The Council meeting on 28 January 2026 saw a wide range of announcements and discussions, including a significant debate on a motion concerning the rights, safety, and dignity of people seeking sanctuary and migrants, alongside a motion condemning immigration raids. Key decisions were made regarding the council tax base, treasury management, and the review of the council's constitution.

Announcements and Communications

The meeting began with several significant announcements. Mayor Brenda Dacres led a moment of remembrance for the 45th anniversary of the New Cross Fire, reflecting on the lives lost and reaffirming a commitment to creating opportunities for young Black and ethnic minority people. Councillor Bell announced that Dr. Catherine Mbema, Director of Public Health, had been awarded an MBE in the New Year's Honours List for her contributions to public health, particularly her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and her work on the Blasheer Report, which addressed health inequalities in Black African and Caribbean communities. Councillor Krupski proudly announced that Foster Park had won the Green Flag Award's Best of the Best for its initiative supporting women and girls, highlighting the co-design process involving young people. Councillor Hoon announced the launch of a new youth mental health clinic at the Leemore Centre, building on the success of a similar initiative at the Mulberry Hub, and also shared that Lewisham's family hubs had secured £2.2 million in funding from the Mayor of London to assist low-income families with the cost of living. Councillor Herrene celebrated the re-accreditation of the Creative Enterprise Zone in Deptford and New Cross and the securing of funding for affordable workspaces for artists. Mayor Dacres announced a landmark partnership with Goldsmiths, University of London, to open a new campus in Catford, which is expected to bring over 600 students to the area. Councillor Olaru-Holmes detailed the Integrated Enforcement strategy, which aims to bring together council services and external partners like the Met Police to tackle issues such as retail crime and anti-social behaviour. Councillor Sakina Sheikh highlighted Lewisham Libraries' participation in the National Year of Reading, promoting various events and services, including a home library service for those unable to visit. Councillor Bell also made an announcement regarding the Mayor's Charity entry to the New Year's Day Parade, which won third prize and £5,000. Finally, Reverend Rome led a reflection on Holocaust Memorial Day, emphasizing the theme of Bridging Generations and the importance of remembrance and vigilance.

Petitions

Councillor Sorba presented a petition from residents of the Honor Oak Estate concerning the external infrastructure, including trees, lighting, paving stones, handrails, canopies, and drains, which they believe are not up to the standard residents deserve. While some work has begun, the petition calls for further improvements.

Public Questions

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to public questions, with 69 questions submitted. Several supplementary questions were asked and answered. Mark Morris questioned the repeated inaccurate statements regarding the completion of the Catford Station Link project, seeking assurances on the current information provided. Councillor Krupski assured Mr. Morris that the project was progressing and provided details on expected costs and timelines. Alan Hall congratulated Councillor Walsh on her appointment and raised concerns about the 25% vacancy rate in the planning team, asking about the timeline for a permanent director and a full complement of staff. Councillor Walsh acknowledged the challenges in recruitment, which are sector-wide, and highlighted the council's efforts in training and apprenticeships, mentioning Michael Forrester as the interim chief planning officer. Mark Bennett questioned Mayor Dacres about her commitment to Lewisham given her life peerage and asked if she would forgo her daily allowance. Mayor Dacres reaffirmed that Lewisham remains her priority. Mr. Bennett also questioned Councillor Krupski about the council's handling of dumped e-bikes, asking if the council would use data to identify problem areas and hold companies accountable. Councillor Krupski stated that providers are responsible for their bikes and welcomed micro-mobility but confirmed that an MOU with providers was imminent to improve enforcement and bike collection, with costs to be borne by the operators. Chris Deuce asked Councillor Walsh about the funds committed to facilitate the reopening of the Catford Musa venue. Councillor Walsh agreed to double-check with officers regarding any grant funding. Edward Parker Humphreys sought reassurance that Lewisham Council would continue to be an open, tolerant, and welcoming borough for migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers, given the rise in far-right activity. Councillor Olaru-Holmes affirmed the council's unwavering commitment to its Borough of Sanctuary status and its dedication to supporting these communities. Gordon Johnson raised concerns about a two-year delay in the completion of council housing at John Smyth Court, questioning the contract management and the payment of storage costs for residents in temporary accommodation. Councillor Cooper apologised for the situation, acknowledging poor contract management and promising to investigate the specifics of Mr. Johnson's case, including storage costs. Alan Hall asked a supplementary question to Councillor Sakina Sheikh regarding due diligence and financial risks associated with a proposed new sports pitch at Whitefoot Lane playing fields, particularly concerning the health and safety aspects of rubber crumb pitches. Councillor Sheikh assured Mr. Hall that due diligence was in hand and that the planning application process would involve further scrutiny.

Member Questions

Councillor Barnham asked Councillor Walsh about the Gornwood Nature Reserve, urging the landowner to accept a fair offer from the Fourth Reserve group to purchase the land for the community. Councillor Walsh agreed and pledged to broker a deal. Councillor Shrivastava questioned Councillor Cooper about the council's dispute with the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman regarding a blanket policy on interim accommodation, asking for evidence that the council has not consistently operated this practice. Councillor Cooper reiterated the council's dispute with the Ombudsman's findings and highlighted improvements made to the service. Councillor Royston asked Councillor Olaru-Holmes about resident involvement in local policing matters and priority setting in Catford. Councillor Olaru-Holmes encouraged residents to attend police panel meetings and use the Met Engage platform. Councillor Tam asked Councillor Olaru-Holmes to condemn the government's new legislation permitting the seizure of residents' phones and downloading data without consent, and to condemn the government's rhetoric. Councillor Olaru-Holmes stated that the council was already challenging the government on immigration changes and would continue to do so. Councillor Smith asked Councillor Hoon to elaborate on plans to increase special educational needs (SEND) provision in the future, including more provision within mainstream schools. Councillor Hoon outlined the council's expansion of SEND places and mentioned an upcoming announcement following the publication of a white paper. Councillor Powell asked Councillor Cooper for more information about planned improvements to estates throughout the borough. Councillor Cooper acknowledged historical shortcomings in estate works and detailed the process of using stock condition surveys to prioritise investment. Councillor Stamirowski asked Councillor Olaru-Holmes for further steps to address ongoing concerns about anti-social behaviour in Catford. Councillor Olaru-Holmes outlined increased patrols, stronger online communication, and partnership working with the police. Councillor Wise asked Councillor Bell for an update on the council's work supporting unpaid carers. Councillor Bell highlighted the value of unpaid carers and outlined plans to bring carers assessments in-house and rebuild support services. Councillor Elias Shaikh asked Councillor Herrene how the council is supporting market traders to thrive. Councillor Herrene detailed increased officer engagement, regular trader forums, and efforts to encourage new traders, as well as improvements to the Lewisham Town Centre market. Councillor Walker asked Councillor Herrene about further steps to ensure cooperatives, mutuals, and community ownership play a vibrant part in development. Councillor Herrene spoke about the council's support for cooperative businesses through grants and policies. Councillor Bernard asked Councillor Hoon how many EHCPs resulted in homeschooling due to a lack of placement. Councillor Hoon stated this information was not immediately available but would be provided. Councillor Warner asked Councillor Bell if hoarding remained a major focus of safeguarding work. Councillor Bell confirmed it does, detailing the multi-agency approach, policy development, and recruitment of a specialist role.

Treasury Management Outturn and Mid-Year Review 2025/26

Councillor De Ryk moved the report on Treasury Management Outturn and the Mid-Year Review for 2025/26. The report indicated that the council had remained compliant with national rules, with no breaches of borrowing limits. The council's approach was described as cautious and disciplined, prioritizing the safety of money, ensuring liquidity, and then seeking a reasonable return. As of June 2025, the council held approximately £264 million in investments, achieving returns slightly above comparable councils. Borrowing had been limited by using cash balances instead of taking on expensive new debt. The capital programme stood at just under £500 million, driven by investment in housing. The report noted risks such as falling investment returns as interest rates reduced and potential future changes to business rate support. Councillor Rathbone seconded the report, thanking the finance team for their stewardship. The recommendations to approve the Treasury Management Outturn report for 2024/25 and the Mid-year Treasury Management report 2025/26 were agreed.

Setting of the 2026/27 Council Tax Base, the NNDR Tax Base and Discounts for Second and Empty Homes

Councillor De Ryk also moved the report on setting the Council Tax Base for 2026/27. The report proposed agreeing a council tax base of just under 94,000 Band D equivalent properties, with a prudent 96% collection rate. An estimated £70 million business rates yield was noted, with significant uncertainty due to ongoing government reforms. The report recommended continuing the 100% council tax discount for care leavers up to 25, the 25% sanctuary discount for those housing refugees, and maintaining the maximum premium on long-term empty homes and second homes to encourage their use. The continuation of the Council Tax Reduction Scheme (CTRS), requiring eligible claimants to contribute a minimum of 25%, was also recommended. Councillor Rathbone seconded the item. The recommendations were agreed.

Review of the Constitution

Councillor Wise moved the report on the Review of the Constitution. She thanked members and officers for their contributions to the review, stating the document was now fit for purpose for a modern council. The report proposed several amendments to the Articles of the Council, Council Procedure Rules, Scrutiny Procedure Rules, Planning Committee provisions, Scheme of Delegation, and the Protocol on Planning & Lobbying. Councillor Walsh seconded the item, thanking Councillor Wise for her guidance. The recommendations were agreed.

Appointment of Co-optees to Children and Young People Select Committee

Councillor Warner proposed the appointment of Emma McIntosh as Primary School Parent Governor Representative and Pia Longman as Diocesan Representative to the Children and Young People Select Committee for a four-year term. Councillor Cunningham seconded the proposal. The recommendations were agreed.

Motions

Motion 1: Defending the Rights, Safety and Dignity of People Seeking Sanctuary and Migrants

Councillor Olaru-Holmes proposed a motion reaffirming Lewisham's commitment to being a Borough of Sanctuary. The motion expressed concern about the government's proposed asylum and immigration reforms, highlighting risks of prolonged uncertainty, increased homelessness, family separation, and increased poverty. It called on the government to reconsider its proposals and instead focus on humane, evidence-based policies that prioritize family life, expand safe and legal routes, allow people to work, and target criminal gangs. The motion also resolved to write to the Home Secretary and continue working with local organisations to support people seeking sanctuary. Councillor Burgess seconded the motion, focusing on the impact of proposed changes to skilled worker visas, arguing they would exploit workers and worsen care shortages. Mayor Dacres spoke in strong support, sharing personal family history of seeking sanctuary and emphasizing that welcoming people is not only a moral commitment but a source of strength for the borough. Councillor De Ryk also spoke in support, drawing on her family's history of fleeing persecution and highlighting the positive contributions of refugees and migrants to Lewisham. Councillor Liam Shrivastava spoke against the motion, arguing that the Labour Party's historical policies on immigration had been regressive and that current government proposals, including immigration raids, were harmful and discriminatory. He criticized the Labour administration for removing statistics on disproportionate targeting of certain nationalities from their amended motion and called for the creation of a Migrant Champion. Councillor Liam Curran spoke in strong support, sharing his personal family story of fleeing Vietnam and Cambodia and emphasizing the importance of sanctuary, dignity, and certainty for those seeking refuge. The motion was carried.

Motion 2: Resisting Immigration Raids and Regressive Home Office Policies in Lewisham

Councillor Liam Shrivastava proposed a motion condemning the increase in immigration raids and regressive settlement and asset-seizure policies. The motion noted a recent immigration raid attended by an Immigration Minister and media, highlighting its performative nature and the disproportionate targeting of certain nationalities. It criticized the government's proposed 20-year route to settlement, punitive asset-seizure policies, and restrictions on benefits and social housing. The motion resolved to condemn these policies, refuse assistance to the Home Office during raids, review data-sharing agreements, support migrant businesses, and create a Migrant Champion. Councillor Hau-Yu Tam seconded the motion. The motion was carried.

The meeting concluded after the debate on the motions.