The Council meeting on Monday 6 July 2026 saw significant constitutional changes considered, including the establishment of a new Homes Scrutiny Committee and amendments to standing orders and the members' allowance scheme. Key discussions also focused on improving recycling rates, addressing gambling harms, and enhancing transparency in the allocation of Strategic Community Infrastructure Levy (SCIL) funds.

Changes to the Constitution Considered

The council considered significant changes to its constitution. These changes included the establishment of a new Homes Scrutiny Committee, designed to provide dedicated oversight of the council's housing functions. The committee would comprise nine councillors and four non-voting co-opted members, including representatives from tenant and leaseholder groups.

Amendments were also considered for the standing orders for Full Council meetings, aiming to streamline proceedings and improve the efficiency of debates. These included a new arrangement for political group motions, allowing for three motions per meeting with a 20-minute debate limit for each, and a requirement for advance written notice of motions and amendments.

The members' allowance scheme was updated to reflect these constitutional changes. This included reinstating pension access for councillors through the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) and introducing allowances for the Chair of the new Homes Scrutiny Committee, as well as for Group Leaders and Whips in recognition of the council's multi-party structure. These changes were stated to remain within the existing budget for allowances.

Declaring a Gambling Harms Emergency

A motion was moved to declare a gambling harms emergency in Brent and launch a dedicated Gambling Harms Strategy. This strategy would adopt a joined-up approach across licensing, planning, public health, community safety, schools, debt advice, and resident support services. The council also resolved to write to major landowners in Wembley to reiterate its opposition to gambling advertising and to challenge the Gambling Commission's approach to local licensing, advocating for greater community and elected representative influence. The council would continue to work with national campaigners for a new Gambling Act that prioritises public health.

Enhancing Transparency in SCIL Allocation

The council considered proposals to improve transparency and strategic use of the Strategic Community Infrastructure Levy (SCIL) funds. A key outcome is the request for Cabinet to publish an annual forward pipeline of proposed SCIL schemes, including indicative costs, timelines, and locations. Future reports seeking approval for major SCIL allocations would require a clear statement explaining the scheme's qualification for SCIL and its link to development and growth infrastructure. Additionally, Group Leaders would be briefed on proposed SCIL allocations before they are considered by Cabinet, and quarterly updates on SCIL balances, receipts, allocations, and expenditure would be provided to all councillors. An annual public report detailing SCIL allocations, expenditure, progress, and outcomes would also be published.

Improving Recycling Rates

A motion was moved to address Brent's recycling performance, which was noted as lagging behind many London boroughs. The council would move away from a blanket reliance on blue recycling sacks as the default collection model and would conduct an urgent, evidence-led review of alternative recycling arrangements. There would be a presumption in favour of replacing sacks with wheelie bins where they are causing problems for residents, contributing to litter, reducing participation, or failing to improve recycling. Any proposal to retain sacks would require published evidence, including resident feedback, recycling performance data, and cost-effectiveness analysis. The council would also undertake an options appraisal for effective recycling collection models, offer households the option of an additional wheelie bin for segregated recycling, and develop targeted education and public awareness campaigns. Ambitious annual targets for household recycling would be set with regular public reporting and clear accountability.

Deputations on South Kilburn Regeneration

Two deputations were heard concerning the regeneration of South Kilburn. Pete Firmin, Chair of the Tenants Association, highlighted ongoing issues with new builds, including major problems with cladding, mould, and utility services, as well as delays in refurbishment works. He also raised concerns about areas being left to decline, the lack of security in empty flats leading to anti-social behaviour, and a perceived lack of social rent homes post-regeneration. Leslie Benson, representing Granville Community Kitchen, spoke about the successful transformation of a neglected pocket park into a valued community space, Granville Wreck. She objected to plans to build on this site, arguing that the proposed replacement pedestrianised area would not adequately compensate for the loss of biodiversity and community amenities. Councillor Matt Kelcher, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Planning, acknowledged the concerns raised and committed to a more holistic and strategic approach to high street regeneration, including walkabouts with local businesses and community groups. He also assured that social value would be at the heart of the single delivery partner contract for South Kilburn.

Questions to Cabinet Members

Several questions were put to Cabinet members. Councillor Samiah Anderson asked Councillor Matt Kelcher about investment in Donington Primary School, highlighting the importance of maintaining existing school buildings. Councillor Ryan Hack questioned Councillor Jake Rubin on how SCIL funding is unlocking the new College of North West London campus and its benefits for students and housing delivery. Councillor Michael Maurice questioned Councillor Promise Knight about the effectiveness and fairness of School Street schemes, particularly regarding signage and the number of Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) issued. Councillor Paul Lorber questioned Councillor Promise Knight on the timing of event day parking restrictions in Wembley. Councillor Paul Ryan asked Councillor Matt Kelcher for assurances on build quality and social value commitments for the South Kilburn regeneration. Councillor Paul Lorber also asked Councillor Promise Knight about the rationale behind the 8:00 am start time for Wembley Event Day parking restrictions. Councillor Knight responded to concerns about School Streets, stating that signage complies with national standards and that reviews are ongoing. Councillor Kelcher addressed questions on Donington Primary School and the South Kilburn regeneration, assuring robust monitoring and a focus on social value. Councillor Rubin confirmed progress on the Educational Maintenance Allowance, with an expected introduction in September 2027. Councillor Johnson provided details on the Renters' Rights Act protections and the council's support for tenants. Councillor Amadi addressed delays in Blue Badge applications, attributing them to resourcing pressures but assuring a return to target processing times.

Scrutiny Committee Updates and Audit Report

Updates were received from the Chairs of the Resources and Public Realm Scrutiny Committee and the Community and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee, detailing their activities and reviews undertaken during the municipal year. The Annual Report of the Chair of the Audit and Standards Advisory Committee was also presented, highlighting the committees' work in overseeing governance, risk management, and internal controls. The report noted ongoing concerns regarding the implementation of internal audit recommendations, the effectiveness of the 'second line of defence' in monitoring, and the management of Housing Compliance, following a self-referral to the Housing Regulator. The external auditors' Value for Money report identified significant weaknesses in financial sustainability and improving economy, efficiency, and effectiveness.

The meeting was confirmed as having been held and decisions were considered.