The Overview and Scrutiny Committee of Ealing Council met on Thursday 23 July 2026. The committee considered a call-in regarding the future of West Middlesex Golf Course, ultimately upholding the Cabinet's decision. The committee also reviewed the Scrutiny Annual Report for 2025-26 and discussed the proposed work programme for 2026-27.

The Future of West Middlesex Golf Course

The committee discussed the call-in of the Cabinet's decision concerning the future of West Middlesex Golf Course. Councillors Hirsch and Gallant, who called in the decision, argued that the deal lacked transparency and was disproportionate, potentially leading to the loss of Metropolitan Open Land (MOL) and the closure of the golf club without adequate public consultation or clear plans for the land's future use. David Thomas, representing playing members of the golf club, raised legal objections to the proposed tripartite deal, suggesting it was not legally executable and could lead to significant litigation.

Councillor Donnelly, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy and Efficiency, defended the Cabinet's decision, stating that the primary aim was to regain control of the council's land and settle ongoing litigation with West Middlesex Golf Club Limited (WMGC). He emphasised that no decision had yet been made regarding the future use of the land and that broader community consultation would take place. He also refuted claims of a lack of transparency, stating that restricted papers had been made available to councillors.

Following extensive debate and questioning, the committee voted to uphold the Cabinet's decision.

Scrutiny Annual Report 2025-26

The committee reviewed the Scrutiny Annual Report for 2025-26. The report detailed the work undertaken by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and its various panels throughout the municipal year. It highlighted key issues examined, recommendations made, and the responses received from the council. The report noted the positive impact of scrutiny in Ealing, with members working constructively across political affiliations to challenge decisions and drive service improvements. The committee agreed to recommend the annual report.

Overview and Scrutiny Committee Work Programme 2026-27

The committee discussed the proposed work programme for the Overview and Scrutiny Committee for the 2026-27 municipal year. The programme included a range of items, such as the scrutiny of the management of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), the Youth Justice Plan, the Safer Ealing Partnership, and updates on the Customer Access Strategy and Digital Strategy. Members also had the opportunity to suggest additional items for inclusion. Several suggestions were made, including a review of strategic public assets, leaseholder issues, the transfer of assets from Broadway Living, and the work of the Race Equality Commission. The committee agreed to consider these suggestions and incorporate relevant items into the work programme.