The Council approved the delegation of functions under the London Squares Preservation Act 1931 to its Strategic and Planning Sub-Committees and adopted the programme of meetings for 2026/2027. A motion was also passed reaffirming the Council's commitment to tackling racism and discrimination and supporting inclusive communities.

Constitutional Update: London Squares Preservation Act 1931

The Council formally approved the delegation of its functions under the London Squares Preservation Act 1931 and other Local Acts related to planning and building control to the Council's Strategic and Planning Sub-Committees. This decision also included amendments to the Council's constitution to reflect this delegation. The report highlighted that while the Planning Committees' terms of reference already included these functions, a formal delegation record was absent from the constitution's schedule of local choice functions. The amendments ensure that both consent and enforcement duties under the 1931 Act can be discharged by these committees.

Programme of Meetings 2026/2027

The Council approved the proposed programme of meetings for the 2026/2027 municipal year. This included the dates for Full Council meetings: 17 June 2026, 16 September 2026, 11 November 2026, 20 January 2027, 3 March 2027, and 12 May 2027 (Annual Meeting). The programme also encompasses the schedule for other formal meetings, as detailed in Appendix A of the report. The programme was developed with consideration for the regularity of meetings in previous years, aiming to balance the demands of the council's work, particularly in licensing and planning, with the need to avoid major school holidays and religious celebrations where feasible.

Standing United Against the Rise of the Far Right and in Support of Inclusive Communities

A motion was passed to reaffirm Westminster City Council's commitment to tackling racism and discrimination. The motion noted the rise in far-right activity and hate incidents nationally and their impact on communities. It highlighted Westminster's diversity and the contributions of its residents from over 180 nationalities. The Council believes that blaming migrants for societal challenges is misleading and distracts from real issues like the cost-of-living crisis. The motion resolved to reaffirm the Council's commitment to tackling racism and discrimination, working with local partners to support affected communities, establishing a cross-community working group, championing initiatives that celebrate diversity, condemning all forms of extremism, and delivering a new Community Equality Strategy to improve council services and promote community cohesion. This motion was moved by Councillor Adam Hug and seconded by Councillor Ryan Jude.