The Council meeting on Tuesday 13 October 2026 saw the formal recognition of former councillors Liz Green and Diane White as Honorary Aldermen for their distinguished service. Key discussions also included a petition to end plastic use in Kingston Cemetery, a debate on roadworks and traffic delays, and public questions regarding the council's pension investments and responsible investment policy.

Installation of Honorary Aldermen

The meeting began with the formal installation of former councillors Liz Green and Diane White as Honorary Aldermen of the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames. This honour was conferred in recognition of their eminent service rendered as former Members of the Council, as per Section 249 of the Local Government Act 1972. Several councillors spoke to commemorate their contributions, highlighting their dedication, community focus, and significant impact on the borough. Both Ms Green and Ms White expressed their gratitude for the honour.

Petition: 'End plastic use in Kingston Cemetery'

A petition, signed by 1,241 residents, calling for the phasing out of plastic decorative items in Kingston Cemetery was debated. The petition organiser, Alison Fure, presented the case, highlighting the environmental damage caused by plastic waste and the need for a more natural and respectful environment. Councillors acknowledged the environmental concerns and the emotional significance of tributes for bereaved families. While plastic fencing and decorations are already prohibited, the council is prioritising a hearts and minds educational campaign, including new signage and QR codes, to encourage visitors to adopt sustainable practices. The council's existing regulations and maintenance practices were outlined, and a commitment was made to work with the community on sustainable initiatives. Ultimately, the council resolved to note the petition and the officer's comments.

Public Questions on Responsible Investment Policy

Three public questions were raised concerning the council's pension investments and responsible investment policy, particularly in relation to the UN OHCHR database and companies involved in the occupied Palestinian territories. Councillor Mark Beynon, Chair of the Pension Fund Panel, responded to these questions. He explained that the Pension Panel operates independently and makes decisions on behalf of pension scheme members, adhering to government guidance that discourages specifying individual holdings or geographic zones of investment. While the UN OHCHR list is used as a screening tool by the London Collective Investment Vehicle (LCIV) to identify companies for engagement, the policy prioritises engagement over divestment, with divestment considered only as a last resort. Councillor Beynon stated that the commitment to incorporating the OHCHR database is part of the decision-making process within the LCIV. He also addressed concerns about the council's manifesto commitment, clarifying that the updated responsible investment policy, implemented via the LCIV, aligns with the manifesto's intent to use policy and influence for real-world change.

Member Questions

A range of member questions were addressed, covering various council services and policies:

• Kingston Carnival 2026: Councillor Andreas Kirsch, Portfolio Holder for Climate Action, Biodiversity and Regulatory Services, confirmed that the Kingston Carnival had been postponed, not cancelled, and would return next year. He assured that the £20,000 allocated for this year's carnival had not been spent and could be used to support its return. Dialogue with the Kingston Race and Equalities Council is ongoing to ensure future carnivals are sustainable and have wider appeal.
• Community Library Service: Councillor Andrew Wooldridge, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Economic Development and Planning Policy, assured that there were no plans to cut or reduce the community library service or its book stock. He explained that unused books were being removed from storage as part of a continuous stock review to ensure relevance and engagement, with new books arriving on a rolling replenishment schedule.
• Cambridge Road Estate Regeneration: Councillor Emily Davey, Portfolio Holder for Housing, provided an update on the Cambridge Road Estate regeneration, stating that over 200 people would be moved into new homes by Christmas. She highlighted the positive feedback from residents who have already moved in and announced that Phase 1C, including 80 private homes, 110 council homes, and a new community centre, is commencing.
• Dockless Cycle Hire: Councillor Nicola Nardelli, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Transport and Waste and Recycling, addressed concerns about the management of dockless cycle hire bikes. She confirmed that a short-term contract with the incumbent supplier is in place while a new procurement process takes place. Measures include geo-fencing in busy areas, no-parking red zones, and the development of on-street parking bays to prevent bikes from blocking pavements.
• Pension Investments and Responsible Investment Policy: Councillor Andreas Kirsch, Leader of the Council, responded to questions regarding the council's pension investments and the UN OHCHR database. He reiterated that the Pension Panel operates independently and that the responsible investment policy, implemented via the London CIV, incorporates the UN OHCHR list for engagement purposes. He refuted claims of inaction or misleading the electorate, stating that the manifesto commitment is being actioned through the updated policy and engagement strategy.
• Black History Month: Councillor Andreas Kirsch provided an update on Kingston Council's activities for Black History Month, highlighting a partnership approach with communities and organisations. He mentioned a decolonising Kingston project, Black British Ballet presentations, storytelling activities, and events hosted by community centres and networks. The council's website will feature dedicated pages promoting local stories.
• Poor Quality Planning Enforcement Service: Councillor Andreas Kirsch provided an update on the planning enforcement service, noting that recruitment for new officers, including an enforcement lead, is nearing completion. He confirmed that a backlog of over 800 enforcement cases had been cleared, and a new enforcement policy, clarifying priorities and communication, would be implemented.
• Kingston Leisure Centre Redevelopment: Councillor Stephen Evans asked for an update on the new Kingston Leisure Centre. Councillor Andrew Wooldridge confirmed that the project is on track and within budget, with an anticipated opening in Spring 2027. He detailed the progress on internal and external works, including pool areas, sports hall flooring, and landscaping, and mentioned that planning for the opening event is underway.
• Potters Grove Alleyway: Councillor Yvonne Tracey asked about the state of the 'Potters Grove Alleyway' and bin provision. Councillor Nicola Nardelli stated that the area is monitored regularly and found to be maintained to the required standard. While acknowledging a specific complaint about fly-tipping, she offered to review current conditions and bin provision once further monitoring is completed.
• New Malden War Memorial: Councillor James Giles inquired about the condition of the New Malden War Memorial. Councillor James Giles responded, thanking Councillor Tracey and volunteers for a recent clean-up. He highlighted the need for a sustainable maintenance programme to ensure the memorial is properly respected and maintained, beyond reliance on ageing volunteers.
• Green Lane and St James Ward Cleanliness: Councillor Yvonne Tracey asked about cleanliness and litter in Green Lane and St James ward. Councillor James Giles stated that the council is not aware of specific concerns but welcomed the opportunity to work with local councillors to investigate any issues. He praised community initiatives and mentioned plans for a Neighbourhood Watch scheme.
• Canbury Place Car Park Development: Councillor Ian George asked about the withdrawal of planning applications for Canbury Place Car Park. Councillor Andrew Wooldridge confirmed that the council had decided not to extend the development agreement, leading to its lapse. He stated that the planning application remains active but officers are working with the applicant to close it down. Costs incurred by the council were primarily legal and professional fees associated with contractual agreements, while the developer covered the costs of the planning application itself.
• Murray House Care Home Site Redevelopment: Councillor Peter Higgins asked for an update on the redevelopment of the former Murray House care home. Councillor Sabah Hamed, Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Equalities, reported that the project is proceeding well, with brickwork completed and topping out expected in October. She confirmed that a care provider is being procured and a local lettings strategy is in place.
• Air Quality Action Plan: Councillor James Giles questioned the upcoming Air Quality Action Plan. Councillor Mike Massimi confirmed that a revised plan for 2027-2032 is being prepared for public consultation in September and October. He stated that the plan will include specific actions on PM2.5 and PM10, addressing sources beyond traffic, including biomass burning, construction dust, and tyre/brake wear.
• Plant-Based Treaty: Ms Kate Beavis asked if the council would consider endorsing the principles of the Plant-Based Treaty. Councillor Andreas Kirsch, Leader of the Council, stated that while the council supports plant-based eating and local, seasonal food, it would not formally endorse the treaty as many of its requests fall under national government remit. He highlighted the council's efforts in food security, local growing, biodiversity, and reducing food waste.
• Blue Badge Appeals Process: Councillor Yvonne Tracey asked for a breakdown of the £70,000 cost associated with the Blue Badge Appeals Panel. Councillor Anita Schaper, Portfolio Holder for Communities, Commissioning and Customer Contact & Governance, clarified that this figure represented the estimated annual budget growth required to maintain a permanent Member-led Stage 2 appeals framework, including officer time, legal support, and training.
• Hook Park Development: Councillor James Giles questioned the council's position on the Hook Park development, given the emerging Local Plan identifies it as 'Grey Belt' land for housing. Councillor Lorraine Dunstone, Chair of the South of the Borough Neighbourhood Committee, explained that an independent review identified Hook Park as potential 'Grey Belt' land, and it has been put forward for housing development as part of the Local Plan evidence base. She noted the council's current housing delivery trajectory and the 'tilted balance' presumption in favour of sustainable development.
• Equalities, Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Board: Councillor Yvonne Tracey asked about the proposed EDI Advisory Board. Councillor Sabah Hamed stated that the board's remit is being developed in line with the Inclusive Kingston Strategy 2025-2029, which includes safeguards for care-experienced residents and care leavers. She explained that the board would complement existing infrastructure and statutory frameworks.
• Youth Services Expansion: Councillor James Giles questioned the measurable impact of expanding youth services. Councillor Sue Ansari, Portfolio Holder for Children's Services including Education, stated that Achieving for Children is reviewing the Youth Service Strategy and preparing an application for funding to increase staffing capacity for weekend and evening services, alongside a detached team.
• Kingstonian FC Return: Councillor Ian George asked about proposals to bring Kingstonian FC back to the Royal Borough. Councillor Andreas Kirsch confirmed that there are no active proposals or formal discussions with the council regarding the club's relocation.

Motion: Action on Roadworks and Traffic Delays

A motion proposed by Councillor Ian George (Conservative Group) called for the council to explore options for a dedicated officer post to improve traffic flow by proactively liaising with contractors and managing roadworks more effectively. An amendment, proposed by Councillor Rowena Bass (Conservative Group) and seconded by Councillor Yvonne Tracey, suggested writing to utility companies to request meetings rather than creating a new officer post.

Following debate, the amendment was defeated. The original motion was then put to a vote and lost, with one vote in favour, 32 against, and four abstentions. Councillors from the ruling administration argued that existing staff and the upcoming lane rental scheme would address the issue, and that the proposed officer post was unnecessary.

Motion for Referral: Delivering Kingston's commitment to responsible investment and divestment

A motion proposed by Councillor James Giles (Kingston Independent Residents Group) and seconded by Councillor Yvonne Tracey, calling for reaffirmation of support for divestment from companies complicit in violations of international law and a review of the responsible investment policy, was automatically referred to the appropriate committee without debate.

Review of the Constitution - Changes Required due to the Planning and Infrastructure Act 2025

The Council considered recommendations from the Corporate and Resources Committee regarding amendments to the council's constitution to comply with the Planning and Infrastructure Act 2025 and associated regulations. Councillor Andreas Kirsch, Leader of the Council, moved the recommendations, highlighting that while some changes were government-mandated and not ideal, efforts had been made to maintain councillor and resident engagement. Councillor James Giles (Kingston Independent Residents Group) moved an amendment to abstain on the item as a protest against the government's imposition of these changes, arguing that they reduced local power. However, the amendment was defeated. The motion to approve the constitutional amendments was carried with 34 votes in favour, none against, and four abstentions.

Appointment of Co-opted Member to the People Committee

Sean Maher was appointed as the Catholic Diocese representative and Co-opted member of the People Committee, with voting rights on education matters, for the remainder of the municipal year 2026-2027. This appointment fulfils a statutory requirement.

Appointment of Members to Committees, Panels or other bodies

Members noted changes to committee appointments. Councillor Sue Ansari was appointed as a substitute member to the Senior Staff Panel.

The meeting concluded with the Mayor closing the meeting at 10:15 pm.