The Council meeting on 27 January 2026 saw councillors discuss and vote on several key issues, including the adoption of Contract Standing Orders, the retention of the committee system of governance, and policies regarding Artificial Intelligence (AI) and housing development. Decisions were also made regarding business rates for the hospitality sector and the future of allotments.

Contract Standing Orders Adopted

The Council has formally adopted new Contract Standing Orders, which will be incorporated into the Council's Constitution. These orders, replacing previous procurement regulations, are designed to reflect best practice and ensure compliance with the Local Government Act 1972 and subsequent procurement legislation. The aim is to ensure value for money, stimulate market competition, and support supplier diversity and sustainability objectives.

Committee System of Governance Retained

Following discussions on potential changes to local government legislation, the Council has resolved to continue operating under a committee system of governance. This decision, which has been in place since 2019, was reaffirmed to provide a five-year protected period, during which the Council will not be bound to adopt executive arrangements. The Council will conduct a further review before January 2032 to decide on its future governance model.

Public Ethical and Environmental AI Policy to be Developed

The Council has agreed to develop and publish a Public Ethical and Environmental AI Policy. This decision comes in response to the rapid global increase in AI use and its central role in the Council's Transformation Programme. The new policy will govern the Council's use of AI, addressing concerns about data access, resident interaction, and the significant environmental footprint of AI technologies, including energy and water consumption. An amendment to the original motion was carried, which acknowledged the ongoing work of the Policy and Performance Review Board on this issue and requested further reports.

Opposition to Government's Housing Package

The Council has resolved to submit strong, evidence-based opposition to the Government's proposed London Emergency Housing Package. Councillors expressed serious concerns that the package will reduce affordable housing delivery and slash local Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) investment, while retaining the Mayoral CIL which benefits the borough minimally. The Council will write to the Secretary of State urging a rethink of proposals that they believe will create bottlenecks rather than speed up housing delivery and will undermine the provision of essential infrastructure.

Support for Hospitality Sector

The Council has called on the Government to extend support beyond pubs to the wider hospitality sector, including cafes, small hotels, and independent restaurants. While welcoming the Government's U-turn on increasing business rates for pubs, councillors highlighted the lack of provision for other hospitality businesses facing similar pressures from rising costs, staffing challenges, and uncertainty. The motion also noted concerns about the business rates system and the Valuation Office Agency's revaluation process, which has led to significant increases in bills for many businesses.

Richmond Adult Carers' and Young Carers' Charter Approved

The Council has approved the adoption and publication of the Richmond Adult Carers' and Young Carers' Charter. This co-produced document aims to recognise and address the specific needs of unpaid carers, promoting their health and wellbeing and ensuring they receive adequate support. The Charter sets out clear statements on what matters most to carers and will invite organisations to pledge their support by aligning their practices with its priorities.

Net Zero Borough by 2043 Ambitions Discussed

A debate was held on how the Council will achieve its stated goal of a net-zero borough by 2043. Councillors discussed the scale of the challenge, particularly in decarbonising domestic heating and transport, and highlighted the need for concerted action and resident engagement. The Council outlined its commitment to innovation, including the launch of the Richmond Community Energy Cooperative and an accelerator fund, and emphasised the importance of forging partnerships with communities and leveraging private finance.

Other Matters Discussed

• Business Rates and Hospitality: The Council debated and passed a motion calling for greater government support for independent hospitality businesses, including cafes, small hotels, and restaurants, beyond the measures introduced for pubs.
• Shacklegate Lane Allotments: The decision to reclaim Shacklegate Lane allotments for burial use was discussed, with concerns raised about the impact on local residents and the need for a comprehensive review of burial strategies.
• Adult Social Care: Discussions touched upon the challenges and priorities within adult social care, including the need for early intervention, improved service delivery, and the development of a resident charter.
• Twickenham Police Station: The Council reiterated its opposition to the closure of the Twickenham police front counter and indicated potential legal action if the Mayor of London and Metropolitan Police Commissioner do not reconsider the decision.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI): The Council debated the ethical and environmental implications of AI use, agreeing to develop a public policy and consider mitigation strategies for environmental impacts.
• Housing Development: The Council resolved to oppose the Government's proposed London Emergency Housing Package due to concerns about its impact on affordable housing delivery and local CIL investment.
• Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO): The Council approved the making of a PSPO to tackle unnecessary vehicle engine idling.
• Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE): The Council received and adopted the SACRE Annual Report and approved revised Terms of Reference.
• Councillor's Absence: Councillor Tony Paterson was excused from attending meetings on grounds of ill-health from January to May 2026.
• Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs): A motion was passed supporting the national campaign for PCSOs to be awarded service medals, similar to police officers.
• Affordable Housing: A motion was passed reiterating the need for social rent housing and committing to exploring options to increase its provision.
• COVID-19 Response: The Council noted the publication of an independent report into the government's COVID-19 response and committed to studying its findings to strengthen emergency preparedness.