This week in Westminster:

GoBoat Alcohol Licence Rejected Amidst Safety and Nuisance Fears

Westminster City Council's Licensing Sub-Committee (3) has rejected an application from W&S London Limited, trading as GoBoat, for a new premises licence at 5 Merchant Square, citing concerns about public nuisance, safety, and crime and disorder. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

• Applicant's Intent: Julian Wood, representing GoBoat, clarified that the intention was to sell alcohol only to customers of GoBoat's Luxe skippered boat service, not to the general public or for events in Merchant Square.
• Police Concerns: The Metropolitan Police Service raised concerns about the potential for crime and disorder, highlighting the need for staff training in responsible alcohol sales and management, and questioning how the applicant would manage the risk of preloading.
• Resident Objections: Local residents and community groups voiced strong objections, citing past experiences with GoBoat customers when alcohol was permitted on the boats, including antisocial behaviour, public urination, damage to boats, and safety concerns.
• Safety Concerns: Nigel Hyde, a resident with a boat in Cumberland Basin, highlighted safety concerns related to the narrowness of the canal, blind corners, and the presence of larger vessels, expressing fears that combining alcohol with GoBoat operations would lead to serious accidents.
• Councillor Concerns: Councillor Caroline Sargent questioned how the skippers would manage groups of people who might have had a few drinks beforehand and then purchase more alcohol on board. Councillor Melvyn Caplan expressed concerns about the impact on residents in his ward of Little Venice, arguing that the application would not fulfil the licensing objectives.
• Applicant's Apology: Wood apologised for the ambiguity of the application and the confusion it had caused, outlining measures to prevent excessive alcohol consumption and antisocial behaviour, including trained skippers, limits on alcohol purchases, and a zero-tolerance policy for unruly behaviour.
• Licensing Objectives: Councillor Sargent asked Wood to state the four licensing objectives, but Wood was unable to name them point by point.
• Committee's Decision: The committee adjourned to make a decision in private, which will be communicated to all parties within five working days. The decision was to reject the application.

This decision follows previous concerns raised by residents about antisocial behaviour and safety issues related to GoBoat operations when alcohol was previously permitted.

City Plan Review and Leader's Update Highlight Council Priorities

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee met to discuss the City Plan Review and receive an update from the Leader of the Council, Councillor Adam Hug. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

City Plan Review

The committee considered an update on the progress of the examination of the City Plan Partial Review and provided input on the Full City Plan Review, which is due to commence shortly.

• Alignment with Strategies: The committee discussed aligning the new City Plan with wider Council strategies to achieve core objectives.
• Key Drivers: The committee considered the key drivers and priorities of Westminster's development in the coming 20 years.
• Built Environment Issues: The committee discussed key issues with Westminster's built environment that can and must be addressed through planning policy.
• Stakeholder Engagement: The committee recommended specific parts of the community to approach for input in developing a creative vision for the future of Westminster's built environment.
• Engagement Techniques: The committee discussed how the council could reach out and engage with recommended stakeholder groups, and what type of engagement techniques would be the most effective.

The City Plan provides a comprehensive policy framework to determine planning applications in the City, and ensure future development contributes to the objectives of a Fairer Westminster. It is a statutory requirement to produce and keep up to date and must be prepared in accordance with national planning policy set out in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) , and the London Plan, produced by the Mayor of London.

Leader's Cabinet Update

Councillor Hug provided a written update, including information on:

• Fairer Westminster Delivery events: The Fairer Westminster 2025–26 Delivery Plan sets out clear priorities for the year ahead, with a continued focus on housing, community safety, health, sustainability, and inclusive economic growth.
• Cost of Living Support: A further £1m of Council investment was announced in March 2025, with funding allocated to advice services, the Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF), food charities, the Winter in the City programme, a Community Wardrobe scheme, and Delivery Posts.
• Cabinet Decisions: The update included information on decisions related to the Private Rented Sector Selective Licensing Scheme, the Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy 2025-2030, embedding socio-economic disadvantage as a consideration in Equality Impact Assessments, the Future of Pimlico District Heating Undertaking (PDHU), and Paddington Arts Capital Development.

Fei Er Cottage Faces Licence Review Over Illegal Working

The Licensing Sub-Committee (2) will review the premises licence for Fei Er Cottage at 37 Strutton Ground, following an application by the Home Office Immigration Enforcement, and a pending application for a transfer of the premises licence. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

• Home Office Application: The Home Office Immigration Enforcement submitted the application for review on the grounds that the licence holder has failed to meet the licensing objectives of prevention of crime and disorder, as illegal working has been identified at this premises.
• Immigration Raid: On 18 December 2024, Immigration Officers visited the premises and encountered 8 individuals and made 4 arrests.
• Worker Testimony: One person arrested said he was asked to cut some veggies and he would get some rice. Another admitted to working at the premises as a waiter for the last 6 months, and showed officers a WhatsApp chat with his boss, which confirmed that he is working way over his hours.
• CCTV Failure: A staff member wasn’t aware if the CCTV was even functional, despite a condition of the premises licence requiring the premises to maintain a CCTV system.
• Home Office Request: The Home Office Immigration Enforcement requests that the sub-committee revoke the premises licence.
• Police Objection: The Metropolitan Police have objected to a pending application for a transfer of the premises licence for Fei Er Cottage.

The sub-committee is reminded of its duty to consider the City of Westminster statement of Licensing Policy, effective from October 2021, and guidance issued by the Secretary of State under Section 182 the Licensing Act 2003.

Other Matters

• The Planning Sub-Committee (2) is scheduled to meet on 10 June 2025 to discuss several planning applications and a tree preservation order, including alterations to Dolphin Square and a planning application for 1-7 Livonia Street. Link to the meeting here.
• The General Purposes Committee is scheduled to meet on 12 June 2025 to discuss a number of issues, including a review of polling districts and places, approval of compensation payments to residents, and an amendment to the Members' Allowance Scheme. Link to the meeting here.
• The Discretionary Housing Payments Review Advisory Panel is scheduled to meet on 10 June 2025 to review appeals against decisions not to award a Discretionary Housing Payment. Link to the meeting here.

Upcoming Meetings

• Planning Sub-Committee (2) on Tuesday 10 June 2025 to discuss planning applications for Dolphin Square, 1-7 Livonia Street, 3 Northumberland Place, and 103-105 Harley Street, and a Tree Preservation Order for Paddington Bowling and Sports Club.
• Discretionary Housing Payments Review Advisory Panel on Tuesday 10 June 2025 to review appeals against decisions not to award a Discretionary Housing Payment. Link to the meeting here.
• Licensing Committee on Wednesday 11 June 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• General Purposes on Thursday 12 June 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Licensing Sub-Committee (4) on Thursday 12 June 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Licensing Sub-Committee (2) on Monday 16 June 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Rating Advisory Panel on Tuesday 17 June 2025. Link to the meeting here.

This week in Westminster:

Council Approves Development Plans Amidst Resident Concerns

The Strategic Planning Committee approved three major development projects this week, sparking debate over balancing economic benefits with potential impacts on residents and the environment. You can read the full details of the meeting here.

Ebury Gate Refurbishment Gets Green Light

The committee granted conditional planning permission for the refurbishment and extension of Ebury Gate, a six-storey office building. The plans include additional office space, a restaurant or retail space, and green terraces.

• Resident Opposition: A resident of neighbouring Belgravia Court objected, citing concerns about loss of daylight, noise, and reduced property value.
• Economic Benefits vs. Harm: While acknowledging the loss of daylight to some kitchens in Belgravia Court and overshadowing of a school playground, the committee decided that the economic benefits of the additional office space outweighed these harms.
• Community Contributions: As part of the approval, the developer must contribute to carbon offsetting, the Westminster Employment Service, and the maintenance of trees on Lower Belgrave Street.

Bruton Street Development Approved Despite Highway Objections

The committee approved the partial demolition and extension of 6 - 10 Bruton Street, for retail and office use.

• Mayfair Forum Support: The Mayfair Neighbourhood Forum supported the proposals, calling them of great merit.
• Highway Concerns: Highways Planning objected to the plans, citing concerns about cycle parking, lack of off-street servicing, and alterations to the building line.
• Committee's View: The committee acknowledged the highway concerns but concluded that the planning benefits outweighed any potential harm.

St George Street Project Proceeds with Affordable Housing Payment

The committee approved alterations and extensions to 25 - 27 St George Street, for office accommodation. A key issue was the affordable housing payment, as a previously planned land use swap was no longer feasible.

• Affordable Housing Loss: The applicant will now make a payment of £4,928,000 to the City Council Affordable Housing Fund to offset the loss of five residential units.
• Councillor Concerns: Councillor Rachael Robathan questioned the timeline, asking if it was known at the time of the original 2024 permission that the Park Lane reprovision was not deliverable.
• Council Response: The Director of Town Planning and Building Control said that the clarification on meeting two ports was subsequent to 2022, and that it came after a lot of confusion in the industry as to whether it should be applied.
• Committee's View: The committee agreed it was a shame to lose the residential units but that the payment would be used by the Council to good effect.

Licensing Sub-Committee Tackles Street Trading and New Premises

The Licensing Sub-Committee (6) addressed a range of licensing applications, including street trading, restaurant premises, and a convenience store. The full details of the meeting can be found here.

Street Trading Pitch Relocation

The committee considered an application to rescind the designation for Pitch 1724 on North Audley Street and designate a new location for Isolated Pitch 1724 on Oxford Street.

• Reason for Relocation: The existing pitch on North Audley Street was no longer suitable due to the installation of a CCTV cabinet in 2010.
• Support from Traders: The West End Street Traders Association expressed no objection to the relocation.

Dean Street Restaurant Faces Objections

The committee reviewed an application for a new premises licence at 13-14 Dean Street, submitted by Super 1O Restaurants Ltd.

• Cumulative Impact Concerns: The application received objections from interested parties, including concerns about the impact on other catering businesses and cumulative impact in the Soho area¹.
• Objector's Distrust: One objector claimed that Super 10 Restaurants had been a disgrace and that they had absolutely no trust whatsoever in this application.
• Letter of Support: A letter of support stated that Super 8's application demonstrated an understanding and commitment to the local area, with no risk whatsoever that the restaurant will contribute to crime and public nuisance.

Chiltern Street Restaurant Seeks Licence

The committee reviewed an application for a new premises licence at 40-42 Chiltern Street, submitted by The Portman Estate Nominees (One) Limited and The Portman Estate Nominees (Two) Limited.

• Restaurant Focus: The applicant stated that the premises would be operated primarily as a restaurant, with the licensable activities being ancillary to that main function.
• Community Engagement: The applicant had amended the application following concerns raised by the Ward Councillor, Marylebone Association, and local residents, including removing recorded music and reducing hours of operation.

Broadway Convenience Store Application

The committee considered an application for a new premises licence for 1A Broadway, submitted by Allgood Convenience Broadway Limited.

• Resident Concerns: The Queen Anne's Gate Residence Association raised concerns about the potential for the premises to draw more vulnerable people to Broadway and Christchurch Gardens, citing existing issues with rough sleepers and antisocial behaviour in the area.
• Applicant's Response: The applicant emphasized their experience in operating similar businesses and their commitment to being a good neighbour, offering to attend Queen Anne's Gate Residence Association meetings to address any concerns.
• Security Measures: The applicant confirmed that the merchandise would be displayed in good strong glass cases and that there would be shutters or grills to secure the alcohol outside of sale hours.

Decisions on all applications were deferred, with outcomes to be communicated within five working days.

Upcoming Meetings

• Licensing Sub-Committee (3) on Wednesday 04 June 2025 to discuss a new premises licence application for GoBoat Kiosk.
• Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Thursday 05 June 2025 to discuss updates from the Leader of the Council, and the progress of the City Plan.
• Licensing Sub-Committee (2) on Thursday 05 June 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Discretionary Housing Payments Review Advisory Panel on Tuesday 10 June 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Planning Sub-Committee (2) on Tuesday 10 June 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Licensing Committee on Wednesday 11 June 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• General Purposes on Thursday 12 June 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Licensing Sub-Committee (4) on Thursday 12 June 2025. Link to the meeting here.

This week in Westminster:

Mental Health Bed Cuts Challenged Amidst Demand Surge

The Inner West London Mental Health Services Reconfiguration Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee convened this week to scrutinise the Integrated Care Board's (ICB) decision to reduce inpatient mental health services across Kensington, Chelsea, and Westminster, despite concerns about rising demand and the impact on vulnerable residents. See the full meeting details here.

• The Decision: The ICB endorsed a plan that includes a reduction in inpatient mental health services, alongside the establishment of five step-up crisis beds and five step-down beds in the south of Westminster, jointly funded by Westminster City Council and the ICB.
• Westminster's Stance: Councillor Iman Les, speaking on behalf of Councillor Butler, reiterated the council's preference for reopening the 51 acute mental health beds at the Gordon Hospital, arguing that the proposed 10 new beds are insufficient to meet current demand.
• Demand Concerns: Councillor Les highlighted challenges in accessing timely inpatient support, increased demand for acute mental health support, and the unsuitability of the community-based model for those experiencing homelessness.
• Grenfell Impact: Councillor Concia Albert raised concerns about the potential impact of the Grenfell Tower demolition on the mental health of the wider community, stressing the need for adequate resources for the Mental Health Crisis Assessment Service (MCAS) at St Charles Hospital.
• Data Doubts: Councillor Mona Ahmed questioned whether any other area in the country had drastically reduced inpatient beds for mental health and severe mental health and then transitioned to community-based care. Gareth Jarvis, Medical Director of Abel Mental Health Services, responded that he was not sure he could answer that.
• Bed Numbers: Councillor Lucy Knight asked how confident the panel felt that the 10 beds are really enough to meet the need, and what the trigger is for increasing that number if it is felt that the need is not being met.
• Financial Pressures: Councillor Knight also inquired about the ICB's commitment to expanding the MCAS service, given current financial pressures. Toby Lambert, Population Health representative for the ICB, responded that the ICB has a medium-term financial strategy that envisages spending an ever-increasing share of its budget on mental health and community services, and a decreasing share on acute sites.
• Timing: Toby Lambert stated that the ICB is still committed to opening the beds by March 2026, and is hopeful that it can be done before that.
• Cost Breakdown: Councillor Lorraine Dean asked about the initial costs of the 10 beds, the running costs per year, and whether these beds will be reserved solely for Westminster residents. Toby Lambert responded that the running costs are about £120,000 per year per bed, and that the initial cost depends on where they go. He confirmed that the beds will be reserved for Westminster residents, but that it would be unethical to deny a patient from somewhere else care if the care was available.
• Health Inequalities: Councillor Anne Cyron raised concerns about the potential impact on health inequalities for black people in particular, and especially for black people with severe and enduring mental illness.
• Committee Dissolved: The chair responded that this committee was set up for a specific purpose, which was to scrutinise the decision that has now been made, and that this is the final meeting of the committee because it has fulfilled its purpose.

This decision follows previous discussions about mental health service provision in Westminster, including concerns raised last year about delays in accessing timely inpatient support.

Frankfort Arms License Suspended After Stabbing

The Licensing Sub-Committee (2) has suspended the license of the Frankfort Arms pub following a stabbing incident and evidence of the premises serving alcohol after hours. Read the full details of the meeting here.

• Police Action: The Metropolitan Police applied for an expedited review of the license, citing the pub's association with serious crime.
• Incident Details: Police were called to the pub after a man was stabbed. CCTV footage revealed that the incident was more serious than initially reported by the manager, and that alcohol was being served after the permitted hours.
• Past Violence: The police also noted four other violence-related offences at the premises in the previous three months, most of which occurred after midnight.
• License Holder Agrees: Alex Green, representing the Craft Union Public Limited, the premises license holder, agreed with the police's request to suspend the license and confirmed that the pub had already closed voluntarily.
• Committee Decision: The committee decided to suspend the license with immediate effect, remove the designated premises supervisor (DPS), and ensure that all sales of alcohol cease immediately.
• Councillor Carman's Statement: Councillor Maggie Carman, Deputy Cabinet Member - Adult Social Care, Supported and Specialist Housing, stated that the suspension would allow sufficient time for the premises license holder to undertake a full investigation and work collaboratively with the police.

This decision was made under section 53A1B of the Licensing Act 2003, which allows for expedited reviews of licenses when premises are associated with serious crime.

Pension Fund Committee Seeks Independent Investment Advisor

The Pension Fund Committee convened an extraordinary meeting this week to interview shortlisted candidates and appoint an independent advisor for the pension fund. More information about the meeting can be found here.

• Key Role: The advisor will play a critical role in overseeing the transition of the Fund’s remaining non-pooled assets to the London Collective Investment Vehicle (LCIV) and provide guidance on investment strategy.
• Responsibilities: The advisor will ensure committee decisions align with fund strategies and policies, strengthen internal controls, and ensure legal compliance.
• Qualifications: The ideal candidate should possess experience in pension fund management, knowledge of governance, risk management, and compliance within institutional investment settings, and demonstrate excellent communication skills.

The appointment of an independent advisor is intended to ensure that the pension fund is managed effectively and in accordance with government guidelines.

Other Matters

• The Health & Wellbeing Board discussed a range of issues, including mental health support, the Better Care Fund, and a Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment. Details of the meeting can be found here.
  • The board reviewed mental health support initiatives, noting increased need among young people and rising demand for secondary mental health services.
  • The board reviewed the Better Care Fund end-of-year outturn for 2024/25, noting overspends on Community Equipment Services in both Westminster and Kensington and Chelsea.
  • The board discussed the Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment (PNA) for both Westminster and Kensington and Chelsea, agreeing to begin a 60-day statutory consultation.
• The Cabinet discussed the introduction of a private rented sector licensing scheme, allocated funding from the Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) to local projects, and considered the medium-term financial plan. More information about the meeting can be found here.
  • The Cabinet discussed the introduction of a Private Rented Sector (PRS) Selective Licensing Scheme[^1] across 15 of the 18 wards in Westminster.
  • The Cabinet considered a report regarding the allocation of Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) funding to several projects.
  • The Cabinet considered a report outlining the council’s updated financial position over the next three years and the financial framework for delivering key policy objectives.
• The Licensing Sub-Committee (2) considered applications for shadow licenses for premises on Bateman Street, Greek Street and Wellington Street, but deferred their decisions to a later date. Read the full details of the meeting here.
  • The Sub-Committee considered four applications for shadow licenses[^2] in the West End.

Upcoming Meetings

• Strategic Planning Committee on Tuesday 27 May 2025 to discuss planning applications for Ebury Gate, 6 - 10 Bruton Street, and 25 - 27 St George Street.
• Licensing Sub-Committee (6) on Thursday 29 May 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Licensing Sub-Committee (3) on Wednesday 04 June 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Thursday 05 June 2025. Link to the meeting here.
• Licensing Sub-Committee (2) on Thursday 05 June 2025. Link to the meeting here.

This week in Westminster:

• The Licensing Sub-Committee (3) was cancelled.
• The Licensing Sub-Committee (1) was cancelled.
• At the annual full Council meeting, Councillor Paul Dimoldenberg was elected as the Lord Mayor of Westminster.
• The Planning Sub-Committee (1) reviewed planning applications for Ebury Street, St George's Square, Lower John Street, Brunswick Mews and Bayswater Road.

Council - Wednesday 14 May 2025

At the annual full Council meeting, Councillor Paul Dimoldenberg was elected as the Lord Mayor of Westminster for the ensuing year, and Councillors confirmed committee appointments and approved changes to the council's constitution, including updates to the Procurement Code. Councillor Robert Rigby, the outgoing Lord Mayor, was thanked for his service.

Here's a more detailed look at the key discussions:

Election of the Lord Mayor

Councillor Ruth Bush nominated Councillor Paul Dimoldenberg to be the next Lord Mayor of Westminster, praising his long service, integrity, and commitment to the people of Westminster. Councillor Bush spoke of Councillor Dimoldenberg's work in establishing Queen's Park Community Council¹, his support for the late Councillor Ian Wilder's defence of residents in Soho, and his battle with the Standards Board for England. She also noted his literary contributions, including The Westminster Whistleblowers, and his donations of royalties to food banks. Councillor Hamza Taouzzale seconded the nomination, acknowledging Councillor Dimoldenberg as a role model and praising his family, including his wife Linda Hardman and daughters Amelia Leeds and Zoe.

With no further nominations, Councillor Paul Dimoldenberg was elected Lord Mayor.

Councillor Dimoldenberg addressed the council, expressing his gratitude and outlining his plans for the year, including:

• Visiting all wards in Westminster to celebrate local groups and volunteers.
• Promoting the work of his two chosen charities, the Avenues Youth Project and Hotel School.
• Encouraging walking and appreciation of Westminster's history through themed walks with the Westminster Guides.
• Launching two arts initiatives: inviting local artists to submit landscapes of Westminster and commissioning a musical suite from a student at the Royal Academy of Music.

He also shared his family's history, from Kirch in the Crimea to Manchester, and highlighted the contributions of immigrants to Westminster, mentioning Daniel Amur, a tailor of Algerian and Croatian heritage from Church Street.

Vote of Thanks to the Past Lord Mayor

Councillor Rachel Roberton moved a vote of thanks to the outgoing Lord Mayor, Councillor Robert Rigby, and his Lady Mayoress, Emiko Murai Rigby, for their service. She praised Councillor Rigby's dedication, kindness, and focus on highlighting the work of community groups and charities such as the Cardinal Hume Centre and the MCC Foundation. She also noted his efforts to promote activity in schools and care homes, his support for the military and veteran communities, and his engagement with the Japanese community.

Councillor Paul Swaddle OBE seconded the motion, highlighting Councillor Rigby's numerous engagements and his passion for inspiring activity. He also acknowledged Emiko Murai Rigby's role as an ambassador for the city.

Councillor Rigby responded with thanks, acknowledging the support of council members and staff, and highlighting his special memories of community events, visits to care homes, and VE Day celebrations. He also mentioned his efforts to establish a junior park run in Hyde Park and install a commemorative paving stone in Trafalgar Square.

Constitutional Matters

The council approved the allocation of places on the standing committees and confirmed the proportional division of seats on the standing committees.

Changes to the Council's Constitution

The council approved changes to the Procurement Code, as summarised in section four of the report and displayed in appendix A of the Follow On Agenda 14th-May-2025 19.00 Council. The council also approved the council's constitution, inclusive of the changes agreed and as set out in appendix B of the Follow On Agenda 14th-May-2025 19.00 Council.

The changes to the Procurement Code include:

• Removing the wording on 'acceptable' waivers and replacing it with a statement advising that, in exceptional circumstances only, waivers can be requested.
• Changes to wording relating to waivers and breach of the Code to clarify the difference between the two.
• A separate guidance document on waivers has been drafted for officer use to ensure that the implications of using waivers is fully understood and considered.
• Minor wording changes to remove ambiguity, make wording easier for officers to understand, and correct minor editorial errors.

The Procurement Code is designed to ensure that the council:

• Complies with applicable procurement legislation.
• Has regard to the National Procurement Policy Statement.
• Complies with its procurement transparency obligations.
• Delivers appropriate services, social value, and community benefit.
• Ensures responsible procurement and commissioning.
• Achieves value for money.
• Manages risks associated with procurement.

Report on Key Decisions

The council noted the report on the executive decisions taken under special urgency in 2024/25 as detailed in Section 4 of the 24-25 Key Decisions Use of Special Urgency Procedures report.

The report detailed three instances where Special Urgency provisions were used during the 2024/25 municipal year:

• Supply of Energy and Ancillary Services Contract (Supply of Energy 2) Award
• Award of Contract for Cashless Parking Services through the G-Cloud Framework
• Homecare Services – Extension

Planning Sub-Committee (1) - Tuesday 13 May 2025

The Planning Sub-Committee (1) of Westminster Council is scheduled to meet on 13 May 2025 to review several planning applications. These include proposals for hotel amalgamation, residential extensions, and changes of use, with a focus on design, heritage, and amenity impacts. The meeting will also cover standard agenda items such as membership updates and declaration of interests.

Planning Applications

Ebury House Hotel, 102 - 104 Ebury Street

The committee will consider an application for the amalgamation of the Astors (106-112 Ebury Street) and Belgravia (102-104 Ebury Street) hotels into a single entity. The proposal includes internal reconfiguration and refurbishment, extensions to the rear at various levels, a mansard roof enclosure at 106 Ebury Street, and the installation of lifts.

Key considerations include the impact on residential amenity, the design and heritage implications within the Belgravia Conservation Area, and land use acceptability. Objections have been received from the Belgravia Residents Association, the Belgravia Society, the Belgravia Neighbourhood Forum, and local residents, citing concerns over amenity, design, and highways issues.

The report pack notes that the proposed amalgamation aims to improve the quality of hotel accommodation, aligning with Policy 15 of the City Plan 2019-2040. It also mentions the Belgravia Neighbourhood Plan, which acknowledges the importance of commercial activities but resists late-night uses outside designated centres. The applicant anticipates that the dinner service will be from 18:00, with last orders at 21:30 and closing at 23:30. For the bar area, the hours would be 12 noon, with last orders for non-resident guests at 23:00.

The report pack states that the applicant has agreed to remove the previously proposed small outdoor terrace area shown as part of the restaurant extension and to fix all windows (including the rooflight) shut.

The report pack also notes that the proposal would cause less than substantial harm to the Grade II listed buildings² that form part of the application site. The report pack states that the harm would be caused by the partitioning and creation of linking corridors at second and third floor level across the site, the platform lift within the front light-well at 110 Ebury Street and the internal passenger lift also at 110 Ebury Street.

Fourth Floor Flat F, 104 St George's Square

The Planning Sub-Committee (1) will consider an application relating to Fourth Floor Flat F, 104 St George's Square, which seeks permission for an extension to the rear closet wing at fourth floor level. The flat is located within a Grade II listed building in the Pimlico Conservation Area.

Key issues include the impact on the listed building, the character and appearance of the conservation area, and the amenity of neighbouring properties. The report pack notes that the prevailing pattern of rear extensions in the terrace does not rise above the penultimate storey level, contributing to the terrace's historic significance.

The report pack states that the proposed extension to the closet wing would rise above penultimate storey level. The proposals would fail to preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the conservation area, and the special interest of the listed building. It would also harm the setting of the nearby listed buildings around the square.

1 Lower John Street

The committee will review an application for the erection of a mansard roof extension at 1 Lower John Street, along with a change of use of the upper levels from a restaurant to residential units. The proposal includes alterations to the facade, including window replacements, and an increase in the height of a chimney stack shared with the adjacent listed building at 2 Lower John Street.

The key considerations involve land use, design, heritage, and residential amenity. The site is located within the Soho Conservation Area, the Central Activities Zone³, and the West End Retail and Leisure Special Policy Area. The report pack notes an objection from the Soho Society, citing concerns over the bulk of the proposed extension, its visibility from Air Street, and potential harm to the amenity of 2 Lower John Street.

The report pack also notes that the alterations to No.2 Lower John Street relate to the party wall and chimney stack. The changes are minor and typical of buildings in the surrounding conservation area where there is a height difference. The chimney stack will not appear excessively tall, and the party wall is raised in a manner sympathetic to the building and its surroundings. There is no harm to the characterand appearance of the conservation area, or to the listed building.

3 Brunswick Mews

The committee will discuss an application for a new mansard roof extension at 3 Brunswick Mews, to enlarge the existing dwellinghouse.

Key considerations include the impact on the character and appearance of the Portman Estate Conservation Area and the amenity of neighbouring properties.

The report pack notes that the application site forms part of an attractive late 19th-century terrace that maintains a considerable amount of its uniformity. The report pack also notes that the building is marked within the Portman Estate Conservation Area Audit as one where roof extensions will not be acceptable without proper justification.

Caroline House, 135 Bayswater Road

The committee will consider an application for the erection of a single-storey extension at first-floor level at Caroline House, 135 Bayswater Road, to create a residential unit. The proposal includes a green roof, PV panels, and external waste storage.

Key considerations include the acceptability of the residential accommodation, the design and heritage implications within the Bayswater Conservation Area, and the impact on residential amenity.

The report pack notes that objections have been raised by residents and the Bayswater Residents Association, citing concerns over design, residential amenity, trees, and highways issues.

The report pack also notes that the Environmental Health Officer has identified that the kitchen is the most likely place for a fire to start and occupiers of the bedrooms are not adequately protected in the event of fire as they will have to escape via the living/kitchen area.

Licensing Sub-Committee (3) - Wednesday 14 May 2025

The Licensing Sub-Committee (3) of Westminster Council met, but no video was provided.

Licensing Sub-Committee (1) - Thursday 15 May 2025

The Licensing Sub-Committee (1) of Westminster Council met, but no video was provided.

Appointments Sub-Committee - Thursday 15 May 2025

The Appointments Sub-Committee of Westminster Council met on Thursday 15 May 2025 to discuss changes to membership, declarations of interest, and the appointment to the post of Bi-Borough Director of Health Partnerships and Mental Health.

Appointment of Bi-Borough Director of Health Partnerships and Mental Health

The committee was scheduled to discuss the appointment to the post of Bi-Borough Director of Health Partnerships and Mental Health. The public reports pack included documentation pertaining to this appointment.

Appointments Sub-Committee - Thursday 15 May 2025

The Appointments Sub-Committee of Westminster Council met on Thursday 15 May 2025 to discuss changes to membership, declarations of interest, and the appointment to the post of Bi-Borough Director of Learning Disabilities and Provider Services.

Appointment to the Post of Bi-Borough Director of Learning Disabilities and Provider Services

The committee was scheduled to discuss the appointment to the post of Bi-Borough Director of Learning Disabilities and Provider Services. The agenda stated that the reports pack contained information on this matter.