This week in City of London:

Pension Fund Faces Scrutiny Over Investment Strategy and Governance

The Local Government Pensions Board met on Monday 12 January 2026 to review the Board's terms of reference, receive updates on the Pensions Committee's activities, and discuss various reports concerning the administration and governance of the Local Government Pension Scheme. The meeting also included updates on the scheme's financial statements, risk register, and communications to members. Link to Local Government Pensions Board Meeting

• Terms of Reference Review: The Board considered an annual review of its Terms of Reference, a standard procedure to ensure alignment with statutory duties. The proposed terms of reference are set to be approved for submission to the Court of Common Council in April 2026.
• Pensions Committee Oversight: Updates were provided on the activities of the Pensions Committee, offering the Board oversight of the scheme's governance and administration.
• Scheme Administration and Risk: Reports covered the administration of the pension scheme, including record keeping, complaint handling, and the Pension Administration System. The Board also reviewed the Risk Register for the Pensions Committee, identifying key risks and mitigation measures.
• Transfers-Out and Scams: A report detailed the processes and precautions for transfers out of the pension scheme, following recommendations from a compliance review. This aims to protect scheme members from potential scams.
• Financial Statements and Audit: The Board received an update on the audit findings for the 2024/25 Draft Statement of Accounts for the City Fund and Pension Fund.
• 'Fair Access' Consultation: The Board was to receive a report summarising the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Levelling Up's consultation on the Local Government Pension Scheme concerning 'Scheme Improvements (Access and Protections)', commonly referred to as the LGPS Fair Access Consultation. This could impact how members access their pensions.
• Member Communications: Copies of standard letters and communications issued to scheme members, including the 2025 Annual Benefit Statement, were presented.

The comprehensive review of these matters highlights the ongoing efforts to ensure the robust and transparent management of the Local Government Pension Scheme, with a particular focus on member protection and financial oversight.

Finance Committee Tackles Budgetary Challenges and Local Government Funding

The Finance Committee met on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, to address the City Corporation's financial planning and operational efficiency. Key discussions included the draft Chamberlain's Business Plan for 2026-29, an update on local government provisional settlements, and a review of financial controls. Link to Finance Committee Meeting

• Chamberlain's Business Plan: The committee reviewed the draft Business Plan for the Chamberlain's Department, focusing on operational excellence, digital transformation, and entrepreneurial spirit, all underpinned by equity, equality, diversity, and inclusion (EEDI).
• Local Government Funding Uncertainty: A significant concern was the Provisional Local Government Finance Settlement for 2026/27. The City Corporation has received a one-year settlement, unlike other local authorities which have secured three-year settlements. This disparity, particularly concerning the City's unique role in providing services on behalf of London or the nation, requires ongoing dialogue with government. The removal of the referendum threshold for certain authorities for future years also presents a complex financial landscape.
• Strengthening Financial Controls: An update from Internal Audit highlighted the need to consistently embed good practice in financial controls across all operations to strengthen the control environment.
• 'Connect to Work' Programme Transition: The committee was informed about the transfer of the 'Connect to Work' programme contract from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to the Greater London Authority (GLA) from April 2026, a change that will not affect funding levels or targets.
• Risk Management Focus: The Chamberlain's Departmental Risk Management Update identified two RED risks on the Corporate Risk Register: Unsustainable Medium-Term Finances – City Fund and Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Finances. Mitigation efforts are underway for the HRA risk.

These discussions underscore the complex financial environment facing local government, with particular attention paid to securing adequate funding and maintaining robust financial controls.

Audit and Risk Management Committee Reviews Governance and Recruitment

The Audit and Risk Management Committee convened on Monday, 12 January 2026, to review its terms of reference, discuss risk management updates, and consider the internal audit charter. The meeting also covered the mid-year treasury management review and the recruitment of external representatives to the committee. Link to Audit and Risk Management Committee Meeting

• Governance Framework: The committee undertook its annual review of its Terms of Reference, ensuring alignment with statutory duties and business-enabling functions.
• Recruitment of External Members: A new approach to recruiting external representatives was discussed, moving towards an open, rolling recruitment process to address previous recruitment challenges and ensure the committee remains inquorate.
• Risk Management Enhancements: The committee received an update on the City of London Corporation's risk management framework, including progress on implementing a new risk appetite approach and enhancing organisational understanding of risk.
• Internal Audit Charter Approval: The Internal Audit Charter was presented for approval, a mandatory document outlining the purpose, authority, and reporting structure of the Internal Audit function, crucial for providing assurance on risk management, control, and governance processes.
• Treasury Management Review: The mid-year review of the Treasury Management Strategy Statement and Annual Investment Strategy for 2025/26 was conducted, focusing on economic and market developments, cash balances, and investment returns, with a priority on security and liquidity.
• Outstanding Actions and Work Programme: Members reviewed the committee's outstanding actions list and its forward work programme.

The committee's work is vital in ensuring the City Corporation operates with strong governance, effective risk management, and robust internal controls.

Hampstead Heath Consultative Committee Discusses Five-Year Plan and Fundraising

The Hampstead Heath Consultative Committee met on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, to discuss the five-year business plan for Hampstead Heath, an overview of fundraising efforts for North London Open Spaces, and an update on senior officer recruitment. Link to Hampstead Heath Consultative Committee Meeting

• Hampstead Heath Business Plan: The committee reviewed the draft five-year business plan for Hampstead Heath, outlining workstreams, resourcing, and delivery over the coming years. This plan aims to articulate priorities within a resource-constrained environment and align with corporate and natural environment strategies.
• Fundraising for Open Spaces: An overview of fundraising efforts for North London Open Spaces (NLOS) was presented, focusing on building a sustainable fundraising function to support Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood & Queen's Park Charity, and West Ham Park Charity.
• Senior Officer Recruitment: The committee was informed about the recruitment process for a new Deputy Director for the Natural Environment Division, with interim arrangements and an external recruitment process to follow.
• Operational Updates: Reports provided updates on various activities at Hampstead Heath, including the Model Boating Pond project, flood management, tree management, and the Camden Nature Corridor initiative. An update from Heath Hands, a charity delivering conservation and community programmes, was also received.
• Budget and Ponds: Verbal updates were provided on the budget for 2026/27 and the Hampstead Heath Ponds.

The committee's discussions highlight the ongoing commitment to managing and enhancing Hampstead Heath, with a focus on strategic planning, financial sustainability, and community engagement.

Inner North East London Health Committee Addresses Hospice Closure and Financial Pressures

The Inner North East London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, to discuss the future of Richard House Children's Hospice, receive a health update from NHS North East London, and review the committee's finance overview. Link to Inner North East London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee Meeting

• Richard House Children's Hospice Closure: A significant item was the closure of Richard House Children's Hospice, with the Integrated Care Board (ICB) working with Haven House Children's Hospice to provide continued support to affected families. While a group of parents is keen to reinstate services, the administration process is likely irreversible. The ICB's priority is a safe transfer of families and establishing a sustainable model for children's hospice provision.
• NHS North East London Health Update: The committee received a comprehensive health update from the Chief Executive of NHS North East London, covering provider updates, organisational changes within the ICB, the NHS 10 Year Plan, and winter pressure planning. The ICB is undergoing restructuring to reduce running costs, and a coordinated system response to winter pressures is in place.
• Financial Deficit: A concerning finance overview revealed a planned system deficit of £28m, with an actual year-to-date deficit of £69.8m. This adverse variance is attributed primarily to providers, with efficiency slippage and run rate pressures being key concerns. The report highlights the likelihood of not meeting the annual plan without identified recovery opportunities.
• Scrutiny Report and Forward Plan: The committee considered a scrutiny report, including an updated Forward Plan for its work, inviting members to suggest items for future consideration.

The committee's discussions highlight the critical challenges facing children's hospice care and the significant financial pressures within NHS North East London, impacting service delivery and future planning.

Court of Common Council Approves Facilities Management Strategy and Fee Increases

The Court of Common Council met on Thursday, 15 January 2026, to consider several key financial and operational matters. The meeting included proposals for an integrated facilities management (IFM) approach, an increase in charges at the Heathrow Animal Reception Centre (HARC), and appointments to the City of London Police Authority Board. Link to Court of Common Council Meeting

• Integrated Facilities Management (IFM): The Court approved proposals for an integrated facilities management (IFM) approach across the City Corporation's non-housing property portfolio until 2033. This strategy aims to consolidate further facilities management contracts, delivering financial and operational efficiencies through economies of scale.
• Heathrow Animal Reception Centre (HARC) Charges: The Port Health and Environmental Services Committee sought and received approval for an increase in charges at HARC, effective from April 2026. This includes introducing higher fees for airlines that do not utilise HARC for all their live animal imports, ensuring fairer cost recovery.
• Police Authority Board Appointments: The Court approved the appointment of Randall Anderson as an External Member to the City of London Police Authority Board and the re-appointment of Andrew Lentin for a third and final term, requiring a waiver of the existing two-term limit.
• City Bridge Foundation Report: The Annual Report and Financial Statements for City Bridge Foundation (CBF) for the year ended 31 March 2025 were presented, detailing bridge maintenance and significant grant-making activities focused on tackling inequality.
• Legislation Update: The City Remembrancer provided a report on parliamentary measures affecting the City Corporation, including updates on the Planning and Infrastructure Act and the Employment Rights Act.
• Freedom of the City: Applications for the Freedom of the City by Redemption were presented for consideration.
• Policy and Resources Matters: The Policy & Resources Committee presented proposals for the adoption of a corporate Conflicts of Interest Policy. The Corporate Services Committee proposed the creation of a Grade I post. A joint report from the Policy & Resources Committee and the Finance Committee provided an update on the Housing Revenue Account. The Investment Committee reported on actions taken under urgency procedures concerning a property transaction.

The Court's decisions reflect a focus on efficient service delivery, financial prudence, and strategic development across various City Corporation functions.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Planning and Transportation Committee on Monday 19 January 2026 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Culture, Heritage and Libraries Committee on Monday 19 January 2026 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Port Health & Environmental Services Committee on Tuesday 20 January 2026 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Corporate Services Committee on Wednesday 21 January 2026 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Markets Board on Wednesday 21 January 2026 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Digital Services Committee on Thursday 22 January 2026 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Education Board on Thursday 22 January 2026 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Civic Affairs Sub-Committee on Friday 23 January 2026 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Epping Forest & Commons Committee on Monday 26 January 2026 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Barbican Estate Residents Consultation Committee on Monday 26 January 2026 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Resource Allocation Sub (Policy and Resources) Committee on Tuesday 27 January 2026 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Community & Children's Services Committee on Wednesday 28 January 2026 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Projects and Procurement Sub-Committee on Wednesday 28 January 2026 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The West Ham Park Committee on Thursday 29 January 2026 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Natural Environment Board on Thursday 29 January 2026 will meet. Link to Meeting

This week in City of London:

Social Housing Investment Approved Amidst Concerns Over Housing Standards

The Court of Common Council approved the allocation of up to £151.77m from the City Fund to support major works on its social housing stock, addressing a critical funding gap in the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). This decision comes after reports that a lack of planned maintenance and rising building costs have made it unaffordable to bring the existing housing stock up to a good standard. Link to Court of Common Council Meeting

• Housing Crisis Averted? The investment aims to prevent the Regulator for Social Housing (RSH) from deeming the City Corporation unfit to manage its housing stock, which includes approximately 3,000 units across multiple London boroughs.
• Decent Homes Upgrades: The funding will support a costed programme of works, including decent home upgrades, roof works, decarbonisation, lighting and accessibility improvements, lift refurbishment, internal redecoration, communal flooring, and electrical upgrades.
• Transparency Concerns: While the Chamberlain assured committees that all available funding options were thoroughly evaluated, including the potential use of the City's Estate, some may question why this level of investment was not planned for earlier.

This decision could significantly improve the living conditions for thousands of social housing residents, but questions remain about the long-term sustainability of the HRA and the need for proactive maintenance planning.

Pan-London Sexual Health Service Awarded £235 Million Contract Amidst High Satisfaction Rates

The Court of Common Council approved a five-year contract, with the option to extend for up to a further 48 months, for the Pan London Sexual Health Programme eService (SHL.UK). The estimated contract value is £235 million over 9 years, with annual costs rising from £22 million to £29 million. Link to Court of Common Council Meeting

• Discreet and Convenient: The SHL.UK service provides a discreet, convenient, and cost-effective online platform for sexual health testing and treatment.
• High Satisfaction: The service boasts a 99% service user satisfaction rate and has been recognized for its environmental sustainability.
• Public Health Grant Funded: The City of London Corporation only pays for the use of the service by its own residents, and the service is funded by The Public Health Grant.

This decision ensures the continuation of a vital public health service that has proven to be highly effective and well-received by users.

City Plan 2040 Modifications Proposed, Sparking Debate on Heritage and Development

The Court of Common Council will consult on proposed Main and Additional Modifications to the City Plan 2040, a new local plan setting the policies and strategic priorities that will guide the growth of the Square Mile up to 2040. Link to Court of Common Council Meeting

• Heritage Focus: Many changes relate to heritage and tall buildings, including clarifications on preserving Conservation Areas[^2], using the St Paul's Setting Study in assessments, and changes to the contours at the southeastern corner of the City Cluster and to include a new tall building site at Broadgate.
• Soundness Concerns: The Planning Inspectors have prepared a list of proposed Main and Additional Modifications to the plan, with the Main Modifications reflecting changes deemed necessary to make the plan 'sound'.
• Consultation Period: Following approval, the Main and Additional Modifications will be consulted upon for 6 weeks, and the City Plan 2040 will be brought back to all committees in Summer 2026 to seek approval for adoption.

This consultation period provides an opportunity for residents and stakeholders to voice their opinions on the proposed modifications and shape the future development of the City.

Other Matters

• The Court of Common Council approved the annual On-Street Parking Accounts for 2024/25, noting a surplus of £9.04m and planned expenditure of £112.7m on highway improvements and other projects over the medium term. Link to Court of Common Council Meeting
• The Court of Common Council formally thanked the late Alderman Alastair John Naisbitt King DL for his service as Lord Mayor of the City of London. Link to Court of Common Council Meeting
• The Court of Aldermen considered applications for the Freedom of the City from a diverse group of individuals, including business leaders, artists, and public servants. Link to Court of Aldermen Meeting
• The Natural Environment Board discussed the 2026/27 budget, fees and charges for City Gardens, and responsible dog ownership. Link to Natural Environment Board Meeting
• The City of London Police Authority Board discussed performance updates, subcommittee reports, and the future of the City of London Police estate. Link to City of London Police Authority Board Meeting
• The Communications & Corporate Affairs Sub (Policy & Resources) Committee discussed a strategic branding review, political party conferences, and an update to the Square Mile Sport Strategy. Link to Communications & Corporate Affairs Sub (Policy & Resources) Committee Meeting
• The Streets and Walkways Sub (Planning and Transportation) Committee discussed street improvement projects, including the St Paul's Gyratory Transformation Project and the Fenchurch Street Area Healthy Streets Plan. Link to Streets and Walkways Sub (Planning and Transportation) Committee Meeting
• The People, Culture & Inclusion Committee of the Barbican Centre Board discussed the draft Equity, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EEDI) Strategic Framework and an update on the Barbican Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Strategy. Link to People, Culture & Inclusion Committee of the Barbican Centre Board Meeting
• The Finance and Risk Committee of the Barbican Centre Board discussed the annual budget, a review of the Barbican's business operations, and updates on sustainability, health and safety, cyber security, and risk management. Link to Finance and Risk Committee of the Barbican Centre Board Meeting
• The Member Development and Standards Sub Committee discussed the Member Learning and Development Strategy and a rolling programme of training events. Link to Member Development and Standards Sub Committee Meeting
• The Finance Committee approved the operational budget estimates for 2026/27, allocated funds from the International Disaster Fund, and addressed the Housing Revenue Account position. Link to Finance Committee Meeting
• The General Purposes Committee of Aldermen discussed the City of London Corporation's budget, the transfer of trusteeship of the Samuel Wilson Loan Charity, and the disposal of 1 Queen Victoria Street. Link to General Purposes Committee of Aldermen Meeting
• The Policy and Resources Committee discussed a ward boundary review, strategic branding, the Square Mile Sport Strategy, and the Sculpture in the City programme. Link to Policy and Resources Committee Meeting
• The West Ham Park Committee discussed the park's budget for 2026/27 and reviewed a report from the Assistant Director of North London Open Spaces. Link to West Ham Park Committee Meeting
• The Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood and Queen's Park Committee approved the revenue and capital budgets for 2026/27 for Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood and Queen's Park. Link to Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood and Queen's Park Committee Meeting
• The Senior Remuneration Sub-Committee discussed a report from the Interim Chief People Officer and Executive Director of Human Resources. Link to Senior Remuneration Sub-Committee Meeting
• The Culture, Heritage and Libraries Committee approved two blue plaque proposals, rejected one, and deferred a decision on the Sculpture in the City programme pending further information. Link to Culture, Heritage and Libraries Committee Meeting

This week in City of London:

Pensions Committee to Discuss 'Fair Access' Consultation Amidst Concerns for Vulnerable Workers

The Pensions Committee is set to discuss the Local Government Pension Scheme 'Fair Access' Consultation, a move that could significantly impact access to pensions for elected mayors, councillors, and outsourced staff. The consultation includes proposals to raise the Normal Minimum Pension Age (NMPA) from 55 to 57, potentially affecting vulnerable workers who rely on early access to their pensions. Link to Pensions Committee Meeting

• NMPA Increase: The government proposes increasing the NMPA from 55 to 57 from 6 April 2028, with protections for certain members. This could delay retirement plans for some and create financial uncertainty.
• LGPS Access: The government proposes extending LGPS access to councillors and mayors in England, including those of the City of London. This could provide financial security for elected officials but raises questions about fairness and resource allocation.
• New Fair Deal: The government seeks to implement New Fair Deal in local government, ensuring continuity of LGPS membership for staff outsourced to contractors. This could protect the pension rights of vulnerable workers who are often subject to precarious employment conditions.

The committee will also review its terms of reference and receive updates on pension scheme administration, including measures to prevent pension scams and ensure accurate record-keeping. Failure to maintain accurate records could lead to fines or enforcement action from the Pensions Regulator.

Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting Service Faces Scrutiny Amidst Rising Complaints

The Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting and Analysis Service Procurement Committee met to discuss the Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting and Analysis Service (FCCRAS), a critical initiative aimed at combating the growing threat of cybercrime. The committee was scheduled to decide on whether to 'go live' with the service, review its progress, and examine a report by the National Infrastructure & Service Transformation Authority (NISTA). Link to Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting and Analysis Service Procurement Committee Meeting

• 'Go Live' Decision: The committee was scheduled to decide on whether to 'go live' with the FCCRAS, a decision that could significantly impact the City of London Police's ability to respond to cybercrime incidents.
• Progress Report: The committee was scheduled to discuss the FCCRAS Regular Progress Report for December 2025, providing insights into the service's development and implementation.
• NISTA Review: The committee was scheduled to receive a report on a Gateway 4 Review of the FCCRAS Programme by the National Infrastructure & Service Transformation Authority (NISTA), offering an independent assessment of the service's readiness.

The meeting comes at a time when cybercrime is on the rise, and the City of London Police is facing increasing pressure to protect businesses and residents from online threats.

City Bridge Foundation Awards Millions in Grants to Support Vulnerable Londoners

The Funding Committee of the City Bridge Foundation Board met to discuss budget monitoring, grant funding activity, and the progress of LocalMotion, a collaborative effort to address structural injustices in towns and cities. The committee approved millions in grants to support a wide range of organizations working with vulnerable Londoners. Link to Funding Committee of the City Bridge Foundation Board Meeting

• LocalMotion Update: The committee received an update on LocalMotion, a project supporting place-based change and community empowerment in Enfield. The project uses the voices of people with lived experience of mental health issues to drive systems change in mental health provision.
• Grant Funding Activity: The committee received a report detailing funds approved and rejected under delegated authority, with a net grant spend of £36.1 million to date in 2025/26.
• Budget Monitoring: The committee received a financial update on CBF Funding activities, with a revised grants commitments forecast for the year of £50.1 million.

The grants awarded by the City Bridge Foundation will provide vital support to organizations working to address a range of social issues, including poverty, homelessness, and violence against women and girls.

Other Matters

• The Investment Committee discussed the Treasury Management Mid Year Review, an update to the City Surveyor's Business Plan, and a risk register update. The committee also discussed several items relating to the City's Estate in private session, including a potential development site in the Puddle Dock area. Link to Investment Committee Meeting
• The Corporate Services Committee was scheduled to receive an update on Programme Sapphire, a project to replace the City of London Corporation's legacy HR and finance systems. The go-live date for Wave 2, Core HR & Payroll, had been moved from December 2025 to January 2026 to address data issues. Link to Corporate Services Committee Meeting
• The Planning and Transportation Committee was scheduled to consider a report regarding a review of the Carbon Options Guidance Planning Advice Note (COG PAN), which sets out a methodology for estimating and comparing the whole life-cycle carbon emissions of multiple development options for a specific site. Link to Planning and Transportation Committee Meeting
• The Professionalism and Trust Committee (Police) was scheduled to discuss updates on equity, diversity, and inclusion, professional standards, and stop and search procedures within the City of London Police. Link to Professionalism and Trust Committee (Police) Meeting
• The Freedom Applications Sub (Policy & Resources) Committee met. No video was provided. Link to Freedom Applications Sub (Policy & Resources) Committee Meeting
• The Community & Children's Services Committee meeting was cancelled. Link to Community & Children's Services Committee Meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• The Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood and Queen's Park Committee on Monday 08 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Culture, Heritage and Libraries Committee on Monday 08 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Finance and Risk Committee of the Barbican Centre Board on Monday 08 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Senior Remuneration Sub-Committee on Monday 08 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Court of Aldermen on Tuesday 09 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Finance Committee on Tuesday 09 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Streets and Walkways Sub (Planning and Transportation) Committee on Tuesday 09 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The General Purposes Committee of Aldermen on Tuesday 09 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Member Development and Standards Sub Committee on Tuesday 09 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The City of London Police Authority Board on Wednesday 10 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Communications & Corporate Affairs Sub (Policy & Resources) Committee on Wednesday 10 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The People, Culture & Inclusion Committee of the Barbican Centre Board on Wednesday 10 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Natural Environment Board on Thursday 11 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Policy and Resources Committee on Thursday 11 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The West Ham Park Committee on Thursday 11 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• A meeting will be held on Friday 12 December 2025. Link to Meeting
• The Court of Common Council on Friday 12 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting

This week in City of London:

Housing Committee to Decide on Anti-Social Behaviour Policy Amidst Resident Concerns

The Housing Management and Almshouses Sub (Community and Children's Services) Committee is set to decide on an updated Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Policy, a move that could significantly impact residents' quality of life. The policy aims to address issues ranging from noise complaints to harassment, but without a transcript of the discussions, it's unclear how resident concerns have been incorporated. Link to Housing Management and Almshouses Sub (Community and Children's Services) Committee Meeting

• Policy Overhaul: The committee will review and potentially adopt a new ASB Policy, outlining procedures for reporting, investigating, and resolving ASB cases.
• Legacy Project Closures: Decisions will be made on closing several long-standing projects, including balcony screens and fire door replacements at Petticoat Tower, and cold water distribution system replacements at Middlesex Street Estate and York Way Estate.
• Tenant Satisfaction: The committee will receive information on tenant satisfaction measures, but it remains to be seen how this data will translate into tangible improvements for residents.

The updated ASB policy and project closures come at a time when many residents are already struggling with the cost of living crisis, and any changes to housing services could have a significant impact on their well-being.

Environment Committee to Discuss Heathrow Animal Reception Centre Fees, Potentially Impacting Pet Owners

The Port Health & Environmental Services Committee is scheduled to discuss proposed changes to fees at the Heathrow Animal Reception Centre (HARC), a move that could increase costs for pet owners importing animals into Greater London. The committee will also discuss the Environment Department Business Plan, risk management, and the Tobacco and Vapes Bill. Link to Port Health & Environmental Services Committee Meeting

• HARC Fee Review: The committee will consider a report recommending higher fees for airlines that don't have a Service Level Agreement with HARC for pet imports.
• Environment Plan Update: The committee will receive a mid-year update on the Environment Department's Business Plan 2025-30, covering port health, public protection, and cleansing services.
• Tobacco and Vapes Bill: The committee will discuss the implications of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which aims to create a smoke-free generation and make vaping less attractive to young people.

The proposed changes to HARC fees could disproportionately affect pet owners who rely on specific airlines or services, while the Tobacco and Vapes Bill could have implications for local businesses selling these products.

Digital Services Committee to Decide on Door Access Control System Convergence, Raising Security and Privacy Questions

The Digital Services Committee is set to decide on a proposal to merge Door Access Control Systems (DACS) across the City of London Corporation, integrating them with the new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system and Microsoft 365 (M365). This move raises questions about data security, privacy, and the potential for increased surveillance. Link to Digital Services Committee Meeting

• System Integration: The committee will consider merging DACS across the City Corporation, aiming to improve operational efficiency, security, and emergency preparedness.
• Programme Sapphire Update: The committee will receive an update on Programme Sapphire, the City of London Corporation's project to replace legacy HR and finance systems with a modern Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solution.
• Enterprise Architecture: The committee will discuss the strategic technology direction required to deliver the Corporate Plan 2024–2029 and related strategies.

The DACS convergence proposal could have significant implications for the security and privacy of City Corporation employees and visitors, while the Programme Sapphire update will provide insights into the progress of this major IT project.

Other Matters

• The Capital Buildings Board met to discuss property-related items, including the disposal of a former magistrates' court, updates to the Salisbury Square Development, and property matters related to the City of London Police. Link to Capital Buildings Board Meeting
• The Barbican Centre Board met to discuss a contract extension and the renewal of the Barbican Centre. Due to the confidential nature of some of the information, parts of the meeting were held in private. Link to Barbican Centre Board Meeting
• The Joint Consultative Committee was scheduled to discuss items raised by the GMB and Unite, and by the City of London Corporation, including the Union Recognition Agreement and Partnership Agreement, and the results and recommendations of a GMB AI in the workplace member survey. No video was provided. Link to Joint Consultative Committee Meeting
• The City Bridge Foundation Board met. No video was provided. Link to City Bridge Foundation Board Meeting
• The Epping Forest & Commons Committee are scheduled to meet on Thursday, 27 November 2025 to discuss a range of topics including budget updates, risk management, and ongoing projects in Epping Forest, Burnham Beeches, and other commons managed by the City of London Corporation. Link to Epping Forest & Commons Committee Meeting
• The Safeguarding Sub (Community & Children's Services) Committee meeting was cancelled. Link to Safeguarding Sub (Community & Children's Services) Committee Meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• The Community & Children's Services Committee on Monday 01 December 2025 has been cancelled. Link to Meeting
• The Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting and Analysis Service Procurement Committee on Monday 01 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Investment Committee on Monday 01 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Planning and Transportation Committee on Tuesday 02 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Professionalism and Trust Committee (Police) on Tuesday 02 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Funding Committee of the City Bridge Foundation Board on Tuesday 02 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Freedom Applications Sub (Policy & Resources) Committee on Tuesday 02 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Corporate Services Committee on Wednesday 03 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Pensions Committee on Wednesday 03 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood and Queen's Park Committee on Monday 08 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Culture, Heritage and Libraries Committee on Monday 08 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Finance and Risk Committee of the Barbican Centre Board on Monday 08 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Court of Aldermen on Tuesday 09 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Finance Committee on Tuesday 09 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Streets and Walkways Sub (Planning and Transportation) Committee on Tuesday 09 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The General Purposes Committee of Aldermen on Tuesday 09 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Member Development and Standards Sub Committee on Tuesday 09 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The City of London Police Authority Board on Wednesday 10 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Communications & Corporate Affairs Sub (Policy & Resources) Committee on Wednesday 10 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The People, Culture & Inclusion Committee of the Barbican Centre Board on Wednesday 10 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Natural Environment Board on Thursday 11 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The Policy and Resources Committee on Thursday 11 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• The West Ham Park Committee on Thursday 11 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting
• A meeting will be held on Friday 12 December 2025. Link to Meeting
• The Court of Common Council on Friday 12 December 2025 will meet. Link to Meeting