This week in Wandsworth:

Parks Events Policy Sparks Debate Over Green Space Use

The Cabinet adopted a revised Events in Parks Policy, aiming to balance community events with the protection of green spaces. You can read the full report here.

• The Stakes: The updated policy bans events with over 10,000 attendees (except in Battersea Park) and prohibits large events on Wandsworth Common for over 2,499 people.
• Community Concerns: Peter Rommel, representing the Friends of Tooting Common, sought assurance that excluding large events from Wandsworth Common wouldn't increase pressure for more events on Tooting Common.
• Council's Response: Councillor Paul White, Cabinet Member for Environment, said the policy tightens controls on how commons are used, ensuring a balance between community events and the protection of green spaces. Councillor Deekton added that there was not a risk of displacement of events from Wandsworth Common because there are very few events on Wandsworth Common as it stands.
• Why it matters: The policy aims to protect green spaces while still allowing for community events, but some residents worry about the potential impact on specific parks and commons.

Libraries First! Strategy Aims to Boost Accessibility

The Cabinet approved the new Libraries First! strategy and a two-year contract extension with Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL) to manage Wandsworth's library services. You can read the full report here.

• The Goal: Councillor Judi Gasser, Cabinet Member for Children, said the strategy aims to make libraries more welcoming and accessible to all residents, particularly those who are marginalised or vulnerable.
• Key Initiatives: The strategy includes plans to extend library hours, introduce universal library membership for children, and develop a new library app.
• Community Impact: Councillor Henderson noted that the extension of hours at Roehampton Library had regenerated the community.
• Why it matters: The strategy aims to ensure that libraries remain vital community hubs, offering resources and support to all residents, especially those who need it most.

Winstanley and York Road Regeneration Focuses on Delivery

The Cabinet discussed the Winstanley and York Road Place Programme, with a commitment to deliver on the regeneration of the estate. You can read the full report here.

• Key Commitments: The plan includes building more than 50% affordable housing and moving quickly to bring down Pentafone House.
• Addressing Concerns: Councillor Henderson raised concerns about antisocial behaviour and crime on the estate. Councillor Dikerdem responded that the delay in the regeneration had made the estate less stable, and that the council had to focus on delivery. He outlined measures to improve lighting, CCTV[^44], and the safer neighbourhood team.
• Why it matters: The regeneration aims to improve the quality of life for residents on the estate, providing more affordable housing and addressing issues of crime and antisocial behaviour[^43].

Other Business

• The cabinet approved the Corporate Plan annual refresh.
• Councillor Angela Ireland, Cabinet Member for Finance, presented the Quarter 4 Outturn Report, highlighting a 99% achievement of expected general fund capital and an overspend of less than 1% of net spend. She thanked budget holders and the finance team for their work in managing demand and mitigating cost increases. Councillor Henderson praised Councillor Ireland's stewardship of finances, and Councillor Ireland clarified that while the council will be borrowing money, it will be to invest in the borough and will have assets to show for it.
• Councillor Dikerdem introduced the Wandsworth Growth Plan, which focuses on strategic planning around areas of growth in the borough, with specific recognition of Clapton Junction as a growth corridor.
• Councillor Dikerdem also presented an update on the council's approach to damp and mould, formalizing[^56] the in-house damp and mould team and introducing a tablet system[^57] and NEC software system[^58].
• Councillor White spoke about the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme[^2] Phase 4 Award, which will use £4.7 million from central government to fund decarbonisation[^62] projects at Putney Leisure Centre, Oakdene Residential, Gwynneth Morgan, Falcon Grove, and the Town Hall Extension. He also provided a brief resume[^70] of the council's climate change commitments.
• Councillor Dikerdem introduced a plan to purchase a purpose-built[^53] hotel in Tooting Broadway for temporary accommodation[^23] units, which is expected to save the council around £1 million a year. Councillor Akinola expressed nervousness about the plan and offered to work closely with Councillor Dikerdem to address any issues.
• Councillor Henderson introduced a paper on accommodation-based services for adults with mental health support needs, explaining that the contract for the current provider[^54] will be extended for up to three years with an annual review.
• Councillor Ekinola introduced the Wandsworth Equality Objectives 2025-2029, which set out the council's commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion across all aspects of local government.
• Councillor Dikerdem outlined the core foundational reasons for some of the decisions taken by the cabinet, including the increasing demand pressure on temporary accommodation.
• Councillor Ireland presented the budget variations paper, explaining that the variations are largely being funded through underspends and levies from property developers[^9].

The Conservation and Heritage Advisory Committee and the Council also met, but no transcripts or videos of the meetings were provided.

Upcoming Meetings

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

• London Heliport Consultative Group (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/74903) - Tuesday 22 July 2025
• Planning Applications Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/74904) - Wednesday 23 July 2025: The committee will be reviewing several planning applications, including proposals for new dwellings, alterations to existing buildings, and variations to existing agreements.
• Licensing Sub-Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/74905) - Thursday 24 July 2025: The Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to meet to consider applications for premises licences under the Licensing Act 2003 for Sadaf Express and Sweet Tooth Cafe.

This week in Wandsworth:

Late-Night Pizza Delivery Sparks Noise Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee is set to decide on a proposal to extend the hours for late-night refreshment at Papa Johns, 344 Battersea Park Road, potentially allowing 24-hour operation. You can read the meeting agenda here.

• The Proposal: Eastend Pizza Ltd seeks to remove the 2:00 AM closing time for late-night refreshment, effectively enabling round-the-clock service.
• The Catch: An Environmental Services Officer has objected, citing concerns about noise levels, patron and delivery rider activity, and the proximity of residential properties.
• The Impact: Rob Newby-Walker, Environmental Services Officer (Noise), stated that he sees no reason why current policy should be abandoned here and so no justification for the variation being sought.
• The Council's Stance: The sub-committee must weigh the applicant's proposed conditions (CCTV, signage, cleaning) against the potential for increased public nuisance.

Council to Decide on Growth Plan and Library Strategy

The Cabinet will convene to discuss the Wandsworth Growth Plan, a strategic framework for regeneration and economic growth, and the Libraries First! strategy, which sets the direction for investment, programming and partnerships in the borough's libraries over the next five years. You can read the meeting agenda here.

• Growth Plan Goals: The Wandsworth Growth Plan aims to deliver affordable homes, unlock economic opportunities, and improve quality of life, focusing on place-based renewal and investment partnerships.
• Library Strategy Focus: The Libraries First! strategy focuses on making libraries more accessible, fostering community connections, supporting lifelong learning, and promoting well-being.
• HRA Budget Variations: The Cabinet will also be asked to approve positive Housing Revenue Account revenue budget variations of £52,300 in 2025/26 and £22,800 in 2026/27 for the purchase of 60 iPads and the licence fee for the NEC Go Mobile application, to improve the council's response to damp and mould.

Conservation Committee to Review Planning Applications

The Conservation and Heritage Advisory Committee will discuss planning applications that could impact conservation areas and listed buildings, including a 34-storey tower proposal at Heliport House, 38 Lombard Road. You can read the meeting agenda here.

• Heliport House Proposal: The committee will consider a plan to demolish existing buildings and erect a 34-storey tower with commercial space and up to 143 residential apartments.
• Other Applications: The committee will also discuss plans for a dwellinghouse on Burstock Road, alterations to The Grapes pub on Fairfield Street, and balcony replacements at the London Rowing Club.
• Decision Review: The committee will review recent decisions on planning applications they previously considered, including solar panel installations on Falcon Road and alterations to Vicarage Mansions on Queenstown Road.

Council to Discuss Health and Wellbeing, Equality Objectives

The Council is scheduled to meet on 16 July 2025 to discuss a range of topics, including the Health and Wellbeing Board's report, which focuses on improving health and wellbeing, tackling inequalities, and empowering communities. You can read the meeting agenda here.

• Health and Wellbeing Strategy: The council will discuss the Wandsworth Joint Local Health and Wellbeing Strategy, which aims to improve the health and wellbeing of Wandsworth residents, tackle inequalities, empower communities, and focus on prevention.
• Equality Objectives: The council will also discuss and approve the council's equality objectives for 2025-2029, which include tackling inequality, promoting well-being, addressing health inequalities, supporting women and girls, and ensuring equal access to opportunities.

Upcoming Meetings

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

• London Heliport Consultative Group (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/74903) - Tuesday 22 July 2025
• Planning Applications Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/74904) - Wednesday 23 July 2025
• Licensing Sub-Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/74905) - Thursday 24 July 2025

This week in Wandsworth:

Schools Forum Grapples with Funding Deficit and Explores Tech Solutions

The Wandsworth Schools Forum met to address a concerning Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) deficit and explore innovative ways to support students with medical needs. You can read more about the meeting here.

• The Stakes: Wandsworth's DSG, which funds both mainstream and special education, faces a potential deficit of £40 million to £70 million over the next five years. This could impact the quality and availability of educational services for all students, especially those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
• Council's Response: The council is focusing on early intervention, inclusive education, and stronger partnerships between families and professionals. They've invested £45 million in SEND provisions over the last five years, but rising demand is outpacing resources.
• Innovative Solutions: The council is considering introducing up to 20 AV1 robots, remote learning avatars that allow students to participate in class from home or hospital. This could help maintain access to education for children with medical needs or those experiencing emotionally based school avoidance (EBSA).
• School Balances: The Schools Forum also discussed school balances, which overall have increased steadily between 2020-21 and 2024-25 (33%), with cumulative reserves now at £43.4 million. However, Maintained Nursery Schools continue to experience significant financial difficulties.

Health Committee Examines Mental Health Support and Integrated Care

The Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee convened to discuss mental health programmes, integrated care developments, and the council's corporate plan. You can read more about the meeting here.

• Mental Health Focus: The committee received an overview of mental health programmes from the South West London (SWL) Integrated Care Board (ICB) and the South West London & St George's Mental Health NHS Trust (SWLSTG). The report highlighted programmes aimed at improving mental health and wellbeing across all ages, with a focus on early intervention and equity of access.
• Integrated Care: The committee discussed the development of integrated neighbourhood working, following NHS England's call for a coordinated approach to health service planning and delivery.
• Corporate Plan: The committee reviewed progress on the 2024/25 Wandsworth Corporate Plan (WCP), which outlines the council's priorities for a fairer, compassionate, and more sustainable borough. Actions include multi-agency problem solving with police, delivering the Wandsworth VAWG Strategy[^1], and improving support for vulnerable adults. [^1]: The Wandsworth VAWG Strategy is the council's strategy for tackling Violence Against Women and Girls.
• Budget Concerns: The committee noted that its remit had overspent by £2.648m in 2024/25 due to increased demand, complex care needs, and rising costs of care services.

Finance Committee to Review Council Finances and Equalities Actions

The Finance Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet to discuss the council's financial results, Universal Credit migration, equalities actions, and more. You can read more about the meeting here.

• Financial Outturn: The committee will review the financial outturn for 2024/25, including the General Fund, Housing Revenue Account, and Dedicated Schools Budget. The DSG is carrying forward a cumulative deficit balance of £21.2m into 2025/26.
• Universal Credit Migration: The committee will receive an update on the migration of residents from Housing Benefit to Universal Credit. The council has been proactively supporting residents through this transition.
• Equalities Report: The committee will review the Annual Equalities Report, which celebrates Wandsworth's diverse communities and highlights actions taken to create a fairer borough. This includes the Access for All Programme, which aims to break down barriers for disabled residents.
• Change Programme: The committee will receive an update on the Change Programme, which aims to deliver benefits for residents, the workforce, and financial sustainability.

New Licence Application for Indie Wine Club

The Licensing Sub-Committee met to consider an application for a new premises licence for the Indie Wine Club in Tooting Market. You can read more about the meeting here.

• Background: The Indie Wine Club is expanding into a new unit within Tooting Market and requires a new licence to cover the extended space.
• Objections: One representation was made regarding potential crime and disorder and public nuisance from patrons using the outdoor seating area.
• Conditions: The applicant offered a condition to prevent customers from taking open containers of drinks outside to consume, addressing concerns about noise and anti-social behaviour.

Upcoming Meetings

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

• Audit Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/72533) - Wednesday 09 July 2025: The Wandsworth Council Audit Committee is scheduled to meet on 9 July 2025 to discuss the 2023/24 and 2024/25 accounts and external audit, the recruitment of an independent member of the committee, the annual review of risk management, and the council's governance arrangements.
• Richmond and Wandsworth Joint Staffing Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/72540) - Thursday 10 July 2025: The Richmond and Wandsworth Joint Staffing Committee is scheduled to meet on 10 July 2025 to discuss workforce trends, decision-making accountability, skills and apprenticeships, and corporate capacity.
• Licensing Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/72523) - Tuesday 08 July 2025: The Licensing Committee will be considering the introduction of a Cumulative Impact Assessment in certain areas of the borough, and proposed amendments to the committee's standing orders and procedure rules.
• Licensing Sub-Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/72529) - Tuesday 08 July 2025: The Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to meet to consider applications for premises licences under the Licensing Act 2003 for Sadaf Express and Sweet Tooth Cafe.
• Cabinet (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/73678) - Monday 14 July 2025
• Conservation and Heritage Advisory Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/73670) - Monday 14 July 2025
• Council (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/73685) - Wednesday 16 July 2025

This week in Wandsworth:

Salvation Army Citadel Redevelopment Sparks Community Debate

The Planning Applications Committee met to discuss a proposal to demolish the Salvation Army Citadel at 9 Ram Street and erect a new six-storey building, including a 50-bedroom hotel. You can read the full report here.

• What's the plan? The proposed building would include flexible community/commercial space on part of the ground floor, with the remainder of the ground floor and the upper floors providing a hotel.
• Community Concerns: The application received 22 neighbour objections, citing concerns such as loss of community space, excessive building height, and negative impacts on residents.
• Support for the Proposal: The Wandsworth Town Partnership submitted a letter of support, stating that the application reflects their vision for sustainable, community-focused regeneration. The Wandsworth Conservation and Heritage Advisory Committee (CHAC) also supported the proposal to replace the existing building.
• What's at stake? The decision highlights the tension between development and community preservation, with residents divided over the best use of the site.

School Finances Under Scrutiny Amid Rising Demand for EHCPs

The Children's Committee discussed the challenges of managing the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) in light of increasing demand for Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). You can read the full transcript here.

• What's the issue? The High Needs Block (HNB) of the DSG, which funds pupils with unique needs, is under pressure due to a rise in EHCPs.
• Driving Factors: An officer explained that birth rates are falling, but more families are facing socioeconomic deprivation, impacting children's health, wellbeing and education.
• Parent Governor Concerns: Ms. Nabila Haroon, Parent Governor Representative, said that the deficit is not just because of EHCPs, but also because of the Children and Families Act 2014, and independent schools. She said that the root issue is the insufficient local SEND provision in the borough, despite spending £45 million from the capital fund.
• Council Response: An officer responded that the council has built a lot of provision, some of which is only coming online in September.
• Accessibility of Libraries: Councillor Emmeline Owens raised the issue of libraries not all being open Monday to Saturday, and children queuing from half past eight in the morning to get in. Councillor Judy Gasser responded that they are looking into how they can provide more opportunities, and that when the rooms are not booked, they should be allowing the children to use them.
• What's at stake? The discussion highlights the challenges of providing adequate support for children with special educational needs in a financially sustainable way.

Environment Committee Explores Biodiversity and Community Engagement

The Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee discussed a range of issues, including biodiversity, tree management, women's participation in sports, and the library strategy. You can read the full transcript here.

• Biodiversity Action Plan: The committee discussed the development of a Biodiversity Action Plan, considering ways to improve biodiversity and promote nature recovery in the borough.
• Tree Management: The committee discussed completed and planned improvements to tree management and resident engagement.
• Women and Girls in Sports: The committee considered the outcome of the Women and Girls Sports Task and Finish Group, which aimed to boost participation in sports and physical activity.
• Library Strategy: The committee considered the draft Library Strategy and supported its recommendations. The strategy aims to make libraries the first place of connection for communities.
• Public Engagement: The committee discussed the importance of public engagement in environmental initiatives, including tree management and biodiversity monitoring.

Other Matters

• The Licensing Sub-Committee met to consider an application for a variation of a premises licence in respect of HANA, 281 Lavender Hill. No decision was made at the meeting. You can read the full report here.
• The Health and Wellbeing Board convened to discuss a range of reports and strategies concerning the health and wellbeing of the borough's residents. No transcript or video of the meeting was provided. You can see the meeting details here.

Upcoming Meetings

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

• Licensing Sub-Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/72263) - Tuesday 01 July 2025: The Licensing Sub-Committee will consider an application from Indie Wines Ltd for a new premises licence for the Indie Wine Club at Tooting Market.
• Finance Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/71616) - Thursday 03 July 2025: The Finance Overview and Scrutiny Committee are scheduled to meet to discuss the Universal Credit migration and council tax reduction scheme, the council's financial results, a change programme update, the annual equalities report, performance monitoring and the committee's work programme.
• Audit Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/72533) - Wednesday 09 July 2025
• Richmond and Wandsworth Joint Staffing Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/72540) - Thursday 10 July 2025
• Licensing Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/72523) - Tuesday 08 July 2025
• Licensing Sub-Committee (http://opencouncil.network/meetings/72529) - Tuesday 08 July 2025