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Westminster: Family Flat Plan Rejected, Parklet Blocked, Basements OK

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

Hostel Debate, Security Shutters, Pension Performance & More!

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

  1. London CIV is a collaboration of London local authority pension funds, pooling their assets to achieve economies of scale and improve investment performance. ↩

Westminster: Soho Noise Concerns, After Dark Strategy Approved

This week in Westminster:

Honest Greens Restaurant Faces Pushback Over Noise Concerns in Soho

A new restaurant hoping to open in Soho is facing strong opposition from local residents and the Soho Society, who fear it will worsen existing noise and anti-social behaviour in the area. The Licensing Sub-Committee (6) met on Thursday to consider the application for a new premises licence for Honest Greens, located at 21-25 St Anne's Court. No video was provided. Link to the meeting here.

  • Cumulative Impact Zone: The location falls within the West End Cumulative Impact Zone1, where stricter licensing rules apply due to the high concentration of licensed premises.
  • Noise Concerns: Residents of Clarion House, a social housing block opposite the proposed restaurant, fear increased noise, anti-social behaviour, and waste management issues.
  • Acoustic Review: An expert acoustic review warned of significant to substantial harm to residential amenity and quality of life of residents from noise generated by people, amplified music, and deliveries.
  • Applicant's Response: Honest Greens stated they are committed to being a thoughtfully considered and appropriate restaurant alongside local residents and offered to reduce alcohol service hours and implement noise control measures.

The sub-committee will now decide whether the restaurant can operate without negatively impacting the already strained environment for Soho residents.

Cabinet Approves After Dark Strategy to Balance Nightlife and Resident Wellbeing

Westminster Council's cabinet has approved a new After Dark Strategy 2025-2040 aimed at creating a vibrant and safe night-time environment for residents, businesses, and visitors. Link to the meeting here.

  • Four Pillars: The strategy focuses on safety and security, community and culture, accessible and positive places, and economic development.
  • Key Actions: Plans include revising licensing policies, enhancing safety measures like CCTV and police patrols, supporting LGBTQ+ venues, and developing after-dark opportunity areas in Oxford Street, the Strand, and Victoria.
  • Balancing Act: Councillor Geoff Barraclough, Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development, acknowledged the complex competing priorities between businesses, visitors, and residents, emphasizing the need for a consensus and balanced approach.
  • Sustainability: The strategy also recognizes the importance of sustainability and environmental considerations.

The strategy aims to address concerns about safety, noise, and anti-social behaviour while preserving the vibrancy that makes Westminster unique.

Council Responds to Serious Violence Taskforce Recommendations in North Paddington

Following instances of serious violence, including a murder in September 2024, the cabinet has approved a response to recommendations from the North Paddington Serious Violence Taskforce, allocating £150,000 for initial implementation. Link to the meeting here.

  • Community Impact: The taskforce was formed to address the impact of violence on communities and identify preventative measures.
  • Focus Areas: The council's response focuses on early help and education, economic opportunities, health and wellbeing, and security and justice.
  • Systemic Change: Councillor Cara Sanquest, Cabinet Member for Communities, stated that the recommendations aim to create systemic change.
  • Cross-Borough Collaboration: The response also explores closer collaboration with other boroughs to address cross-boundary issues.

The council's actions aim to address the root causes of violence and create safer communities in North Paddington.

Other Matters

  • The cabinet approved a procurement strategy for a new waste and cleansing services contract, valued at £58 million annually, set to begin in September 2027. Link to the meeting here.
  • The cabinet approved the establishment of a Strategic Alliance Framework for housing repairs, maintenance, and major works, aiming to improve resident experience, collaboration, and sustainability. Link to the meeting here.
  • The Discretionary Housing Payments Review Advisory Panel met to review appeals against decisions not to award a discretionary housing payment2. No video was provided. Link to the meeting here.
  • The Housing and Regeneration Policy and Scrutiny Committee reviewed a Cabinet Decision concerning the 'Future of Pimlico District Heating Undertaking (PDHU) - Outcome of Initial Outline Business Case Analysis', after it was called in by councillors. Link to the meeting here. The committee voted to take no further action, allowing the Cabinet's decision to stand.
  • The North West London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting was postponed. Link to the meeting here.

Upcoming Meetings

  1. Cumulative Impact Zones are areas where the concentration of licensed premises is believed to be having a negative impact on the local community. Westminster Council has a policy of restricting new licenses in these zones. ↩

  2. Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs) are payments made by local authorities to provide further financial assistance towards housing costs. ↩

Westminster acts against far-right, NYE alcohol sales probed

This week in Westminster:

Council Approves Motion Against Far-Right Extremism Amidst Rising Community Concerns

Westminster City Council has unanimously passed a motion to stand united against the rise of the far right and in support of inclusive communities, a move that comes amidst growing concerns about hate incidents and divisive rhetoric impacting local residents. Link to the meeting here.

  • Community Impact: The motion acknowledges the rise in far-right activity and anti-migrant language and the impact these have had on communities in Westminster.
  • Commitment to Equality: The council has resolved to reaffirm its commitment to tackling racism and discrimination, working with local partners, establishing a cross-community working group, championing local initiatives that celebrate Westminster's diversity, condemning all forms of racism, xenophobia, Islamophobia, antisemitism, and far-right extremism, and reaffirming Westminster's commitment to remaining a safe, inclusive, and welcoming city.
  • New Strategy: The council will deliver a new Community Equality Strategy focused on improving council services to ensure earlier support is given and strengthening its role in promoting community cohesion.

This decision reflects the council's commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all residents, particularly those from migrant and minority communities who have increasingly been targeted by divisive and misleading political rhetoric.

Convenience Store's Alcohol Sales Face Scrutiny Over New Year's Eve Concerns

A temporary event notice (TEN) for Convenience 65 at 47 Aldwych is under review by the Licensing Sub-Committee (2) due to objections from the police and environmental health services, raising concerns about potential crime, disorder, and public nuisance during the New Year's Eve celebrations. No video was provided. Link to the meeting here.

  • Police Concerns: The Metropolitan Police Service cited concerns about the late hours, particularly on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, and the potential impact on crime, disorder, and public nuisance.
  • Environmental Health Worries: The Environmental Health Service stated that insufficient information had been provided regarding how the licensing objectives would be upheld, especially concerning the prevention of public nuisance and the protection of children from harm. They also raised concerns about the impact of the TEN's timings on the New Year's Eve event on the river with regard to public safety.
  • Existing Licence: The premises already benefits from a premises licence (25/04667/LIPN), granted on 13 October 2025, which authorises the sale of alcohol for consumption off the premises.

The committee was scheduled to consider the objections and determine whether to issue a counter notice, preventing the event from taking place, or to allow the event to proceed with conditions. The outcome of this review could have significant implications for public safety and order during one of the busiest nights of the year.

Planning Committee Reviews Basement Excavations, Demolitions, and Roof Extensions

The Planning Sub-Committee (1) met to discuss several planning applications, including proposals for basement excavations, building demolitions, roof extensions, and the installation of ventilation for an electricity sub-station. No video was provided. Link to the meeting here.

  • 5 Upper Belgrave Street: An application for the excavation of two basements at 5 Upper Belgrave Street, a Grade II* listed building, faced objections from neighbours and residents' associations, citing concerns about heritage, sustainability, and amenity.
  • 4 Devonshire Close: A proposal for substantial demolition and redevelopment at 4 Devonshire Close also drew objections concerning sustainability, traffic, and highways.
  • Hallam House: An application concerning Hallam House, 56 - 60 Hallam Street and 44 and 50 Hallam Street for a roof extension and other alterations raised concerns about the impact on neighbouring properties and heritage assets.
  • 55 Marylebone High Street: A proposal for the installation of ventilation for an electricity sub-station at 55 Marylebone High Street faced objections about potential noise and highways disruption.

These applications highlight the ongoing challenges of balancing development with the preservation of heritage and the protection of residential amenity in Westminster.

Other Matters

Upcoming Meetings

Westminster restaurant faces licence review amid crime & hygiene concerns

This week in Westminster:

Mangia Tutto's Licence Under Review Amidst Crime and Hygiene Concerns

Residents in Bayswater are closely watching the fallout from a review of the premises licence for Mangia Tutto, a restaurant located at 94 Bishops Bridge Road. The Licensing Sub-Committee (3) convened on Thursday to consider the review, which was brought by the Metropolitan Police Service due to concerns about crime, disorder, and public nuisance. Link to the meeting here.

  • Police Allegations: The police alleged that Mangia Tutto had been consistently obstructive and uncooperative, with evidence suggesting the premises was operating unsupervised and potentially linked to organised crime. According to PC Muldoon, the premises operator hadn't engaged at all with the process.
  • Hygiene Emergency: A food safety officer detailed very poor standards at the premises, including mice droppings, out-of-date food, and a broken washing basin. An emergency prohibition notice was served, but allegedly removed in breach of regulations. The food safety officer stated that there was total non-compliance and no evidence of hygiene practices .
  • Licensing Authority Support: The licensing authority supported the police's application to revoke the licence, citing the license holder's failure to comply with conditions and a lack of respect for the licensing process. The licensing authority stated that the license holder had continuously vowed to comply with their conditions but had failed to do so.

The sub-committee adjourned to make a decision in private, which will be communicated within five working days. The outcome could have significant implications for the Bayswater ward, which is designated as both a Cumulative Impact Area and a Special Consideration Zone.

Pension Fund Considers Investing in Temporary Accommodation

Westminster Council's Pension Fund Committee met on Wednesday to discuss a potential impact investment opportunity related to temporary accommodation. Link to the meeting here. This proposal could see the pension fund providing a loan to purchase temporary accommodation properties from the council and lease them back.

  • Impact Investment: The committee considered the financial implications of the investment, including cash flows and potential risks associated with RPI uplifts.
  • Property Management: Concerns were raised about the management and maintenance of the properties, with assurances sought that the council would be responsible for maintaining the properties to a high standard. One councillor asked whether the pension fund would be liable if the properties were not upgraded in time when a new tenant moves in.
  • Ethical Considerations: The committee also discussed potential conflicts of interest and whether the investment would be considered a proper investment that adheres to the fiduciary responsibility to pay pensions.

The committee also discussed the outcomes of a previous disinvestment from the LCIV Global Alpha Growth Paris Aligned Fund and a government consultation on Local Government Pension Scheme improvements.

Audit Committee Reviews Complaints Data, Highlights AI Risks

The Audit and Performance Committee reviewed the Annual Complaints Report for 2024-25, revealing a 15% reduction in Stage 1 complaints but a 37% increase in Stage 2 complaints. Link to the meeting here.

  • Service Quality: Service quality issues remained the most common cause for complaints.
  • AI Impact: The committee identified the increasing use of AI in formulating complaints as a potential risk, potentially distorting the types of complaints received and impacting escalation rates. One councillor stated that AI is not a sign of a worsening service. It's just a system change externally which makes it easier to complain right.
  • Housing Complaints: Housing complaints accounted for a significant portion of the overall volume, with communication issues identified as a key driver.

The committee also reviewed the audited accounts for the council and the pension fund, as well as the External Auditor's Annual Report.

Other Matters

  • The Rating Advisory Panel met to discuss Non-Domestic Rates Discretionary and Hardship Relief applications. No video was provided. Link to the meeting here.
  • The Licensing Sub-Committee (4) meeting scheduled for Wednesday was cancelled. Link to the meeting here.

Upcoming Meetings

Overview and Scrutiny Committee

Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Thursday 11th December, 2025 6.30 pm

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

December 11, 2025
Pension Fund Committee

Pension Fund Committee - Thursday 11th December, 2025 6.30 pm

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

December 11, 2025
Licensing Sub-Committee (1)

Licensing Sub-Committee (1) - Thursday 11th December, 2025 10.00 am

The notes from this meeting have not yet been summarised.

December 11, 2025
North West London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee

North West London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 9th December, 2025 10.00 am

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

December 09, 2025
Strategic Planning Committee

Strategic Planning Committee - Tuesday 9th December, 2025 6.30 pm

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

December 09, 2025
Vulnerable Adults, Health and Communities Policy and Scrutiny Committee

Vulnerable Adults, Health and Communities Policy and Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 9th December, 2025 6.30 pm

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

December 09, 2025
Housing and Regeneration Policy and Scrutiny Committee

Housing and Regeneration Policy and Scrutiny Committee - Thursday 4th December, 2025 6.30 pm

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

December 04, 2025
Licensing Sub-Committee (2)

Licensing Sub-Committee (2) - Thursday 4th December, 2025 10.00 am

The notes from this meeting have not yet been summarised.

December 04, 2025
Standards Committee

Standards Committee - Wednesday 3rd December, 2025 6.30 pm

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

December 03, 2025
Licensing Sub-Committee (3)

Licensing Sub-Committee (3) - Wednesday 3rd December, 2025 10.00 am

The notes from this meeting have not yet been summarised.

December 03, 2025
Cabinet

Cabinet - Monday 15th December, 2025 6.30 pm

December 15, 2025
Licensing Sub-Committee (3)

Licensing Sub-Committee (3) - Thursday 18th December, 2025 10.00 am

December 18, 2025