number of five-year-olds reaching a good level of development by the end of their reception year. Currently, 69% of children in Sutton achieve this milestone, with a target of 78.2% by 2028. This ambitious goal means an additional 204 children reaching this crucial developmental stage.

The strategy involves:

  • Targeted Outreach: Proactively identifying and supporting families in areas of high deprivation who may not be accessing services or entitlements. This includes offering in-home support to build trust.
  • Enhanced Parenting Support: Expanding training for parent volunteers to support other parents, with a focus on under-5s and programmes delivered in schools and community settings.
  • Home Learning Initiatives: Commissioning new programmes to help parents improve play skills, communication, and literacy at home, with accessible digital options available.
  • Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Hub: A proposal was agreed to explore the feasibility of developing a fifth Family Hub specifically to support families with SEND. This would be located at 3 Robin Hood Lane.

While children in Sutton generally achieve positive outcomes, the number reaching a Good Level of Development (GLD) has plateaued. The proposed improvements aim to target resources more effectively, particularly for children eligible for Free School Meals, where only 49% currently meet the GLD measure.

Shaping Day Services for the Future

The committee also received an update on the Day Services Commissioning Strategy, which outlines how the council will work with providers and residents to shape services that meet the needs of specific residents, in line with the Care Act 2014.

Extensive engagement with providers and service users highlighted several key areas for improvement:

  • Increased Capacity: A need for more day services for older adults with complex physical needs, especially those with dementia, and for young adults with complex needs, particularly autistic individuals.
  • Accessibility: A demand for greater geographic spread of services and increased availability in the evenings and on weekends.
  • Quality and Consistency: A need for updated contractual frameworks, consistent provider processes, and the co-production of quality standards, as day services are not regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

The council is committed to market shaping, working with providers to develop services that respond to resident needs. An example of this approach is the new Living Well Centre in Sutton, which opened to ensure continuity of care for people with dementia when a previous provider could no longer deliver services.

The committee noted the update and agreed to explore the draft priority areas further, with a particular focus on transport and weekend sessions.

Short Term Assessment and Reablement Team (START) Receives Good CQC Rating

The Short Term Assessment and Reablement Team (START), which provides crucial in-home support to residents after hospital discharge, received an overall rating of good from the Care Quality Commission (CQC). This is a significant achievement, particularly given the service's broad remit. The CQC inspection praised the team's safeguarding systems, person-centred approach, and the quality of staff training and support. Residents and their families provided overwhelmingly positive feedback, with one resident stating, The carers have been really good. They even phone me if they are going to be a bit late. How good is that? They have made all the difference to my recovery.

While the service received a good rating across all areas, the CQC noted two minor areas for improvement: continuity of care staff and better signposting to other support services. The report confirmed that both these areas have already been addressed by the START team. This service plays a vital role in enabling residents to live as independently as possible.

You can find more details about these discussions in the minutes of the People Committee meeting.

Upcoming Meetings

Sutton Council faces £34m budget gap

This week in Sutton:

Council Grapples with Budget Shortfalls and Financial Pressures

Sutton Council's Strategy and Resources Committee met on Monday 16 February 2026 to confront significant financial challenges, including the council's performance for the third quarter of the 2025/26 financial year and crucial proposals for the Medium Term Financial Plan and the 2026/27 budget. The discussions highlighted the ongoing strain on services, particularly in adult social care, children's services, special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), and homelessness.

The committee reviewed the council's financial position, noting an improved general fund overspend compared to earlier forecasts. However, a significant deficit in the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) remains a major concern, with a forecast deficit of £11.710 million. This shortfall, driven by high demand for SEND support and complex needs, could impact the resources available for children's education and care.

A key takeaway from the meeting was the stark reality of the council's financial future. The Medium Term Financial Plan for 2026-2029 and the 2026/27 budget reveal a projected gap of £34.5 million over the next two years. This necessitates the identification of over £34 million in savings. Councillor Barry Lewis, Leader of the Council, described the situation as stark and difficult, emphasizing the need for responsible planning and early action to protect the council's long-term resilience.

The council's reliance on council tax increases to balance the budget was also a point of discussion. While the government's funding settlement for Sutton showed a modest increase, it was noted as one of the lowest in outer London. This, coupled with rising inflation and demand-led pressures, means difficult decisions lie ahead.

The committee also received an update on the London Cancer Hub initiative, a significant development aimed at fostering innovation in cancer research. Additionally, proposals for the lease of Quarry Cottage in Seears Park, Cheam were discussed, with the aim of transforming the derelict property into a community well-being hub.

The full details of these critical financial discussions and other agenda items can be found in the minutes of the Strategy and Resources Committee meeting.

Code of Conduct Investigation Under Review

The Code of Conduct Panel convened on Thursday 19 February 2026 to review the outcome of a code of conduct investigation. The panel, comprising Councillor Colin Stears (Chair, Audit and Governance Committee; Vice Chair, Hackbridge, St Helier and the Wrythe Local Committee), Councillor Mike Dwyer, and Councillor Jillian Green, considered a public reports pack detailing the investigation's findings. The agenda also included a procedural item regarding the potential exclusion of the press and public if exempt information was to be discussed, as permitted under Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972. The specific details of the investigation and any resulting decisions are not yet publicly available.

You can find more information on this meeting in the Code of Conduct Panel details.

Upcoming Meetings

Sutton Local Committee: Citizens Advice & Housing

This week in Sutton:

Local Committee Tackles Community Needs: Citizens Advice and Housing Take Centre Stage

The Sutton Local Committee met on Thursday 12 February 2026 to discuss vital services impacting residents. A key focus was the essential work of Citizens Advice Sutton, a charity providing free, confidential advice on a wide range of issues, from debt and benefits to housing and employment. The committee heard how their services are crucial for vulnerable individuals and families facing complex challenges, helping them navigate difficult circumstances and access the support they need.

The meeting also included an update on housing activities within the Sutton Local Committee area. This is particularly important as the council continues to address the ongoing housing crisis, ensuring that residents have access to safe and affordable homes. Discussions likely covered the council's investments in its properties and any new initiatives aimed at improving housing stock and availability.

The committee also provided a platform for a community showcase, featuring the St Helier Charitable Foundation. This segment offered residents an opportunity to learn about the foundation's work and how they can get involved in supporting local causes.

Finally, the meeting included a session for public questions, allowing residents to raise concerns directly with their local councillors. This democratic process is vital for ensuring that the council remains accountable to the people it serves.

The full details of the discussions and any decisions made will be published in the minutes of the Sutton Local Committee meeting.

Upcoming Meetings

Sutton Cancer Hub approved, transport concerns remain

This week in Sutton:

London Cancer Hub Gets Green Light Amid Transport Concerns

The Planning Committee has granted permission for the ambitious London Cancer Hub development, a project poised to create a world-leading life science and healthcare district. However, the decision was made amidst significant debate and public concern regarding the adequacy of transport and infrastructure provisions.

The hybrid application, which includes detailed plans for Phase 1 and outline permission for future phases, aims to transform the former Sutton Hospital site into a hub for cancer research and treatment. Phase 1 will feature three life science buildings, a welcome pavilion with a learning lab, and public realm works. The outline component allows for future phases, including additional life science buildings, residential accommodation for key workers, a link road, and the reprovision of allotments.

Despite widespread support for the project's potential to advance cancer research, boost the local economy, and create jobs, objectors raised substantial concerns. Key issues included:

  • Transport and Congestion: A major point of contention was the proposed transport mitigation package. While the council and developers emphasized a car-light approach, with limited parking and a focus on sustainable travel, many residents and councillors argued that the measures were insufficient to cope with the projected increase in staff and visitors. Concerns were raised about the reliance on public transport, potential traffic congestion, and the impact on already strained local road networks, particularly around junctions like Chiltern Road and Downs Road.
  • Allotments and Link Road: The proposed link road through the Belmont Allotments was a significant point of opposition. While assurances were given that replacement allotments would be provided before any displacement, objectors, including the Belmont Allotments Association, argued that the road's construction would irrevocably damage the site's biodiversity and community value.
  • Scale and Massing: Some residents expressed concerns about the height and massing of the proposed buildings, fearing they would negatively impact the character of the surrounding residential areas.
  • Affordable Housing: The inclusion of residential accommodation for key workers was debated, with some questioning the potential for this to set a precedent for further residential development on the site, potentially diluting its primary focus on life sciences.

Councillor Jayne McCoy, Chair of the Planning Committee, acknowledged the concerns, stating, The decision was made on planning grounds, with officers satisfied that the proposed mitigation measures, while not resolving all existing transport issues, would adequately address the impacts of this specific development. A key amendment made during the meeting was to ensure that all future reserved matters applications would be brought back to the planning committee for consideration, offering a degree of continued oversight.

The project, supported by partners including The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust and The Institute of Cancer Research, is seen as a vital step in maintaining global competitiveness in cancer research and treatment. However, the significant public and member concerns about transport infrastructure highlight the ongoing challenge of balancing ambitious development with the needs of the existing community. Planning Committee

Local Committee Meetings Held

Two Local Committee meetings took place this week: the North Cheam, Stonecot and Worcester Park Local Committee on Tuesday 03 February 2026, and the Sutton South, Cheam and Belmont Local Committee on Thursday 05 February 2026. Details of discussions and decisions from these meetings will be published in due course.

Upcoming Meetings

Licensing Sub-Committee

Licensing Sub-Committee - Thursday, 12th March, 2026 10.30 am

The Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to consider a new premises licence application for Foodland, located at 702 London Road, North Cheam, SM3 9BY. The committee will also review the procedure for licensing sub-committee hearings.

March 12, 2026, 10:30 am
North East Surrey Crematorium Board

North East Surrey Crematorium Board - Tuesday, 10th March, 2026 10.30 am

The North East Surrey Crematorium Board met on 10 March 2026 to review the Surveyor's report on the crematorium's management and operations for the quarter ending February 2026, and to consider the Treasurer's report on financial matters. The meeting agenda also included the approval of minutes from the previous meeting and a discussion on the exclusion of the press and public for certain items.

March 10, 2026, 10:30 am
Sutton Shareholdings Board

Sutton Shareholdings Board - Tuesday, 10th March, 2026 6.30 pm

The Sutton Shareholdings Board met on Tuesday 10 March 2026 to review the business plans and budgets for three of the council's wholly-owned companies: Sutton Decentralised Energy Network (SDEN), Cognus Limited, and Sutton Living Limited (SLL). The meeting was scheduled to discuss the financial forecasts and strategic objectives for each organisation for the upcoming years.

March 10, 2026, 6:30 pm
Licensing Committee CANCELLED

Licensing Committee - Monday, 9th March, 2026 10.00 am

This meeting has been cancelled.

March 09, 2026, 10:00 am
Licensing Sub-Committee

Licensing Sub-Committee - Thursday, 5th March, 2026 2.30 pm

The Licensing Sub-Committee was scheduled to consider a review of the premises licence for The Woodman public house in Carshalton. The committee was also set to discuss the procedure for licensing sub-committee hearings.

March 05, 2026, 2:30 pm
Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee

Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee - Thursday, 5th March, 2026 7.00 pm

The Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee of Sutton Council is scheduled to convene on 5 March 2026. The meeting's agenda includes a review of biannual performance monitoring, a discussion on Sutton's Biodiversity Duty Report, and a proposal regarding Leisure Services' operating model. Additionally, the committee will consider appointing a supplier for The Libraries Consortium's IT systems.

March 05, 2026, 7:00 pm
Planning Committee CANCELLED

Planning Committee - Wednesday, 4th March, 2026 7.00 pm

This meeting has been cancelled.

March 04, 2026, 7:00 pm
Council

Budget Council, Council - Monday, 2nd March, 2026 7.00 pm

The Council meeting on Monday 2 March 2026 saw the approval of the 2026-2029 Medium-Term Financial Plan and the 2026-27 Budget, which includes a 4.99% increase in Council Tax. The meeting also included a vote of thanks to the outgoing Mayor, Councillor Louise Phelan, and to retiring councillors.

March 02, 2026, 7:00 pm
People Committee

People Committee - Thursday, 26th February, 2026 7.00 pm

The People Committee meeting on 26 February 2026 saw the committee receive a positive report on the Short Term Assessment and Reablement Team (START), which was rated good by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The committee also discussed plans to enhance early years support through Sutton's Family Hubs and a new Best Start in Life offer, and received an update on the development of a new Day Services Commissioning Strategy.

February 26, 2026, 7:00 pm
Senior Officer Appointment Committee

Senior Officer Appointment Committee - Tuesday, 24 February 2026 - 2.30 pm

The Senior Officer Appointment Committee is scheduled to convene on Tuesday 24 February 2026. The primary focus of the meeting will be the interview and selection process for the Director of Children's Social Care and Safeguarding.

February 24, 2026, 2:30 pm
Pension Committee

Pension Committee - Tuesday, 17th March, 2026 7.00 pm

The Pension Committee of Sutton Council is scheduled to convene on Tuesday, 17 March 2026, with a packed agenda focusing on the financial health and strategic direction of the council's pension fund. Key discussions are expected to cover responsible investment policies, the business plan and budget for the upcoming years, and the triennial valuation of the pension fund.

March 17, 2026, 7:00 pm
Pension Board

Pension Board - Thursday, 19th March, 2026 10.00 am

The Pension Board is scheduled to consider a range of financial and operational matters concerning the council's pension fund. Key discussions are expected to focus on the proposed Business Plan and Budget for 2026-27, alongside updates on the Triennial Valuation and Funding Strategy Statement.

March 19, 2026, 10:00 am
Licensing Sub-Committee

Licensing Sub-Committee - Friday, 20th March, 2026 10.30 am

The Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to consider a new premises licence application for Madol Doova Restaurant. The committee will also review the procedure for licensing sub-committee hearings.

March 20, 2026, 10:30 am
Council CANCELLED

Council - Monday, 23rd March, 2026 7.00 pm

This meeting has been cancelled.

March 23, 2026, 7:00 pm
Health and Wellbeing Board CANCELLED

Health and Wellbeing Board - Tuesday, 24th March, 2026 6.30 pm

This meeting has been cancelled.

March 24, 2026, 6:30 pm
Council

Annual Council Meeting, Council - Tuesday, 26th May, 2026 7.00 pm

We do not yet have a summary for this meeting. Since it is in the future, this may be because we have not yet processed it. Please check back later.

May 26, 2026, 7:00 pm