The Strategy and Resources Committee of Sutton Council met on Monday 22 June 2026. The committee discussed the council's financial performance and strategic overview, alongside plans for electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

Throwley Yard Tenant Selection

The committee considered the grant of a lease for up to 15 years for Throwley Yard. The report recommended a tenant who did not offer the highest financial bid, but was considered to bring the greatest contribution to the vitality of Sutton Town Centre and its evening economy, aligning with the council's manifesto pledge to deliver economic growth and revitalise high streets. A deputation from Doug Shaw raised concerns about transparency and resident engagement in the process, highlighting that the previous tenant of Throwley Yard had been insolvent and that there had been a lack of dialogue with residents about the site's future. Councillor Barry Lewis, Leader of the Council, defended the council's engagement with residents, citing extensive consultations on the Sutton Town Centre and the local plan. The committee approved the recommendation to grant the lease.

Belmont Station Rail Enhancement Project Funding

An additional £3.98 million in capital funding was approved for the Belmont Station Rail Enhancement Project. This project, backed by the former UK Government's Levelling Up Fund, aims to double train frequencies to Belmont station to four trains per hour, supporting the London Cancer Hub¹. The increased cost is attributed to geopolitical inflationary pressures and detailed design changes. While the council will initially fund the shortfall, a lobbying strategy will be initiated to seek match funding. Councillor Ed Parsley abstained from the vote, expressing concerns about potential further cost increases and the impact of the funding gap on other infrastructure projects.

Electric Vehicle Charging Point Procurement

Plans to install approximately 180 new electric vehicle (EV) charging points across around 40 council-owned sites were advanced. The council will enter into a 15-year concession contract with an EVCP operator, who will own and manage the chargers, while the council will receive a share of the income generated. This initiative aims to support the council's climate ambitions and generate revenue for local services. Councillor Richard Clifton raised concerns about the long-term infrastructure needs, particularly for residents in blocks of flats, and the need for a wider council strategy on EV infrastructure. Councillor Christopher Woolmer, Chair of the Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee, highlighted the importance of on-street charging and the need for a mix of charger types and pricing. The committee delegated the award of contracts to the strategic director of resources in consultation with the lead member of resources and chair of the environment and sustainable transport committee.

Strategy and Resources Committee: Policy and Strategy Overview

The committee received an overview of its role and responsibilities, which include overseeing the council's overall strategic direction, financial resources, public health, and community safety. The report highlighted the council's ongoing financial challenges, with a projected shortfall by 2029/30, necessitating a fundamental organisational change programme known as One Sutton. Key developments discussed included the ongoing development of a new corporate plan, the digital and IT strategy, and workforce development. The committee also noted the council's performance in handling complaints, ranking third best in London for upheld ombudsman complaints.

Financial Performance and Outturn 2025/26

The committee reviewed the council's financial performance for the 2025/26 financial year. Despite facing significant financial pressures, particularly in demand-driven services like adult social care, children's services, and SEND, the council achieved an overall underspend of £3.19 million. This underspend was used to increase general fund reserves to £11.13 million, enhancing financial resilience, and to establish a £1.64 million reserve for the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) deficit. The report also noted a £10.91 million overspend on the DSG, resulting in a cumulative deficit of £21.48 million. The committee approved capital programme budget adjustments and recommended the updated Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy to Full Council.

Appointment to Outside Bodies and Subcommittee Arrangements

The committee approved appointments to various outside bodies, including the Beddington Community Liaison Group and the Sutton Fair Trade Community Group. Councillor Barry Lewis will represent the council on the Sutton Fair Trade Community Group. The committee also established the Sutton Shareholdings Board for 2026/27 and appointed its members.