This week in Hammersmith and Fulham:

Council Pushes Forward with Major School Redevelopment and Housing Plans

The Cabinet met on Monday 12 October 2026, making key decisions that will shape the future of education and housing in the borough. A significant approval was given for the temporary relocation of William Morris Sixth Form to Hythe House, located at 200 Shepherd's Bush Road, Brook Green, W6 7NL. This move is a crucial step in the rebuilding of the sixth form's facilities as part of the Department for Education's School Rebuilding Programme. The council will acquire Hythe House, with the current William Morris Sixth Form site on St Dunstan’s Road, London W6 8RB being disposed of to the Secretary of State. This complex transaction is conditional on the completion of the Hythe House acquisition and subsequent works.

The Cabinet also gave the green light to consult on the draft School Organisation Plan and options for managing primary school places. This plan is vital for ensuring that every child in Hammersmith and Fulham has access to a school place. The consultation will involve parents, carers, pupils, staff, and other stakeholders, aiming to gather broad input before final decisions are made.

• Why this matters: These decisions directly impact the educational future of young people in Hammersmith and Fulham. The redevelopment of William Morris Sixth Form promises improved facilities, while the School Organisation Plan ensures that the borough can meet the growing demand for school places. For families, this means greater certainty and better educational opportunities for their children. The council's commitment to consulting widely demonstrates a dedication to involving the community in shaping these vital services.

Link to Cabinet meeting

Hammersmith Road Cycleway Gets Green Light, Paving the Way for Safer Cycling

The Cabinet also expressed its support for Transport for London's (TfL) Permanent Cycleway 9 (C9) scheme on Hammersmith Road. This decision, subject to legal and operational arrangements, signals a commitment to improving cycling infrastructure in the borough. The council will enter into a Section 8 Agreement with TfL to facilitate the scheme's delivery, ensuring safeguards are in place.

• Why this matters: The implementation of Cycleway 9 is a significant step towards making cycling safer and more accessible for residents. This will encourage more people to choose active travel, contributing to reduced traffic congestion, improved air quality, and better public health. For cyclists, it means a dedicated and safer route, reducing the risk of accidents and making cycling a more viable option for commuting and leisure.

Link to Cabinet meeting

Pension Fund Committee Reviews Performance and Strategy Amidst Regulatory Changes

The Pension Fund Committee met on Monday 12 October 2026 to review the performance of the Local Pension Partnership Administration (LPPA) and discuss the revised Pension Administration Strategy. The committee received updates on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for LPPA, which showed generally improving metrics, including high on-time processing rates for retirements and transfers. However, call wait times were noted as being impacted by spikes in demand, a challenge being addressed through improved first-time query resolution and member expectation management.

The committee also considered the revised Pension Administration Strategy, which is now mandatory for all Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) pension schemes. This strategy clarifies the roles and responsibilities of the fund and its employers, with updated provisions for financial penalties for late contributions and enhanced data security requirements. The Pension Fund Operational Risk Register was also reviewed, highlighting ongoing efforts to manage risks related to business continuity, technology, and regulatory compliance, particularly in light of increasing complexity in the LGPS legislative agenda and the potential impact of Artificial Intelligence.

• Why this matters: The effective management of the Pension Fund is crucial for the financial security of current and future retirees. The committee's focus on KPIs and administration strategy ensures that the fund is managed efficiently and transparently. The proactive approach to risk management, including the adoption of new strategies and the exploration of emerging technologies like AI, demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding the fund's assets and ensuring members receive their entitled pensions. For those who rely on the pension fund, these discussions are vital for maintaining confidence in its long-term stability.

Link to Pension Fund Committee meeting

Planning Committee Approves New Homes and Commercial Spaces Across the Borough

The Planning and Development Control Committee met on Tuesday 13 October 2026, considering several applications that will bring new homes and commercial spaces to Hammersmith and Fulham.

Goldhawk Road Development Approved

Plans for a significant development at 190-194 Goldhawk Road, London W12 9NS were approved. This will involve the demolition of existing buildings and the construction of a new part four, part five, and part six-storey building comprising 24 self-contained flats and a 234 sqm commercial unit. Additionally, 12 one and two-storey dwelling houses will be built at the rear of the site. The proposal includes 12 affordable housing units, representing 36% of the total by habitable room.

Hammersmith Road Office Conversion to Residential

Permission was granted for the change of use of office space on the first, second, and third floors of 99-119 Hammersmith Road, London W14 0QH to create 29 residential dwellings. This development will also include shared amenity space in the basement and a financial contribution of £900,000 towards off-site affordable housing provision.

Padel Centre for West 12 Shopping Centre

The committee approved the change of use of part of the second floor of the West 12 Shopping Centre, Shepherd's Bush Green, London W12 8PP from a former cinema to a padel court centre. This will create 11 padel courts with ancillary facilities. A Section 106 agreement will secure a £68,000 contribution towards community safety measures.

Fulham Park Gardens Extensions for New Flats

Plans for extensions and alterations at 57-59 and 61-64 Fulham Park Gardens, London SW6 4LB were considered, aiming to create seven new one-bedroom self-contained flats at roof level. The ground floor of one property will also be converted to create an additional studio flat. The development will be car-permit free.

• Why this matters: These planning decisions will lead to the creation of new homes, including much-needed affordable housing, and the repurposing of commercial spaces. The Goldhawk Road development, in particular, will bring a significant number of new homes and affordable units to the area. The conversion of offices on Hammersmith Road addresses the demand for housing while making efficient use of existing buildings. The transformation of the former cinema into a padel centre offers new recreational opportunities for residents. These developments contribute to the borough's housing targets and provide new amenities for the community.

Link to Planning and Development Control Committee meeting

This week in Hammersmith and Fulham:

Council Champions Inclusive Growth, Supporting Businesses and Young People

The Policy and Oversight Board met on Wednesday 7 October 2026 to discuss the council's ambitious strategy for inclusive growth, known as Upstream London. This initiative aims to position Hammersmith and Fulham as a hub for innovation and economic development, ensuring that residents benefit from the opportunities created.

The board heard how the council is actively supporting local businesses and residents through various programmes. The Pathway Bond programme, launched in October 2025, has already connected over 2,200 young people with employers through work experience and mentoring. Similarly, the H&F Works job brokerage service helped 531 residents find employment and 94 secure apprenticeships in the last year alone.

Local business owners Letitia Phillips of Skin Irie London and Dr. Holly Millmine of Hive Wellness shared their positive experiences, highlighting the crucial support they received from the council in growing their ventures. They emphasised the value of networking opportunities, business advice, and access to programmes that have been instrumental in their success.

The council's commitment extends to adult learning and skills development, with H&F Adult Learning & Skills (HFALS) offering courses focused on future skills for future jobs in areas like AI and the green economy. A new Learning and Skills Hub is set to open in White City.

• Why this matters: This strategy is about creating real opportunities for everyone in Hammersmith and Fulham. By supporting local businesses and equipping residents with the skills they need, the council is working to ensure that economic growth benefits all, particularly young people and those facing barriers to employment. The success stories shared by local entrepreneurs demonstrate the tangible impact of these initiatives on individuals and the local economy.

Link to Policy and Oversight Board meeting

New Restaurants Granted Licences with Conditions to Protect Residents

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Wednesday 7 October 2026 and considered applications for two new licensed premises. While both applications were granted, they came with specific conditions to address concerns raised by residents and council officers.

Ajet E&E Restaurant Ltd, 91 Bloemfontein Road, London, W12 7DA

A licence was granted to Ajet E&E Restaurant Ltd for the sale of alcohol and late-night refreshment. However, the hours for alcohol sales were modified from the initial request, and conditions were added following objections from the Noise and Nuisance Team. The objector raised concerns about potential disturbance to nearby residents due to the premises' proximity to residential properties. The committee balanced the applicant's desire for flexibility with the need to protect residents from noise.

The Square, Olympia Exhibition Centre, Hammersmith Road, London, W14 8UX

Olympia Central Square ('The Square') was granted a premises licence for the sale of alcohol, with conditions including that any off-sales must be in sealed containers. This decision followed significant opposition from 17 objectors, primarily local residents and Street Hub. Concerns centred on public safety, obstruction, and congestion, particularly as the area serves as a dispersal corridor for large events. The committee imposed conditions to mitigate these risks, aiming to balance operational flexibility for Olympia with the safety and well-being of the public and local residents.

• Why this matters: These decisions highlight the council's role in managing the impact of new licensed premises on local communities. While granting licences can support local businesses and amenities, the conditions imposed are crucial for preventing public nuisance, ensuring safety, and protecting residents from potential disturbances. The careful consideration of objections from residents and council teams demonstrates a commitment to balancing development with the quality of life in the borough.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Other Matters

The Schools Forum meeting scheduled for Tuesday 6 October 2026 was cancelled.

This week in Hammersmith and Fulham:

Ringo Pizza Licence Suspended for a Month Amidst Immigration Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Wednesday 30 September 2026 and made a significant decision regarding Ringo Pizza, a restaurant at 40 Fulham Palace Road, London, W6 9PH. Following an application by the Home Office Immigration Enforcement Team, the committee reviewed the premises' licence due to concerns about the employment of an individual without the right to work in the UK.

The committee decided to suspend Ringo Pizza's licence for one month. Additionally, they imposed several new conditions, including prohibiting Mr. Shakeeb Ayash from being employed at the premises and mandating the use of an online system for checking employees' right to work, which will be audited regularly. The premises' opening hours were also modified.

Alexandra Romano, representing the Home Office Immigration Enforcement Team, argued for the revocation of the licence, citing the discovery of an illegal worker and the failure to conduct proper right-to-work checks. She expressed a lack of confidence in the new management's ability to implement effective compliance systems, stating that verbal assurances were insufficient.

Sami Rizvi, representing the current licence holder, Yousef Aga, argued that the issues predated Mr. Aga's ownership and that he was committed to robust right-to-work procedures. He suggested that revocation would be a disproportionate outcome.

• Why this matters: This decision directly impacts the operation of Ringo Pizza and highlights the council's commitment to enforcing immigration laws and preventing illegal working. For residents, the suspension means a temporary closure of a local establishment, but it also signals a strong stance against businesses that fail to comply with employment regulations. The new conditions aim to ensure that future operations are compliant, protecting vulnerable workers and upholding the integrity of the labour market. The Home Office's concerns underscore the serious consequences of failing to conduct due diligence on employees, which can lead to significant penalties and operational disruption.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Local Hero Cafe Granted Licence with Conditions to Mitigate Noise

The Licensing Sub-Committee also granted a premises licence for Local Hero, a cafe at 640 Fulham Road, London, SW6 5RT. The licence allows for the playing of recorded music and the sale of alcohol with modified hours and conditions.

The committee agreed to several conditions proposed by the police and accepted by the applicant, Emma Blazevic. These include displaying a contact number for public complaints, closing the garden area to customers from 9:00 PM, and prohibiting music or amplified sound in the garden after that time. External doors must also be fitted with self-closing devices and not be propped open.

During the hearing, Councillor Wesley Harcourt, Chair of the Health and Wellbeing Board, raised concerns about noise from the garden area. Ms. Blazevic agreed to the 9:00 PM closure for the garden, demonstrating a willingness to address resident concerns.

• Why this matters: This decision allows a new family-run cafe to open, potentially enhancing the local amenities. However, the imposed conditions are crucial for ensuring that the cafe's operations do not negatively impact nearby residents, particularly concerning noise from the garden area. The agreement to close the garden early and restrict music demonstrates a commitment to balancing business needs with the peace and quiet of the neighbourhood. This reflects the council's role in managing the impact of new businesses on residential areas.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

This week in Hammersmith and Fulham:

Late-Night Venues Approved for Hammersmith Civic Campus Amidst Resident Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Tuesday 22 September 2026 and granted new premises licences and provisional statements for various venues within the new Hammersmith Civic Campus development. These licences permit the sale of alcohol, provision of films, live and recorded music, and late-night refreshment, with operating hours extending until 3 am on most days.

The committee approved a new premises licence for H&F Civic Campus - Civic Avenue & Unity Square, allowing for alcohol sales and entertainment until 3 am in the Civic Campus Building and New Town Square, and until 11 pm in Civic Avenue and Unity Square. Six provisional statements for areas including a rooftop restaurant and various units within the campus were also granted, generally with operating hours from 9 am to 3 am.

However, the decision was met with significant objections from local residents, notably Una-Jane Winfield. Concerns were raised about the potential for increased noise, crime, and public nuisance due to the proposed late operating hours, particularly in what is described as a primarily residential area. Objectors also voiced worries about increased traffic and congestion from taxis and private hire vehicles.

The applicant's solicitor, Alun Thomas, argued that the proposed hours were justified by the managed nature of the estate, the extensive mitigation measures in place, and the council's policy supporting growth in the night-time economy. He highlighted comprehensive security, CCTV, and management plans approved through the planning process.

Despite the objections, the committee granted the applications with the proposed conditions. The decision to allow venues to operate until 3 am, seven days a week, has been met with apprehension by some residents who fear it will negatively impact the local community.

• Why this matters: This decision directly impacts the character of the local area and the quality of life for residents. While the council aims to foster a vibrant night-time economy, the extended hours for these new venues raise concerns about noise, safety, and potential increases in anti-social behaviour. For residents living nearby, the impact of these late-night operations, especially on weekdays, could mean disrupted sleep and a less peaceful environment. The council's licensing policy aims to balance economic growth with the prevention of public nuisance, but the effectiveness of the imposed conditions will be crucial in mitigating resident concerns.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Wormwood Scrubs Charitable Trust Approves Masterplan and Celebrates Stadium Improvements

The Wormwood Scrubs Charitable Trust Committee met on Wednesday 23 September 2026, making key decisions on the future management and development of Wormwood Scrubs. The committee approved the Alternative Ecological Mitigation (AEM) Masterplan, which will involve significant capital works funded through a revised agreement with HS2.

The AEM Masterplan aims to enhance the ecological value of the Scrubs. While the initial tender exceeded the budget, negotiations with HS2 have secured additional funding. The Trust will contribute 22% of the capital costs and 10% of the management and maintenance costs over 10 years. These funds will cover essential elements not included in the original scheme, such as Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS), protection of the park run route, and improved signage. Capital works are expected to begin towards the end of the year, with main works commencing in January 2027.

In positive news, the committee celebrated the completion of the third and final phase of the capital programme at the Linford Christie Outdoor Athletics and Sports Stadium. This final phase involved re-surfacing the athletics track, which has now achieved 'track mark' accreditation from England Athletics. The total cost of the three-phase programme, including changing room refurbishment and artificial pitch redevelopment, was over £2 million, with contributions from the Trust, Hammersmith and Fulham Council, and other funding streams.

The committee also noted upcoming works by UK Power Networks on Old Oak Common Lane, which will necessitate a temporary footpath across Wormwood Scrubs to maintain pedestrian access. This temporary path will be reinstated with wildflower seeding by December 2027.

Furthermore, Wormwood Scrubs has retained its Green Flag Award status for the third consecutive year, recognising its high standards of management and maintenance. Plans are in place for vegetation reduction to create long grass meadows and for the relocation of log piles to create hibernacula.

Improvements to the Braybrook Play Areas are also progressing, with phase three of the works set to include new shade units, benches, and the replacement of a climbing frame.

• Why this matters: These developments are crucial for the preservation and enhancement of Wormwood Scrubs, a vital green space for the community. The AEM Masterplan ensures ecological improvements, while the stadium upgrades provide enhanced sporting facilities for athletes and the wider community. The retention of the Green Flag Award signifies a commitment to maintaining high standards of public space management. For residents, these improvements mean better access to nature, improved recreational facilities, and a well-maintained local environment.

Link to Wormwood Scrubs Charitable Trust Committee meeting

Audit Committee Reviews Financial Statements and Risk Management

The Audit Committee met on Thursday 24 September 2026 to review the Council's financial performance and risk management strategies. The committee received the 2025/26 Statement of Accounts, which were given an unqualified opinion by external auditors Grant Thornton UK LLP.

Financial Statements and Auditor's Report

The Annual Auditors Report (AAR) provided Amber and Green ratings for key criteria, with three low-priority recommendations for improvement. These recommendations focused on housekeeping matters, including journal control, asset depreciation, and lease accounting. Management has provided responses outlining plans to address these areas.

A key discussion point was the Council's debtors position, with £29 million in council tax debtors and £18 million in non-domestic rates debtors. While the Council maintains a strong collection rate of over 96% for both, officers acknowledged that there is room for improvement in council tax collection, which is being addressed. These figures represent accumulated residual debt over several years.

The committee also reviewed the Pension Fund accounts, noting that no recommendations were raised in that report, although some work is still pending.

Risk Management Update

An update on risk management highlighted changes to the process, with an increased focus on persistent risks – those that are always present, such as cyber security threats. Four risks had been closed since the previous report.

A detailed discussion took place regarding Risk 1, concerning compliance with the new Procurement Act 2023. Councillor Charlotte Moar questioned the risk score, and officers explained it reflected the inherent risk before controls were applied. The committee agreed to review the scoring and consider splitting the risk into compliance and challenge elements. Risk 9, concerning statutory housing landlord duties, was also discussed, with officers noting good performance in this area.

Treasury Management Outturn Report

The committee reviewed the Treasury Management Outturn for 2025/26. The Council repaid nearly £20 million in loans and borrowed an additional £228 million, primarily for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) to leverage a discount. Despite this borrowing, cash balances increased by £52 million, largely used to fund the capital programme.

Two prudential indicators were not met: the Capital Financing Requirement (CFR) exceeded the approved limit, and the maturity limit for borrowing under 12 months was breached. These were described as deliberate strategic choices made to benefit the Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP). The committee discussed assumptions underpinning Treasury budgets, particularly interest rates, and the potential impact of global events.

• Why this matters: The Audit Committee plays a vital role in ensuring the council's financial health and robust governance. The approval of the Statement of Accounts signifies confidence in the council's financial management. The focus on risk management, particularly concerning procurement and housing compliance, is essential for protecting residents and ensuring services are delivered effectively and legally. The Treasury Management report highlights the council's strategic financial decisions, balancing borrowing needs with long-term financial planning and the impact of economic volatility.

Link to Audit Committee meeting