The Cabinet of Greenwich Council met on Wednesday 19 November 2025, discussing a range of important issues including the future of the Woolwich Waterfront Leisure Centre site, school place planning, and the adoption of a revised Statement of Licensing Policy. Key decisions made included the approval of the DG Cities Annual Plan for 2024-25 and the agreement of new repayment terms for leaseholders facing capital major works invoices.

Future of Woolwich Waterfront Leisure Centre Site

The Cabinet agreed that the Council would proceed with procurement procedures to select a demolition contractor and a residential developer partner for the former Woolwich Waterfront Leisure Centre site. This decision paves the way for a residential-led development on the site, which will be prepared for disposal to a development partner. A budget was also approved to cover the costs associated with these recommendations, and specific financial information relating to the site was deemed exempt from publication.

School Place Planning and Capital Programme

The Cabinet noted the projected demand for school places across all phases of education in the borough and agreed to use the former Gallions Mount Primary School site for the development of the primary phase of Rowan Wood School. Authority was delegated to negotiate and agree terms for the transfer of the Gallions Mount site to Compass Partnership of Schools, and for the negotiation of agreements for the new Transition Learning Centre at Bexley Road. The Cabinet also agreed to delegate authority for a land swap relating to Greenacres Primary School, and to vary the School Capital Programme as required.

Licensing Act 2003 - Adoption of Revised Statement of Licensing Policy

The Cabinet considered and commended to Full Council the revised Royal Borough of Greenwich Statement of Licensing Policy in respect of the Licensing Act 2003. This revised policy, which will come into effect from 7 January 2026, incorporates updated statutory guidance, reflects operational learning, and strengthens alignment with borough priorities. Key changes include new and strengthened policy areas on tackling male violence against women and girls, anti-spiking measures, counter-terrorism preparedness, and night-time economy zones.

Leaseholder Repayment Options

The Cabinet noted that repayment terms for annual revenue service charges will remain unchanged. However, they agreed that late payment charges will be levied if invoices remain outstanding after the conclusion of the relevant repayment periods. Significant changes were agreed for capital major works invoices, including stepped repayment periods based on invoice value, with a 2-year interest-free period for resident leaseholders and no interest-free period for non-resident leaseholders. Interest payable will be linked to lease provisions or the Public Works Loan Board rate. All leaseholders will be offered a 5% discount for paying capital major works invoices in full in the first year. The Cabinet also requested a review of the approved policy in practice within 12-18 months.

Draft Local Plan Consultation

The Cabinet recommended to Full Council that it approve the draft Local Plan and draft Integrated Impact Assessment for public consultation. This decision moves the Local Plan forward to a crucial public engagement stage, allowing for wider feedback before finalisation and submission to the government.

Strategic Risk Register

The Cabinet noted the Council's updated Strategic Risk Register, which had been presented to the Audit & Risk Management Panel. The register outlines key risks threatening the Council's plans and strategies, along with existing controls and mitigating actions. The Strategic Risk Register will also be presented to Full Council for noting.

DG Cities Annual Plan 2024-25

The Cabinet approved the DG Cities Annual Plan for 2024-25. DG Cities, a wholly owned urban innovation company of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, reported a small pre-tax surplus of £8,595 on a turnover of £768,100 for the year ending 31 March 2025. The company has secured new research and development funding and commercial work, and continues to support the Council's core missions across various activities. The plan outlines the company's strategic direction and aims for the period up to March 2026, focusing on sustained business growth, a balanced portfolio of work, adding value to Greenwich, delivering grant-funded research, and balancing commercial acumen with social purpose.