This week in Bexley:

SEND Reform Gains Momentum as Improvement Notice Lifted, While Family Hubs Show Real-World Impact

The Children's Services and Education Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday, 13 October 2026, marking a significant step forward for Bexley's Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) services. The committee received the welcome news that the SEND improvement notice, a formal intervention by the Department for Education, has been lifted. This follows the agreement of local SEND reform plans, a testament to the collaborative efforts of officers, partners, young people, and families.

SEND Reform: A New Chapter for Support

Councillor Caroline Newton, Cabinet Member for Finance, Corporate Services and Education, announced that Bexley's plans to implement the government's SEND reform agenda have been officially agreed by the Department for Education. This agreement, coupled with the lifting of the improvement notice, signifies a positive shift. The reform plan focuses on four key areas:

• Expert Hand Offer: Providing specialist advice and support to mainstream education settings.
• Specialist Inclusion Bases: Expanding dedicated spaces within schools for pupils with SEND, with 122 opened in the first year and a further 56 planned.
• Strengthened Partnerships: Enhancing collaboration between education, health, and social care services.
• Robust Monitoring: Implementing strong accountability arrangements.

Councillor Newton expressed her gratitude to all involved, acknowledging that the committee's scrutiny and challenge during the SEND inspection were positively viewed by Ofsted. This lifting of the notice is a crucial development, aiming to ensure that children with SEND receive timely and effective support within their local community.

Best Start Family Hubs: Making a Tangible Difference

The committee also heard compelling evidence of the positive impact of the Best Start Family Hubs programme. Jade, a parent whose son Regan attends the Erith hub, and Lisa, Regan's grandmother, shared their personal experiences. They highlighted the welcoming environment and the friendships formed, but also raised a crucial point about the need for age-appropriate groups for toddlers aged 12 months to two years. Currently, groups cater for babies or older children, leaving a gap for this specific age group.

Patience Idowu, Head of Service for Early Health and MASH, confirmed that parents are generally returning visitors, underscoring the value they place on these services. The development of a parent-friendly website and an app aims to gather richer data on family engagement. The opening of the new Best Start Family Hub at Lakeside Medical Centre in Thamesmead was also highlighted, integrating family and health support and reporting 4,502 family engagements between April and August 2026.

Bexley S.H.I.E.L.D. Annual Report: Safeguarding Children and Young People

Jenny Pearce, the independent scrutineer for Bexley S.H.I.E.L.D. (Safeguarding Partnership for Children and Young People), presented the annual report for 2025-26. She described the partnership as working really effectively, with strong leadership and a committed business unit. The report detailed priorities including Getting basic child safeguarding right, with a focus on Child Sexual Abuse (CSA), and Getting our collective response to adolescent vulnerability right, with an emphasis on Equity, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EEDI) and care-experienced children.

Councillor Jeremy Fosten raised concerns about the feedback regarding the abuse of boys, questioning if this was specific to teenagers and the reasons behind non-reporting. Officers explained the national recognition of young men's difficulty in discussing experiences of violence and the ongoing work through targeted youth services to create safe spaces. The report noted that Bexley has no young people currently in prison, a positive outcome attributed to the Youth Justice Team's diversionary work.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Finance and Corporate Services Committee Reviews Insurance, Digital Transformation, and Budget

The Finance & Corporate Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday, 14 October 2026, to scrutinise key council functions, including insurance procurement, digital transformation, and budget monitoring.

Insurance Procurement: Ensuring Best Value

The committee reviewed the council's main insurance contract, which expires in June 2027. The proposed approach involves a framework procurement, continuing the mixed self-insurance and external insurance model, with the potential addition of Cyber and Human Rights Act cover. Councillors questioned the rationale for not always selecting the lowest cost option, with officers explaining the focus is on best value, which includes training and risk management support from insurers. Concerns were raised about the adequacy of information regarding new risks and the robustness of risk assessments. The addition of cyber security cover was welcomed, and assurances were given that insurers are large, multinational organisations adept at managing evolving risks, including those associated with climate change and electric vehicle batteries.

Future Bexley: Modernising Digital Capabilities

An update on the modernisation of the council's digital, data, and technology (DDaT) capabilities highlighted achievements in strengthening governance, cyber security, and infrastructure. Key initiatives include the establishment of the DDaT Board, the approval of a Zero Trust network strategy, and migration to Microsoft E5 licensing. The AI-driven web chat service demonstrated an 86.6% success rate in providing complete answers or directing users appropriately, with ongoing efforts to improve this further. The potential for cost savings through the Zero Trust Network was estimated at £800,000 in avoided capital expenditure.

Budget Monitoring and Work Programme

The committee reviewed the budget monitoring report for 2026/27, noting a forecast revenue budget overspend of £0.601m. While Children's Social Care reported an underspend, Education faced pressures from SEN transport and staffing costs for Educational Psychologists. Mitigations are in place, and transformation savings are on target. The committee also agreed its work programme, considered the Quarter 1 Bexley Status Report, and approved the scope for the Technology Rationalisation and System Integration Task and Finish Group. A suggestion was made to conduct a reality check visit to the new Waterstones once it opens.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Transport Users' Sub-Committee Scheduled to Discuss Rail and Road Issues

The Transport Users' Sub-Committee was scheduled to meet on Thursday, 15 October 2026. The agenda included updates from Transport for London (TfL) and South Eastern Railway (SER), as well as discussions on various road and rail matters affecting the borough.

TfL and SER Updates

The sub-committee was expected to receive updates on bus service performance, including statistics on high and low frequency routes and excess waiting times. Discussions were also planned regarding TfL's Corporate Environment Plan and the outcome of consultations on the DLR extension. For rail issues, South Eastern Railway was to provide information on bridge renewals, accessibility at Belvedere station, and signage to Bexley stations. Planned December timetable changes for South Eastern services, including increased frequencies and new connections, were also on the agenda.

Road Safety and Maintenance

A range of road-related matters were scheduled for discussion, including cycle network development, electric vehicle charging points, and highway maintenance programmes. Updates on accident analysis and road safety measures were anticipated, alongside information on proposed new zebra crossings and the review of controlled parking zones. The coordination of utility works on the public highway and the council's winter maintenance plan were also to be discussed.

View the full agenda and reports here.

This week in Bexley:

Housing Developments Approved Amidst Resident Concerns Over Privacy and Overdevelopment

The Planning Committee met on Thursday, 8 October 2026, and granted planning permission for four separate development applications. While officers deemed the proposals compliant with planning policies, several applications attracted significant objections from residents concerned about the impact on their quality of life.

Golf Pod Practice Facility at Crook Log Sports Centre

Permission was granted for a 'Golf Pod' practice facility at Crook Log Sports Centre. The development includes bays, an enclosed netting structure, and floodlighting. A previous meeting had deferred the decision to allow members to visit a similar facility. Numerous objections were lodged, primarily focusing on noise and light pollution, and the impact on residential amenity and parking. However, council officers were satisfied that the proposal met planning policies, and conditions were imposed to control noise and lighting hours. The development is expected to enhance sporting facilities and achieve a biodiversity net gain.

View the full agenda and reports here

Land Adjacent to 1-18 Evans Court, Sherman Close, Crayford: New Homes Approved

The committee approved the erection of a second floor to create four self-contained residential units on land adjacent to 1-18 Evans Court, Sherman Close, Crayford. The proposal involves adding a new floor to a former warehouse that was converted into maisonettes. Neighbours objected, citing concerns about overdevelopment, increased parking pressure, loss of privacy, and strain on local services. The committee was advised that the design was considered sympathetic to the area's character, and the Highway Authority raised no objections regarding parking. Conditions were applied to manage parking, cycle storage, and refuse collection.

View the full agenda and reports here

33 Hill Crescent, Bexley: Extension Approved Despite Privacy and HMO Fears

Planning permission was granted for a first-floor extension, a single-storey rear extension, and the installation of rooflights and solar panels at 33 Hill Crescent, Bexley. This application drew significant local objection, with residents worried about loss of privacy, overlooking, the scale and massing of the development, and the potential for the property to be used as a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). The applicant, Rudy Dedushaj, stated the property would remain a single-family home. Officers concluded the design was appropriate and would not cause unacceptable harm to neighbouring amenity, with conditions applied to obscure glazing on flank windows to protect privacy.

View the full agenda and reports here

176 Westwood Lane, Welling: First-Floor Extension Granted

The committee approved the erection of a first floor to a single-storey dwelling with a habitable roof space, including rear dormer windows and rooflights, and a single-storey front porch at 176 Westwood Lane, Welling. The application was called to committee due to concerns about its scale, height, and massing, potential overbearing effects on neighbours, and compliance with design guidance. Neighbours objected on grounds of parking, privacy, and loss of light. Officers determined the development would not adversely impact adjoining properties and would integrate satisfactorily into the street scene. A condition was imposed to prevent the roof area from being used as external amenity space.

View the full agenda and reports here

Recycling Performance and Planning Policy Changes Highlighted

The Places Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday, 6 October 2026, to discuss a range of issues impacting the borough, from recycling rates to the implications of national planning policy changes.

Boosting Food Waste Recycling and Tackling Contamination

A significant focus was placed on the council's recycling performance. A 24% increase in food waste recycling was noted, with the potential to generate substantial revenue if participation rates improve across the borough. Discussions also addressed the challenge of contamination in recycling streams, particularly in multi-occupancy buildings. The council is implementing a dedicated programme to engage residents in flats and multi-occupancy buildings, working with managing agents and housing providers to improve recycling habits. Concerns were also raised about the uncertainty surrounding the processing of soft plastics.

National Planning Policy Changes and Local Impact

The committee received an update on upcoming changes to planning regulations, including the shift that minor planning applications will no longer be heard by the committee. This change, driven by new government rules, was met with concern regarding a potential decrease in transparency for residents. Furthermore, the implications of the National Planning Policy Framework and the draft London Plan were discussed. It was noted that the National Planning Policy Framework weakens the influence of local plans when they conflict with national rules. The draft London Plan, while aiming for simplification, presents challenges for Bexley, including a reduced housing target and a requirement for a high proportion of one and two-bedroom homes, which conflicts with Bexley's identified need for family homes. The council intends to strongly oppose proposals that identify potential locations for development within Bexley's Green Belt.

Highways Maintenance and Youth Unemployment Initiatives

Updates were also provided on Thames Water's £150 million investment in the borough's infrastructure and progress on pedestrian crossings. The committee also heard about initiatives to address youth unemployment and the number of young people not in education, employment, or training (NEET). While Bexley's NEET rate is below the London and national average, programmes like Connect to Work and Restart are in place to support young people into employment.

View the full agenda and reports here

Adult Social Care Faces Scrutiny on Winter Preparedness and CQC Findings

The Adult Social Care & Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday, 7 October 2026. The committee reviewed the Bexley Wellbeing Partnership's Winter Preparedness and Resilience Plan for 2026/27 and the outcomes of the Care Quality Commission's (CQC) assessment of Bexley's adult social care services.

Winter Preparedness Plan Aims to Ensure Safe Care

The Bexley Wellbeing Partnership's plan for the winter period focuses on three key objectives: managing Accident and Emergency attendances, preventing unnecessary hospital admissions, and improving patient flow and discharge. Strategies include strengthening preventative measures, increasing community capacity, and enhancing patient flow through initiatives like the Home First programme and Virtual Ward step-down pathways. While the plan is largely delivered through existing budgets, risks such as workforce challenges and demand outstripping capacity were acknowledged.

CQC Assessment Highlights Strengths and Areas for Improvement

The committee was briefed on the CQC's assessment of Bexley's adult social care services, which resulted in an overall rating of 'Requires Improvement'. Key strengths identified included person-centred assessments, strong prevention services, and effective partnership working. However, areas for development were noted, such as inconsistencies in resident satisfaction, challenges in accessing services, limited engagement with some seldom-heard communities, and delays in completing care act reviews. The council has developed a communications plan and a priority action plan to address these areas, focusing on improving resident experiences, reducing review backlogs, and strengthening safeguarding practices.

View the full agenda and reports here

This week in Bexley:

Community Safety Under the Microscope: Sub-Group Explores Review of ASB and Crime

The Community Safety Scrutiny Project Sub Group met on Wednesday, 30 September 2026, to begin developing a project plan for a future review of community safety and anti-social behaviour (ASB) in Bexley. The meeting provided an overview of the borough's community safety services and outlined the ambitious scope of the proposed review.

The discussion highlighted the multifaceted nature of community safety, emphasizing partnership working between various agencies. The Community Safety team acts as a coordinating hub, relying on the powers, intelligence, and reach of partners like the Metropolitan Police, housing providers, and voluntary sector organisations. Their work focuses on preventing crime and disorder, reducing reoffending, supporting victims, and building community confidence.

The meeting also delved into the definition and categorisation of anti-social behaviour, distinguishing between personal ASB (e.g., intimidation, harassment), nuisance ASB (e.g., substance misuse, noise), and environmental ASB (e.g., vandalism, littering). The importance of distinguishing ASB from criminal offences was stressed, with a focus on addressing vulnerability, recurring harm, and community impact.

The proposed terms of reference for the scrutiny review are extensive. They aim to assess:

• The impact of reduced external funding on community safety services.
• The council's ability to meet its statutory community safety responsibilities.
• The effectiveness of current partnership arrangements with key agencies.
• The council's preparedness for new duties under the Crime and Policing Act 2026.
• How prevention, early intervention, and enforcement are prioritised amidst resource constraints.
• The effectiveness of joint working across services and partner organisations.
• Opportunities to improve the resilience, efficiency, and effectiveness of community safety delivery.

The intended outcomes of this review are to provide a clear assessment of current arrangements, identify implications of funding reductions and new legislation, and develop evidence-based recommendations for future service direction and prioritisation. This review has the potential to significantly shape how Bexley tackles crime and ASB, directly impacting residents' quality of life and sense of security.

View the full agenda and reports here.

General Purposes and Audit Committee Tackles Electoral Review, Staff Appraisals, and Audit Progress

The General Purposes and Audit Committee met on Wednesday, 30 September 2026, to address a range of critical governance and operational matters. Key discussions included the upcoming review of electoral arrangements, proposed changes to staff appraisal schemes, and updates on local government audits and risk management.

Electoral Boundaries Under Review

The committee was briefed on the Local Government Boundary Commission for England's (LGBCE) review of electoral and boundary arrangements for Bexley. This statutory process, which occurs periodically, aims to ensure electoral equality and effective representation. The review will consider the number of councillors and the boundaries of wards, with the council's final submission due in January 2027. This process is fundamental to how residents are represented and how local democracy functions, ensuring that wards are of roughly equal size and reflect community identities.

Modernising Staff Performance Management

Proposed revisions to the Performance, Wellbeing and Development (PWD) appraisal scheme were discussed, aiming to align with the council's Delivery Framework and foster a culture of transformation. The proposed changes include a simplified appraisal record, a revised structure for discussions, and a move to a five-rating system. These updates are intended to support staff development and accountability, ultimately impacting the efficiency and effectiveness of council services. The finalisation of the scheme is subject to agreement with trade unions.

Audit Landscape: Progress and Challenges

An update on local government audits highlighted the ongoing efforts to clear historic backlogs. While timeliness has improved, the report noted that widespread disclaimed opinions indicate that assurance remains incomplete. Bexley Council's progress was considered to be in line with expected timescales, placing it in the top quartile of councils in terms of preparation. This ongoing audit work is crucial for public accountability and ensuring that council finances are managed responsibly.

Risk Management and Debt Recovery

The committee also received updates on Risk Management and Debt and Debt Recovery. The importance of effective risk management was underscored, with potential impacts on the council's ability to deliver statutory duties and exposure to cyber-attacks. The debt recovery report detailed the council's processes for managing outstanding debts, highlighting significant amounts owed by various bodies. Robust debt recovery is essential for maintaining the council's financial health and ensuring that services are funded appropriately.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Other Matters

Community Safety and ASB Review Initiated

The Community Safety Scrutiny Project Sub Group met on Wednesday, 30 September 2026, to begin developing a project plan for a future review of community safety and anti-social behaviour (ASB) in Bexley. The meeting provided an overview of the borough's community safety services and outlined the ambitious scope of the proposed review. View the full agenda and reports here.

This week in Bexley:

Adult Gaming Centre Application Sparks Sidcup High Street Debate

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Thursday, 24 September 2026, to consider a controversial application for an adult gaming centre, Merkur Slots, to open on Sidcup High Street. The proposal has ignited strong feelings among residents and local representatives, who have raised significant concerns about its potential impact on the community.

The application for Merkur Slots, to be located at Unit B, Ground Floor, 83 Sidcup High Street, Sidcup, Kent, DA14 6DN, was met with 20 representations from interested parties, though no objections were formally raised by responsible authorities. The applicant, Merkur Slots UK Limited, outlined the types of gaming machines permitted under an adult gaming centre licence, including those with higher stakes and prizes.

However, local residents and Councillor Andy Curtois voiced significant worries. Concerns included potential increases in crime and disorder, anti-social behaviour, noise disturbance, and the impact on vulnerable residents and children. The proximity of the proposed 24-hour operation to residential properties and a bus stop was a particular point of anxiety. Residents also questioned the suitability of the location within Sidcup's developing cultural hub.

The applicant's report detailed measures to manage risks, such as the Challenge 25 policy and staff training on safeguarding. They also highlighted potential benefits like occupying a vacant unit, investment, and job creation. Despite these assurances, the depth of resident concern suggests a significant challenge for the council in balancing economic development with community well-being. The committee was tasked with deciding whether to grant the licence, reject it, or attach conditions, a decision that will undoubtedly be closely watched by the Sidcup community.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Pension Fund Navigates Market Volatility and Investment Strategy

The Pensions Committee convened on Thursday, 24 September 2026, to review the financial health and investment performance of the Bexley Pension Fund. The discussions highlighted the complexities of managing a large pension fund in the face of market volatility and evolving regulatory landscapes.

Investment Performance Trails Benchmarks

A key takeaway from the meeting was the fund's investment performance for the quarter ending 30 June 2026. While the fund's valuation saw a marginal increase, driven by positive equity market performance, its overall return of 4.8% lagged behind its benchmark return of 5.6%. This underperformance extended over longer periods, with the fund also lagging its benchmark from one to five years. The total market value of the fund's investments stood at £1.10 billion as of 30 June 2026.

The committee also reviewed the draft annual report for 2025/26, which showed a fund value of £1.08 billion as at 31 March 2026. Despite a net increase of £43.9 million over the year, the fund's return of 6.0% for the year placed it in the bottom decile of comparable funds. This was largely attributed to weaker equity returns and a lower allocation to equities.

Strategic Investment and Responsible Investment Focus

Despite the performance figures, the committee discussed the fund's investment strategy, including its approach to responsible investment. The revised Investment Strategy Statement (ISS) was presented, outlining objectives, risk appetite, and the fund's commitment to responsible investment principles. Discussions also touched upon the fund's belief setting for responsible investment, including climate ambition and stewardship approaches, aiming to inform a more formal approach to RI.

The committee also received updates on the administration of the fund, financial performance, and cashflow analysis, all crucial for ensuring the long-term security of pensions for current and future retirees. The ongoing implementation of the McCloud remedy and the Pensions Dashboards programme were also noted as key administrative priorities.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Council Standards Committee Addresses Code of Conduct Complaints

The Members' Code of Conduct Committee met on Wednesday, 23 September 2026, to review the handling of complaints under the Members' Code of Conduct and to plan for the recruitment of Independent Persons. The meeting provided insight into how the council upholds ethical standards among its elected officials.

Low Number of Formal Investigations

The committee was informed that between 31 March 2026 and 8 September 2026, four complaints were received under the Members' Code of Conduct. Of these, one was resolved with an apology, another concluded with apologies and recommended training, and a third was not upheld. A fourth complaint did not proceed as the member was no longer a councillor. Crucially, no full investigations were required, and no consultation with Independent Persons was necessary. This suggests a relatively low level of serious breaches requiring formal investigation during this period.

Gifts and Hospitality Registration

The committee also noted two notifications regarding gifts and hospitality exceeding £100.00. One offer was refused, while the other related to attendance at the London Real Estate Forum. Councillors were reminded of their obligation to register any gift or hospitality with an estimated value of at least £100 within 28 days of receipt, or any significant offer refused. This transparency is vital for maintaining public trust.

Upcoming Changes to Standards Framework

The committee was updated on government proposals to strengthen the standards and conduct framework for local authorities. While legislation has not yet been enacted, the government has indicated intentions to introduce a mandatory code of conduct, formal standards committees, suspension powers, and a national appeals mechanism. This suggests potential future changes to how conduct issues are managed at the local level.

Recruitment of Independent Persons

The committee also discussed the upcoming recruitment of two Independent Persons, whose terms of office will end in May 2027. These individuals play a crucial role in the standards process, providing an independent perspective on complaints. The recruitment process will ensure that the council continues to meet its statutory requirement to appoint at least one Independent Person.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Other Matters

Top Management Review Panel Discusses Officer Performance

The Top Management Review Panel met on Tuesday, 22 September 2026, to review the performance of senior council officers. The panel discussed probation objectives for the Director of Place and mid-year reviews for other directors and the Chief Executive. The meeting also addressed the process for excluding the press and public from discussions involving personal information, as is standard practice when dealing with individual performance matters.

View the full agenda and reports here.