AI Generated

Weekly updates

Wandsworth: New homes approved, rent rises loom

This week in Wandsworth:

Housing Decisions: New Council Homes Approved, but Rent Rises Loom

This week, Wandsworth Council's Housing Committee met to discuss significant plans for new council homes and the future of council housing finances. While the prospect of new homes is positive, a proposed rent increase could impact many residents. Read the full meeting details here.

New Council Homes at Battersea Power Station

The committee reviewed proposals for Wandsworth Council to partner with Battersea Power Station Development Company (BPSDC) to deliver approximately 203 new council homes on Phase 5 of the Battersea Power Station development.

  • The Stakes: This initiative is crucial for increasing the supply of genuinely affordable housing in a high-demand area. For families struggling with housing costs, these new homes represent a vital opportunity for secure and affordable living.
  • Homes for Wandsworth Programme: These homes are part of the council's Homes for Wandsworth programme, aiming to build over 1,000 new homes by 2029. The council plans to purchase the development plot and the homes, with support from Greater London Authority (GLA) grant funding.
  • Community Impact: The development, expected to be completed by 2029, aims to foster a more mixed and balanced community, aligning with the Wandsworth Growth Plan.
  • Decision: The committee was asked to agree to the collaboration and the purchase of these homes, delegating authority to the Executive Director of Growth and Place to implement the programme.

Alton Estate Renewal: Progress and Resident Support

The committee received an update on the Alton Estate Renewal Plan (ARP), following a successful resident ballot where over 82% voted in favour of the regeneration.

  • The Stakes: This regeneration project promises to significantly improve living conditions for hundreds of residents, providing modern, energy-efficient homes and enhanced community facilities.
  • Next Steps: Key next steps include commissioning a social impact assessment, preparing a hybrid planning application, and implementing elements of the Landlord Offer, such as suspending the right to buy for secure tenants in blocks scheduled for demolition.
  • Affordable Housing Focus: The plan aims to deliver between 600 and 650 new homes, with a commitment that 57% of the total new homes will be affordable.
  • Community Hub: The proposed Community Hub will include new premises for the Alton GP Practice, ensuring continued access to essential health services for residents.

Housing Revenue Account Budget: Rent Increases Proposed

A significant report detailed the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget for 2025/26 to 2028/29, including proposals for rent and service charge increases.

  • The Stakes: Any increase in rent directly impacts the cost of living for council tenants, many of whom are already struggling with rising household expenses. This decision needs to be balanced against the need for investment in council housing stock.
  • Proposed Rent Increase: The report recommended an increase in council housing rents by a maximum of 4.8% from April 2026.
  • Capital Programme: The proposals include additions to the HRA capital programme totalling £241.907 million, which will fund repairs, improvements, new investment, and regeneration projects.
  • Support for Tenants: The report indicated that the impact on leaseholders and tenants would be discussed, including support mechanisms for those facing financial hardship.

Fox House Fire: Independent Report Findings

An independent report into the fire at Fox House was scheduled for discussion. This report, compiled by Barry Quirk CBE, was intended to provide an independent assessment of the incident and the council's response.

Housing Services Activity Report: Addressing Temporary Accommodation Standards

An update on Housing Services activities was presented, focusing on the five basics campaign concerning the standards of temporary accommodation.

  • The Stakes: Ensuring adequate and safe temporary accommodation is vital for residents facing homelessness. The five basics (cooking facilities, laundry, storage, Wi-Fi, and clear information) are fundamental to maintaining dignity and well-being.
  • Current Provision: The report indicated that most temporary accommodation provided by the council consists of self-contained homes, largely meeting the cook criteria.
  • Challenges: Challenges were noted regarding the availability of laundry drying space and sufficient storage options.

Planning Applications Committee Approves New Developments, Confirms Tree Preservation Orders

The Planning Applications Committee met to consider a range of development proposals, including new residential units and extensions to commercial properties. The committee also confirmed three Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). Read the full meeting details here.

Residential Developments in Balham and Mitcham Road

The committee approved plans for new residential units in both Balham and Mitcham Road.

  • Balham High Road: A part two and three-storey building to provide 8 residential units on land rear of 161-165 Balham High Road was approved. This includes alterations such as relocating an existing substation and providing waste and cycle stores.
  • Mitcham Road: Permission was granted for external and internal alterations to existing flats and a shop at 170-172 Mitcham Road to create 8 new residential units. This involves a new shopfront, rear extensions, and roof alterations to create mansard extensions and roof terraces.

Vivienne Westwood Studios Expansion

A significant proposal for the expansion of Vivienne Westwood's studios in Elcho Street was approved.

  • The Stakes: This development supports a prominent local business and its international growth, potentially creating jobs and contributing to the local economy.
  • Elcho Street Development: A part two and three-storey extension, including a new basement, was approved for 9-15 Elcho Street. This expansion aims to provide additional floor space for research and development.

Tree Preservation Orders Confirmed

The committee confirmed three Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs):

  • TPO 510/2025: Protecting a Grapefruit tree at 67a Queenstown Road.
  • TPO 511/2025: Protecting a London Plane tree at 210 Burntwood Lane.
  • TPO 512/2025: Protecting a Lime tree at 228a Beechcroft Road.

Other Matters

  • Finance Committee: The Finance Committee met to discuss improving residents' financial resilience, the council's transformation programme, and its work programme. Read the full meeting details here.
  • Licensing Sub-Committee: The Licensing Sub-Committee met to consider an application for a two-day music festival on Tooting Common. Read the full meeting details here.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

Wandsworth: Licensing, Schools Funding Debates

This week in Wandsworth:

Licensing Decisions: Concerns Over Special Treatment Establishments and Public Nuisance

The Licensing Sub-Committee met this week to consider applications for special treatment licences and a large-scale music festival, raising questions about public safety, nuisance, and the suitability of operators. Read the full meeting details here.

Therapy Rooms Putney and The Pilates Room: Fitness and Propriety Concerns

The committee was scheduled to review applications for special treatment licences for two establishments in Putney: Therapy Rooms Putney and The Pilates Room. Both applications faced objections from the licensing team on grounds of Serious Concerns regarding Fitness and Propriety.

  • The Stakes: Decisions on these licences directly impact public safety and the integrity of the licensing system. Concerns about an individual's suitability to hold a licence can have wider implications for the businesses they are associated with.
  • Therapy Rooms Putney: The application for a new licence for Therapy Rooms Putney, located at 130-132 Upper Richmond Road, London, SW15 2SP, sought to permit a range of treatments. However, the licensing team raised objections due to concerns about the fitness and propriety of those involved. The applicant, Therapy Rooms SW15 Limited, stated that any concerns related to historical matters predating the company's existence and asserted the professional operation of the new company.
  • The Pilates Room: Similarly, the renewal application for The Pilates Room, at 226 Upper Richmond Road, London, SW15 6TG, faced objections due to concerns about the fitness and propriety of Mr. Mario Perez, who was linked to the premises. The applicant, The Pilates Room Ltd, disputed the grounds of objection, highlighting their long operational history without incident and confirming that Deborah Henley would now act as the responsible officer.
  • Public Reaction: While no specific public reaction was detailed in the notes, objections from the licensing team and police/fire brigade (or lack thereof) are standard procedure in these applications. The focus on fitness and propriety suggests a need for transparency and accountability in businesses offering personal treatments.

Country on the Common Festival: Balancing Entertainment with Nuisance Prevention

The Licensing Sub-Committee is also scheduled to consider a new, time-limited premises licence for the Country on the Common festival on Tooting Common. The application seeks permission for alcohol sales and regulated entertainment over two days, with an increased capacity from 6,000 to 7,500 attendees per day.

  • The Stakes: This decision involves balancing the desire for community events and entertainment with the need to prevent public nuisance, crime, and disorder, particularly in a residential area.
  • Concerns Raised: While no objections were received from responsible authorities, three objections were lodged by other persons citing concerns about noise, potential crime and disorder due to policing resources, and public safety.
  • Proposed Conditions: The application includes extensive proposed conditions covering event safety, crime prevention, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm. These include detailed noise management strategies, crowd control plans, and strict alcohol sales policies. The proposed music noise limit is 65dB LAeq (15 min), with an upper limit of 70dB LAeq (15 min).

Schools Forum Tackles Funding Formulas and Early Years Budgets

The Wandsworth Schools Forum met to discuss crucial funding arrangements for the upcoming academic year, impacting schools, early years providers, and ultimately, the education of Wandsworth's children. Read the full meeting details here.

FY 2026-27 Schools Block Funding: Navigating Formula Changes

The forum was presented with options for the 2026-27 schools block funding, a significant portion of the education budget.

  • The Stakes: How schools are funded directly affects the resources available for teaching, staffing, and educational programmes. Changes to funding formulas can disproportionately impact schools with fewer resources or those serving disadvantaged communities.
  • Funding Allocation: The total schools block funding for FY 2026-27 is £201.678 million, a modest increase of 0.81%. Discussions centred on moving towards the National Funding Formula (NFF) and the impact of a Minimum Funding Guarantee (MFG).
  • Impact on Schools: The report highlighted that as the Local Funding Formula (LFF) moves closer to the NFF, more funding is allocated to secondary schools at the expense of primary schools, a trend exacerbated by falling pupil numbers in primary schools. This could mean tighter budgets for primary schools, potentially affecting class sizes and support staff.

Early Years Budget: Increased Funding and New Approaches

The forum also reviewed proposals for the 2026-27 Early Years Budget, which funds free education for young children.

  • The Stakes: Adequate funding for early years education is vital for children's development and provides essential support for working parents. Changes can affect the affordability and accessibility of childcare.
  • Increased Allocation: The indicative Early Years Block allocation for Wandsworth is £55.717 million, a substantial increase attributed to rate adjustments and expanded entitlement funding.
  • New Funding Approach: A significant change for FY 2026-27 is the move to a termly funding approach and an increase in the minimum pass-through rate for early years funding. This aims to ensure more funding directly reaches providers.

De-delegation and Education Functions: Maintaining Support Services

The meeting also addressed the de-delegation of centrally held budgets for maintained primary and secondary schools and funding for Education Functions.

  • The Stakes: De-delegated funds are deductions from schools' budgets that are then managed centrally for specific services. Changes to these arrangements can impact the level of support schools receive for areas like SEN provision or staff development.
  • Proposed Increase: A 2% increase in de-delegation rates was proposed to address a projected shortfall due to falling pupil numbers in maintained schools. Funding for Education Functions, which cover services previously funded by the Education Services Grant (ESG), was also proposed to increase by 3.4%.

Other Matters

  • Cabinet Meeting: The Cabinet met on Monday 12 January 2026. No summary or transcript was available.
  • Borough Residents' Forum: The Borough Residents' Forum also met on Thursday 15 January 2026. No summary or transcript was available.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

Wandsworth heritage buildings face scrutiny

This week in Wandsworth:

Heritage Buildings Face Scrutiny as Planning Committee Reviews Controversial Applications

The Conservation and Heritage Advisory Committee met this week, scrutinising several planning applications that could significantly alter the character of historic buildings in Wandsworth. The committee expressed strong objections to proposals for Chivalry Hall and land south of Tudor Lodge Health Centre, citing concerns about irreversible damage to heritage assets. Read the full meeting details here.

Chivalry Hall: Balconies and Altered Fenestration Spark Objections

The committee unanimously objected to two separate applications concerning Chivalry Hall, 29A - 29B Chivalry Road, SW11 1HT. The proposals involved alterations including replacement windows and doors, rooflights, solar panels, and an air source heat pump, as well as the amalgamation of two dwelling houses into a single dwelling.

  • The Stakes: These decisions directly impact the preservation of Wandsworth's architectural heritage. Alterations to historic buildings can diminish their character and historical significance, affecting the aesthetic appeal and cultural value of our neighbourhoods.
  • Concerns Raised: Committee members voiced significant concerns about the proposed balconies, describing them as very large and imposing and questioning their necessity. They also raised strong reservations about changes to the fenestration1, particularly on the Chivalry Row frontage, and the alteration of window sizes.
  • Impact on Understanding: The committee felt that these changes would reduce the understanding of the hall's original use and were therefore unacceptable. The objections were based on the grounds that the proposed alterations would be detrimental to the heritage value of the building.
  • Lack of Pre-Application Advice: It was noted that no pre-application advice had been sought for these applications, a point that often signals a lack of engagement with conservation officers early in the design process.

Land South of Tudor Lodge Health Centre: Development Principle Questioned

The committee also unanimously objected to a proposal for a two-bedroom single-storey plus basement level house with associated lightwells, landscaping, bin and bike store on Land South of Tudor Lodge Health Centre, 8c Victoria Drive SW19.

  • The Stakes: This decision concerns the appropriate use of open land within the borough and the potential impact on the character of the surrounding area.
  • Principle of Development: The primary objection was based on the principle of development, with the committee deeming a building of this size and scale inappropriate and out of character for its setting.
  • Loss of Open Space and Trees: Concerns were also raised about the loss of trees on the site, with the committee endorsing an objection from the Wandsworth Tree Wardens.
  • Design Concerns: Questions were raised about the acceptability of building on this land, referencing the applicant's own design and access statement which indicated the need to retain the space as open land. The committee also queried the precedent for a thatched roof, especially as drawings indicated some walls were proposed to be thatched.

Positive Outcomes for Putney and Putney High Street

In contrast to the objections, the committee unanimously supported proposals for Putney Methodist Church, Upper Richmond Road, SW15 6SN and 110-112 Putney High Street, SW15 1RG.

  • Putney Methodist Church: The proposals for an accessible entrance ramp, replacement doors, and the installation of solar panels were supported. The Putney Society also fully supported the application.
  • 110-112 Putney High Street: The committee supported alterations including rear extensions and a front mansard roof extension to the existing ground floor commercial space, and a change of use at the upper floors to create residential units. The committee felt that allowing a mansard roof was a positive addition, enhancing the street view.

Matters Arising: Furzedown Lodge and Waterfall House

The committee sought an update on the Furzedown Lodge site, with officers reporting that a pre-application meeting had occurred but further progress was awaited from other Council departments. The Chair expressed disappointment at the lack of progress. Regarding Waterfall House, the Principal Conservation and Urban Design Officer reported that an appeal for advertising banners had been dismissed.

Other Matters

  • Archaeological Concerns: For the application at Land rear of 2 - 28 Bickley Street, SW17 9NF, the committee raised concerns about whether the site was within an archaeological priority area, noting that this work is conducted externally by the Greater London Archaeological Advisory Service (GLAAS). Confusion also arose regarding historic boundary walls, with one identified wall having been demolished in 2017.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

  1. Fenestration refers to the arrangement, proportioning, and design of windows and doors in a building. ↩

Wandsworth: Nuisance concerns over new Old York Road licence

This week in Wandsworth:

Rossalli's Licensing Application Sparks Nuisance Concerns

A new premises licence application for Rossalli's at 344-346 Old York Road is under consideration, raising concerns about potential public nuisance and crime. The Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to meet on 16 December 2025 to discuss the application, which seeks to permit the sale of alcohol, regulated entertainment, and late-night refreshment. Read the full meeting details here.

  • The Stakes: Balancing the needs of local businesses with the well-being of residents is crucial. This decision could impact noise levels, public safety, and the overall quality of life for those living near the proposed establishment.
  • Representations: The council has received 7 representations against the application, citing concerns about public nuisance from entertainment, exterior drinking areas, late-night noise, rubbish, and deliveries, as well as potential crime and disorder.
  • Support: Conversely, 29 representations have been received in support of the application.
  • Licensing Objectives: The sub-committee must consider the application in accordance with the Licensing Act 2003, which outlines four licensing objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm.
  • Conditions: If granted, the licence would be subject to mandatory conditions, including CCTV installation, restrictions on external seating areas, staff training, and measures to prevent noise nuisance.

Tree Preservation Order Proposed for Garratt Lane

The Planning Applications Committee is scheduled to discuss a report proposing the confirmation of Tree Preservation Order (TPO) 509/2025, which relates to the pavement fronting 45 Garratt Lane, SW18 4AD in Wandsworth Town. Read the full meeting details here.

Other Matters

  • The Richmond and Wandsworth Joint Staffing Committee, London Heliport Consultative Group, and Safer Neighbourhood Board also met, but no transcripts or summaries were available.

Wandsworth boosts support for vulnerable residents.

This week in Wandsworth:

Council Approves Measures to Support Vulnerable Residents Amidst Cost of Living Crisis

Wandsworth Council convened this week, approving a motion focused on providing value for money in supporting vulnerable residents. The meeting also addressed community safety concerns in Clapham Junction, affordable housing initiatives, and waste collection improvements. Read the full meeting details here.

Motion Passed to Ensure Value for Money in Supporting Vulnerable Residents

  • The Stakes: With rising costs and economic uncertainty, ensuring that support reaches those who need it most is critical. This motion aims to maximize the impact of council resources on vulnerable residents' lives.
  • Joseph Rowntree Foundation Definition: Councillor Angela Ireland, Cabinet Member for Finance, defined poverty using the Joseph Rowntree Foundation's definition, emphasizing that poverty includes a lack of resources for social participation.
  • £15 Million Cost of Living Fund: The council highlighted its £15 million cost of living fund, which provides crisis support and strengthens the voluntary community sector.
  • Low Income Family Tracker: The Low Income Family Tracker initiative has helped residents claim benefits, generating lifetime savings of £21 million for those receiving pension credit and attendance allowance1.
  • Concerns About Debt: Councillor Matthew Corner raised concerns about the council's increasing debt and its potential impact on frontline services, arguing that residents may face higher council taxes.
  • Investment Strategy Defended: Councillor Tony Belton argued that the previous Conservative administration prioritized reserves over investments, while Councillor Boswell defended the council's current investment strategy as generating strong returns.

Community Safety in Clapham Junction: Statistics Show Reduction in Crime

  • The Stakes: Residents' safety and security are paramount, and addressing antisocial behaviour is crucial for maintaining a thriving community.
  • Multi-Agency Task Force: Councillor Graeme Henderson, Cabinet Member for Health, stated that statistics show a reduction in crime and antisocial behaviour in Clapham Junction, crediting the council's multi-agency task force, CCTV, and Neighbourhood Watch.
  • Increased Resources: Councillor Henderson emphasized that the council has substantially increased resources in community safety, leading to a fall in knife crime and extended CCTV coverage.

Affordable Housing Initiatives: Planning Changes, Regeneration Projects, and More

  • The Stakes: Access to affordable housing is a major challenge, and the council is exploring various strategies to address the issue.
  • 1,000 Homes Programme: Councillor Aydin Dikerdem, Cabinet Member for Housing, outlined initiatives including planning changes, regeneration projects, the Renters' Rights Bill, rent control campaigns, and community engagement.
  • Protections on New Builds: Councillor Dikerdem confirmed that the Labour Government has introduced protections on new builds and council housing, taking them out of right to buy2.
  • Battersea Power Station: Councillor Matthew Tiller highlighted the commitment to build around 200 new council homes as part of the next phase at Battersea Power Station.

Waste Collection Improvements: Increased Food Waste Collection and More

  • The Stakes: Efficient waste collection and recycling are essential for environmental sustainability and maintaining a clean borough.
  • Increased Food Waste Collection: Councillor Paul White, Cabinet Member for Environment, stated that the council had increased food waste collection by 240 tonnes in 16 months, a 170% increase.
  • New Trucks and Monitoring Officers: The council has invested in new trucks and increased monitoring officers to improve the efficiency of waste collection and recycling.
  • Planned Improvements: Same-day sweep, jet washing, and a focus on fly-tipping hotspots are planned to further improve waste services.

Other Matters

  • Council Tax Surcharge: A Conservative motion on the council tax surcharge was defeated.
  • Planning Applications: The Planning Applications Committee had made decisions on a number of planning applications at meetings held on 23rd October 2025 and 19th November 2025.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

  1. Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested benefit for people aged 66 or over who have a disability that makes it hard for them to look after themselves. ↩

  2. The Right to Buy scheme allows eligible council tenants to buy their council home at a discount. ↩

Grants Sub-Committee

Wandsworth Council

The Grants Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee is scheduled to consider the latest round of the Wandsworth Grant Fund. The meeting's agenda includes a review of applications for the fund, which aims to support local community projects.

January 27, 2026
Licensing Sub-Committee

Wandsworth Council

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

January 27, 2026
Standards Committee

Wandsworth Council

We have not been able to find a video broadcast of this meeting.

January 26, 2026
Cabinet

Wandsworth Council

The Cabinet of Wandsworth Council met on Monday 26 January 2026 to discuss a range of important issues, including the independent report into the Fox House fire, a review of social housing improvement, the housing revenue account budget, and the public mental health action plan. The meeting's agenda focused on ensuring the safety and quality of council housing, addressing financial matters, and promoting the wellbeing of residents.

January 26, 2026
Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education

Wandsworth Council

The Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) meeting scheduled for 26 January 2026 was set to cover a range of important topics concerning religious education and related matters within Wandsworth schools. Key discussions were planned around the SACRE's annual report, a national review of the RE curriculum and assessment, and updated guidance on Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE). The council was also scheduled to consider a significant Supreme Court ruling concerning religious education in Northern Ireland and receive an update on proposed public faith walks.

January 26, 2026
Licensing Sub-Committee

Wandsworth Council

The Licensing Sub-Committee of Wandsworth Council was scheduled to consider an application for a new time-limited premises licence for a two-day country music festival on Tooting Common. The meeting's agenda also included the appointment of a chair, apologies, and declarations of interest.

January 23, 2026
Finance Committee

Wandsworth Council

The Finance Overview and Scrutiny Committee of Wandsworth Council was scheduled to discuss improving the financial resilience of residents, the council's transformation programme, and its work programme. The meeting's agenda also included the confirmation of previous minutes and declarations of interest.

January 22, 2026
Housing Committee

Wandsworth Council

The Housing Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday, 21 January 2026, was set to cover a range of significant housing matters. Key discussions were anticipated regarding the development of new council homes at Battersea Power Station and the ongoing renewal of the Alton Estate. The committee was also scheduled to review the Housing Revenue Account budget, including proposed rent increases, and receive an update on the use and standards of temporary accommodation. Additionally, a report from the Social Housing Improvement Task and Finish Group was to be presented, alongside an independent report into the Fox House fire.

January 21, 2026
Planning Applications Committee

Wandsworth Council

The Planning Applications Committee meeting on 20 January 2026 saw the approval of several significant development proposals, including residential units in Balham and Mitcham Road, and a substantial expansion of the Vivienne Westwood studios in Elcho Street. The committee also confirmed three Tree Preservation Orders and noted recent planning decisions and closed investigation files.

January 20, 2026
Borough Residents' Forum

Wandsworth Council

The Borough Residents' Forum is scheduled to consider proposals for the Housing Revenue Account budget, including proposed rent and other charges for council dwellings. The forum will also review the findings and recommendations of the Social Housing Improvement Task and Finish Group.

January 19, 2026
Licensing Sub-Committee

Wandsworth Council

January 29, 2026
Council

Wandsworth Council

February 04, 2026
Local Pension Board

Wandsworth Council

February 09, 2026
Children's Committee

Wandsworth Council

February 10, 2026
Health and Wellbeing Board

Wandsworth Council

February 12, 2026