This week in Hammersmith and Fulham:

Council Tackles Pension Fund Performance and Draft Conflict of Interest Policy

The Pensions Board met on Wednesday 3 June 2026 to review the performance of the Local Pension Partnership Administration (LPPA) and discuss updates on pension administration. A key item was the consideration of a draft conflict of interest policy for the Hammersmith & Fulham Pension Fund.

Monitoring Pension Fund Performance

The board reviewed a summary of the LPPA's performance in administering the Hammersmith & Fulham Pension Fund for the period January to March 2026. This aligns with guidance from The Pensions Regulator, which stresses the importance of regular performance assessments. The report indicated continuous improvement in the pension administration service provided by LPPA, with ongoing efforts to enhance service quality for members and beneficiaries.

Pension Administration Updates

An update on key areas of pension administration for the fund was presented. While the service delivered by LPPA has improved, it remains under close monitoring by the Head of Pensions. LPPA is committed to ongoing improvements through automation, staff retention, training, and engagement via an annual forum. The update also covered employer engagement, member satisfaction, complaint handling, helpdesk performance, communications, and regulatory matters including the McCloud remedy, the Pensions Dashboard, and the upcoming Pensions Bill.

Draft Conflict of Interest Policy

The board considered a draft conflict of interest policy for the Hammersmith & Fulham Pension Fund. This policy is a requirement under the Local Government Pension Scheme (Amendment) (Governance) Regulations 2026, which mandates that councils prepare such policies after consulting relevant parties. The policy aims to establish a clear approach to identifying, monitoring, and managing actual, potential, and perceived conflicts of interest within the pension scheme. The draft was developed in collaboration with Hymans Robertson and was presented for the Pension Board's consideration before submission to the Pension Fund Committee.

• Why this matters: The effective management of the pension fund is crucial for the financial security of current and future pensioners. Decisions made regarding investment performance and administration directly impact the value of pensions. A robust conflict of interest policy ensures that decisions are made in the best interests of the fund members, free from undue influence.

Link to Pensions Board meeting

Council Reviews Licensing Performance and Approves New Markets and Street Trading Policy

The Licensing Committee met on Tuesday 2 June 2026 to review the Annual Licensing Committee Report for April 2025 to March 2026 and to discuss and approve updates to the Markets and Street Trading Licensing Policy.

Annual Licensing Committee Report: A Year in Review

The committee received an overview of the licensing service's performance and activities during the 2025-2026 financial year. The report highlighted a challenging year marked by staffing changes and recruitment difficulties. Despite these hurdles, the team processed 1,349 applications and notifications under the Licensing Act 2003, an increase of 6% from the previous year, and saw an 11% rise in Temporary Event Notices. The number of gambling premises remained static. Licensing sub-committee hearings increased by 40%, with a notable rise in review applications.

Financially, the licensing service generated £418,519 in income, partly due to recovered costs from a successful appeal. However, the total overdue debt also rose by 51% to £31,582, attributed to delays in recruiting a second licensing enforcement officer.

Enforcement activity included responding to 122 complaints, with a preference for resolving issues through advice and agreement. The team also noted ongoing work to review the Statement of Licensing Policy, with a public consultation planned for summer 2026. The Gambling Policy, adopted in January 2025, is currently subject to a judicial review by two gambling trade bodies.

• Why this matters: The licensing service plays a vital role in ensuring public safety, preventing crime, and maintaining the character of the borough. The annual report provides transparency on how effectively these objectives are being met, highlighting challenges and successes. For residents, this means understanding how their local environment is managed and regulated.

New Markets and Street Trading Licensing Policy Approved

The committee also considered and supported the proposed new Markets and Street Trading Licensing Policy, along with updated Prescribed Standard Conditions and Regulation of Commodities. The aim is to foster a vibrant, professional, and sustainable market environment.

Key policy changes include:

• Consistent Framework: Providing a clear and consistent framework for regulating street trading, aiming to raise standards and support local businesses.
• Shop Front Trading: Regulating displays and services outside premises to enhance visual amenity while ensuring pedestrian safety and accessibility.
• Environmental Protection: Encouraging recycling, reducing single-use plastics, and promoting the use of electric power over generators.
• Trader Support: Including provisions for trader support, such as loaner gazebos for new entrepreneurs.
• Designation of Streets: Proposing to designate specific streets for regulated street trading activities.

A nine-week consultation received 54 responses, primarily from residents and shoppers. Councillors raised concerns about the policy's impact on small, specialist, or charitable markets, and the restrictions on music. The committee agreed to the recommendations, supporting the new policy for adoption by the full council.

• Why this matters: This new policy aims to modernise and professionalise street trading in Hammersmith and Fulham. For traders, it offers clearer rules and support. For residents and shoppers, it promises safer, cleaner, and more vibrant market environments. The focus on environmental sustainability is also a key benefit for the borough's future.

Link to Licensing Committee meeting

This week in Hammersmith and Fulham:

Council Honours Long-Serving Residents and Community Champions

The Full Council met on Thursday 21 May 2026, with a significant portion of the meeting dedicated to recognising the outstanding contributions of several individuals to the borough. The council considered conferring honorary titles and the Freedom of the Borough, acknowledging years of dedicated service and commitment to the community.

Honorary Aldermen and Alderwomen: Recognising Eminent Service

The council was set to consider conferring the honorary title of Honorary Alderman or Alderwoman of the Borough upon three individuals: Sue Fennimore, Caroline Needham, and Alex Karmel. This honour is reserved for those who have rendered eminent service to the council as past members.

• Caroline Needham was nominated for her exceptional dedication as a councillor for Askew Ward, with a particular focus on tackling inequality, reducing child poverty, and championing the rights and wellbeing of residents. Her work with young people, including developing the roles of Youth Mayor and Deputy Youth Mayor, and her professional background in social policy research and intergenerational development were highlighted. Her continued voluntary work with West London Welcome, Sulgrave Youth Club, and the Askew Road Association was also noted.
• Sue Fennimore was recognised for her outstanding commitment and principle as a councillor for Addison ward. Her tenure as Deputy Leader, with a portfolio covering social inclusion, crime, and homelessness, was highlighted, particularly her efforts to tackle violence against women and girls. Her professional experience at the BBC, her service as a school governor, and her volunteer work with the Youth Offending Service and the Hammersmith Winter Night Shelter were also mentioned.
• Alex Karmel was nominated for his longstanding and distinguished service to the borough. He was described as a tireless advocate for residents and a thoughtful contributor to the council's decision-making processes, with particular expertise in planning matters. His service as Mayor of the Borough between 2009-2010 and his engagement with local residents and community groups were also noted.

The report indicated that the cost of a small reception for the recipients would be met from the existing Mayor's budget, with no additional financial implications for conferring these titles. The legal basis for these conferments is Section 249 of the Local Government Act 1972, which allows for the conferment of honorary titles upon individuals who have rendered eminent services to a local authority.

Freedom of the Borough: Honouring a Dedicated Resident

The council was also scheduled to consider conferring the Freedom of the Borough on Ms Adrienne Clarke. This honour is in recognition of her achievements and contributions to the wellbeing of the residents of the borough.

Ms Clarke, who has made Hammersmith and Fulham her home since 2006, was recognised for her dedicated and energetic involvement in the Brook Green community. Her roles as a Board Member of the Friends of Brook Green, her work on the community newsletter, and her past positions as Chair of her local residents' group and member of the Ward Action Group were highlighted. She was also noted for her active membership of the H&F Cycling and Walking Residents Commission and her commitment to the Labour Party. The report stated that the conferment of this title is based on merit, defined as achievement and exceptional service. Similar to the honorary titles, the cost of a small reception would be covered by the Mayor's budget. The legal framework for this award is also Section 249 of the Local Government Act 1972.

• Why this matters: These honours recognise individuals who have gone above and beyond in their service to the borough. For the recipients, it is a significant acknowledgement of their dedication. For the community, it highlights the importance of civic engagement and the positive impact that committed individuals can have on local life.

Link to Full Council meeting

Council Celebrates Outstanding Inspection Outcomes for Children's Services and Housing

In the same Full Council meeting on Thursday 21 May 2026, the council celebrated two significant achievements: the highest possible outcome in a joint Ofsted and CQC inspection for special educational needs and disability (SEND) services, and the highest possible C1 rating from the Regulator of Social Housing for its housing services.

Children's Services: Top Marks for SEND Support

Hammersmith & Fulham's children's health, education, and social care partnerships received the highest possible outcome in a joint Ofsted and CQC inspection for SEND services. Inspectors highlighted the excellent achievements and attendance of children and young people with SEND, who outperformed their national peers across all key stages.

Councillor Alex Sanderson, Deputy Leader with responsibility for Children and Education, expressed pride in this result, noting it reflects years of work with parents, schools, health partners, politicians, and officers. He stated, We want every single child and young person to feel safe, supported, and able to thrive. Councillor Alia Afzal-Khan, who holds a portfolio for children and education, commended the officers and partners for their sustained, dedicated work, highlighting that young people with SEND are actively engaged in shaping the services they receive.

• Why this matters: This outstanding inspection outcome means that children and young people with SEND in Hammersmith and Fulham are receiving excellent support. This directly impacts their educational attainment, social development, and overall wellbeing, ensuring they have the best possible opportunities to succeed.

Housing Services: Highest Rating for Resident Safety and Standards

The council's housing services were awarded the highest possible C1 rating by the Regulator of Social Housing. Councillor Frances Umeh, Cabinet Member for Housing and Homelessness, detailed the transformation of the service since 2014, when the administration inherited a service suffering from underinvestment. She highlighted that this rating means the housing service is meeting required consumer standards, including keeping residents safe, maintaining decent homes, delivering effective repairs, and ensuring residents are treated fairly and transparently. Councillor Adronie Alford, Conservative Spokesperson for Housing, congratulated the team on their hard work and the excellent report.

• Why this matters: This top rating signifies that the council's housing services are meeting the highest standards for safety, quality, and resident satisfaction. For the thousands of council tenants in the borough, this means greater confidence in the management of their homes and the services they receive, directly impacting their living conditions and quality of life.

Link to Full Council meeting

Other Matters

Election of Mayor and Leader Confirmed

Councillor Sharon Holder was re-elected as Mayor of the London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham for the 2026-27 municipal year, with Councillor Daryl Brown appointed as Deputy Mayor. Councillor Stephen Cowan was appointed as the Leader of the Council.

Local Government Election Results Noted

The results of the local government elections held on 7 May 2026 were noted, with the Labour party securing 38 seats and the Conservative party securing 12 seats on the council.

Tributes to Former Councillors

The council observed a moment of silence to remember former councillors Patrick Ground and Andrew Brown. Tributes were paid to their service and contributions to the borough.

Petitions Monitoring Report

The operation of the Council's Petitions Scheme during the 2025/26 Municipal Year was noted. The report highlighted that the scheme provides an important route for residents to engage with the democratic process. The Fix Uxbridge Road: No more neglect, no more crime petition, which received 2,914 signatures, was specifically mentioned.

Link to Full Council meeting

This week in Hammersmith and Fulham:

Council Considers Renewal of Controversial Secrets Venue Licence

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Wednesday 22 April 2026 to consider the renewal of a Sexual Entertainment Venue (SEV) licence for Secrets, located at 62 Glenthorne Road, London, W6 0LR. This decision carries significant weight, as SEVs can be a source of local controversy, with potential impacts on the character of residential areas and the safety of vulnerable individuals.

The Stakes: Balancing Regulation with Business Operations

The core of the discussion revolved around whether to renew the licence for Secrets, which has operated as an SEV since 2013. The venue's current operating hours are extensive, running until 4:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays. While the application sought no changes to these hours, the proximity of the venue to schools, including The Godolphin and Latymer School and West London Free School, raises concerns about its impact on young people and the wider community.

The council's own Sex Establishment Policy permits only one SEV in the area where Secrets is located. This policy also outlines strict criteria for refusing a licence, including proximity to schools, community facilities, and places of worship, as well as considering cumulative adverse impacts and crime levels.

Representations were received from two residential objectors and two individuals who submitted letters in support of the renewal. The report pack detailed the venue's enforcement history, noting several complaints, though no formal enforcement actions in the last three years.

The Sub-Committee had several options: grant the application, refuse it, or revoke the licence. Any decision to grant the licence could be for a period of up to 12 months.

• Why this matters: Decisions about SEV licences are complex, involving a delicate balance between regulating adult entertainment businesses and protecting the public, particularly vulnerable groups. For residents, the presence of such venues can impact their quality of life and sense of safety. For the venue itself, a licence renewal is crucial for its continued operation. The council's role is to ensure that any licensed establishment operates responsibly and in line with its policies and the law.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

This week in Hammersmith and Fulham:

Council Approves Extension of Substance Misuse Service Amidst Budget Review

Hammersmith and Fulham Council's Cabinet met on Monday 13 April 2026, with a key decision being the approval of a two-year extension to the integrated substance misuse service contract. This extension ensures continued support for vulnerable residents battling addiction. The meeting also included a review of the revenue budget, which indicated a reduction in financial pressures, and discussions on the capital programme, council companies, and housing improvements.

Continued Support for Substance Misuse Services

The council has extended its contract with Turning Point for the integrated substance misuse service until March 2028. This vital service works with the borough's most marginalised residents, focusing on prevention, recovery, and enforcement to tackle addiction and its real-world consequences. Councillor Stephen Cowan, Leader of the Council, highlighted the service's role in making Hammersmith and Fulham safer for everyone.

• Why this matters: Addiction can have devastating impacts on individuals, families, and communities. Extending this contract ensures that those struggling with substance misuse can continue to access crucial support, which can be life-changing and contribute to a safer borough for all.

Budget Review Shows Reduced Financial Pressure

A review of the 2025-26 revenue budget, based on data from month 10, revealed a reduction in financial pressure on both the general fund and the housing revenue account. Councillor Rowan Ree, Cabinet Member for Finance and Reform, attributed this improvement to the council's ruthless financially efficient approach to budget management.

However, discussions also touched upon the garden waste service, which, while meeting recycling aims, had not met its revenue targets. Councillor Cowan pledged to personally investigate any persistent issues with missed waste collections, acknowledging that while the borough boasts one of the best waste collection services in Britain, occasional problems can occur. He also noted the use of AI technology by waste management contractor Veolia to improve sorting efficiency.

Concerns were also raised about parking revenue variances, with explanations including camera issues and fraud involving fake number plates. The council is implementing technology and working with experts to combat this, with a clear warning that those using fake plates will face prosecution.

Significant attention was given to the housing revenue account (HRA). While acknowledging past pressures, Councillor Ree assured that the HRA is no longer a primary concern, with substantial progress made in eliminating its structural deficit. A 10-year business plan aims for the HRA to not only break even but also build reserves. Councillor Cowan provided context, explaining that significant expenditure was necessary to address damp and mould issues found in council housing stock following a contract signed in 2013. A substantial planned maintenance programme is now underway to refurbish housing stock, with the aim of providing the best council housing in the country.

• Why this matters: A stable and efficient council budget is fundamental to delivering essential services. While reduced financial pressure is positive, the discussions around specific services like garden waste and parking highlight the ongoing need for careful management. For council tenants, the focus on improving housing stock and addressing past issues like damp and mould directly impacts their living conditions and well-being.

Capital Programme and Council Companies Update

The Cabinet received an update on the capital programme for the third quarter of 2025-26, noting a total forecast expenditure of £220.8 million allocated to projects across the borough, including housing improvements and place-shaping initiatives.

An update on the council's involvement with various companies and limited liability partnerships was also provided. Councillor Alex Sanderson, Deputy Leader, praised this as an interesting innovation that offers greater agility in managing opportunities and minimising risk.

Link to Cabinet meeting

Restaurant Licence Granted with Strict Conditions After Resident Objections

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Wednesday 15 April 2026 to consider a new premises licence application for Arianna Trattoria Romana at 787 Fulham Road, London SW6 5HD. Following objections from local residents concerned about noise and nuisance, the committee granted the licence but with significant conditions, particularly regarding the use of the rear garden.

Arianna Trattoria Romana: Balancing Business and Amenity

Residents from the building at 787 Fulham Road raised objections primarily focused on the potential for public nuisance from the proposed use of the rear garden. Concerns included noise, smell, pests, and disturbance from patrons leaving late at night.

The applicant's solicitor offered to withdraw the use of the rear garden for commercial purposes, a move welcomed by the objectors. The committee ultimately decided to grant the licence with modifications, significantly restricting the hours for the use of the rear garden. It will now only be accessible to patrons between 12:30 pm and 7:00 pm on weekdays and 11:00 am to 3:00 pm on weekends and bank holidays. At all other times, the garden must be clear of patrons.

Further conditions were imposed to promote the licensing objectives, including:

• Music played indoors limited to background levels, with no amplified music in the rear garden.
• A sign requesting patrons to leave quietly and considerately.
• Alcohol sales for indoor consumption only between 11:00 am and 11:00 pm daily.
• No vertical drinking; alcohol to be consumed by seated customers.
• Installation of high-definition CCTV.
• Regular staff training on the Licensing Act 2003.
• Maintenance of an incident log.
• Operation of a Challenge 25 policy.
• Policies in place for the welfare and safeguarding of vulnerable patrons.

• Maintenance of a refusals log.

• Why this matters: This decision demonstrates how local government balances the needs of businesses seeking to operate with the right of residents to peaceful enjoyment of their homes. The strict conditions imposed on the use of the garden area are a direct response to community concerns, aiming to prevent public nuisance and ensure the restaurant integrates positively into the neighbourhood.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Phoenix Academy Redevelopment Refused by Planning Committee

The Planning and Development Control Committee met on Tuesday 14 April 2026 and refused the application for the demolition and redevelopment of Phoenix Academy. The decision was based on eight reasons for refusal, citing significant concerns about the design, scale, and impact on the local conservation area, as well as inadequate provision for future residents and loss of sports facilities.

Phoenix Academy Redevelopment: A Blow to the Proposed Scheme

The committee refused the application for the redevelopment of Phoenix Academy, which included proposals for new residential buildings and a new school building. The reasons for refusal included:

• Design, Scale, and Massing: Concerns that the proposed buildings were out of character with the Old Oak and Wormholt Conservation Area, causing less than substantial harm to its significance.
• Quality of Accommodation: Inadequate daylight and sunlight provision for a significant number of future residents and external amenity spaces.
• Affordable Housing: Failure to adequately justify the provision of affordable housing and not meeting adopted requirements for tenure and mix.
• Loss of Sports Facilities: Loss of sports facilities without adequate replacement or justification.
• Biodiversity and Trees: Issues with biodiversity net gain calculations and the loss of a Category B tree.
• Parking: Unacceptable parking provision for the school without robust justification, potentially impacting highway conditions.

Despite requests for deferral from the applicant to address concerns, officers advised against it, stating that revisions would likely necessitate a new application with substantial changes and further consultation. The committee voted to refuse the application.

• Why this matters: This refusal highlights the council's commitment to protecting conservation areas and ensuring that new developments provide high-quality living environments and adequate community facilities. For the school, the decision means a delay in much-needed improvements, and for the community, it means the proposed housing development will not proceed in its current form.

Other Planning Decisions:

The committee also approved several other planning applications:

• Former Dairy Crest Site: A Section 73 application to vary conditions on an existing outline planning permission was approved, allowing for an increase in academic floor space and a revised energy strategy.
• Land to the Rear of The Grange: Permission was granted for an eight-dwelling, four-storey building, providing 100% affordable housing.
• Land Between Becklow Gardens and Askew Crescent: Permission was granted for a building providing 20 flats, all of which will be affordable housing, along with communal areas and public realm improvements.
• Sacred Heart High School Theatre Conversion: Planning permission and listed building consent were granted for the conversion of the Stuart Building into a theatre and performing arts centre, with community use outside school hours.
• The Matrix Studios Complex: Permission was granted for the erection of two additional floors at roof level, creating new workspace.

• The Chapel on Archel Road: Permission was granted for the change of use from a Grenadian Consulate to a nursery, accommodating 80 preschool pupils and 35 staff.

• Why this matters: These approvals demonstrate the council's ongoing efforts to facilitate development that meets housing needs, enhances community facilities, and supports local businesses, while also considering the impact on the built environment and heritage.

Link to Planning and Development Control Committee meeting