The Sustainable Communities Overview and Scrutiny Panel met on Wednesday 1 July 2026 to discuss Cabinet Member priorities for 2026/27 and review the council's work programme. Key discussions included the council's response to sewage leaks, progress on electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and the effectiveness of the graffiti removal service.

Cabinet Member Priorities - 2026/27

Cabinet members presented their priorities for the upcoming year, which were then discussed by the panel. Councillor Stuart Neaverson, Cabinet Member for Transport and Cleaner Streets, reported that Thames Water had not yet addressed sewage leaks, leading the council to step in and seek reimbursement. He also confirmed that work on electric vehicle (EV) charging points would commence in Raynes Park. The council is collaborating with companies to establish EV charging sites as part of its EV Strategy.

The panel also heard about an evaluation of the free bulky waste policy, which had been allocated £320,000 in non-recurring funding. A growth bid for future funding will be submitted once the in-year costs are determined. Concerns were raised about discarded Lime bikes on Merton streets, with the Cabinet Member explaining that these were often dumped at the borough's borders due to differing e-bike schemes across London. He offered to raise specific concerns directly with Lime.

Regarding the Graffiti Removal Service, the Cabinet Member stated that the service is working with businesses to obtain indemnities for free graffiti clearance. The panel requested further data on the service's performance. The issue of Haydon's Road Railway Station becoming step-free was also discussed. While part of the developer's plan, the obligation had not been met, and the council is seeking legal advice on enforcement. Feasibility studies for step-free access at Collier's Wood and Tooting Bec stations have been completed, but funding is still required, and the council will continue to lobby Transport for London on these matters. A pilot scheme for enforcing weight limits on Merton's roads is also planned.

The Cabinet Member expressed interest in learning from other London boroughs regarding fly-tipping and the expansion of pop-up tips, welcoming suggestions for future locations.

Councillor Eleanor Stringer, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Civic Pride & Climate Change, highlighted the council's commitment to prioritising tree replacement and addressing net loss, with a focus on wards having fewer trees. A database of all trees in the borough is being developed to support this. She also expressed support for new groups looking after pocket parks, with a dedicated engagement officer available to assist.

Regarding the Start of the Line Festival at Morden Park, the Deputy Leader estimated attendance at around 4,500, with some complimentary tickets issued. Feedback on the event was positive, with few incidents recorded. The council plans to improve public toilet provision in Morden, although businesses have shown little interest in participating in a community toilet scheme. While there are no immediate plans for new playgrounds, existing ones are regularly inspected for safety, and the council remains open to new ideas.

The panel requested performance data on the Graffiti Removal Service and attendance statistics for the Start of the Line Festival.

Work Programme

The panel discussed its work programme for the upcoming year. A pre-meeting was requested ahead of scrutiny of housing associations. The panel noted the report.