The Brentford and Syon Area Forum discussed a range of resident-led issues, including parks, development, crime, and litter, with a particular focus on gathering resident priorities for future meetings. Key concerns raised included the impact of weather on trees, the future of the Brentford Medical Centre, and the ongoing challenges of fly-tipping and street cleaning.

Parks, Waterways and Public Spaces

Discussions in this group highlighted concerns about the impact of weather on trees and the types of trees being planted for sustainability. Residents also sought more information about public rights of way at Brentford Dock and expressed a need for more provisions and oversight for young people in park areas. Specific parks mentioned included Gunnersbury Park and Syon Park, with a note that the fountain in one park was not working.

Development and Regeneration

This breakout session focused on the need for regular feedback from key developers and for development and regeneration to be a standing item on the agenda. Specific topics raised included the former police station, the Brentford Project, and Block D, with a call for more detailed and honest updates on behind-the-scenes activity. Support for existing and new businesses in retail spaces was also a key theme, alongside concerns about traffic lights at Windmill Road causing gridlock. Developers mentioned included Ballymore, GSK, Hadley Group, the Printmakers Yard, and Fairview Homes. Residents also raised issues regarding the erosion of traditional businesses at Printmakers Yard and the need for more information on the phases of the Cycle Superhighway. Privacy concerns for local properties overlooking the Brentford Beeline development and potential anti-social behaviour were noted, as was the status of the Waterman's Arts Centre. The lack of affordable housing proportionality and the need for youth provision and low-cost electric vehicle infrastructure were also discussed.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB)

The discussion on crime and ASB primarily centred on the area around the former police station behind Lidl, where drug dealing and fly-tipping were reported. Concerns were raised about pets being poisoned by discarded waste on the high street. Shoplifting on the high street and young people congregating and causing damage in the Robin Grove area were also highlighted. Additionally, residents flagged high speeds of scooters and mopeds using the cycle lanes on both sides of Twickenham Road. Councillors noted that these issues were similar to those previously raised and that updates were expected from relevant teams.

Litter, Fly-tipping and Street Cleaning

This group addressed concerns about the frequency of street cleaning, particularly on roadways, and the need for better communication to residents about schedules. There were also calls for improved collaboration with retailers to keep their premises cleaner, with Greggs on Brentford High Street specifically mentioned. Residents expressed a desire for better engagement with enforcement teams to tackle fly-tipping hotspots and highlighted a lack of awareness about how to report such issues. The Fix My Street platform was praised, and there was a suggestion to better support community groups that promote sustainability, such as repair cafes and swap shops.

Open Forum

During the Open Forum, a resident raised detailed questions about the future of the land housing the Brentford Health Centre, specifically regarding the feasibility of a clinical hub, the allocation of Section 106 money from the former GSK development at Smith's Climp Beechham, and the use of a cottage on the west side of the site. Councillor Katherine Dunne indicated that Section 106 agreements from the GSK site included £3.7 million for primary care, which could potentially be used for redevelopment of the Brentford Medical Centre, subject to NHS approval. The resident requested this item be revisited for a more in-depth discussion.

Another resident inquired about council support for local screenings of the People's Emergency Briefing, a film by Chris Packham addressing the climate and cost of living crisis. Councillor Max Mosley expressed support, and Councillor Dan Bowring suggested collaborating on specific times and locations for multiple screenings across the borough.

A question was raised about the timeline for the Brentford High Street section of the Cycle Superhighway, with confirmation that Transport for London (TfL) was consulting on the section from Beach Avenue to Hounds Low, with construction anticipated for autumn 2027.

Concerns were voiced about sewage entering the canal, impacting water sports and the environment. Councillor Katherine Dunne acknowledged cross-borough working with Ealing and Brent councils on this issue, and Councillor Guy Lambert suggested the council explore purchasing the site of the Brentford Community Boathouse.

Residents also reported ongoing issues with roadworks on Windmill Road and Avenue Road, with Councillor Theo Dennison noting that work was meant to commence on Avenue Road but had not yet.

Finally, a resident raised concerns about the lack of trees in the new Ballymore development on the south side of Brentford High Street compared to the north side, calling for greater emphasis on street trees in future developments. Councillor Dunne stated that the council had planted 25,000 trees in the past year and that any removed tree would be replaced. Councillor Dan Bowring added that current planning permissions included stringent demands for greening and biodiversity. Another resident pointed out that tree roots were causing uneven pavements, posing a risk to those with mobility or sight issues, and requested the use of tree species with smaller root systems.

The meeting also included updates from councillors on various local matters, including the situation at Waterman's Marina, the success of Christmas celebrations in Brentford, issues with unlet units in Tintern House, and the settlement of boat dwellers at Workhouse Dock. Councillor Guy Lambert highlighted the establishment of Middlesex Women's cricket team at the former Beecham's Sports ground and the reduced scale of the Junction 2 festival. Concerns were raised by Councillors Guy Lambert and Theo Dennison regarding the council's approach to fly-tipping prosecutions and parking enforcement. Councillor Theo Dennison also spoke about a spate of eviction cases potentially linked to the Renters' Rights Act 2025. Councillor Dan Bowring mentioned issues with dogs in Robin Grove Park playground and a feasibility study for a disused railway line.

The next meeting was scheduled for 23 November 2026.