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

This week in Hammersmith and Fulham:

Council Approves Budget and Council Tax Hike Amidst Financial Strain

Hammersmith and Fulham Council's Cabinet met on Monday 9 March 2026 to make critical decisions on the borough's financial future, approving the revenue budget and council tax levels for the 2026/27 financial year. The meeting also saw the endorsement of a significant four-year capital programme and the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget. These decisions come as the council navigates increasing demand for services and national funding pressures, leading to a proposed Council Tax increase.

The Stakes: Balancing Budgets and Protecting Services

The approved revenue budget includes a 2.99% increase in the Hammersmith & Fulham element of Council Tax, alongside an additional 2% social care precept. This combined increase, equating to an additional 92p per week for Band D properties, is projected to generate £4.4 million annually. This funding is deemed essential for maintaining financial resilience, meeting rising demand, and combating inflation, while balancing the impact on local taxpayers. Councillor Rowan Ree, Cabinet Member for Finance and Reform, stated the increase was essential for continuing financial resilience, meeting increasing demand and inflation, while balancing the impact on local taxpayers.

The council's Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) highlights the impact of national funding changes, with the report noting that Hammersmith & Fulham's Council Tax remained the third lowest in the country during 2025/26. The administration has a history of cutting or freezing council tax for several years. The proposed budget aims to protect core services, ensure borough safety, promote prosperity, and maintain financial governance.

• Why this matters: For many households, particularly those on lower incomes or with fixed incomes, any increase in Council Tax can be a significant burden. The council's ability to fund essential services like social care, mental health support, and children's protection is directly tied to its budget. The proposed savings, alongside the tax increase, are intended to prevent cuts to vital services, but the financial strain on residents is a key consideration.

Investing in the Future: Capital Programme and Housing

The Cabinet also approved the Council's four-year Capital Programme for 2026/27 to 2029/30, allocating £452.2 million for asset development and enhancement. Key investments include:

• Housing Stock: £452.2 million over four years, with significant investment in the council's 12,000 housing stock.
• New Homes: Development of 298 dwellings, with 218 designated as affordable.
• Civic Campus: Completion of a new Civic Campus facility.
• School Facilities: Upgrades to school facilities.
• Hammersmith Bridge: Continued pre-restoration works, with expected funding from the Department for Transport and Transport for London.

The Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget for 2026/27 was also approved, including a national social rents policy of CPI + 1% for 2026/27, resulting in an average weekly increase of £6.69 for tenants. The HRA 10-year Business Plan includes plans for building 198 new homes and a £49 million investment over four years for energy efficiency retrofit projects.

• Why this matters: These capital investments are crucial for improving the borough's infrastructure, providing much-needed affordable housing, and enhancing the quality of life for residents. For tenants, the HRA budget decisions directly impact rent levels and the investment in their homes.

Controlling HMOs: Article 4 Direction

A significant decision was the approval to prepare an Article 4 Direction to control the proliferation of small Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). This measure aims to address the impact of HMOs on local residential amenity and community cohesion. The council will commission an evidence study to support the direction and delegate authority for making a 'non-immediate' Article 4 Direction to the Chief Planning Officer. Cabinet approval will be required in 12 months to confirm the Direction following statutory consultation.

• Why this matters: The growth of HMOs can significantly alter the character of residential streets, impacting parking, noise levels, and the overall sense of community. This decision signals the council's intent to manage this growth and protect the amenity of existing neighbourhoods.

Link to Cabinet meeting

Planning Committee Considers New Developments Across the Borough

The Planning and Development Control Committee met on Tuesday 10 March 2026 to consider a range of planning applications for new developments and alterations to existing buildings across Hammersmith and Fulham.

Key Applications Discussed:

• Lots Road South, Chelsea Creek Car Pound, Lots Road, and 65-69 and 71-73 Lots Road, London SW10 0RN: This significant application, reference 2025/02928/FUL, was detailed in associated documents.
• 3 Shortlands, London W6 8DA: Application reference 2025/01723/FUL for this property in the Hammersmith Broadway area was also on the agenda.
• 350 - 358 Uxbridge Road, London W12 7LL: The committee was set to review application reference 2025/03221/FUL for this White City ward site.
• 104 King Street, London W6 0QW: Application reference 2025/00369/FUL for this Hammersmith Broadway location was listed.
• 153 Hurlingham Road, London SW6 3NN: Application reference 2025/03431/FUL for this Palace and Hurlingham ward property was scheduled for review.
• La Reserve Hotel, 422 - 428 Fulham Road, London SW6 1DU: A variation application, reference 2025/03297/VAR, for this Walham Green ward hotel was to be considered.

• 81 Blythe Road, London W14 0HP: Application reference 2025/02206/FUL for this Brook Green ward property was also on the agenda.

• Why this matters: Planning decisions directly shape our neighbourhoods, influencing everything from the availability of housing and local amenities to traffic flow and the character of our streets. These applications represent potential changes to the built environment that can have long-term impacts on residents' quality of life.

Link to Planning and Development Control Committee meeting

Licensing Sub-Committee Considers New Premises Licence Application

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Wednesday 11 March 2026 to consider a new premises licence application for 2 Vanston Place, London, SW6 1AY.

Balancing Business and Resident Concerns

The application, submitted by Mr Mohamed Abdelghany Gabr ElMansoury, sought to permit late-night refreshment hours extending into the early morning on weekends. The committee reviewed 18 objections from local residents and groups, who raised concerns about potential increases in noise, litter, and anti-social behaviour.

While the applicant and the Metropolitan Police had agreed on revised conditions and reduced hours, the potential impact on the local community remained a key consideration. The committee also reviewed the premises' enforcement history, which included past complaints related to noise and behaviour.

• Why this matters: Licensing decisions are crucial for maintaining a balance between supporting local businesses and ensuring the peace and safety of residential areas. For residents, these decisions can directly affect their quality of life, while for businesses, a licence is vital for their operation.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Wormwood Scrubs Charitable Trust Committee Approves Annual Report and Workforce Plan

The Wormwood Scrubs Charitable Trust Committee met on Tuesday 24 March 2026. The committee approved the annual report and financial statements for 2024/25 and a pilot workforce plan for 2026/27. Updates were also noted on grounds maintenance, the Linford Christie Stadium running track upgrade, and the Braybrook Street play area improvements.

Manager's Report and Financials

The committee approved the Wormwood Scrubs Charitable Trust (WSCT) Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2025. These documents showed a surplus for the year of £713,601, largely due to additional income from the Kensington Aldridge Academy's occupation of the parade ground and deferred capital expenditure. The committee also approved a pilot workforce plan for 2026/27, which includes the creation of a new Head of Operations and Sustainability role to expand upon the Trust Manager's responsibilities. This revised structure aims to meet the increasing demands of capital and community investment programmes on the Scrubs. The proposed budget for 2026/27 anticipates a net income of £860,861, with significant planned investments in various improvement projects.

AEM Masterplan Procurement

The committee noted the progress on the AEM Masterplan procurement. The tender process had concluded, with a preferred supplier identified. The contract award was subject to internal governance processes, including consideration by the Contracts Assurance Board and approval by the Cabinet member for public realm. The Trust Manager had written to HS2 to seek recovery of all project costs, including the £698,000 addition required for the 10-year management and maintenance plan. HS2 had acknowledged receipt of the letter, and a response was awaited. Legal advice confirmed that proceeding with internal governance would not jeopardise cost recovery from HS2, provided value for money was demonstrated. Capital works were anticipated to begin in autumn 2026.

Linford Christie Stadium Running Track Upgrade

A £20,000 uplift was approved for the Linford Christie Stadium running track improvement scheme. This decision followed a refinement of phase three of the stadium programme, which had initially come in £230,000 over budget. The revised scheme prioritises the 400m track, floodlighting, and base repairs, reducing the shortfall to £128,000. This would be funded through contributions from the council's S106/CIL funds, the Sports and Leisure department, and the WSCT. A letter of intent had been issued to the preferred bidder, and officers were working to confirm dates while ensuring continued access for priority users, including local state schools.

Grounds Maintenance and Planned Activities

The committee noted the performance of the grounds maintenance contractor and planned activities for February to April 2026. Approximately 8,000m² of scrub and bramble had been managed with volunteer support, with remaining areas to be completed after the bird-nesting season. Officers were monitoring green-waste piles and awaiting the contractor's final invasive-weed treatment plan. Tree-work updates would be shared in advance, and weekly volunteering would continue with extra protection for ground-nesting birds. Users were reminded to keep dogs on leads in the Western Meadow until September 2026.

Community Safety Report

The committee received an update on the activities of the Law Enforcement Team (LET). The report highlighted that the team had conducted 22 weapon sweeps and 73 Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) patrols in response to resident concerns, particularly regarding dogs and general public space awareness. The report also detailed how residents could contact the LET. Stephen Waley-Cohen, a co-opted member, inquired about the operational status of bollards near Woodman's Mews, which were confirmed to be active but kept lowered during the day to minimise noise. Waley-Cohen commended the team's work, especially their handling of fly-tipping incidents, and raised a specific instance on a UK Power Networks (UKPN) site that required clearance. Osama El-Amin, the Trust Manager, confirmed that all relevant information had been passed to UKPN, as it was their responsibility to arrange removal. Faye Thomas, another co-opted member, reported an abandoned motorbike on the west side of the Scrubs, which Claire Willis, an advisor to the Trust, confirmed had been reported to the Police and Idverde, with teams working together for its removal. Mark Raisbeck, an advisor to the Trust, stated he would escalate the matter with Parking colleagues.

Other Noted Updates

The committee noted the completion of works to the Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA), which included replacing the surface, upgrading fencing, and installing LED floodlights at a cost of £64,000. They also noted updates on the Braybrook Street play area improvements, with Phase 1 completed and Phase 2, including a new play structure and safety surfacing, scheduled to begin in early April. The BALI Principal Award for Nature Conservation and Biodiversity Enhancement, won by the WSCT and Idverde for their eco-volunteering programme, was celebrated. Finally, the committee noted a comparison of the Trust's financial performance to the year-end.

Link to Wormwood Scrubs Charitable Trust Committee meeting

Licensing Sub-Committee Scheduled to Review Co-Op Premises Licence

The Licensing Sub-Committee was scheduled to meet on Wednesday 25 March 2026 to discuss a review application for the premises licence of a Co-Op store. The meeting's agenda focused on the operational aspects and potential breaches of licensing objectives related to this specific location.

Review of Co-Op Premises Licence at 54 Uxbridge Road, London, W12 8LP

The primary item scheduled for discussion was the review of the premises licence for the Co-Op located at 54 Uxbridge Road, London, W12 8LP. The report pack detailed that an application for this review was submitted by the Hammersmith and Fulham Licensing Authority on 18 December 2025. The grounds for the review were stated as the prevention of crime and disorder and the prevention of public nuisance.

The current premises licence, originally granted on 6 September 2005, permits the sale of alcohol off the premises from Monday to Sunday, 09:00 to 02:00, and late-night refreshment indoors only from Monday to Sunday, 23:00 to 05:00. The premises are open to the public 24 hours a day.

The report pack outlined that representations supporting the review had been received from the Metropolitan Police and five individual representors. It also detailed an enforcement history for the premises, including several licensing inspection visits between May 2022 and June 2025, which identified multiple breaches of premises licence conditions. These breaches included issues such as the absence of a personal licence holder on duty, the sale of alcohol outside permitted hours or in contravention of specific conditions (e.g., sale of strong beers and ciders, single cans and bottles, and miniature spirits), and failures to meet requirements for resident meetings.

The report also considered relevant policy considerations, including the Council's Statement of Licensing Policy¹ and the Guidance issued by the Secretary of State under Section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003². The determination section outlined the potential steps the Sub-Committee could take, ranging from taking no further action to revoking the licence.

Supplementary agendas were also provided, including additional information from the premises licence holder's solicitor, Luke Elford of Keystone Law, who raised concerns about procedural issues and potential false statements made in connection with the review application. This supplementary information also included details of neighbouring premises and their licensing activities, such as McDonald's, Taco Bell, Belushi's, Aroma Buffet, Pizza Express, and Lidl.

• Why this matters: For residents, the consistent failure of a business to adhere to its licence conditions can lead to a decline in local amenity, with issues like street drinking and loitering impacting their sense of safety and well-being. The council's action here is about ensuring that licensed premises operate responsibly and do not contribute to crime or disorder. The potential outcomes for the Co-Op range from no further action to the revocation of its licence, a decision that would have significant consequences for the business and its customers.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

This week in Hammersmith and Fulham:

• The Audit Committee reviewed the council's external audit plan and internal audit progress.
• The Pension Fund Committee discussed the triennial valuation results and the funding strategy statement.
• The Health & Wellbeing Board reviewed progress on the Better Care Fund and the Best Start in Life Local Plan.
• The North West London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to discuss the temporary move of specialist children's heart services.
• The Appointments Panel was scheduled to consider the appointment of the Executive Director of Housing and Neighbourhoods.

Audit Committee - Monday 16 March 2026

The Audit Committee met on Monday 16 March 2026 to scrutinise the council's financial oversight and risk management processes. A key focus was the review of the external audit plan for 2025/26, prepared by Grant Thornton UK LLP. This plan outlines the scope and timing of the statutory audit, identifying significant risks such as management override of controls and the valuation of pension assets and liabilities. The audit fee for the council was set at £483,242. The committee also received an update on internal audit progress, noting that most audits conducted between April 2025 and February 2026 had received positive assurance opinions. However, an audit of St Mary's RC Primary School resulted in limited assurance, with recommendations for improvement, particularly concerning the bank reconciliation process. The committee also reviewed the draft Internal Audit Plan for 2026/27, which prioritises audits based on strategic risks and allows for flexibility in response to emerging issues. Finally, an update on the council's risk management framework was presented, highlighting key risks such as non-compliance with procurement legislation and IT system compromise due to cyber-attacks.

Pension Fund Committee - Tuesday 17 March 2026

The Pension Fund Committee convened on Tuesday 17 March 2026 to discuss the financial health and investment strategies of the Hammersmith & Fulham Pension Fund. A significant item was the introduction to the final results of the 2025 triennial actuarial valuation, which indicated an increase in the Fund's funding level to 113%. This improvement was largely attributed to strong investment returns. The committee also reviewed the draft Funding Strategy Statement (FSS), which sets out a clear and transparent strategy for meeting pension liabilities, aiming for solvency, cost efficiency, and stable employer contribution rates. An Investment Strategy Review was also on the agenda, considering key strategic themes and the current fund position, which shows an improved funding level and higher forward-looking return expectations. The committee was also scheduled to review the London Collective Investment Vehicle (LCIV) Investment Manager Agreement, a crucial step for pooling the fund's assets as of 1st April 2026, in line with the Pensions Schemes Bill. The committee also received the Pension Fund's quarterly performance update for Q4 2025, noting an increase in the market value of assets, although the Fund underperformed its benchmark net of fees over the quarter.

Health & Wellbeing Board - Wednesday 18 March 2026

The Health & Wellbeing Board met on Wednesday 18 March 2026 to address critical public health initiatives across the borough. A key discussion point was the Better Care Fund Quarter 3 report for 2025-2026. While discharge delays and residential admissions were on track, emergency admissions for individuals aged 65 and over were not meeting targets, attributed to winter conditions and flu outbreaks. The Board also focused on the Hammersmith & Fulham Best Start in Life Local Plan 2026-2029, a co-produced plan outlining priorities for supporting young children and their families. This plan aims to improve seamless service integration, healthier children, high-quality early education, and ensure every Reception child gets the right start. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with West London NHS Trust was presented to formalise joint working arrangements for integrated mental health services, aiming for faster access to support and shorter, safer hospital stays. Furthermore, a comprehensive plan to improve vaccination uptake across all age groups was discussed, highlighting that coverage in the borough remained below both London and England averages. The Board also received an update on oral health initiatives, with a focus on children and young people, including progress on the borough's Oral Health Plan and the Targeted Dental Access for Children (TDAC) Pilot.

North West London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Thursday 19 March 2026

The North West London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to meet on Thursday 19 March 2026 to discuss significant health service matters across the region. A major topic was the planned temporary move of specialist children's heart, lung, and critical care inpatient services, currently provided by Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust. This move is driven by clinical risk escalation and aims to consolidate services to meet national standards. The committee was also set to consider proposals for transforming the Crystal House specialist learning disability (LD) Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) ward. The current inpatient model is considered outdated, and a new community-based approach is being developed to provide earlier support and reduce costly admissions. An update on cancer prevention and early diagnosis initiatives across North West London was also on the agenda, alongside a review of the committee's recommendations tracker and its work programme for 2025/26.

Appointments Panel - Monday 16 March 2026

The Appointments Panel of Hammersmith and Fulham Council was scheduled to meet on Monday 16 March 2026. The primary item on the agenda was the appointment of the Executive Director of Housing and Neighbourhoods. This is a Chief Officer position, and as per the Local Government Act 2000, any such appointment requires the Executive to have the opportunity to make a reasonable objection. The specifics of the information provided to the panel were not publicly disclosed, and the press and public were to be excluded from this part of the meeting due to the likely disclosure of exempt information.

This week in Hammersmith and Fulham:

Council Approves Budget and Council Tax Hike Amidst Financial Strain

Hammersmith and Fulham Council's Cabinet met on Monday 9 March 2026 to make critical decisions on the borough's financial future, approving the revenue budget and council tax levels for the 2026/27 financial year. The meeting also saw the endorsement of a significant four-year capital programme and the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget. These decisions come as the council navigates increasing demand for services and national funding pressures, leading to a proposed Council Tax increase.

The Stakes: Balancing Budgets and Protecting Services

The approved revenue budget includes a 2.99% increase in the Hammersmith & Fulham element of Council Tax, alongside an additional 2% social care precept. This combined increase, equating to an additional 92p per week for Band D properties, is projected to generate £4.4 million annually. This funding is deemed essential for maintaining financial resilience, meeting rising demand, and combating inflation, while balancing the impact on local taxpayers. Councillor Rowan Ree, Cabinet Member for Finance and Reform, stated the increase was essential for continuing financial resilience, meeting increasing demand and inflation, while balancing the impact on local taxpayers.

The council's Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) highlights the impact of national funding changes, with the report noting that Hammersmith & Fulham's Council Tax remained the third lowest in the country during 2025/26. The administration has a history of cutting or freezing council tax for several years. The proposed budget aims to protect core services, ensure borough safety, promote prosperity, and maintain financial governance.

• Why this matters: For many households, particularly those on lower incomes or with fixed incomes, any increase in Council Tax can be a significant burden. The council's ability to fund essential services like social care, mental health support, and children's protection is directly tied to its budget. The proposed savings, alongside the tax increase, are intended to prevent cuts to vital services, but the financial strain on residents is a key consideration.

Investing in the Future: Capital Programme and Housing

The Cabinet also approved the Council's four-year Capital Programme for 2026/27 to 2029/30, allocating £452.2 million for asset development and enhancement. Key investments include:

• Housing Stock: £452.2 million over four years, with significant investment in the council's 12,000 housing stock.
• New Homes: Development of 298 dwellings, with 218 designated as affordable.
• Civic Campus: Completion of a new Civic Campus facility.
• School Facilities: Upgrades to school facilities.
• Hammersmith Bridge: Continued pre-restoration works, with expected funding from the Department for Transport and Transport for London.

The Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget for 2026/27 was also approved, including a national social rents policy of CPI + 1% for 2026/27, resulting in an average weekly increase of £6.69 for tenants. The HRA 10-year Business Plan includes plans for building 198 new homes and a £49 million investment over four years for energy efficiency retrofit projects.

• Why this matters: These capital investments are crucial for improving the borough's infrastructure, providing much-needed affordable housing, and enhancing the quality of life for residents. For tenants, the HRA budget decisions directly impact rent levels and the investment in their homes.

Controlling HMOs: Article 4 Direction

A significant decision was the approval to prepare an Article 4 Direction to control the proliferation of small Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). This measure aims to address the impact of HMOs on local residential amenity and community cohesion. The council will commission an evidence study to support the direction and delegate authority for making a 'non-immediate' Article 4 Direction to the Chief Planning Officer. Cabinet approval will be required in 12 months to confirm the Direction following statutory consultation.

• Why this matters: The growth of HMOs can significantly alter the character of residential streets, impacting parking, noise levels, and the overall sense of community. This decision signals the council's intent to manage this growth and protect the amenity of existing neighbourhoods.

Link to Cabinet meeting

Planning Committee Considers New Developments Across the Borough

The Planning and Development Control Committee met on Tuesday 10 March 2026 to consider a range of planning applications for new developments and alterations to existing buildings across Hammersmith and Fulham.

Key Applications Discussed:

• Lots Road South, Chelsea Creek Car Pound, Lots Road, and 65-69 and 71-73 Lots Road, London SW10 0RN: This significant application, reference 2025/02928/FUL, was scheduled for discussion. The development at Lots Road South involves multiple addresses and was detailed in associated documents.
• 3 Shortlands, London W6 8DA: Application reference 2025/01723/FUL for this property in the Hammersmith Broadway area was also on the agenda.
• 350 - 358 Uxbridge Road, London W12 7LL: The committee was set to review application reference 2025/03221/FUL for this White City ward site.
• 104 King Street, London W6 0QW: Application reference 2025/00369/FUL for this Hammersmith Broadway location was listed.
• 153 Hurlingham Road, London SW6 3NN: Application reference 2025/03431/FUL for this Palace and Hurlingham ward property was scheduled for review.
• La Reserve Hotel, 422 - 428 Fulham Road, London SW6 1DU: A variation application, reference 2025/03297/VAR, for this Walham Green ward hotel was to be considered.

• 81 Blythe Road, London W14 0HP: Application reference 2025/02206/FUL for this Brook Green ward property was also on the agenda.

• Why this matters: Planning decisions directly shape our neighbourhoods, influencing everything from the availability of housing and local amenities to traffic flow and the character of our streets. These applications represent potential changes to the built environment that can have long-term impacts on residents' quality of life.

Link to Planning and Development Control Committee meeting

Licensing Sub-Committee Considers New Premises Licence Application

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Wednesday 11 March 2026 to consider a new premises licence application for 2 Vanston Place, London, SW6 1AY.

Balancing Business and Resident Concerns

The application, submitted by Mr Mohamed Abdelghany Gabr ElMansoury, sought to permit late-night refreshment hours extending into the early morning on weekends. The committee reviewed 18 objections from local residents and groups, who raised concerns about potential increases in noise, litter, and anti-social behaviour.

While the applicant and the Metropolitan Police had agreed on revised conditions and reduced hours, the potential impact on the local community remained a key consideration. The committee also reviewed the premises' enforcement history, which included past complaints related to noise and behaviour.

• Why this matters: Licensing decisions are crucial for maintaining a balance between supporting local businesses and ensuring the peace and safety of residential areas. For residents, these decisions can directly affect their quality of life, while for businesses, a licence is vital for their operation.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting