The Wandsworth Council meeting on 12 October 2016 saw the adoption of the council's policies on economic growth and aspiration, and a resolution to improve health outcomes for residents. The council also adopted recommendations regarding the Housing Allocation Scheme Review, the Capital Programme, and the Council Tax Reduction Scheme.

Aspirations and Economic Growth

The council debated and ultimately adopted a motion on the council's policies of economic growth and aspiration. The motion, moved by Councillor Ravi Govindia and seconded by Councillor Mrs. Kathy Tracey, stated that these policies ensure individuals have the opportunity for good jobs, decent homes, and a positive quality of life. It specifically endorsed the aspirations for Nine Elms and welcomed the announcement of Apple's relocation to the Battersea Power Station. The motion also recognised the groundwork laid by the council, the former Mayor of London, and the Government, and confirmed a belief in low tax policies leading to higher disposable incomes and economic buoyancy in Wandsworth. The council committed to redoubling its efforts, working with Battersea Power Station and Apple to ensure local residents benefit from investment through jobs and apprenticeships, calling on the Mayor of London to support proposals for a new Battersea/Pimlico footbridge, and urging the Mayor to continue low tax policies. An amendment proposed by Councillor Mrs. Leonie Cooper and Councillor Tony Belton, which sought to include a commitment to achieving 50% affordable homes in the borough, was defeated by 16 votes to 32, with one abstention. The original motion was then carried by 34 votes to 16.

Improving Health Outcomes

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a motion on improving health outcomes for Wandsworth residents, moved by Councillor Mark Thomas and seconded by Councillor Jeremy Ambache. The council affirmed its commitment to the NHS, while expressing concern over patient safety and care failings at St George's Hospital Trust. It noted the Trust's projected deficit of £55.5 million and its extreme operational risk exposure. The motion welcomed the work of St George's staff but acknowledged issues with high turnover, vacancy rates, and reported bullying and harassment, citing staff survey reports from 2013. The council regretted that these challenges were compounded by industrial action related to the junior doctors' dispute.

The council resolved to task the Adult Care and Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee with examining updates on the problems at St George's as details emerge. It accepted the Trust's need for financial sustainability but stressed it must not compromise patient care, calling on management to work with staff to address problems and ensure safe staffing levels. The motion also called for the Trust and local commissioners to engage with the Council on reshaping NHS services across South West London, including a vision for Queen Mary's Hospital. Furthermore, the council committed to showing leadership in working with partners to prevent hospital admissions and reduce delayed transfers of care. Finally, it noted World Mental Health Day and pledged to increase activities promoting mental health awareness, particularly among young people. An amendment, moved by Councillor Mrs. Sarah McDermott and seconded by Councillor Mrs. Claire Clay, was carried by 31 votes to 17, leading to the adoption of the substantive motion with amendments.

Other Decisions

The council also adopted recommendations from Report No. 1, which included decisions on the Housing Allocation Scheme Review, the Capital Programme, and the Council Tax Reduction Scheme. These recommendations were adopted by votes of 32 to 16, and 33 to 16 respectively.

The council received reports from various Overview and Scrutiny Committees, including the Adult Care and Health, Housing and Regeneration, Community Services, Education and Children's Services, and Finance and Corporate Resources committees. These reports were received as information.

A report on by-elections was received as information. The council also adopted recommendations from reports on Committee Memberships and Absence from Council Meetings.

The meeting also saw the presentation of several petitions. Councillor Mrs. Leonie Cooper presented a petition with 4,404 signatures against the council's proposals to replace trees in Chestnut Avenue. Councillor Mrs. Sarah McDermott presented a petition with 350 signatures regarding the proposed closure of the café at Wandsworth Common Station. Councillor Ian Hart presented a petition with 60 signatures for increased playground provision at Nightingale Square. Councillor Sue McKinney presented a petition with 64 signatures from Medfield Street residents concerning a controlled parking zone, and Councillor Malcolm Grimston presented a petition with 30 signatures from Girdwood Road residents regarding parking restrictions.

The council also noted the passing of Councillor Sally Ann Ephson, with tributes paid by Councillor Simon Hogg and Councillor Marie Hanson. The Mayor welcomed Councillor Peter White to the council following a by-election in the Tooting ward and congratulated Councillor Dr. Rosena Allin-Khan on her appointment as Shadow Minister for Sport. The upcoming by-election in Queenstown ward on 10th November 2016 was also noted.