Subscribe to updates

You'll receive weekly summaries like the ones below about this council every week.

If you have any requests or comments please let us know at community@opencouncil.network. We can also provide custom updates on particular topics across councils.

AI Generated

Weekly updates

Taco Bell faces backlash, illegal workers, & housing crisis

This week in Westminster:

Taco Bell's Late-Night Bid Faces Resident and Police Backlash

A proposal for a new Taco Bell at 187 Baker Street to operate with late-night refreshment until 4:00 AM is facing strong opposition from residents, the Environmental Health Service, and the Metropolitan Police Service. The Licensing Sub-Committee (2) was scheduled to consider the application, which has ignited concerns about potential increases in crime, anti-social behaviour, noise, and public nuisance. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

  • Police Objection: PC Dave Morgan of the Metropolitan Police Service objected to the application, citing concerns about the prevention of crime and disorder and the prevention of public nuisance. PC Dave Morgan noted that the hours sought were beyond Westminster Council's Core Hours policy for fast food venues.
  • Environmental Health Concerns: Maxwell Koduah, representing the Environmental Health Service, raised concerns about the application conflicting with the council's licensing policy, specifically Fast-Food Policy FFP1 and Restaurants Policy RNT1, and potentially increasing public nuisance and impacting public safety.
  • Resident Fears: Residents voiced concerns about potential increases in drunken behaviour, noise from delivery drivers, public urination, and intimidation. One resident stated:

The noise generated by large groups of delivery drivers gathering late at night is already a problem. These drivers congregate on Baker Street, playing loud music and engaging in disruptive behaviour long after other fast-food outlets have closed. Allowing Taco Bell to operate until 4am would exacerbate this, encouraging larger gatherings and further contributing to the noise and chaos in our area.

  • Applicant's Response: Taco Bell's home delivery policy stated that the restaurant would only trade to members of the public until 23:00, with home delivery services operating between 23:00 and 05:00. After 23:00, the restaurant would operate as a dark kitchen1 with no public access, signage indicating home delivery only, and reduced lighting and music.

This decision could significantly impact the quality of life for residents in the Baker Street area, particularly those vulnerable to the effects of late-night noise and anti-social behaviour. This echoes similar concerns raised in previous meetings regarding late-night establishments, such as the McDonald's on Victoria Street.

Strand News Faces Licence Revocation Over Illegal Workers

The Licensing Sub-Committee (2) was also scheduled to review the premises licence for Strand News, located at 145 Strand, following an application by the Home Office Immigration Enforcement. The application was based on the grounds that the licence holder had failed to meet the licensing objectives of prevention of crime and disorder, as illegal working had been identified at the premises. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

  • Illegal Working: During two visits in March 2025, Immigration Enforcement officers encountered individuals working at the premises who did not have the legal right to work in the UK. As a result, two referrals were made to the Civil Penalty Compliance Team, with penalties of £40,000 issued for each incident.
  • Home Office Request: The Home Office Immigration Enforcement requested that the premises licence be revoked, arguing that merely imposing additional conditions or a suspension would be insufficient to deter the licence holder and other premises' licence holders from employing illegal workers.
  • Licensing Authority Support: Jessica Donovan, Senior Licensing Officer, stated that the Licensing Authority had concerns about the operation of the premises and how it promoted the licensing objectives, particularly the prevention of crime and disorder.
  • Police Concerns: PC Steve Muldoon of the Metropolitan Police Service, supported the application, stating serious concerns around the day-to-day management of the premises.

This case highlights the council's commitment to working with the Home Office Immigration Enforcement to prevent illegal working in licensed premises, as outlined in previous discussions on crime and disorder in Westminster.

Council Acquires Property for Temporary Accommodation Amid Housing Crisis

The Staff Appeals Sub-Committee approved the acquisition of a property in London N14 for £6,680,000, excluding VAT, to be used as temporary accommodation. They also approved additional capital expenditure to bring the property up to a reasonable standard for occupation. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

  • Statutory Obligation: The council has a statutory obligation under the Housing Act 1996 (Part VII) to house people in need, and this acquisition is intended to help meet this obligation.
  • Housing Strategy: The council aims to expand its temporary accommodation housing stock, provide quality accommodation for residents in need, enable direct management of these properties, and support the council's housing strategy objectives.

This decision reflects the ongoing housing crisis in Westminster and the council's efforts to meet its statutory obligations to house vulnerable residents, a topic frequently discussed in previous meetings, including the recent debate on housing policies.

Other Matters

  • The Staff Appeals Sub-Committee considered an appeal of a former employee. No details of the appeal were made public. Link to the meeting here.
  • The Staff Appeals Sub-Committee approved the procurement strategy for a care provider to be appointed for the Carlton Dene Extra Care facility for a period of 7 years, with a three-year extension. Link to the meeting here.
  • The Planning Sub-Committee (1) was scheduled to discuss a Tree Preservation Order and several planning applications. Link to the meeting here.
  • The Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development is scheduled to determine the redesignation of the Fitzrovia West Neighbourhood Forum. Link to the meeting here.
  • The Executive Director of Regeneration, Economy and Planning has approved the appointment of Farrer Huxley Associates to deliver Landscape Architect Services for RIBA2 Stages 2–4 of the Lisson Grove Programme. Link to the meeting here.
  • The Executive Director of Regeneration, Economy and Planning has approved additional expenditure to Cre8 Structures LLP for the delivery of Structural Engineering services under an existing contract for the Lisson Grove Programme. Link to the meeting here.

Upcoming Meetings

  1. A dark kitchen is a commercial cooking facility set up for the preparation and delivery of food. Dark kitchens contain professional cooking equipment and facilities but have no dining area for walk-in customers. ↩

  2. RIBA Stages are the stages of work recognised by the Royal Institute of British Architects in the design and construction of a building project. ↩

McDonald's 24/7 Bid, Mayfair Redevelopment, Crime in Westminster

This week in Westminster:

McDonald's 24-Hour Bid Sparks Crime and Nuisance Fears

A proposal to extend the opening hours of McDonald's at 155 Victoria Street to 24 hours a day, seven days a week, is facing strong opposition from the Metropolitan Police Service, Environmental Health, and local residents. The Licensing Sub-Committee (2) is set to consider the application, which has ignited concerns about potential increases in crime, anti-social behaviour, noise, and litter. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

  • Police Objection: The Metropolitan Police Service has formally objected to the application, arguing that it is likely to undermine the prevention of crime and disorder.
  • Environmental Health Concerns: Environmental Health has raised concerns that the proposal may undermine the licensing objectives1 of public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protecting children from harm.
  • Resident Fears: Residents have voiced concerns about the potential for increased anti-social behaviour, noise pollution, and litter in the area.
  • Applicant's Response: Smash Operations Limited, the applicant, has stated that it recognises its duty to promote the licensing objectives and has proposed several conditions to be added to the licence, including maintaining a daily incident log, training staff in legal requirements, and conducting regular litter patrols.
  • Core Hours Policy: The sub-committee is advised to consider the City of Westminster statement of Licensing Policy, which sets core hours for fast food venues as 10:00 to 23:30 Monday to Thursday, 10:00 to 24:00 Friday and Saturday, and 12:00 to 22:30 on Sundays.

This decision could significantly impact the quality of life for residents in the Victoria Street area, particularly those vulnerable to the effects of late-night noise and anti-social behaviour.

Hanover Square Redevelopment Faces Scrutiny Over Sustainability and Heritage

The Planning Sub-Committee (2) is set to review an application for the partial demolition, refurbishment, and extension of 1 Hanover Square, currently occupied by Condé Nast until 2024. The proposal involves creating a sub-basement, basement, and an eight-storey building with retail, restaurant, and office space. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

  • Sustainability Concerns: Key questions include whether the extent of demolition is justified from a sustainability perspective and the energy performance of the building.
  • Heritage Impact: The development's impact on the Mayfair Conservation Area and nearby heritage assets, including the Grade I listed Church of St George, is a major consideration.
  • Resident Objections: The council has received objections from an adjoining office occupier and concerns from nearby residents regarding loss of light and sunlight.
  • Financial Contributions: The Director of Town Planning and Building Control recommends conditional permission, subject to a legal agreement to secure contributions towards the council's Carbon Off Set fund (£250,965) and local employment and training initiatives (£141,350).
  • Harm vs. Benefits: The report notes that the proposed development will cause a moderate degree of less than substantial harm to the setting of the Church of St George and listed buildings on St George Street, but that this is outweighed by public benefits.

This decision will determine the future of a prominent building in Mayfair, balancing economic development with the need to protect the area's heritage and environment.

Crime in Westminster Under the Spotlight

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee met to discuss crime and disorder in the City of Westminster, receiving updates from the Leader of the Council and various policy and scrutiny committees, and reviewing the council's emergency preparedness and crime prevention strategies. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

  • Statutory Responsibilities: The committee is scheduled to provide oversight of the council's statutory responsibilities under Section 19 of the Police and Justice Act 2006, which includes considering the Safer Westminster Partnership, receiving representations from its partners, and examining CCTV and resourcing.
  • Crime Statistics: Westminster records over 90,000 criminal offences each year, more than double the next highest borough, and this level has increased in recent years at a far greater rate than across the MPS area.
  • Crime Concentration: Crime continues to be increasingly concentrated in Westminster, with 69.4% recorded in just two wards; West End (42.5%) and St James's (26.9%).
  • Strategic Priorities: The Safer Westminster Partnership's strategy for 2024-27 outlines three high-level priorities: West End & Night-time Economy, Serious Violence & Exploitation, and Neighbourhoods.
  • Emergency Preparedness: The committee is scheduled to review the council's emergency preparedness, receiving an update on recent changes and developments, including the London Local Authorities Assurance Process, testing and exercising, and training updates.

The committee's discussions will shape the council's approach to tackling crime and ensuring the safety and well-being of residents and visitors in Westminster.

Other Matters

  • The Licensing Sub-Committee (6) is scheduled to convene to address several licensing matters, including applications for new premises licences and a street trading pitch relocation. Link to the meeting here.
  • The Staff Appeals Sub-Committee is scheduled to meet to consider an appeal from a former employee. Link to the meeting here.

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. ↩

Westminster: Piccadilly Alcohol Concerns, Maternity Equity, Pension Changes

This week in Westminster:

Alcohol Sales at Piccadilly Circus Station Spark Crime Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee (2) was scheduled to consider an application for a new premises licence at Unit 12, Piccadilly Circus Station, raising concerns about potential increases in crime and disorder in an already heavily impacted area. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

  • Location: The proposed kiosk is located within the West End Cumulative Impact Area, a zone known for high levels of crime and anti-social behaviour.
  • Police Objection: PC Steve Muldoon, representing the Metropolitan Police Service, objected to the application, stating that granting the licence would undermine the prevention of crime and disorder licensing objective.
  • Environmental Health Concerns: Fabiola Kouadio, representing the Environmental Health Service, also raised concerns about potential increases in public nuisance and impacts on public safety.
  • Licensing Authority Stance: Karyn Abbott, representing the Licensing Authority, emphasized the need for the application to comply with policy SHP1, requiring alcohol sales to be ancillary to the primary use of the premises.
  • Resident Impact: Granting the licence could lead to increased street crime and street drinking, potentially affecting the safety and well-being of residents and visitors in the area.

This application highlights the ongoing challenges of balancing commercial interests with the need to maintain public order and safety in Westminster's busiest areas.

Maternity Services Face Equity Challenges in North West London

The North West London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee (NWL JHOSC) convened to discuss critical healthcare issues, including disparities in maternity outcomes for Black and Asian women. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

  • Disparities in Outcomes: The report pack noted that Black and Asian women experience significantly higher term stillbirth rates compared to White women in North West London.
  • Equity Action Plan: The Local Maternity and Neonatal System (LMNS)1 has developed a five-priority Equity and Equality Action Plan to address these challenges through inclusive service restoration, digital access, data quality, targeted prevention, and strengthened leadership.
  • Five-Year Strategy: The report pack recommended developing a five-year maternity strategy with birth rate forecasting and workforce planning.
  • ICB Reconfiguration: The committee also discussed the potential reconfiguration of the Integrated Care Board (ICB) and its implications on services, including potential cost reductions and mergers.
  • Mental Health Strategy: The committee received an update on adult mental health provision in North West London, with a focus on raising awareness, promoting community-based support, and increasing equity of service access.

This meeting underscores the importance of addressing health inequalities and ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare services for all residents of Westminster.

Council to Divest from Baillie Gifford Fund Over Performance Concerns

The Pension Fund Committee was scheduled to discuss the proposed disinvestment from the LCIV Global Alpha Growth Fund – Paris Aligned, managed by Baillie Gifford, due to prolonged underperformance and a desire to reduce growth-style bias. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

  • Investment Size: As of 31 May 2025, the City of Westminster Pension Fund held £398 million in the fund.
  • Reinvestment Strategy: The committee previously agreed that the funds should be reinvested in a passive global equity mandate, preferably with LGIM or BlackRock, aligning with London CIV pooling requirements and the Fit for the Future Consultation.
  • Estimated Costs: The report pack included estimated costs attributed to disinvesting from the LCIV Global Alpha Growth Fund – Paris Aligned, including spread costs and consultant's advisory costs.
  • Responsible Investment: The report pack stated that ISIO believed that the manager offering responsible investment tilts and screens may be more suited to the Committee's requirements.
  • BlackRock Alternative: The report pack also noted that the BlackRock RBKC ex-Grenfell stocks mandate represents a credible option to the Committee, with its key aim being to track the wider global market capitalisation index, excluding companies connected with the Grenfell tragedy2.

This decision reflects the council's commitment to ensuring the financial security of its pension fund members through strategic investment decisions.

Other Matters

  • The Cabinet was scheduled to discuss the redevelopment of Huguenot House, including a full business case and the appointment of a delivery partner. Link to the meeting here.
  • The Cabinet was scheduled to consider a report regarding a proposed extension to the Leisure Contract with Everyone Active, and a transition to an Agency Model to facilitate VAT recovery. Link to the meeting here.
  • The Cabinet was scheduled to consider a report regarding the proposed acquisition of a property in HA0 for use as temporary accommodation. Link to the meeting here.
  • The Shareholder Committee reviewed the performance of Westminster Community Homes, Westminster Builds and Westco, and approved the appointment of Councillor Judith Southern to the board of Westminster Community Homes. Link to the meeting here.
  • The Young People, Learning and Employment Policy and Scrutiny Committee met, but no transcript or minutes were provided. Link to the meeting here.
  • The Appointments Sub-Committee met to discuss the appointment to the post of Director of Commercial Partnerships. Link to the meeting here.
  • The Rating Advisory Panel met to discuss Non-Domestic Rates (NNDR) Discretionary and Hardship Relief applications. Link to the meeting here.

Upcoming Meetings

  • Planning Sub-Committee (2) on Tuesday 22 July 2025 to discuss planning applications for 1 Hanover Square, Victory House, 99 - 101 Regent Street, The London Pavilion, 1 Piccadilly, 12 Chester Street, and 14A Caroline Terrace. Link to the meeting here.
  • Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Monday 21 July 2025. Link to the meeting here.
  • Licensing Sub-Committee (2) on Thursday 24 July 2025. Link to the meeting here.
  • Licensing Sub-Committee (6) on Thursday 31 July 2025. Link to the meeting here.

  1. The Local Maternity and Neonatal System (LMNS) is a partnership of NHS organisations, local authorities, and other stakeholders responsible for planning and delivering maternity and neonatal services in a specific area. ↩

  2. The Grenfell Tower fire was a devastating fire that occurred in a high-rise residential building in London in 2017, resulting in numerous fatalities and injuries. ↩

Westminster: Harrow Rd Development, £13M Overspend, Net Zero Plan

This week in Westminster:

Harrow Road Development Sparks Resident Concerns Over Heritage and Amenity

The Strategic Planning Committee convened to discuss several significant planning applications, including a large residential development at 291 Harrow Road. The proposal, led by Westminster City Council as the applicant, involves demolishing existing buildings to construct three buildings of 15, 10, and 5 storeys, comprising residential dwellings, an adult social care home, and a commercial unit. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

  • Affordable Housing Commitment: The development aims to provide 50% affordable housing, a key pledge in the council's manifesto to address the housing crisis.
  • Community Benefits: The project includes a financial contribution towards carbon offset payments (£455,400) and employment services (£47,432.06), along with employment training and apprenticeship opportunities for Westminster residents.
  • Resident Objections: The application has faced opposition from adjacent residents and the NHS, citing concerns about over-intensive development, design flaws, amenity impacts, and highway issues.
  • Heritage Impact: The proposed development is expected to cause less than substantial harm to nearby heritage assets, including the Grade 2 listed Harrow Road Police Station and the Maida Vale and Westbourne Conservation Areas.
  • Director's Recommendation: Despite the objections and heritage concerns, the Director of Town Planning & Building Control recommended conditional permission, emphasizing the very substantial public benefits.

This decision highlights the complexities of balancing development needs with heritage preservation and community concerns, particularly in densely populated areas like Harrow Road.

Financial Oversight: Committee Reviews Council's £13.6 Million Overspend

The Audit and Performance Committee met to review the council's financial activities, performance, and risk management, including a detailed examination of the 2024/25 Revenue and Capital Outturn. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

  • Revenue Overspend: The General Fund revenue outturn revealed a £13.627 million overspend, primarily attributed to increased temporary accommodation costs. This overspend will be offset using an earmarked reserve.
  • Housing Deficit: The Housing Revenue Account (HRA) reported a £4.1 million deficit, which will be covered by HRA balances.
  • Investment Performance: The council's treasury management strategy yielded an investment return of £49.706 million, exceeding the budgeted £41.483 million by £8.206 million.
  • Fraud Detection: The Corporate Anti-Fraud Service (CAFS) identified 179 positive outcomes, with a notional fraud value exceeding £1,000,000.
  • Internal Audit Assurance: Internal Audit provided reasonable assurance regarding the effectiveness of the council's internal control systems.

This meeting underscores the financial pressures facing the council, particularly in housing, while also highlighting successes in investment management and fraud prevention.

Sustainable Transport Strategy Aims for Net Zero by 2040

The Climate Action, Environment and Highways Policy and Scrutiny Committee convened to discuss the Sustainable Transport Strategy (STS), a ten-year plan to reshape how Westminster uses road, pavement, and public realm space. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

  • Six Key Themes: The STS is structured around six themes: Road Danger Reduction, Access & Inclusion, Health & Physical Activity, Air Quality, Climate Change, and Sustainable Economy.
  • Kerbside Hierarchy: The strategy introduces a kerbside hierarchy prioritizing safety, accessibility, active transport, sustainable infrastructure, shared mobility, and private motor vehicles.
  • Street Types: The STS identifies four street types: Liveable Streets, High Streets and Local Centres, Major Destinations, and Strategic Roads, each with tailored approaches.
  • Net Zero Target: The strategy aims to decarbonize Westminster's transport network to reach Net Zero by 2040, aligning with the council's Climate Emergency Action Plan.
  • Waste Contract Procurement: The committee also discussed the upcoming procurement for the Waste and Cleansing Contract, emphasizing the need to increase recycling rates while maintaining high service standards.

This meeting highlights the council's commitment to creating a more sustainable and accessible transport system, addressing climate change, and improving waste management practices.

Licensing Sub-Committee Tackles Noise Concerns and Venue Applications

The Licensing Sub-Committee (6) addressed several licensing applications, focusing on noise concerns and the balance between entertainment and residential amenity. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

  • 100 Wardour Street: The sub-committee considered a proposal to add live music on Sundays, facing objections from residents and The Soho Society regarding noise nuisance.
  • Pepe's Piri Piri: A new premises licence application for Pepe's Piri Piri on Edgware Road raised concerns about public nuisance and child protection, leading to initial objections from Environmental Health and local residents.
  • Windmill Theatre: An application to vary the sexual entertainment venue premises licence for the Windmill Theatre drew objections from interested parties, but the licensing authority withdrew its objection after agreed conditions.
  • 1 Cavendish Square: A new premises licence application for 1 Cavendish Square faced objections from the Metropolitan Police Service, Environmental Health Service, and local residents, but these were later withdrawn after the applicant agreed to several conditions.

These cases illustrate the challenges of managing licensed premises in Westminster, particularly in areas with high residential density and cumulative impact zones.

Other Matters

Upcoming Meetings

Westminster: Dental Crisis, Paddington Safety, and Housing Plans

This week in Westminster:

Dental Deserts: Westminster Faces Oral Health Crisis

The Vulnerable Adults, Health and Communities Policy and Scrutiny Committee met to discuss the dire state of dental services in Westminster, where tooth decay among five-year-olds is significantly higher than the national average. The committee also reviewed the council's oversight of older people's care homes and planned its work programme for the coming year. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

  • Tooth Decay Crisis: A report highlighted that 32% of five-year-old children in Westminster suffer from tooth decay, compared to 23% nationally.
  • Barriers to Access: Residents struggle to access NHS dentistry due to registration difficulties, negative post-COVID experiences, and rising costs.
  • Healthwatch Westminster Report: A 2025 report by Healthwatch Westminster revealed that affordability is the most significant barrier to healthcare for residents.
  • Council Initiatives: The council outlined various initiatives, including Healthy Start Vouchers, breastfeeding support, and oral health promotion in schools and community settings.
  • Care Home Quality: The committee reviewed the council's role in monitoring and improving quality in older people's care homes, emphasizing community-based support and investment in modern facilities like Beachcroft House.
  • Challenges: The report identified challenges such as workforce pressures, rising complexity of needs, and financial sustainability.

This meeting underscores the urgent need for improved access to dental care and proactive oral health promotion, particularly for vulnerable children and older adults in Westminster.

Paddington Place Plan: Balancing Regeneration with Resident Safety

The Housing and Regeneration Policy and Scrutiny Committee convened to discuss the Paddington Place Plan and the re-procurement of housing term partnership contracts. The committee also elected Councillor Hamza Taouzzale as its new Chair. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

  • Paddington Place Plan: The committee focused on balancing stakeholder views in the design development for the St Mary's Playground and Paddington Green projects.
  • Safety Concerns: The report pack noted safety issues in the Paddington Green area, where three gang-related murders occurred between 2019 and 2023. The council's proposals aim to improve surveillance, visibility, and pedestrian comfort.
  • Housing Contract Re-procurement: The committee scrutinized the proposed approach to re-procuring key housing service functions, such as major works, to improve resident satisfaction and service quality.
  • Framework Alliance Contract: The council is proposing to implement a Framework Alliance Contract (FAC-1) as a strategic framework for all new contracts.
  • Procurement Act 2023: The report pack noted that the Procurement Act 2023 came into effect in February 2025 and will change how public sector contracts are procured and managed, with a focus on supplier performance, transparency, and social value.

This meeting highlights the council's efforts to regenerate Paddington while addressing safety concerns and improving housing services through strategic contract management.

Staff Appeals Sub-Committee Hears Former Employee's Case

The Staff Appeals Sub-Committee met to consider an appeal from a former employee. The details of the appeal were not disclosed in the agenda or reports pack. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

  • Confidentiality: The meeting was held to consider an appeal from a former employee, but no further details were provided due to confidentiality.

Other Matters

Upcoming Meetings

Recent meetings
Staff Appeals Sub-Committee

Staff Appeals Sub-Committee - Friday 8th August, 2025 10.00 am

The Staff Appeals Sub-Committee of Westminster Council met on Friday 8 August 2025 to consider the appeal of a former employee. The meeting also included discussion of membership, declarations of interest, and exempt reports.

August 08, 2025
Licensing Sub-Committee (2)

Licensing Sub-Committee (2) - Thursday 7th August, 2025 10.00 am

The Licensing Sub-Committee (2) of Westminster Council scheduled a meeting to discuss licensing applications for Taco Bell and Strand News. The committee, composed of Councillor Maggie Carman, Deputy Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Supported and Specialist Housing, Councillor Barbara Arzymanow, and Councillor Hamza Taouzzale, was expected to consider new premises and variations to existing licenses, taking into account the City of Westminster statement of Licensing Policy and guidance issued by the Secretary of State.

August 07, 2025
Planning Sub-Committee (1)

Planning Sub-Committee (1) - Tuesday 5th August, 2025 6.30 pm

The Planning Sub-Committee (1) of Westminster Council scheduled a meeting to discuss a Tree Preservation Order and several planning applications. The meeting, open to the public, was set to take place on Tuesday 5th August 2025 at Westminster City Hall. Councillor Patrick Lilley, Deputy Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Lead Member for Soho and LGBTQ+ Champion, was scheduled to chair the meeting.

August 05, 2025
Licensing Sub-Committee (6)

Licensing Sub-Committee (6) - Thursday 31st July, 2025 10.00 am

The Licensing Sub-Committee (6) convened to address several licensing applications, including a request to rescind the designation for a street trading pitch on Portman Street and designate a new location on Oxford Street, as well as considering premises licence variations for Boxcar Baker & Deli, and new premises licences for 57 and 107 Westbourne Grove and Ground Floor West, 34 Bruton Place. Decisions on these applications were made during the meeting.

July 31, 2025
Licensing Sub-Committee (2)

Licensing Sub-Committee (2) - Thursday 24th July, 2025 10.00 am

Here is a briefing on the upcoming Licensing Sub-Committee (2) meeting.

July 24, 2025
Planning Sub-Committee (2)

Planning Sub-Committee (2) - Tuesday 22nd July, 2025 6.30 pm

The Planning Sub-Committee (2) of Westminster Council met on 22 July 2025 to consider five planning applications. These included a major development at Hanover Square and several smaller applications relating to properties in the Belgravia and Soho Conservation Areas.

July 22, 2025
Overview and Scrutiny Committee

Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Monday 21st July, 2025 6.30 pm

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet to discuss its work programme for the coming year, receive updates from the Leader of the Council and various policy and scrutiny committees, and review the council's emergency preparedness and crime prevention strategies. The committee will also consider and comment on the draft annual report of policy and scrutiny activity in the 2024/25 municipal year.

July 21, 2025
Pension Fund Committee

Pension Fund Committee - Thursday 17th July, 2025 6.30 pm

The Pension Fund Committee of Westminster Council was scheduled to meet on 17 July 2025 to discuss a number of items. The most significant item for discussion was the proposed disinvestment from the LCIV Global Alpha Growth Fund – Paris Aligned, as well as passive equity options for reinvestment. The committee was also scheduled to discuss membership and declarations of interest.

July 17, 2025
Shareholder Committee

Shareholder Committee - Thursday 17th July, 2025 10.00 am

The Shareholder Committee of Westminster City Council met on 17 July 2025 to discuss the performance of Westminster Community Homes, Westminster Builds and Westco, and to appoint a new director for Westminster Community Homes. The committee reviewed the end-of-year performance for 2024/25 for Westminster Community Homes, Westminster Builds and Westco, and approved the appointment of Councillor Judith Southern to the board of Westminster Community Homes.

July 17, 2025
Licensing Sub-Committee (2)

Licensing Sub-Committee (2) - Thursday 17th July, 2025 10.00 am

The Licensing Sub-Committee (2) was scheduled to meet to consider four licensing applications. These included one new premises licence, and three applications to vary existing licenses. Councillor Maggie Carman, Deputy Cabinet Member - Adult Social Care, Supported and Specialist Housing, was scheduled to chair the meeting.

July 17, 2025
Upcoming meetings
Licensing Sub-Committee (1)

Licensing Sub-Committee (1) - Thursday 14th August, 2025 10.00 am

August 14, 2025
Strategic Planning Committee CANCELLED

Strategic Planning Committee - Tuesday 19th August, 2025 6.30 pm

August 19, 2025
Unknown Committee

Licensing Sub-Committee (2) - Thursday 21st August, 2025 10.00 am

August 21, 2025
Unknown Committee

Licensing Sub-Committee (3) - Thursday 28th August, 2025 10.00 am

August 28, 2025