The Chiswick Area Forum met on Tuesday 17 March 2026 to discuss a range of local issues, including the council's budget, development on Chiswick Back Common, and street maintenance. Key decisions included noting the council's budget overview and agreeing to investigate specific locations raised regarding street trees and pavement accessibility.

Council Budget Overview

Councillor Shantanu Rajawat, Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Strategy, Resources and External Affairs, and Jake Bacchus, Executive Director of Finance & Resources and Section 151 Officer, presented an overview of the Council's financial position and the 2026/27 budget-setting process. Councillor Rajawat emphasised the statutory requirement to set a legally balanced budget, aligning financial planning with service delivery and local demand. Mr Bacchus detailed his responsibilities as Section 151 Officer, including ensuring value for money and financial governance.

The Council's General Fund covers day-to-day expenditure on services such as social care, housing support, libraries, parks, and waste management. Significant pressures include rising demand for adult social care, with an annual growth of approximately £8 million, and substantial allocations to children's services, waste, and temporary accommodation.

Income for 2025/26 is derived from government grants (over 50%), Council Tax (around 25%), retained business rates, and other income streams. The council tax can be raised by 2.99% for general services and an additional 2% for the adult social care precept.

A significant national reform, Fair Funding 2.0, was discussed, which aims to update local government funding metrics. Hounslow is expected to be a net gainer under this new formula, with an estimated £21 million in additional funding for 2026/27 and a further £20 million per year for the following two years. This increased funding is intended for targeted investment, replenishment of reserves, and long-term service sustainability.

Budget proposals for 2026/27 include approximately £26 million in savings and efficiencies, with a focus on income generation and internal transformation. Councillor Rajawat assured that no services would be ceased, and investment in libraries as community hubs would continue, with a focus on modernising delivery models while protecting frontline services.

Residents raised concerns about the council's overall financial health, the adequacy of reserves, and the financial position of Lampton Group. Mr Bacchus stated that Hounslow was not among the London boroughs requiring Exceptional Financial Support (EFS) from central government, and while reserves had reduced, the new funding settlement would provide stability. He confirmed that 17 schools currently had deficit balances, attributing this to falling pupil numbers and increased running costs. Regarding Lampton Group, Councillor Rajawat assured that loans were backed by tangible assets and income streams, with no intention of tenant evictions for debt repayment.

Concerns were also raised about domestic abuse services facing reductions, which Councillor Rajawat clarified was due to the expiry of Home Office funding, not a council cut. He committed to providing detailed figures and service plans. The end of the police-funded neighbourhood team and the council's plans for a larger civilian enforcement presence were also discussed.

Concerns Regarding Development on Chiswick Back Common

Jackie Elton, Chair of the Mid-Chiswick Society and Friends of Chiswick Common, presented concerns about the development of paddle courts on Chiswick Back Common. She highlighted that the land is designated common land, requiring consent from the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities for any development, which she stated had not been granted since 2003. Ms Elton expressed frustration at the lack of substantive replies from council officers and questioned the legality of recent developments.

Councillor Rajawat apologised and undertook to convene relevant officers to ensure Ms Elton received a response. A resident suggested pursuing a Freedom of Information request, and Councillor Ron Mushiso expressed concern about the lack of transparency.

During discussion, differing views were expressed, with one resident supporting the paddle courts for their popularity and social benefits. Concerns were raised about the transparency of financial arrangements between the operator and the Council, and the commercial use of a public asset.

A written statement from Council officers acknowledged concerns and the importance of obtaining appropriate permissions. It stated that the Council's Planning Team is not responsible for determining common land consents, which are determined by the Secretary of State. The statement noted that necessary consents had not always been secured historically and that steps were being taken to address this. A review of historical approvals and the progression of a retrospective Section 38 Commons Act application were underway, with the operator being asked to provide necessary information. Revised internal processes were also being introduced to improve coordination and ensure future proposals were appropriately reviewed.

Ms Elton welcomed the response but expressed concern about a lack of progress on previous assurances and urged more decisive action.

Managing the Balance Between Pavements and Trees

Tim Hurley, Service Director for Hounslow Highways, and Sabeel Khan, Assistant Director of Transport and Parking, presented a report on balancing the retention of street trees with the need for safe and accessible pavements. The borough has approximately 12,600 street trees, many of which are mature. Trees are only removed if dead, dying, diseased, or dangerous, with replacement planting undertaken where feasible.

The challenge of tree growth causing narrowed footways and root damage was discussed. Options for addressing conflicts include tree removal and replacement, footway build-outs (potentially losing parking spaces), full footway resurfacing or reconfiguration, or retaining existing arrangements. Footway widening and build-out schemes can cost approximately £8,000 per location, and tree removal decisions are subject to consultation.

Residents raised concerns about uneven pavements, accessibility, tree root damage, and the prioritisation of repair works. Specific locations mentioned included Park Drive, Chiswick Road, Duke Road, Princes Avenue, and Town Hall Avenue. Mr Hurley encouraged residents to report defects via the Fix My Street system and agreed to investigate specific cases, including whether an Equality Impact Assessment had been completed for a pavement on Chiswick Road.

Concerns were also raised about the timeliness of tree removal and stump grinding, with one report of a tree removal decision made two years prior with no action taken. Mr Hurley explained that hazardous trees were prioritised for felling, with stump removal and pavement reinstatement occurring later.

Councillor Joanna Biddolph highlighted outstanding pavement defects and tree stumps, and concerns regarding the use of closed statuses on Fix My Street reports when issues were not fully resolved. Mr Hurley acknowledged these concerns and confirmed that improvements to status descriptions were being explored.

The visual impact of asphalt repairs in conservation areas was discussed, with Mr Hurley confirming that public safety remained the overriding priority, although alternative materials were being explored. Footway renewal schemes are prioritised based on condition surveys and available funding, with Ridgeway Road having been prioritised using additional Department for Transport funding.

An update was provided on Duke Road, where a range of potential solutions were being assessed, with detailed costing work underway. The Council operates an extensive tree pruning programme, with approximately 200 large trees pruned annually.

Cleansing Enhancement Programme and Weed Control

Tim Hurley provided an update on the Council's weed control programme, noting the reintroduction of glyphosate and trials of alternative methods. Complaints relating to weed growth had reduced significantly following the reintroduction of glyphosate. An update on fly-tipping indicated a reduction in reports, attributed to improved reporting mechanisms and enforcement activity.

The Whole Street Cleanse programme, combining street cleansing, gully cleaning, and tree maintenance, was outlined. Additional investment had been made in cleansing services, including new dedicated routes and expanded weekly or daily attention areas.

Residents raised concerns regarding leaf clearance on several roads, including Foster Road, Duke's Avenue, and Elliott Road, and the handling of Fix My Street reports. Mr Hurley acknowledged challenges from extended leaf-fall seasons and climate change, advising that additional resources had been allocated to leaf clearance. He agreed to review concerns regarding leaf fall/clearance in Foster Road and Elliott Road.

Councillor Amy Croft, Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, Enforcement and Recycling, advised that a free bulky waste collection service per household per year was being developed. Plans for community recycling and reuse events were also outlined.

Regarding budgets for cleansing, Mr Hurley stated that additional funding had been invested, with a £750,000 contribution from the Council matched by the contractor. Parking permit holders affected by Whole Street Cleanse operations could use their permits in neighbouring roads. The Whole Street Cleanse programme had significantly increased the number of highway gullies cleaned.

Councillor Biddolph raised concerns about the clarity of published cleansing schedules and the proportionality of enforcement action against fly-tipping offenders.

Open Forum

Concerns Regarding Development on Chiswick Back Common: This was a significant topic, detailed above.

Vehicle-Related Crime in the Area: A resident reported car thefts and damage. Councillor Gabriella Giles noted that thefts had become more targeted and advised residents to use tracking devices and deterrents. She reported a 40% decrease in thefts in the Riverside Ward. Councillor Ron Mushiso highlighted the Met Engage online platform for collating information. Councillor John Todd mentioned the upcoming installation of additional CCTV cameras.

Step-Free Access at Local Stations: Councillor Ranjit Gill suggested central government funding for a lift at Turnham Green Station, with feasibility work potentially underway for Turnham Green and Kew Bridge stations. Councillor Jack Emsley stated that no funding had been announced for Turnham Green, which fell within his ward. Councillor Joanna Biddolph clarified that Gunnersbury and Kew Bridge stations were being examined, and Councillor Giles confirmed feasibility work for Kew Bridge had been undertaken in 2024. Councillor Emsley emphasised that securing step-free access at Turnham Green remained a priority.

Communication Issues – Chiswick Village Development: Councillor Giles reported ongoing communication problems from developers to residents regarding works in Chiswick Village, citing an example of less than 12 hours' notice for an electricity shut-off. She was working with Building Control to address concerns and seek improved notice procedures.

Gunnersbury Park – Events Licensing Application: Councillor Biddolph reported a planning application for a 10-year blanket licence for events at Gunnersbury Park, which would limit residents' opportunities to comment on individual events. She urged affected residents to submit representations promptly.

Performance of the Council Reporting App: A resident commented positively on the 'Fix my Street' app for fly-tipping clearance but noted that the Closed status was misleading when no action would be taken for an extended period or when the Council was not responsible. Members advocated for clearer messaging.

Vehicle Noise at Chiswick Roundabout: A resident raised concerns about persistent excessive vehicle noise and requested consideration of an acoustic enforcement camera. Councillor Biddolph declared an interest as a nearby resident and suggested a cross-ward approach. Councillor Croft advised that the issue had been logged as casework.

E-bike and EV Charging Bay Management: A resident raised concerns about overcrowding at e-bike parking bays near Chiswick Station, obstructing carriageways and encroaching on EV charging bays. Councillor Emsley acknowledged the issue and confirmed requests for improved spacing and management.

Proposed Cycle Lane: A resident inquired about discussions for a cycle lane between Turnham Green and Duke's Avenue. Councillor Croft clarified that responsibility lay with Councillor Shaheen, Cabinet Member for Environment, Transport and Public Realm. Councillor Biddolph confirmed that concerns had been referred to the relevant Cabinet Member and officers, with discussions being arranged.

Library Opening Hours Consultation: A resident sought clarification on proposals for extended library opening hours, including unstaffed access. Councillor Linden Grigg advised that the proposals were subject to public consultation.

Road Maintenance: A resident raised concerns about the condition of Park Place, off Gunnersbury Avenue, stating it had not been resurfaced for many years and suffered from potholes and flooding. Councillor Biddolph agreed to pursue this as casework.

E-bikes and Street Clutter: A resident expressed concern about the negative impact of hire e-bikes, including obstructive parking, litter, and difficulties for people with mobility impairments. Councillor Croft acknowledged littering near e-bike bays and advised reporting through Fix My Street. She would relay concerns to Councillor Salman Shaheen.

Disabled Parking Bays: A resident raised concerns about the loss of disabled parking bays and the need for wider bays. Councillor Croft agreed to liaise with officers and review provision.

Issue Tracking

The Chiswick Area Forum continues to track several issues. Abandoned E-bikes Enforcement remains on the tracker, with previous discussions noting that while Lime bikes no longer operate in the borough, persistent issues with e-bikes remain. The FixMyStreet App issue, concerning reports being marked as closed prematurely, is being reviewed with expected improvements. The Installation of a Lift at Turnham Green Station is being pursued, with funding remaining a significant challenge. Recycling for Flats Above Shops was discussed earlier in the meeting. Gunnersbury Park Events will be monitored, with a public meeting scheduled for 24 September 2026 to discuss concerns regarding the planning decision. Chiswick House, Gardens and Conservatory Funding will remain on the tracker, with Councillors Croft and Grigg identified as lead members. Updates on Hounslow Highway Schedules were provided earlier in the meeting. Chiswick Village Development was noted as being led by Councillor Giles, who was unable to attend. The Chiswick Post Office campaign was unsuccessful in retaining a standalone post office, but lobbying secured improvements to replacement services. Dukes Road Pavement Width and Overgrowth is progressing with workable solutions being identified. Concerns regarding the proposed Cycleway 9 (CS9) Alignment on the Pavement have been added to the tracker for ongoing monitoring.

Urgent Business

25th anniversary gala dinner of the Mulberry Centre: Councillor Croft highlighted the forthcoming gala dinner for the Mulberry Centre, a cancer support charity.

Old Chiswick Preservation Society Judicial Review: John Todd drew attention to a recent High Court ruling in favour of the Old Chiswick Preservation Society regarding a planning decision challenged through judicial review.