This week in Hammersmith and Fulham:

Council Approves Budget and Council Tax Hike Amidst Financial Strain

Hammersmith and Fulham Council's Full Council met on Wednesday 25 February 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 treasury management strategy. 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 Stephen Cowan, Leader of the Council, stated that these decisions were necessary to protect vital services for residents.

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.

The meeting also included a review of the council's constitution and a discussion on a joint venture for managed service temporary and interim staffing services.

Link to Full Council meeting

Licensing Decisions: Balancing Business Needs with Community Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Tuesday 24 February 2026 to consider two significant applications that highlight the council's role in balancing the needs of local businesses with the concerns of residents. The decisions made can directly impact the vibrancy of our high streets and the quality of life in our neighbourhoods.

The Hurlingham Club: Extended Hours Granted with Conditions

The committee reviewed an application for a premises licence for The Hurlingham Club. The application sought to permit the sale of alcohol and the provision of regulated entertainment, including live and recorded music, dancing, and film screenings, until 01:00 on Fridays and Saturdays, and until 00:30 on other days. The club also applied for permission to operate as a hotel, with services available to residents and their guests.

Representations were received from a number of interested parties, including residents concerned about potential noise disturbance and increased traffic. The club's representatives argued that the proposed operating hours and activities were in keeping with the club's status as a private members' establishment and would not significantly impact the local community. They highlighted existing noise mitigation measures and proposed further controls to address concerns.

After deliberation, the committee decided to grant the premises licence for The Hurlingham Club. However, certain conditions were imposed, including restrictions on the hours for live music and amplified sound, and a requirement for a comprehensive noise management plan to be implemented and adhered to. The decision was made in line with the council's licensing objectives, particularly the prevention of public nuisance.

• Why this matters: For residents living near licensed premises, decisions about operating hours and activities can directly affect their peace and quiet. For businesses, a licence is essential for their survival and ability to contribute to the local economy. The committee's decision will determine the operating parameters for The Hurlingham Club and what measures will be in place to mitigate any negative impacts on the surrounding community.

Pick N Save Licence Review: Conditions Imposed to Ensure Compliance

The committee also reviewed the premises licence for Pick N Save, an off-licence located at 123 High Street, Fulham. This review was prompted by representations from the Metropolitan Police concerning alleged breaches of licensing conditions, specifically related to the sale of alcohol to intoxicated persons and the prevention of crime and disorder.

The police presented evidence detailing several incidents that they believed demonstrated a failure by the premises to uphold its licensing objectives. They argued for the revocation of the licence to prevent further issues.

The owner of Pick N Save, represented by their legal counsel, contested the allegations. They presented arguments and evidence to demonstrate that they had taken steps to comply with their licence conditions and that the incidents cited by the police were either isolated or misrepresented. They proposed a series of additional measures, including enhanced staff training and improved CCTV coverage, to address the concerns raised.

The Licensing Sub-Committee considered the representations from both the police and the premises. They acknowledged the seriousness of the concerns raised by the police but also took into account the proposed remedial actions by Pick N Save. The committee decided not to revoke the licence. Instead, they imposed a number of additional conditions on the licence, including a requirement for all staff to undergo refresher training on responsible alcohol sales, the installation of a new CCTV system, and a commitment to maintain a log of all alcohol sales to known intoxicated individuals. These conditions were aimed at reinforcing the licensing objectives and ensuring better compliance moving forward.

• 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 imposed conditions aim to prevent future issues and ensure the premises operates in line with its licence.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• Pensions Board - Wednesday 04 March 2026 - Link to meeting
  • Main topics: Review of LPPA performance, Pension Fund quarterly update, and Key Performance Indicators.
• Schools Forum - Tuesday 03 March 2026 - Link to meeting
  • Main topics: Dedicated Schools Grant monitoring for 2025-26 and retrospective adjustment to Early Years DSG funding.
• Licensing Sub-Committee - Wednesday 04 March 2026 - Link to meeting
  • Main topics: Application for a new premises licence for Koocina.
• Cabinet - Monday 09 March 2026 - Link to meeting
  • Main topics: To be confirmed.
• Planning and Development Control Committee - Tuesday 10 March 2026 - Link to meeting
  • Main topics: To be confirmed.
• Licensing Sub-Committee - Wednesday 11 March 2026 - Link to meeting
  • Main topics: To be confirmed.

This week in Hammersmith and Fulham:

Licensing Decisions: Balancing Business Needs with Community Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Tuesday 17 February 2026 to consider two significant applications that highlight the council's role in balancing the needs of local businesses with the concerns of residents. The decisions made can directly impact the vibrancy of our high streets and the quality of life in our neighbourhoods.

The Brown Cow: A Pub's Future Hangs in the Balance

The committee reviewed an application for a premises licence for The Brown Cow, a public house at 676 and 678-680 Fulham Road, London, SW6 5SA. The applicant sought to merge two existing premises into a single licensed establishment, with proposed hours extending into the early morning.

Representations from residents and Councillor Liam Downer-Sanderson raised concerns about potential noise, anti-social behaviour, and the impact on pavement accessibility. These concerns are central to the council's licensing objectives, particularly the prevention of public nuisance. The report detailed the council's Statement of Licensing Policy (SLP)¹, which guides decisions to ensure a safe licensing environment.

• Why this matters: For residents living near licensed premises, decisions about operating hours and activities can directly affect their peace and quiet. For businesses, a licence is essential for their survival and ability to contribute to the local economy. The committee's decision will determine whether The Brown Cow can expand its operations and what measures will be in place to mitigate any negative impacts on the surrounding community.

Co-Op Licence Review: Addressing Persistent Issues

The committee also considered a review of the premises licence for the Co-Op at 54 Uxbridge Road, London, W12 8LP. This review was initiated by the council's Licensing Authority due to ongoing concerns about the prevention of crime and disorder, and public nuisance.

The report detailed a history of licensing breaches, including issues with the sale of alcohol above specified strengths and the sale of single cans. The Metropolitan Police and local residents have raised concerns about anti-social behaviour linked to the premises' operation.

• 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

Upcoming Meetings

• Reserved - Monday 23 February 2026 - Link to meeting
  • Main topics: To be confirmed.
• Licensing Sub-Committee - Tuesday 24 February 2026 - Link to meeting
  • Main topics: Application for a temporary premises licence for The Hurlingham Club and a review of the premises licence for Pick 'n' Save.
• Full Council - Wednesday 25 February 2026 - Link to meeting
  • Main topics: Revenue Budget and Council Tax Levels 2026/27, Four Year Capital Programme 2026-30, Treasury Management Strategy Statement 2026/27, Pay Policy Statement 2026/27, Joint Venture for Managed Service Staffing, and Review of the Constitution.
• Schools Forum - Tuesday 03 March 2026 - Link to meeting
  • Main topics: To be confirmed.
• Licensing Sub-Committee - Wednesday 04 March 2026 - Link to meeting
  • Main topics: To be confirmed.
• Pensions Board - Wednesday 04 March 2026 - Link to meeting
  • Main topics: To be confirmed.

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 February 2026 to make critical decisions on the borough's financial future, approving the revenue budget and council tax levels for 2026/27. 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 meeting

Planning Committee Approves New Homes and Retail Change of Use

The Planning and Development Control Committee met on Tuesday 10 February 2026 to consider two significant planning applications: a residential development at 1 Spring Vale Terrace and a change of use at the West 12 Shopping Centre.

New Homes at 1 Spring Vale Terrace

The committee considered a detailed planning application for the demolition of an existing building at 1 Spring Vale Terrace, London W14 0AE and the erection of 18 new residential units. The proposal includes a mix of townhouses and self-contained flats, along with solar panels, landscaping, and refuse and cycle storage. The officer's recommendation was to grant planning permission, subject to a legal agreement and conditions covering demolition, construction management, materials, landscaping, accessibility, fire safety, and energy efficiency.

• Why this matters: This development contributes to the borough's housing stock, providing new homes for residents. The conditions attached aim to ensure high-quality design and sustainability, minimising environmental impact.

West 12 Shopping Centre Change of Use

The committee also reviewed a planning application for a change of use at the West 12 Shopping Centre, Shepherd's Bush Green, London W12 from Class E to self-storage (Use Class B8) in part of the basement. The proposal includes the installation of new doors and external louvres. The officer's recommendation was to grant planning permission, subject to a legal agreement and conditions. This agreement includes financial contributions towards community safety and public realm, discounted storage for local businesses and charities, and a carbon offset payment.

• Why this matters: This change of use aims to bring a vacant basement area into productive use, providing storage facilities. The conditions attached ensure that the development contributes positively to the local community and environment.

Link to meeting

Wormwood Scrubs Charitable Trust Committee Reviews Projects and Finances

The Wormwood Scrubs Charitable Trust Committee met on Wednesday 11 February 2026 to review a range of operational and capital projects, alongside the Trust's financial performance.

Capital Projects and Site Updates

The committee received updates on several capital projects, including:

• AEM Masterplan: Authority to progress the contract was delegated to the Chair.
• Linford Christie Sports Stadium: A £20,000 uplift to the athletics track improvement scheme was requested for approval.
• Braybrook Play Area: Completion of works to the play area was noted, with further phases planned.
• MUGA: Completion of works to the Multi-Use Games Area behind the Old Oak Family Hub was noted.

Financial Performance and Workforce Plan

The committee reviewed the Trust's financial performance for the year ending 31 March 2025, which indicated a surplus. A pilot workforce plan for 2026/27 was also presented, proposing new roles and a £40,000 increase in expenditure for the programme's duration.

Community Safety and Grounds Maintenance

Updates were provided on community safety initiatives and the performance of the grounds maintenance contractor. The committee also celebrated the Principal Award for Nature Conservation and Biodiversity Enhancement by the British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI).

Link to meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• Reserved - Monday 23 February 2026 - Link to meeting
  • Main topics: To be confirmed.
• Full Council - Wednesday 25 February 2026 - Link to meeting
  • Main topics: To be confirmed.
• Licensing Sub-Committee - Tuesday 24 February 2026 - Link to meeting
  • Main topics: To be confirmed.
• Licensing Sub-Committee - Tuesday 17 February 2026 - Link to meeting
  • Main topics: Premises licence application for The Brown Cow and review of the premises licence for the Co-Op on Uxbridge Road.
• Reserved - Wednesday 18 February 2026 - Link to meeting
  • Main topics: To be confirmed.

This week in Hammersmith and Fulham:

Council Faces Tough Budget Decisions: Council Tax Hike Looms

Hammersmith and Fulham Council is navigating significant financial challenges, with multiple committees discussing the proposed 2026/27 revenue budget and Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS). These discussions reveal a stark reality of increasing demand for services, particularly in adult social care and children's services, coupled with national funding pressures. The proposed solution includes a Council Tax increase, which aims to protect core services but will impact residents' household budgets.

The Stakes: Protecting Services and Balancing Budgets

The council is proposing a 2.99% increase in Council Tax, alongside an additional social care precept. This combined increase, equating to an extra 92p per week for Band D properties, is projected to generate £4.4 million annually. This funding is deemed essential to maintain financial resilience, meet rising demand, and combat inflation, while balancing the impact on local taxpayers.

The Economy, Arts, Sports, and Public Realm Policy and Accountability Committee and the Social Inclusion and Community Safety Policy and Accountability Committee both reviewed these budget proposals. They highlighted that the council continues to face financial challenges due to demand-led pressures in services like Adult Social Care and Children's Services, as well as the impact of the Fair Funding Review 2.0 and the reset of the Business Rates Retention System.

The proposed revenue budget for 2026/27 aims to:

• Protect core services valued by residents.
• Ensure the safety of the borough.
• Support prosperity across Hammersmith and Fulham.
• Promote an efficient council.
• Maintain strong financial governance and resilience.

To achieve a balanced budget, the council is planning for £9.5 million in efficiencies. Savings proposals relevant to these committees include £1.3 million from Place Redesign Phase 3, £500,000 from a review of fees and charges, and £750,000 from Other commercial initiatives.

• 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 could mean difficult choices about service levels, potentially leading to longer waiting times or reduced support for those who rely on them most.

Link to The Economy, Arts, Sports, and Public Realm Policy and Accountability Committee meeting Link to Social Inclusion and Community Safety Policy and Accountability Committee meeting

Climate Action and Development Under Scrutiny

The Climate Change and Ecology Policy and Accountability Committee also grappled with the budget proposals, alongside an update on the council's direct development schemes and their alignment with the Climate and Ecology Strategy. The council has set an ambitious target of net zero carbon emissions borough-wide by 2030.

The committee reviewed how development schemes, such as Hartopp & Lannoy and Farm Lane, are incorporating sustainability measures like Passivhaus standards, Air Source Heat Pumps, and solar PV panels. These developments aim to significantly reduce CO2 emissions and enhance local biodiversity.

• Why this matters: These developments are crucial for the council's climate goals and for creating sustainable, energy-efficient homes. For residents, this means potentially lower energy bills and a healthier living environment. However, the financial implications of these ambitious climate targets are also factored into the overall budget.

Link to Climate Change and Ecology Policy and Accountability Committee meeting

Housing Solutions and Homelessness Funding

The Housing and Homelessness Policy and Accountability Committee also considered the revenue budget and MTFS, with a specific focus on the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget for 2026/27. The report highlighted that the national homelessness crisis is placing significant pressure on Housing Solutions, with increased costs for temporary accommodation and a lack of supply.

The committee reviewed proposed changes to fees and charges for services like Private Sector Leasing and Temporary Accommodation. The proposed budget for Housing General Fund for 2026/27 is £21.5 million, with key changes including an inflationary uplift for temporary accommodation.

• Why this matters: The rising costs associated with homelessness and temporary accommodation directly impact the council's budget and its ability to provide adequate support. For individuals and families experiencing homelessness, these decisions are critical for securing safe and stable housing.

Link to Housing and Homelessness Policy and Accountability Committee meeting

Licensing Sub-Committee Reviews Premises Licences

The Licensing Sub-Committee met to consider two applications for premises licences. One involved a review of the licence for Wine Rack, a retail off-licence, following concerns raised by Trading Standards about the sale of contraband tobacco and high-strength beers. The other application was for a new licence for Cucina Habesha Ltd, a proposed cafe/restaurant.

Tackling Illegal Trade and Noise Concerns

The review of Wine Rack focused on allegations of selling products below duty and VAT. Trading Standards recommended no further action after constructive engagement with the licensee, who agreed to attend training and implement additional licence conditions.

The application for Cucina Habesha Ltd faced a representation from the Environmental Protection Team due to its proximity to residential properties at White City Living. Concerns were raised about potential noise disturbance from extended hours for alcohol sales, late-night refreshment, and music. The committee would consider the applicant's operating schedule and agreed conditions with the Metropolitan Police, which included operating primarily as a restaurant with alcohol sales ancillary to food orders.

• Why this matters: These decisions directly impact local businesses and residents. The effective regulation of licensed premises is crucial for preventing crime, disorder, and public nuisance, ensuring that businesses can thrive without negatively impacting the quality of life for those living nearby.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• Cabinet - Monday 09 February 2026 - Link to meeting
  • Main topics: Revenue Budget and Council Tax Levels 2026/27, Four Year Capital Programme 2026-30, Housing Revenue Account Budget and Business Plan, School and Early Years Budget 2026/27, Treasury Management Strategy Statement 2026/27, and Article 4 Direction - Small Houses In Multiple Occupation.
• Planning and Development Control Committee - Tuesday 10 February 2026 - Link to meeting
  • Main topics: Planning applications for residential development at 1 Spring Vale Terrace and change of use at the West 12 Shopping Centre.
• Wormwood Scrubs Charitable Trust Committee - Wednesday 11 February 2026 - Link to meeting
  • Main topics: Manager's Report and approval of minutes from the previous meeting.
• Licensing Sub-Committee - Tuesday 17 February 2026 - Link to meeting
  • Main topics: To be confirmed.
• Reserved - Wednesday 18 February 2026 - Link to meeting
  • Main topics: To be confirmed.