This week in Enfield:

Enfield Town Liveable Neighbourhood Project Faces Scrutiny Over Traffic Chaos and Closures

The Overview & Scrutiny Committee met on Monday, 23 February 2026, to scrutinise a controversial decision regarding Phase 2B of the Enfield Town Liveable Neighbourhood Project (ETLN). The project, which aims to create more pedestrian-friendly areas and improve cycling infrastructure, has drawn significant criticism from some councillors and residents over its implementation, particularly concerning the introduction of Red Routes and the closure of St Andrews Road.

The call-in, initiated by several councillors, highlighted concerns that the new Red Routes in Church Street, The Town, and Silver Street are causing traffic gridlock, making access to Enfield Town difficult for visitors and negatively impacting local businesses. Residents and businesses have reported increased congestion and slower journey times, raising questions about the project's impact on air pollution and overall accessibility.

Furthermore, the closure of St Andrews Road at its junction with Southbury Road has been a major point of contention. Concerns have been raised about the enforcement of emergency vehicle access only, and the unaddressed impact on surrounding roads such as Fir Tree Walk, users of Enfield Civic Centre carpark, Churchbury Lane, Fyfield Road, Calder Close, Orchard Way, and Willow Road. The impact on a local care home was also specifically mentioned, raising fears about access for residents and emergency services.

The area outside Enfield Town Station also saw changes, with a relocated dropping-off point. While improvements were acknowledged, critics fear this could encourage illegal drop-offs and pick-ups, compromising road safety and traffic flow. Challenges for those with mobility issues and the need to cross a cycle lane were also highlighted.

Council officers responded by explaining that the scheme is still being implemented and that temporary disruption is expected. They detailed how traffic flow, journey times, and business vitality are being considered. For the closure of St Andrews Road, the rationale and monitoring plans were outlined. Regarding the area outside Enfield Town Station, the rationale for the relocation and proposed safety measures were explained.

Councillor Michael Rye OBE, the lead member for the call-in, recommended that the decision be referred to Full Council for further consideration. This indicates the depth of concern surrounding the project's impact on daily life for many residents and businesses in Enfield Town.

• Find out more: Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting details

Council Sets Course for 2026/27: Budget, Capital Investment, and Housing Plans Take Centre Stage

Enfield Council's Cabinet met on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, to lay the groundwork for the borough's financial future, approving key reports on the 2026/27 budget, the ten-year capital programme, and ambitious housing development plans. These decisions will shape the services residents receive and the infrastructure that underpins community life for years to come.

Budget and Financial Planning for 2026/27

The Cabinet reviewed the proposed General Fund revenue budget for 2026/27, totalling £438.969m, and the Medium-Term Financial Plan (MTFP) extending to 2030/31. The report detailed proposed efficiencies and savings of £11.960m for the upcoming year. Crucially, the Cabinet also considered the proposed Council Tax levels for 2026/27. While specific figures are subject to final Council approval, the report indicated a focus on protecting frontline services, with no proposed reductions to essential support for residents. This approach aims to balance financial prudence with the ongoing demand for services, particularly in areas like social care and homelessness support.

A Decade of Investment: The Capital Programme

The Council's investment plans for the next ten years were also on the agenda, with the proposed Capital Strategy and Programme for 2026/27 to 2035/36. This ambitious programme, totalling £2.06 billion, outlines planned spending on housing, schools, roads, and parks. Key areas of investment include significant funding for temporary accommodation solutions, the ongoing development at Meridian Water, and substantial investment in the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) for existing stock and new homes. This long-term investment strategy is designed to ensure the council's infrastructure remains fit for purpose and to support the borough's growth and development.

Housing Delivery and Regeneration: Meridian Water and Estate Renewal

The Cabinet received updates on major housing initiatives, including the Meridian Water project, a transformative regeneration scheme promising new homes and amenities. The report sought approval to explore market opportunities to accelerate delivery. Furthermore, the Cabinet was asked to approve the award of a contract for Phases 0–1 of the Joyce and Snells Estate Regeneration Scheme, a project that will deliver new affordable homes and community facilities. The Council's commitment to delivering thousands of affordable homes over the next decade was reinforced through the proposed Housing Delivery & Placemaking Ten Year Plan 2026–36.

Supporting Vulnerable Children and Young People

A report seeking approval for the development of a new children's home in Enfield was also presented. This initiative, funded by a Department for Education (DfE) grant and Council borrowing, aims to provide specialist therapeutic provision within the borough for children and young people with complex needs. This is a vital step in reducing reliance on out-of-borough placements and improving outcomes for some of the borough's most vulnerable residents.

• Find out more: Cabinet meeting details

Planning Committee Approves Major Developments Near Cockfosters Station and Meridian Grand

The Planning Committee met on Tuesday, 24 February 2026, to consider several significant planning applications, including proposals for a substantial residential development adjacent to Cockfosters Underground Station and a new hotel at Meridian Grand. These decisions will shape the built environment and housing stock in key areas of the borough.

Residential Development at Cockfosters Station

The committee was recommended to grant planning permission for application 25/03547/VAR, relating to land adjacent to Cockfosters Underground Station, Cockfosters Road, Barnet. The proposal sought to vary conditions of an existing permission to increase the number of dwellings and slightly reduce commercial floorspace. The amendments were largely driven by updated Building Regulations and the Building Safety Act 2022, which mandate additional safety features in taller buildings. The revised plan aims to deliver 373 homes, with 40% designated as affordable housing, including social rented units. This development is expected to contribute significantly to the borough's housing supply, particularly affordable homes.

Hotel Development at Meridian Grand

Application 19/04377/FUL concerning Meridian Grand, Unit 16A Eley Road, London, proposed the erection of a 144-bedroom hotel alongside alterations to the existing banqueting hall. Despite the site having a poor Public Transport Accessibility Level (PTAL), the committee was recommended to grant permission. The applicant demonstrated that no suitable alternative sites were available. The proposal is seen as addressing a shortage of hotel beds and supporting the existing venue, bringing socio-economic benefits to the area.

Industrial Unit at Shaftesbury House

The committee also considered application 25/02243/FUL for Shaftesbury House, 3 Shaftesbury Road, London. This application involved the demolition of existing buildings and the erection of a new industrial unit (Use Class B2/B8). The report indicated that the proposal would retain industrial use on a Locally Significant Industrial Site (LSIS), create new employment opportunities, and provide a modern, energy-efficient industrial building.

• Find out more: Planning Committee meeting details

Other Matters

Ward Forums Held

The Whitewebbs Ward Forum and the Southgate Ward Forum were scheduled to take place on Thursday, 26 February 2026, and Tuesday, 24 February 2026, respectively. These forums provide residents with an opportunity to engage directly with their local councillors on neighbourhood issues and council initiatives.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Housing and Regeneration Scrutiny Panel will meet on Wednesday 04 March 2026 to discuss the Reardon Court extra care scheme, damp and mould management, and the Joyce and Snells Estate Regeneration. Housing and Regeneration Scrutiny Panel
• The Grange Park Ward Forum will meet on Tuesday 03 March 2026. Grange Park Ward Forum
• The Planning Committee will meet on Tuesday 03 March 2026. Planning Committee
• The Town Ward Forum will meet on Thursday 05 March 2026. Town Ward Forum
• The Schools Forum will meet on Thursday 05 March 2026. Schools Forum
• The Health and Wellbeing Board will meet on Wednesday 04 March 2026 to discuss the measles situation, future plans for health, housing, environment, and economy, and the SEND Local Area Self-Evaluation Report. Health and Wellbeing Board
• The Overview & Scrutiny Committee will meet on Tuesday 10 March 2026. Overview & Scrutiny Committee
• The Thriving Children and Young People Scrutiny Panel will meet on Monday 09 March 2026. Thriving Children and Young People Scrutiny Panel
• The Cabinet will meet on Wednesday 11 March 2026. Cabinet
• The Local Pension Board will meet on Wednesday 11 March 2026. Local Pension Board

This week in Enfield:

Businesses Face Licence Revocation Over Serious Breaches

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, to consider serious allegations against two local businesses, Union Bar & Restaurant and Bush Hill Park Food and Wine Ltd. Both faced applications for the review of their premises licences, with potential revocation hanging over them due to alleged breaches of licensing objectives.

Union Bar & Restaurant: Repeated Violations

At Union Bar & Restaurant, 56 Aldermans Hill, London, N13 4PP, the Licensing Authority sought the revocation of its licence. The grounds included alleged breaches of licence conditions, such as permitting smoking in enclosed areas, which contravenes the Health Act 2006 and related regulations.

The report detailed a history of complaints, including loud music, statutory noise nuisances, and failures to display the premises licence, lack of staff training records, and missing notices. A significant incident in April 2025 led to a formal warning from the Home Office after an illegal worker was discovered. A Community Protection Notice was issued in December 2025 due to continued breaches. The Metropolitan Police supported the review, stating that the licence holder was undermining the prevention of crime and disorder and public nuisance. For residents living nearby, these repeated issues directly impact their peace and quality of life.

The potential outcomes for Union Bar & Restaurant ranged from modifying licence conditions to outright revocation. The Licensing Authority recommended revocation, citing a lack of confidence in the licence holder's ability to comply with legal requirements.

Bush Hill Park Food and Wine Ltd: Illicit Goods and Unlawful Occupation

Similarly, Bush Hill Park Food and Wine Ltd, 47 Main Avenue, Enfield, EN1 1DJ faced a licence review application due to the discovery of illicit tobacco products, an unlawful extension incorporating a residential dwelling, and other licence breaches.

An inspection in September 2025 uncovered a significant quantity of illicit tobacco and vapes. A subsequent operation in October 2025 found a family, including young children, living in an outbuilding at the rear of the premises, which also contained illicit tobacco. Numerous breaches of licence conditions were identified, including issues with CCTV, alarm systems, and a lack of a personal licence holder. A Section 19 Closure Notice was issued. The Metropolitan Police supported the revocation, citing undermining of crime prevention, public nuisance, and child protection.

While the former licence holder acknowledged failings and outlined remedial steps, the Licensing Authority expressed a lack of confidence in the premises' management and compliance standards. The severity and persistence of the issues led to a recommendation for licence revocation.

• Find out more: Licensing Sub-Committee meeting details

Meridian Water and Local Plan: Key Issues for Enfield's Future

The Overview & Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, to discuss significant projects and policies shaping Enfield's future, including the ambitious Meridian Water regeneration project and the Council's approach to housing delivery within its emerging Local Plan.

Meridian Water: Progress and Future Direction

The committee received an update on the Meridian Water regeneration project, a major undertaking to create new homes, jobs, and community facilities. The report covered recent achievements, current status, and future projections, including the planned housing mix and updates on essential infrastructure like schools and healthcare facilities. A strategic review of the project was also discussed, considering market changes and regulatory requirements to optimise delivery and returns on the Council's investment. For residents, Meridian Water represents a significant transformation of a large area of the borough, promising new amenities and housing opportunities.

Local Plan: Housing Delivery and Land Use

A key discussion point was the Council's emerging Local Plan and its strategy for delivering new homes. The plan aims to provide for approximately 34,000 new homes over its period, with a focus on affordable and family-sized housing. The committee reviewed the Council's brownfield first strategy and its approach to utilising various land types, including council-owned car parks. The report clarified the Council's position on Grey Belt land, noting it is not a formal planning designation and that the examination of the Local Plan adheres to established Green Belt policy tests. This is crucial for residents concerned about development pressures and the preservation of open spaces.

Treasury Management Strategy

The committee also reviewed the Council's Treasury Management Strategy for 2026/27. This strategy outlines how the Council will manage its borrowing, investments, and cash flow to ensure financial sustainability. Responsible borrowing and keeping capital financing costs within affordable limits are key objectives, directly impacting the Council's ability to fund services.

• Find out more: Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting details

Health and Wellbeing Board Tackles Key Community Issues

The Health and Wellbeing Board met on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, to discuss a range of critical issues impacting the health and wellbeing of Enfield residents. While specific details of decisions are pending council publication, the agenda indicated discussions on vital areas of public health.

The board's remit typically covers the strategic planning and delivery of health and social care services across the borough. Discussions at this meeting likely focused on how to improve health outcomes, reduce health inequalities, and ensure that vulnerable groups receive the support they need. For residents, the decisions made by this board have a direct impact on the availability and quality of local health services, mental health support, and social care provision.

• Find out more: Health and Wellbeing Board meeting details

Other Matters

New Southgate Ward Forum

The New Southgate Ward Forum convened on Monday, 09 February 2026. These forums are designed to provide a direct channel for residents to engage with local councillors, discuss neighbourhood priorities, and receive updates on council initiatives. The agenda included discussions on a permit trial area and an update from the Leader of the Council, offering residents an opportunity to voice their concerns and priorities.

• Find out more: New Southgate Ward Forum meeting details

Upcoming Meetings

• The Staff Appeals, Appointment And Remuneration Committee will meet on Tuesday 17 February 2026. Staff Appeals, Appointment And Remuneration Committee
• The Palmers Green Ward Forum will meet on Monday 16 February 2026. Palmers Green Ward Forum
• The Planning Committee will meet on Tuesday 24 February 2026. Planning Committee
• The Southgate Ward Forum will meet on Tuesday 24 February 2026. Southgate Ward Forum
• The Member Governor Forum will meet on Tuesday 24 February 2026. Member Governor Forum
• The Cabinet will meet on Wednesday 25 February 2026. Cabinet
• The Whitewebbs Ward Forum will meet on Thursday 26 February 2026. Whitewebbs Ward Forum
• The Council will meet on Thursday 26 February 2026. Council
• The Overview & Scrutiny Committee will meet on Monday 23 February 2026. Overview & Scrutiny Committee

This week in Enfield:

Children's Services Under the Spotlight: Speech Therapy, Mental Health, and Early Intervention

The Thriving Children and Young People Scrutiny Panel met on Tuesday, 3 February 2026, to examine critical services for Enfield's young residents. The panel delved into the borough's provision for Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN), the state of emotional wellbeing and mental health support, and the progress of the Families First Partnership Programme. These discussions are vital for ensuring that children and young people receive the support they need to thrive, particularly those facing challenges.

Addressing Speech, Language, and Communication Needs

A key focus was the review of Enfield's Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN) provision. The report highlighted that Enfield faces higher demand and costs for these services compared to other London boroughs, with a significant increase in requests for Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). This means that more children are being identified with complex needs that require tailored support. The panel considered options for improving the SLCN model, ranging from maintaining the current approach to a full system redesign. For families, this could mean improvements in how quickly and effectively their children receive essential speech and language therapy, which is crucial for their development and educational attainment.

Boosting Mental Health Support for Young People

The panel also received an update on emotional wellbeing and mental health support for children and young people. The report acknowledged that Enfield is a deprived area with significant social challenges impacting young people's mental health, including high levels of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). While hospital admissions for self-harm have been decreasing, the need for accessible and effective mental health services remains paramount. The discussion covered updates on Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) transformation, including the development of wellbeing hubs and targeted interventions. For vulnerable young people and their families, this work is essential for providing timely support and preventing mental health issues from escalating.

Strengthening Families Through Early Intervention

The Families First Partnership (FFP) Programme, launched nationally in April 2025, aims to rebalance services towards early intervention. The panel heard that Enfield's phased approach is on track, focusing on integrated family help teams and child protection advocacy. The programme's principles of keeping children with their families and prioritising kinship care over residential placements are designed to provide more stable and supportive environments. This approach is crucial for preventing children from entering the care system and ensuring families receive non-stigmatising, timely support.

Preventing Youth Offending

The panel also reviewed work on preventing young people from becoming involved in offending. The Youth Justice Service reported a decrease in first-time entrants into the justice system and a low re-offending rate. However, the profile of young people involved in offending indicates complex needs and multiple vulnerabilities, underscoring the ongoing need for targeted support and resources to divert them from criminal pathways.

• Find out more: Thriving Children and Young People Scrutiny Panel meeting details

New Restaurant Licence Application Sparks Resident Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Wednesday, 4 February 2026, to consider a new premises licence application for The River Garden, located at Rammey Marsh Lock House, Lea Road, Waltham Abbey. While the applicant sought to operate until 1 am on weekends, the application drew significant objections from local residents concerned about potential noise and public nuisance.

Seven Other Parties, identified as residents from Deer Park Way, Waltham Abbey, raised concerns based on all four licensing objectives: prevention of public nuisance, protection of children from harm, prevention of crime and disorder, and public safety. Their primary worry centres on excessive noise from loud music and vibrations, as well as the dispersal of patrons. For these residents, the outcome of this decision directly impacts their quality of life and peace in their neighbourhood.

The applicant, Nicolas Nicolaou, proposed measures to address these concerns, including ceasing live music by 11 pm and only allowing low-level background music thereafter. He also offered direct contact details for residents to report noise issues immediately. The committee had to weigh these proposed conditions against the residents' concerns and the relevant legislation, including the Licensing Act 2003.

• Find out more: Licensing Sub-Committee meeting details

Tackling Substance Misuse and Serious Violence: A Public Health Approach

The Healthy and Safe Communities Scrutiny Panel convened on Wednesday, 4 February 2026, to address critical issues impacting community safety and wellbeing. Discussions included the impact of additional grant funding on substance misuse services, the progress of a supervised toothbrushing programme for young children, and the proposed Serious Violence Strategy for 2026-30.

Boosting Substance Misuse Services with New Funding

The panel reviewed the expenditure and impact of grant funding received for Enfield's substance misuse services, stemming from the Independent Review of Drugs by Dame Carol Black. This funding aims to enhance interventions and recovery services, particularly for vulnerable users. The report detailed how the money has been used to increase access, reduce harm, and improve recovery outcomes. For individuals struggling with addiction and their families, this funding is vital for providing access to treatment, support, and pathways to recovery, addressing complex needs that often intersect with other social challenges.

Protecting Children's Oral Health

An update on the supervised toothbrushing programme highlighted its role in reducing inequalities in tooth decay among young children. The programme targets children aged 3-5 in the most deprived areas, with nursery and school staff trained to deliver supervised brushing sessions. This initiative is crucial for ensuring that all children, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to develop good oral hygiene habits from an early age.

A New Strategy to Combat Serious Violence

A significant item was the proposed Serious Violence Strategy 2026-30. Developed in response to the Police Crime Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, this strategy adopts a public health approach to tackle violence affecting young people, organised criminality, and weapon-enabled violence. The strategy aims to prevent violence, respond to immediate risks, and provide long-term support for those affected. For residents, this strategy represents a commitment to making Enfield a safer place by addressing the root causes of violence and supporting victims.

• Find out more: Healthy and Safe Communities Scrutiny Panel meeting details

Other Matters

Director of Children's Social Care Interviews

The Staff Appeals, Appointment And Remuneration Committee met on Wednesday, 4 February 2026, to conduct final stage interviews for the Director of Children's Social Care. This senior appointment is crucial for the effective leadership and management of services that support vulnerable children and families in Enfield. Information relating to these interviews was exempt from public disclosure under the Local Government Act 1972, meaning the press and public were excluded from this part of the meeting.

• Find out more: Staff Appeals, Appointment And Remuneration Committee meeting details

Upcoming Meetings

• The New Southgate Ward Forum will meet on Monday 09 February 2026. New Southgate Ward Forum
• The Licensing Sub-Committee will meet on Wednesday 11 February 2026. Licensing Sub-Committee
• The Health and Wellbeing Board will meet on Wednesday 11 February 2026. Health and Wellbeing Board
• The Overview & Scrutiny Committee will meet on Wednesday 11 February 2026. Overview & Scrutiny Committee
• The Palmers Green Ward Forum will meet on Monday 16 February 2026. Palmers Green Ward Forum
• The Staff Appeals, Appointment And Remuneration Committee will meet on Tuesday 17 February 2026. Staff Appeals, Appointment And Remuneration Committee

This week in Enfield:

Green Belt Land Sale Sparks Controversy: Council Defends Decision Amidst Call-In

The Overview & Scrutiny Committee met on Monday, 26 January 2026, to scrutinise a controversial Cabinet decision to dispose of surplus property at Land at New Cottage Farm, J24, M25, The Ridgeway, Enfield. The decision, made by the Cabinet on 14 January 2026, was called in by a group of councillors, primarily due to concerns about the land's Green Belt status and the timing of the sale.

The core of the dispute lies in the argument that selling the land before the finalisation of the Enfield Local Plan is premature. Critics, including Councillor Edward Smith, argue that the decision could create uncertainty regarding future development and potentially undermine efforts to protect the Green Belt. The Conservative Group reiterated their commitment to safeguarding these vital open spaces, focusing their call-in on ensuring value for money rather than challenging the policy on developing Green Belt land itself.

However, council officers maintained that the disposal of land is a separate function from the plan-making process. They stated that any changes to planning policy or land use would still require a formal Local Plan process. The sale, they argued, represents a good opportunity for the council and does not prejudice the independent Inspector's role in the Local Plan Examination. Furthermore, the report to the Cabinet highlighted that statutory consents from the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) and the Duchy of Lancaster would be required for the disposal of land held for open space purposes, and these consents do not alter the Green Belt designation itself.

The land, totalling 27.6 acres, is situated south of the M25 motorway and north of The Ridgeway. It was designated as part of the Green Belt round London in 1937 and 1941. The sale is expected to generate a capital receipt for the Council, contributing to its capital strategy targets. The report to the Cabinet indicated that the purchase price offered exceeded the existing use market value.

The decision to approve the freehold disposal, including overage provisions, was ultimately made by the Leader of the Council, Councillor Ergin Erbil, on 19 January 2026, after considering representations made in response to statutory advertisements.

• Find out more: Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting details

Housing and Planning Services Under the Microscope: Digital Transformation and Licensing Schemes

The Housing and Regeneration Scrutiny Panel met on Tuesday, 27 January 2026, to delve into crucial aspects of the council's housing and planning services. Key discussions included the procedural update on the Enfield Local Plan Examination, the digital transformation within the Planning Service, and an update on licensing schemes for private rented properties.

Local Plan Examination and Digital Planning

The panel received an update on the Enfield Local Plan Examination, which is ongoing against the National Planning Policy Framework (December 2023). The examination process, led by an independent Inspector, involves responding to the Inspector's correspondence and progressing statutory steps. The report noted that recent public interest following government announcements has been procedurally addressed within the examination. Potential next steps could involve the Inspector directing the preparation of Main Modifications, followed by a statutory public consultation.

Significant attention was given to the digital transformation within the Planning Service. The council is transitioning to a new cloud-based case management system, Arcus Built Environment (BE), aiming to make planning services more accessible and efficient. This move aligns with the Government's Digital Planning Programme. Residents will continue to access an online planning register, with enhanced features for submitting comments. The Planning Service is also upgrading its digital mapping system to Cadcorp and exploring the use of AI tools like Microsoft Copilot Chat to assist officers and improve customer communication. Challenges such as ensuring accuracy, enhancing officer capabilities, and mitigating bias in AI are being addressed.

Private Rented Sector Licensing: Protecting Tenants

An update on licensing schemes for the private rented sector highlighted the significant presence of this tenure in Enfield, housing over 32,000 children. An additional HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) licensing scheme, renewed for five years from September 2025, has been instrumental in raising property standards. A Selective licensing scheme, currently covering 14 wards and due to end in August 2026, is being considered for renewal in 17 wards, with public consultation underway. These schemes have led to over 4,500 households living in safer accommodation due to HMO licensing and over 22,000 selective licences granted. The report detailed enforcement actions taken against landlords, with Enfield noted for its proactive use of civil penalties and prosecutions. The panel was also informed that rising rents and the cap on Local Housing Allowance, rather than property licensing, are the primary drivers of homelessness.

• Find out more: Housing and Regeneration Scrutiny Panel meeting details

Audit Committee to Review Financial Health and Corporate Risks

The Audit Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, to conduct a thorough review of the council's financial standing and risk management. The committee will examine the external audit of the council's accounts and the Enfield Local Government Pension Scheme for the 2024/25 financial year.

This review is crucial for ensuring financial accountability and transparency. The external auditors, Grant Thornton, will present their findings, providing an independent assessment of the council's financial reporting. The committee will also undertake a six-monthly review of the corporate risk register, a vital process for identifying and mitigating potential threats to the council's operations and service delivery. This includes reviewing both publicly available information and exempt information relating to financial or business affairs, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the risks faced.

• Find out more: Audit Committee meeting details

Other Matters

• Pension Fund Valuation and Investment: The Pension Policy & Investment Committee met on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, to discuss the implications of the 2025 triennial valuation of the pension fund, including cashflow projections. They also considered the potential admission of Buckinghamshire Council to London CIV[^1], an organisation pooling assets for London local government pension funds to achieve economies of scale. An investment update for the third quarter of 2025 was also on the agenda. [^1]: London CIV (Collective Investment Vehicle) is an organisation established by London local government pension funds to pool their assets for investment purposes, aiming to achieve economies of scale and improve investment performance.
  • Find out more: Pension Policy & Investment Committee meeting details
• Ridgeway Ward Forum: The Ridgeway Ward Forum met on Monday, 26 January 2026. These forums provide a direct channel for residents to engage with local councillors and raise neighbourhood-specific issues.
  • Find out more: Ridgeway Ward Forum meeting details

Upcoming Meetings

• The Staff Appeals, Appointment And Remuneration Committee will meet on Wednesday, 04 February 2026, to conduct final stage interviews for the Director of Children's Social Care role. Staff Appeals, Appointment And Remuneration Committee
• The Thriving Children and Young People Scrutiny Panel will meet on Tuesday, 03 February 2026, to discuss support for children with speech, language, and communication needs, mental health services, and the Families First Partnership Programme. Thriving Children and Young People Scrutiny Panel
• The Licensing Sub-Committee will meet on Wednesday, 04 February 2026, to consider an application for a new premises licence for The River Garden, which has generated significant public interest. Licensing Sub-Committee
• The Healthy and Safe Communities Scrutiny Panel will meet on Wednesday, 04 February 2026, to discuss substance misuse services, a supervised toothbrushing programme, and the proposed Serious Violence Strategy. Healthy and Safe Communities Scrutiny Panel
• The Planning Committee will meet on Tuesday, 10 February 2026. Planning Committee
• The Licensing Sub-Committee will meet on Monday, 09 February 2026. Licensing Sub-Committee
• The Overview & Scrutiny Committee will meet on Wednesday, 11 February 2026. Overview & Scrutiny Committee
• The Licensing Sub-Committee will meet on Wednesday, 11 February 2026. Licensing Sub-Committee