The Dispensations Sub-Panel of the Panel of Independent Persons met on Tuesday 26 May 2026 to consider policy and guidance on granting dispensations, and to review an application for a dispensation. The meeting was scheduled to discuss the policy and guidance on the granting of dispensations under the Localism Act 2011 and the Members' Code of Conduct, and to consider a specific application for a dispensation.

Policy and Guidance on Granting Dispensations

The Sub-Panel was scheduled to review the City of London Corporation's policy and guidance on the granting of dispensations. This policy outlines what a dispensation is, the process for applying for one, and the statutory grounds for granting them. The policy aims to ensure consistency in decision-making regarding dispensations, which allow Members of the City Corporation to speak or vote on matters where they have a disclosable pecuniary interest. The default position is that a Member with such an interest cannot participate, but a dispensation can be granted under specific statutory grounds, such as if the number of prohibited members would impede the transaction of business, or if granting the dispensation is in the interests of persons living in the authority's area. The policy also details factors to be considered when making decisions, including maintaining public confidence and the expectation of ward representation.

Application for a Dispensation

The Sub-Panel was scheduled to consider an application for a dispensation from Gaby Robertshaw, a Common Councillor representing the Ward of Cripplegate. Ms. Robertshaw requested a dispensation to speak on planning applications concerning External Works to Crescent House, scheduled to be considered by the Planning Applications Sub-Committee on 8 June 2026. These applications are for 26/00106/FULL and 26/00107/LBC.

Ms. Robertshaw's application stated that she has a leasehold interest in the Golden Lane Estate, which is relevant to the planning applications. She based her request on statutory ground 15(c) of the Localism Act 2011, stating that granting the dispensation would be in the interests of persons living in the authority's area. She also referenced Appendix 3, paragraph (i) of the policy, relating to manifesto promises, and paragraph (j) concerning the scope and duration of the application, specifying it was for one meeting only. Ms. Robertshaw noted that she had already recused herself from the Planning Applications Sub-Committee for that specific date.

The report pack indicated that Ms. Robertshaw had previously been granted a dispensation to speak as a member of the public on planning applications until 2029. However, this current application was for her to speak as an Elected Member, which falls outside the parameters that the Town Clerk can solely determine. The Sub-Panel was asked to make recommendations to the Town Clerk regarding this application.

The report pack also included details of Ms. Robertshaw's election manifesto, which highlighted her concerns regarding repairs, renovations, and refurbishment across the Golden Lane Estate, and her experience as a resident and member of resident associations on both the Golden Lane and Barbican Estates. She expressed a desire to address issues affecting the quality of life for residents, particularly in relation to the City of London Corporation as their landlord.