This week in Westminster:

Street Cleansing Depot Sparks Outrage: Residents Fear Noise, Pollution, and Safety Risks

A proposal to convert a vacant building at 61 Harewood Avenue, London, NW1 6PA into a street cleansing vehicle depot has ignited fierce opposition from local residents, who warn of unbearable noise, pollution, and safety risks. The Strategic Planning Committee met on Tuesday to discuss the application, which would relocate an existing depot from Lisson Grove to make way for redevelopment. Link to the meeting here.

• Unbearable Noise Pollution : Residents of the nearby Blanford Estate, particularly those in Morden House, expressed grave concerns about noise from vehicles, gates, and staff operating from 5 am to 10 pm, seven days a week. Reverend Michael Fuller, speaking for the Blanford Estate Residents Association, stated, Our bedrooms and our living spaces are just 10 meters from the depot and we believe that this will result in increased noise, light pollution, loss of privacy, late night movements, danger from electric vehicles being charged as security risks – very real security risk to a vulnerable community.
• Safety Fears for Children: Concerns were also raised about increased traffic and the safety of children playing in the residential estate. Emma Rosenberg, a resident of Morden House, highlighted that multiple daily movements through our residential estate where children play. Gates opening multiple times a day will make the estate liable to further safety issues, burglary and antisocial behaviour.
• Council's Duty of Care : Ward Councillor Robert Bigby emphasised the council's responsibility to its residents, stating, We are the representatives of the city, we obviously should be looking after our residents. So it worries me that whether we've actually been the extra mile to do that and looked at all the possibilities, not to use that common gate, which is within feet. I mean, less than 10 metres of Morden House.
• Officer Recommendation: Despite the strong objections, council officers recommended conditional approval, arguing that the proposals would not have an unacceptable impact on residential amenity and were acceptable on design, land use, and sustainability grounds. They highlighted that the site would be for vehicle storage only, with no waste brought back to the depot.
• Committee Split: The committee ultimately voted 3-2 to approve the application, with some members acknowledging the vital service provided by street cleaners but expressing sympathy for residents' concerns. Conditions were added to ensure noise mitigation for gates and an amended operational management plan with a dedicated contact number for residents.

This decision highlights the difficult balancing act the council faces between providing essential services and protecting the quality of life for its residents, particularly when developments impact densely populated residential areas.

Cavendish Square Faces Seven Years of Disruption for Underground Development

The heart of Cavendish Square, a cherished London square, is set to be closed for up to seven years as part of a major underground development project. The Strategic Planning Committee approved an application under the London Squares Preservation Act 1931¹ on Tuesday, allowing for extensive works to facilitate the conversion of an underground car park into a healthcare facility. Link to the meeting here.

• Extended Closure: The square will be fully closed for approximately 4.4 years, with the southern half remaining closed for an additional 2.6 years. This prolonged disruption has raised concerns about the impact on the local community and the loss of valuable green space.
• Community Consultation Questions: While the council stated that public advertisement and cabinet approval processes had occurred, some councillors questioned the extent of direct consultation with residents living near the square. Councillor Tony Lee expressed, Is it not possible for the council to push back harder against the council that actually half the square could be kept open at any one time?
• Transformative Project: The development promises significant benefits, including the creation of a much-needed healthcare facility and the enhancement of the public realm with new pathways, planting, and lighting. Sam Potter, representing the developer, highlighted the aim to greatly enhance it. We will be converting what is an underused car park into a healthcare facility.
• Hoarding Quality: A key point of discussion was the quality of the hoarding that will surround the site for the duration of the works. The council expressed a desire for attractive and informative hoardings to mitigate the visual impact of the extended closure.

The approval signifies a commitment to a significant regeneration project, but the extended closure of Cavendish Square raises questions about the long-term impact on residents and the balance between development and public amenity.

Licensing Fee Increases and Policy Review Shape Westminster's Night-Time Economy

Westminster Council is set to implement modest increases in licensing fees and is undertaking a comprehensive review of its Statement of Licensing Policy, aiming to modernise regulations and address contemporary issues such as women's safety and sustainability. The Licensing Committee met on Wednesday to discuss these crucial updates. Link to the meeting here.

• Fee Increases: Proposed fee increases for various licensing regimes, averaging between 6% and 7%, are intended to cover the council's costs for administering, monitoring, and enforcing licences. These fees are not for profit and aim to recover actual costs incurred.
• Policy Modernisation: The review of the Statement of Licensing Policy, due for re-publication by October 2026, seeks to simplify and update the existing document, which has been in place for over 15 years. Key areas for revision include:
  • Women's Safety: Incorporating measures to enhance safety, particularly for women, in licensed premises.
  • Net Zero Targets: Aligning the policy with the council's commitment to environmental sustainability.
  • Cumulative Impact Assessment (CIA): Refining the CIA framework to manage cumulative impact effectively while supporting businesses.
  • Martyn's Law: Integrating requirements from the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025.
• Stakeholder Engagement: The review process involves ongoing engagement with a wide range of stakeholders, including councillors, licensing agents, resident associations, and business representatives. A statutory public consultation is planned for 2026.
• Devolution Concerns: During the meeting, councillors raised concerns about potential devolution of licensing powers to the Greater London Authority (GLA), highlighting a lack of clarity in draft legislation and the potential for ambiguity in future regulations.

These changes signal the council's proactive approach to managing its licensing framework, ensuring it remains relevant, effective, and responsive to the evolving needs of the city and its residents.

Other Matters

• The Vulnerable Adults, Health and Communities Policy and Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday to discuss its work programme for the upcoming year and review reports on homecare mobilisation, provisions for learning disabled residents, and respite care. Link to the meeting here. These discussions are vital for ensuring vulnerable individuals receive the support and care they need.
• The Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday. Link to the meeting here.

Upcoming Meetings

• Cabinet on Monday 23 February 2026. Link to the meeting here.
• General Purposes Committee on Wednesday 18 February 2026. Link to the meeting here.
• Licensing Sub Committee (2) on Thursday 19 February 2026. Link to the meeting here.
• Discretionary Housing Payments Advisory Panel on Tuesday 24 February 2026. Link to the meeting here.
• Audit and Performance Committee on Tuesday 24 February 2026. Link to the meeting here.
• Planning Sub Committee (1) on Tuesday 24 February 2026. Link to the meeting here.
• Licensing Sub Committee (2) on Wednesday 25 February 2026. Link to the meeting here.
• Licensing Sub Committee (4) on Thursday 26 February 2026. Link to the meeting here.

This week in Westminster:

Urgent Review of The Box Licence After Alleged Sexual Assault and Delayed Reporting

A venue known for its adult entertainment, The Box at 11 - 12 Walker's Court, London, W1F 0BZ, is facing an expedited review of its premises licence following an alleged serious sexual assault. The Licensing Sub-Committee (2) met on Tuesday to consider the immediate suspension of the licence due to concerns about serious crime and disorder. Link to the meeting here.

The Metropolitan Police Service initiated the review under Section 53A of the Licensing Act 2003¹, which allows for urgent action when a premises is believed to be associated with serious crime or disorder. The police report details an alleged incident on Monday 26 January 2026, where a performer is accused of sexually assaulting a customer.

A critical point of contention is the venue's alleged failure to immediately report the incident to the police, a direct breach of a condition on its premises licence. Instead, the venue reportedly contacted their licensing consultant, who then advised them to report the incident. This delay has raised serious concerns about the safety of patrons and the venue's commitment to upholding licensing objectives.

Footage reviewed by the police suggests breaches of conditions related to its operation as a Sexual Entertainment Venue (SEV), as well as issues with record-keeping and conduct. The police believe the venue has significantly failed to uphold the crime and disorder and public safety licensing objectives, posing a risk to future customers.

The committee was tasked with considering interim steps, which could include modifying licence conditions, suspending alcohol sales, removing the designated premises supervisor, or suspending the licence entirely pending a full review. The licence holder, Too 2 Much Limited, had not yet submitted their full representations due to the expedited nature of the hearing.

This case highlights the critical importance of immediate reporting in licensed premises and the severe consequences of failing to uphold safety standards, particularly for vulnerable individuals.

Lisson Grove Regeneration Plans Unveiled: 250-300 Homes and a New Health Hub

Westminster Council's Housing and Regeneration Policy and Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday to scrutinise the Lisson Grove Regeneration Programme, a significant development set to deliver between 250 and 300 new homes, with half designated as affordable housing. Link to the meeting here.

The programme focuses on two sites: Lilestone Street and Orchardson Street. A key feature of the regeneration is the creation of a Health and Wellbeing Hub, which will co-locate NHS primary care services, council resident services, and flexible community spaces. This initiative aligns with the Kensington & Chelsea and Westminster's Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2023-2033, aiming to improve health outcomes through better living environments and access to services.

Extensive community engagement has already taken place, with feedback shaping the design of the new homes, the Health and Wellbeing Hub, and public realm improvements. The programme also outlines provisions for secure tenants and leaseholders affected by the development, including rights of return and financial assistance. The Orchardson Street site, currently housing council offices and the Westminster Adult Education Service, will also be redeveloped to generate income and provide new homes.

The committee also examined the council's framework for building safety standards in Higher-Risk Buildings (HRBs), focusing on the private rented sector and building control. This discussion follows the Building Safety Programme (BSP) established after the Grenfell Tower tragedy, which aims to remediate unsafe external wall systems. The committee reviewed the challenges faced by the Building Control Team, including a shortage of qualified inspectors, and discussed how to enhance safety standards in private sector housing.

Sadaf Restaurant Licence Review: Home Office Cites Illegal Working Concerns

The premises licence for Sadaf Restaurant, located at 27 - 29 Westbourne Grove, London, W2 4UA, is under review by the Licensing Sub-Committee (1) following an application by the Home Office Immigration Enforcement Licensing Compliance Team (IELCT). The review, initiated in November 2025, cites concerns about the prevention of crime and disorder due to the alleged identification of illegal working at the premises. Link to the meeting here.

The Home Office's application details an enforcement visit on 16 April 2025, which identified one immigration offender. This led to a £45,000 civil penalty being issued to the licence holder, Persian Aroma Ltd, which remains unpaid. The Home Office argues that revocation of the licence is a proportionate response to uphold the integrity of the licensing regime and deter future breaches.

Representations in support of the review were expected from the Licensing Authority, the Metropolitan Police Service, and KGSML on behalf of residents. The committee has a range of options, including modifying licence conditions, suspending the licence, or revoking it entirely. This case underscores the council's commitment to tackling modern slavery and ensuring compliance with immigration laws within licensed premises.

Other Matters

• The Licensing Sub-Committee (4) met on Thursday to consider applications for new and varied premises licences. The agenda included discussions on Soho Social, Piccadilly Kiosk Limited, and Greek Street Live. Link to the meeting here. These applications often involve balancing the desire for vibrant nightlife with the need to prevent crime and disorder and protect residents from nuisance.
• The Young People, Learning and Employment Policy and Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday to discuss its work programme for 2026-2027 and review the council's provision of facilities for young people and their families. A key focus was the effectiveness of the council's School Inclusion Strategy, examining attendance, suspension, and exclusion data. Link to the meeting here. This work is crucial for ensuring all young people have access to education and support.
• The General Purposes committee met on Wednesday. Link to the meeting here.

Upcoming Meetings

• Strategic Planning Committee on Tuesday 10 February 2026. Link to the meeting here.
• Vulnerable Adults, Health and Communities Policy and Scrutiny Committee on Tuesday 10 February 2026. Link to the meeting here.
• Licensing Committee on Wednesday 11 February 2026. Link to the meeting here.
• Licensing Sub-Committee (3) on Thursday 12 February 2026. Link to the meeting here.
• Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Thursday 12 February 2026. Link to the meeting here.

This week in Westminster:

Palace Court Flat Amalgamation Rejected: Committee Prioritizes Housing Stock Over Family's Plea

In a closely watched decision, the Planning Sub-Committee (1) voted against officer recommendations to approve the amalgamation of two flats at 22 Palace Court, a move that has sparked debate about balancing the needs of families with the council's commitment to preserving housing stock. Link to the meeting here.

• Family's Plea: The applicants, Frank Muci and Marisa Rama, argued that combining Flats 7 and 8 would create a much-needed four-bedroom duplex, allowing them to raise their family in Westminster. Rama stated, We are a real family that wants to raise our children in Westminster. We love it here and we're committed to our community and to our building and the whole of Westminster.
• Policy Conflict: Council officers recommended refusal, citing that Flat 7 already constitutes a family-sized unit and that the proposed amalgamation would result in a unit larger than the 200 sqm limit set by Policy 8 of the City Plan (2021-2040).
• Councillor Support: Councillor Barbara Arzymanow supported the application, stating, We want our families to be able to grow and thrive in Westminster. And I'm asking you to make an exception to the city plan to enable this modest proposal to go ahead.
• Committee Decision: Despite Councillor Arzymanow's support, the committee voted 4-1 to refuse the application, prioritizing the preservation of existing housing units over the family's specific needs. The committee reasoned that the amalgamation would create a better quality family size flat with a much improved living environment.

The decision highlights the challenges faced by families seeking to expand their living space in Westminster, where housing is in high demand and council policies prioritize maintaining the overall number of units.

Marylebone Street Parklet Blocked Amid Resident Concerns Over Parking and Anti-Social Behaviour

A proposal to install a temporary parklet on Marylebone Street has been rejected by the Planning Sub-Committee (1), following strong objections from local residents who fear the loss of parking spaces and an increase in anti-social behaviour. Link to the meeting here.

• Community Objections: Residents voiced concerns that the parklet would remove valuable parking spaces used by residents, tradespeople, and visitors, and that it could become a magnet for anti-social behaviour, particularly at night. Kate Owen, a local resident, stated, I think at night this will become a magnet for antisocial behaviour and would be much less safe environment for local residents, especially single women walking at night.
• Highways Concerns: Highways officials also objected to the loss of parking spaces in an area of high usage.
• Police Consultation: While the police's designing out crime officer initially objected, they later removed their objection subject to the parklet being temporary and managed effectively.
• Committee Decision: The committee voted unanimously to refuse the application, citing the loss of parking spaces and potential disturbance to the amenity of neighbouring residents.

The decision underscores the challenges of implementing urban greening initiatives in densely populated areas where parking is at a premium and residents are sensitive to potential disruptions.

Upper Belgrave Street Basement Approved Despite Prior Refusal

The Planning Sub-Committee (1) has approved listed building consent for the excavation of two basements at 5 Upper Belgrave Street, despite having previously refused planning permission for the same project. Link to the meeting here.

• Prior Refusal: In November, the committee refused planning permission due to concerns about the depth of the basement beneath the mews building and the potential for disruption during construction.
• Heritage Impact: This time, the committee focused solely on the impact on the listed building, with officers arguing that the basement excavation would not harm the building's special architectural and historic interest.
• Objector Concerns: Objectors argued that the basement excavation would harm the building's heritage and disrupt its proportionality.
• Committee Approval: Despite these concerns, the committee voted to grant listed building consent, with officers noting that the applicant still cannot proceed with the basement excavation without planning permission.

The decision highlights the different considerations involved in planning permission and listed building consent, and the potential for conflicting outcomes.

Other Key Decisions

• The Planning Sub-Committee (1) approved planning permission and listed building consent for the installation of double glazing at Flat 3, Rossetti House, Erasmus Street, a Grade II listed building in the Millbank Conservation Area. Link to the meeting here. The committee added conditions requiring reinstatement of any unauthorized damage and detailed window drawings.
• The Planning Sub-Committee (1) voted to confirm Tree Preservation Order (TPO) 725 for an Evergreen Magnolia at 14 Wilton Place, and TPO 724 for two Cider gums (eucalyptus) at 55 Carlton Hill. Link to the meeting here.

Rating Advisory Panel Discusses Financial Hardship

The Rating Advisory Panel met to discuss Non-Domestic Rates (NNDR) Discretionary and Hardship Relief applications. Link to the meeting here. Due to the confidential nature of the financial information, the public and press were excluded from this portion of the meeting.

Appointments Sub-Committee Names New Director

The Appointments Sub-Committee met to appoint a new Director of Corporate Property. Link to the meeting here. Due to the confidential nature of the appointment, the public and press were excluded from this portion of the meeting.

Licensing and Scrutiny Committees Meet

The Licensing Sub-Committee (3), Licensing Sub-Committee (2), Standards Committee, Housing and Regeneration Policy and Scrutiny Committee, and Young People, Learning and Employment Policy and Scrutiny Committee all met this week, but no transcripts or summaries of these meetings are currently available. Link to Licensing Sub-Committee (3), Link to Licensing Sub-Committee (2), Link to Standards Committee, Link to Housing and Regeneration Policy and Scrutiny Committee, Link to Young People, Learning and Employment Policy and Scrutiny Committee.

Upcoming Meetings

• Cabinet on Monday 15 December 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Vulnerable Adults, Health and Communities Policy and Scrutiny Committee on Tuesday 09 December 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Strategic Planning Committee on Tuesday 09 December 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Licensing Sub-Committee (1) on Thursday 11 December 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Pension Fund Committee on Thursday 11 December 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Thursday 11 December 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• North West London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Tuesday 09 December 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Licensing Sub-Committee (3) on Thursday 18 December 2025. Link to the meeting here.

This week in Westminster:

Passage House Hostel's Future Sparks Debate Over Homeless Support and Resident Concerns

A planning application to extend the operation of Passage House, a homeless hostel on Longmoore Street, has ignited a debate about balancing the needs of vulnerable individuals with the concerns of local residents. The Planning Sub-Committee (2) convened on Tuesday to consider the application, which seeks to allow the hostel to operate for another 30 years and remove several conditions from a previous planning permission granted in 1997. No video was provided. Link to the meeting here.

• Specialist Accommodation: The council considers the hostel as specialist accommodation providing vital support for the homeless, aligning with its recently launched Homelessness & Rough Sleeping Strategy and Action Plan (2025-2030).
• Resident Objections: Eleven neighbouring residential occupiers voiced strong objections, citing concerns about noise, anti-social behaviour, street disorder, and safety issues. They also raised concerns about inadequate procedures for addressing neighbours' concerns.
• Community Support: Westminster Abbey, The Holy Apostles Roman Catholic Church in Pimlico, and Land Securities submitted letters of support for the application.
• Police Support: The Metropolitan Police Service supports the application, stating that Passage House has well-established protocols to prevent and address incidents of anti-social behaviour.

The sub-committee's decision will have a significant impact on both the homeless population who rely on Passage House and the residents who live nearby.

Security Shutters on Albemarle Street Divide Opinion on Safety vs. Aesthetics

A retrospective application for security shutters at 36 Albemarle Street, the location of Omakase Mayfair Ltd, has sparked a debate about balancing security needs with the preservation of the Mayfair Conservation Area. The Planning Sub-Committee (2) considered the application on Tuesday. No video was provided. Link to the meeting here.

• Conservation Area Concerns: The Mayfair Neighbourhood Forum objected to the solid roller shutter, arguing that it harms the character and appearance of Albemarle Street and the Mayfair Conservation Area.
• Security Justification: The applicant stated that the shutter was installed due to repeated crimes against the unit, resulting in the shopfront being smashed.
• Police Recommendation: The Metropolitan Police recommended upgrading the glazing or installing an internal shutter.
• Council Policy: The Council's Shopfronts, Blinds and Signs SPG does not support roller shutters, favouring internally fitted shutters of the brick bond grill type.

The sub-committee's decision will set a precedent for how security measures are balanced with aesthetic considerations in conservation areas.

Pension Fund Shows Strong Performance, But Risks Remain

The Westminster Council Pension Board met on Thursday to discuss the pension fund's performance, administration, and governance. No video was provided. Link to the meeting here.

• Funding Level Increase: The fund's funding level has risen to 140% from 128% in 2022, driven by higher inflation expectations and a better investment outlook.
• Investment Performance: The fund delivered a positive absolute return of 4.1% in the quarter to 30 September 2025, but underperformed the fixed weight benchmark by 1.4%.
• Key Risks: The board highlighted several risks, including regulatory changes, market volatility, inadequate resources at London CIV¹, inflation, and underperforming investment managers.
• Cybersecurity: A draft Cybersecurity Policy for the Fund has been created and will be reviewed this quarter.

The board's discussions highlight the ongoing challenges of managing a large pension fund in a volatile economic environment.

Licensing Sub-Committee Addresses Concerns at Walkers of Whitehall, Convenience 65, and Smiths Bar and Grill

The Licensing Sub-Committee convened to address licensing concerns for three establishments: Walkers of Whitehall, Convenience 65, and Smiths Bar and Grill. Link to the meeting here.

• Walkers of Whitehall: The sub-committee reviewed an application to review the premises licence for Walkers of Whitehall, following complaints regarding public safety and public nuisance. The application for review, submitted by a local resident, cited concerns about the number of patrons gathering outside the premises, particularly in the narrow Craig's Court area, leading to noise, intimidation, and obstruction of the public highway.
• Convenience 65: The sub-committee considered a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) application for Convenience 65, located at 47 Aldwych. The Metropolitan Police Service and the Environmental Health Service objected to the TEN, citing concerns about crime and disorder, public safety, and the potential for public nuisance, particularly given the high policing demands during New Year's Eve.
• Smiths Bar and Grill: The sub-committee reviewed a premises licence variation application for Smiths Bar and Grill, located at 25 Sheldon Square. The applicant sought to remove a condition restricting regulated entertainment to the basement of the premises, and to add new conditions relating to noise management. The Environmental Health Service objected to the application, stating that the proposed variation would likely cause an increase in public nuisance.

Audit Committee Flags Temporary Accommodation Costs and Reviews Performance

The Audit and Performance Committee met on Monday to discuss the council's financial and performance monitoring reports for the second quarter of the financial year. Link to the meeting here.

• Temporary Accommodation Overspend: The forecast General Fund revenue outturn is a projected overspend of £4.634m, with increased demand and cost of temporary accommodation being a primary driver.
• Homelessness Increase: Westminster has seen a 76% increase in homeless applications since 2022, leading to a 56% increase in the requirement for TA.
• Counter Fraud Successes: The Counter Fraud Service prevented fraud worth an estimated £693,499 and identified a notional loss of £318,402 between 1 April 2025 and 30 September 2025.

Other Matters

• The Shareholder Committee received an update on Westminsterville, noting a strong and optimistic outlook. No video was provided. Link to the meeting here.
• The Climate Action, Environment and Highways Policy and Scrutiny Committee met to discuss the council's work programme, its response to extreme weather, and its progress towards achieving net zero emissions in the city by 2040. No video was provided. Link to the meeting here.
• The Health & Wellbeing Board is scheduled to meet on 27 November 2025 to discuss Ambition 7, receive an update on the Joint Strategic Needs Assessment, and hear a verbal update on the Better Care Fund Quarter 2 Submission. No video was provided. Link to the meeting here.

Upcoming Meetings

• Appointments Sub-Committee on Monday 01 December 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Young People, Learning and Employment Policy and Scrutiny Committee on Tuesday 02 December 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Planning Sub-Committee (1) on Tuesday 02 December 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Rating Advisory Panel on Tuesday 02 December 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Licensing Sub-Committee (3) on Wednesday 03 December 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Standards Committee on Wednesday 03 December 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Licensing Sub-Committee (2) on Thursday 04 December 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Housing and Regeneration Policy and Scrutiny Committee on Thursday 04 December 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• North West London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Tuesday 09 December 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Vulnerable Adults, Health and Communities Policy and Scrutiny Committee on Tuesday 09 December 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Strategic Planning Committee on Tuesday 09 December 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Licensing Sub-Committee (1) on Thursday 11 December 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Pension Fund Committee on Thursday 11 December 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Thursday 11 December 2025. Link to the meeting here.