The Cabinet of Lambeth Council met on Monday 30 June 2025 to discuss the amalgamation of two Catholic schools and the adoption of the Lambeth Growth Plan. The meeting resulted in the approval of the merger of St Bede's Catholic Infant and Nursery School with St Bernadette Catholic Junior School, and the adoption of the Lambeth Growth Plan, which outlines the borough's economic development priorities for the next decade.

Amalgamation of St Bede's Catholic Infant School with St Bernadette Catholic Junior School and Subsequent Closure of St Bernadette

The Cabinet agreed to the amalgamation of St Bede's Catholic Infant and Nursery School with St Bernadette Catholic Junior School, effective from 1 September 2025. This decision will see St Bernadette Catholic Junior School close, with its age range extended at St Bede's Catholic Infant and Nursery School to create a single all-through primary school on the St Bede's site. Councillor Ben Kind, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Families, introduced the proposal, highlighting the impact of falling birth rates on school sustainability and the financial pressures faced by schools. The merger aims to reduce transition points for children, particularly those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), and create financial and operational efficiencies. Ewa Ostrynska, Headteacher of the schools, and Maeve Quoirin, Chair of Governors, spoke in favour of the proposal, emphasizing the logistical advantages of a single site, the strengthening of educational continuity, and the potential for cost savings. The decision was approved by the Cabinet.

Lambeth Growth Plan

The Cabinet approved and adopted the Lambeth Growth Plan, a 10-year strategy designed to foster inclusive economic growth within the borough. Councillor Claire Holland, Leader of the Council, presented the plan, emphasizing its alignment with national and London-wide growth strategies and its focus on delivering homes, jobs, skills, and equitable access to opportunities through public and private partnerships.

During the discussion, Councillor Scott Ainslie, Green Group Leader, raised concerns about the plan's reliance on market housing and private investment, arguing for more social housing and greater environmental consideration. Councillor Matthew Bryant, Deputy Group Leader of the Liberal Democrats, supported the plan's aims but called for more detailed proposals on youth skills development and a more balanced geographical focus, particularly for the south of the borough.

Officers responded to questions regarding timescales for enabling strategies, confirming they would be brought to Cabinet in the autumn, and stated there were no new financial implications arising from the plan itself, with implementation relying on existing work programmes and anticipated grant and development income. The importance of public-private partnerships was stressed, and examples of successful collaborations were highlighted.

Cabinet members welcomed the plan's focus on equity and justice, accessibility, and its pro-business approach. Councillor Marcia Cameron spoke about the importance of the skills and employment agenda, while Councillor Fred Cowell highlighted the need for investment in the south of the borough and the potential of assets like the Streatham Hill Theatre.

The plan is structured around four key missions: Commercial destinations, town centres and infrastructure; Growth sectors (creative industries, health and life sciences, clean tech); Inclusive talent; and Housing and neighbourhoods. The Cabinet approved the plan and noted the proposed approach to its communication.