The Strategy and Resources Committee of Sutton Council met on Monday 22 June 2026. The committee discussed the selection of a tenant for Throwley Yard and considered additional funding for the Belmont Station Rail Enhancement Project. The committee also reviewed the council's financial performance and strategic overview.

Throwley Yard Tenant Selection

A key discussion point was the selection of a tenant for Throwley Yard, a building regenerated through the Future High Streets Fund. Doug Shaw, representing residents, raised concerns about transparency and engagement, particularly regarding the process for submitting petitions and the lack of dialogue with residents about the venue's future. Councillor Barry Lewis, Leader of the Council, defended the council's commitment to transparency and outlined the process for agenda publication and public speaking. He highlighted the council's success in transforming redundant buildings, including Throwley Yard, into valuable community assets. Councillor Sunita Gordon, Lead Member for Resources, emphasized that the purpose of the investment was not solely to maximize rental income but to create a destination that would increase footfall and support local businesses.

Despite receiving six bids, the committee recommended a tenant who did not offer the highest financial bid but was considered to bring the greatest contribution to the vitality and energy of Sutton Town Centre. This decision aligned with the council's manifesto pledge to deliver economic growth and revitalize high streets. The committee approved the grant of a lease for up to 15 years to the recommended bidder.

Belmont Station Rail Enhancement Project Funding

The committee addressed the Belmont Station Rail Enhancement Project, accepting it as a late urgent item due to a forecasted shortfall of approximately £4 million. Councillor Gordon explained that the project, backed by the former UK government's Levelling Up Fund, is crucial for supporting the London Cancer Hub and increasing train frequency. Network Rail is responsible for the rail enhancements, while the council manages the overall project and costs. Due to the closure of the Levelling Up Fund, any price increases are now the council's responsibility.

The report detailed that significant price inflation and design changes had led to the unexpected cost increase. The committee was presented with options, including lobbying for additional grant funding, but noted that these were not guaranteed and had lengthy processes. The recommendation was to approve the additional funding of £3.98 million to meet the current gap, while simultaneously lobbying for match funding. Councillor Dave Tchil abstained from the vote on this item.

Strategy and Resources Committee: Policy and Strategic Overview

The committee received an overview of its role and responsibilities, presented by Helen Bailey, Chief Executive. The report outlined that the committee oversees the council's corporate strategy, financial resources, property assets, workforce, IT, and public health. It was noted that the council would be required to move back to a cabinet system of governance within a year, a change Councillor Richard Clifton expressed concern about regarding democracy and transparency. Discussions also touched upon the council's digital strategy, asset management, and the trend of increasing online service usage.

Financial Performance and Outturn 2025/26

Councillor Sunita Gordon presented the Quarter 4 outturn report, highlighting Sutton's strong financial management despite significant pressures in areas like adult social care and children's services. The council had increased its general fund reserves to over £11 million, strengthening financial resilience. However, challenges remain in demand-led services. The report indicated that the council delivered almost £108 million of capital investment, with a lower level of programme slippage than in previous years. The committee noted the report and approved several recommendations, including a capital programme budget adjustment for the Grove Park development scheme and the updated flexible use of capital receipts strategy.

Electric Vehicle Charging Point (EVCP) Procurement

The committee discussed plans to expand electric vehicle charging infrastructure across Sutton by utilizing approximately 40 council-owned sites to install around 180 new chargers. This initiative aims to support climate ambitions, make good use of council assets, and generate income for reinvestment in local services. The procurement process is underway, using a competitive flexible procedure with dialogue, and is expected to conclude in December 2026. The financial risk will remain with the operators, with the council retaining a share of the income. Councillor Clifton raised concerns about the long-term infrastructure needs, particularly for residents in blocks of flats. The committee approved the delegation of contract award to the Strategic Director of Resources.

Appointments to Outside Bodies and Subcommittee Arrangements

The committee agreed to the appointments to various outside bodies as set out in Appendix A, with one change noted: Councillor Christopher Woolmer will replace Councillor Barry Lewis on the Sutton Fairtrade Community Group. Authority was delegated to the Director of Law and Governance to authorize appointments arising from in-year vacancies. The committee also agreed to establish the Sutton Shareholdings Board as a subcommittee for the upcoming year and appointed its members.

The meeting concluded at 21:00.