This week in Hammersmith and Fulham:

Council Secrecy Over Executive Roles Sparks Concern

The Chief Officers Employment Panel met on Thursday 3 September 2026, but details surrounding proposed structure revisions for the Executive Director Legal Assurance and Governance and Monitoring Officer roles were kept strictly confidential. The panel was invited to exclude the public and press from this part of the meeting, citing the likely disclosure of exempt information.

The council stated that the public interest in keeping this information private outweighed the public interest in disclosing it. This decision to withhold information about senior roles, particularly those related to governance and legal assurance, raises questions about transparency and accountability.

• Why this matters: Decisions about who holds senior positions within the council have a direct impact on how services are run and how public money is managed. When these discussions are held behind closed doors, it can be difficult for residents to understand the rationale behind appointments and to hold those in power accountable. This lack of transparency can erode public trust, especially when dealing with roles that are crucial for good governance.

Link to Chief Officers Employment Panel meeting

This week in Hammersmith and Fulham:

Street Trading Rules Updated to Support Traders and Enhance Local Markets

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Wednesday 29 July 2026 and adopted revised standard conditions for street trading licences and updated regulations for commodities. These changes, which were subject to a public consultation with no objections received, aim to improve standards, support traders, and ensure consistency across the borough.

Key Changes to Street Trading Conditions

The committee agreed to several amendments to the Prescribed Standard Conditions for Street Trading Licences 2026. These include:

• Reduced Insurance Burden: The minimum public liability insurance cover has been lowered from £10 million to £5 million. This aims to ease the financial pressure on traders, particularly those participating in one-off events.
• Music for Markets: Specialty markets will now be permitted to play background or incidental music, provided they obtain prior written consent from the council. This is intended to help create unique ambiances and support diverse market offerings.
• Generator Use: Conditions regarding generator use have been clarified, with a preference for battery power and a discouragement of diesel or petrol generators. This aligns with the council's environmental objectives.
• Shop Front Trading Clarity: Wording for shop front trading licences on private land has been updated to ensure consistency with existing legislation and practices in other local authorities.

The Regulation of Commodities for Street Trading Licences 2026 has also been revised to offer greater flexibility. For instance, clothing categories have been consolidated into a single clothing section.

• Why this matters: These updates are designed to make street trading more accessible and sustainable for local businesses. By reducing insurance costs and allowing for music in specialty markets, the council is aiming to foster a more vibrant and attractive street trading environment. The focus on environmental sustainability in generator use also reflects a commitment to a greener borough. For traders, these changes could mean lower operating costs and more opportunities.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Late-Night Event Applications Rejected Due to Noise Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee also considered three Temporary Event Notices (TENs) submitted by IMUSIX LTD for events planned at Ground Floor, 10 North End Crescent, London W14 8TQ. The applications sought permission for the sale of alcohol, late-night refreshment, and regulated entertainment between 12:00 PM and 2:00 AM on 1, 8, and 15 August 2026.

The Environmental Protection Team objected to all three applications, citing concerns about preventing public nuisance. Their objections were based on the premises' history of noise complaints and a subsisting noise abatement notice served on 15 February 2026, which had been breached on four occasions, most recently on 19 July 2026. The team expressed a lack of confidence that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance would be promoted if the TENs were granted, especially given the proposed extended hours beyond those permitted by the existing premises licence.

The applicant, Delia Ruzan, highlighted financial pressures and her commitment to addressing noise concerns, mentioning sound insulation work that had been carried out. She explained that the most recent breach was due to a brief musical request for her birthday celebration.

However, after considering all submissions, the committee decided to issue a Counter Notice for each of the three TENs. This means that the proposed licensable activities for these events will not be authorised. The decision was based on the promotion of the four licensing objectives, with a particular focus on preventing public nuisance, and the history of non-compliance.

• Why this matters: This decision prioritises the well-being of local residents by preventing potential noise disturbances. For the applicant, it means the planned events cannot proceed as requested. This case highlights the council's role in enforcing regulations to ensure that businesses operate without negatively impacting the quality of life for their neighbours. The repeated breaches of the noise abatement notice were a significant factor in the committee's decision.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

This week in Hammersmith and Fulham:

Late-Night Food Licence Granted with Strict Conditions Amidst Resident Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Thursday 23 July 2026 and granted a premises licence for Selekt Chicken, located at 349 North End Road, London, SW6 1NN. The licence allows for late-night refreshment indoors and outdoors from 11:00 PM to 11:30 PM on Thursdays to Saturdays, with premises opening hours until 11:30 PM on those days. The licence will expire after six months, and includes stringent conditions agreed upon with the Metropolitan Police.

The decision followed a lengthy hearing where numerous objections were raised by local residents, ward councillors, and responsible authorities, including the Licensing Authority and the Noise and Nuisance Team. The primary concerns revolved around the potential for public nuisance, crime and disorder, and the cumulative impact of late-night operations in a densely residential area. Residents highlighted issues such as noise from customers and delivery drivers, litter, and anti-social behaviour.

Despite these objections, the committee decided to grant the licence in part, reflecting a compromise. The approved hours are significantly reduced from the applicant's initial request, and strict conditions have been imposed. These include:

• Responsible staff conducting proactive litter patrols outside the premises at least twice daily and at the end of trading hours.
• Displaying signs asking patrons to dispose of waste responsibly.
• All conditions proposed by the Police and agreed to by the applicant being added to the licence.

The applicant, represented by Zalke Hazarbooz, argued that the extended hour was necessary for cleaning and waste management, and that agreed conditions demonstrated a commitment to responsible operation. However, objectors, including residents like Yann Prissette and Henry Blomfield, and groups such as the Barclay Road Conservation Area Neighbourhood Watch, emphasised the negative impact on residents' quality of life and ability to sleep.

Councillor Mercy Umeh, Chair of the Licensing Sub-Committee, along with Councillor Wesley Harcourt and Councillor Dominic Stanton, considered all representations before reaching their decision. The licence's six-month expiry date suggests a period of review to assess the effectiveness of the imposed conditions.

• Why this matters: This decision highlights the delicate balance the council must strike between supporting local businesses and protecting residents from potential disturbances. While the extended hours are limited, the strict conditions are designed to minimise noise, litter, and anti-social behaviour, directly addressing the concerns of those living in the vicinity. For residents, this means a degree of reassurance that their quality of life will be protected, though the six-month review period indicates ongoing scrutiny.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Council's Economic Strategy Focuses on Innovation and Inclusive Growth

The Economy and Social Advancement Policy and Accountability Committee met on Monday 20 July 2026 to discuss the borough's economic strategy, focusing on innovation and ensuring that residents benefit from economic growth.

Upstream London Vision: Driving Innovation and Jobs

The committee reviewed the Priorities and Challenges for the Economy and Social Advancement report, which outlines the council's Upstream London vision. This initiative aims to establish Hammersmith and Fulham as a leading innovation campus borough and a hub for inclusive, innovation-led growth. The strategy highlights the borough's strengths, including a highly educated population and a diverse business base, with significant investment in sectors like Life Sciences, Clean Energy, Digital & AI, and the Creative Industries, particularly through the White City Innovation District.

However, the report also acknowledges challenges such as inflationary pressures, youth economic inactivity, and the impact of AI. Locally, the borough faces a weakening employment rate and pockets of deprivation.

Key initiatives discussed include:

• Pathway Bond: This programme aims to help young people access opportunities in growth sectors through tailored development and employer connections. Councillor David Campbell, Deputy Cabinet Member to the Leader of the Council, noted its broad reach, extending to primary school engagement.
• Employment and Skills (H&F Works): This service acts as a job brokerage, connecting residents to employment, apprenticeships, and training, with a focus on STEM³ sectors and the green economy. Councillor Natalie Lindsay raised concerns about potential departmental silos, which were addressed by David Pack, Assistant Director – Economic Development & Growth.
• Strategic Partnerships & Nexus: Collaborations with innovation districts and Imperial College London to support science, tech, and creative industries.
• Economic Development & Growth: Support for small businesses, place-shaping, affordable workspace provision, and ensuring social value from developments. Councillor David Campbell and Councillor Natalie Lindsay raised concerns about businesses finding the council's advice conflicting across departments.
• H&F Adult Learning & Skills (HFALS): Providing adult learning opportunities to support residents in achieving qualifications and improving well-being.

The committee also discussed the importance of affordable housing delivery, working with the voluntary sector, and embedding equity and inclusion across all services through the Hammersmith & Fulham Equalities Plan 2026–2030, presented by Yvonne Occhio, Strategic Lead at Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.

• Why this matters: This strategy is crucial for creating a thriving local economy that benefits all residents. By focusing on innovation and skills development, the council aims to generate high-quality jobs and opportunities, particularly for young people and those facing barriers to employment. This approach seeks to ensure that economic growth is inclusive and sustainable, reducing inequality and improving the quality of life across the borough.

Link to Economy and Social Advancement Policy and Accountability Committee meeting

Council's Finance and Corporate Services Department Under Review

The Public Sector Reform Policy and Accountability Committee met on Tuesday 21 July 2026, reviewing the operations of the Finance and Corporate Services department and discussing the concept of preventative investment.

Finance and Corporate Services: Vision and Budget

The committee received an overview of the Finance and Corporate Services department, which manages a net budget of £41.3 million for 2026/27. The department's vision is to deliver exceptional front-line services and back-office functions, ensure effective and efficient governance, and protect data and systems from external threats. Key areas of responsibility include Digital Services, Finance, Revenues and Benefits, and Customer Services. Alex Pygram, Head of Finance, presented the budget breakdown, noting significant investments in Digital Services (£15 million). Sukhwinder Kelsey, Executive Director for Finance and Corporate Services, highlighted the council's strong financial performance but also identified future challenges, including the impact of the government's Fair Funding Review.

Preventative Investment: Shifting Focus to Proactive Measures

Zachary Scott, Policy Researcher for Prevention at the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA), presented the report 'Understanding Preventative Investment.' The report advocates for a shift towards a preventative approach in public services to increase community resilience and reduce future demand. Scott explained that defining and measuring preventative investment is challenging but crucial for effective financial decision-making. CIPFA's four-step approach involves setting the scope, mapping services, classifying services (as preventative, enabling, or non-preventative, and assigning a stage of prevention), and collecting financial information. Case studies from Merton, Three Rivers, Wigan, and Rhondda Cynon Taf demonstrated the application of this approach.

The committee also considered its draft work programme for 2026/27, which includes topics such as transformation programmes, digitalisation, and research capacity, aligning with the themes discussed.

• Why this matters: Understanding the operations of the Finance and Corporate Services department provides insight into how public funds are managed and services are delivered. The discussion on preventative investment is crucial for ensuring that the council's resources are used effectively to address issues before they escalate, leading to better outcomes for residents and more efficient use of public money in the long term. This proactive approach aims to build community resilience and reduce the burden on reactive services, ultimately benefiting the entire borough.

Link to Public Sector Reform Policy and Accountability Committee meeting

Parks, Waste, and Culture Services Under Scrutiny

The Environment, Arts and Culture Policy and Accountability Committee met on Wednesday 22 July 2026, reviewing updates on key services and planning for the upcoming municipal year. Discussions covered the management of parks and environment, waste and recycling, and culture, tourism, and sport.

Parks and Environment: Green Spaces and Flood Resilience

Jessica Bostock, Assistant Director for Parks and Environment, presented an overview of the Parks and Environment Service. Key points included achieving a record 26 Green Flags, with plans to maintain and increase this number. Challenges such as ageing infrastructure in parks and cemeteries were highlighted, with capacity being a significant issue in cemeteries. Proposals to address cemetery capacity include grave reclamation and opening disused spaces. The service is also preparing to tender for a new grounds maintenance contract and update its Parks Strategy. Councillor Amanda Lloyd-Harris raised concerns about the tree services contractor, Red Squirrel, and the condition of out-of-borough cemeteries. Councillor Stella Antoniades inquired about improvements at Loris Gardens and pathway management, while Councillor Laura Janes asked about annual gully clearance. The committee also discussed the ongoing Playground Transformation Programme.

Waste and Recycling: High Performance and Future Plans

Annie Baker, Assistant Director for Street Environmental Services, provided an update on waste and recycling services, noting that Hammersmith and Fulham is among the top 10 performing authorities nationally for waste minimisation, with a recycling rate exceeding 30%. Recent improvements include expanding recyclable materials to include plastic tubes and aerosol cans, introducing a garden waste recycling subscription service, and rolling out food waste recycling to communal properties, schools, and businesses. Councillor Lloyd-Harris raised concerns about bins being left in front of gates and small electrical items being mistaken for fly-tipping. Councillor Janes enquired about educational initiatives for children, and Councillor Antoniades asked about reuse and recycling events. The committee also discussed textile recycling and the potential for future government legislation. A visit to the Smugglers Way Household Reuse and Recycling Centre was proposed.

Culture, Tourism and Sport: Enhancing Engagement and Visitor Economy

Val Birchall, Assistant Director for Culture, Tourism and Sport, presented a briefing on services including arts development, events, filming, libraries, archives, destination management, and sport and active wellbeing. The borough has high levels of cultural engagement, with 94% of adults participating in the arts. The Young People's Borough of Culture programme has received £500,000. Visit H&F, the destination management partnership, has seen an increase in visitor footfall and spend. Councillor Lloyd-Harris questioned the sports booking system's effectiveness and suggested more promotion for the Linford Christie Stadium. Councillor Antoniades asked about outreach to schools for theatre engagement and pop-up sports facilities, while Councillor Janes enquired about methods to encourage inactive residents and disability inclusion in sports. The committee noted the importance of libraries as community hubs.

The committee reviewed its draft work programme for 2026/27, which includes potential future discussion topics related to these services.

• Why this matters: These services are vital for the quality of life in Hammersmith and Fulham. The effective management of parks and green spaces, efficient waste and recycling services, and vibrant cultural and sporting offerings contribute directly to the health, well-being, and environmental sustainability of the borough. Residents benefit from well-maintained public spaces, effective waste management, and access to cultural and recreational activities.

Link to Environment, Arts and Culture Policy and Accountability Committee meeting

This week in Hammersmith and Fulham:

Council Rejects Late-Night Gaming Centre Application Amidst Widespread Opposition

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Tuesday 21 July 2026 and made the significant decision to reject an application for an Adult Gaming Centre (AGC) licence at 68 Uxbridge Road, Shepherd's Bush, W12 8LP. The application, submitted by Future Leisure Limited, sought to relocate an existing licensed gambling operation from King Street.

The decision came after a wave of objections from local residents, community groups, the Metropolitan Police, and local councillors. A total of 84 representations from residents and 60 from the Caxton Village Tenants and Residents Association (CVTRA) were lodged, alongside formal objections from the Licensing Authority, the Metropolitan Police, and local Members of Parliament.

Concerns were primarily focused on the potential negative impact of an additional gambling venue in an area already identified as a Gambling Vulnerability Zone and a Cumulative Impact Area within the council's Statement of Gambling Policy 2025-2028[^1]. Objectors argued that the concentration of gambling premises in Shepherd's Bush was already contributing to crime, anti-social behaviour, and harm to vulnerable individuals. Specific issues raised included increased loitering, drug dealing, noise, public urination, and a general decline in the safety and amenity of the area, particularly affecting residents living near existing gambling establishments.

The proximity of the proposed site to schools, including St Stephen's C of E Primary School and Miles Coverdale Primary School, and transport hubs, was also a major concern for those opposing the application, who feared increased exposure of children and vulnerable people to gambling. The Metropolitan Police objected on the grounds of preventing crime and disorder, citing high levels of violent crime and anti-social behaviour in the locality.

Despite the applicant's arguments that the move would not increase the number of AGCs in the borough and that they had a strong compliance record, the committee ultimately sided with the overwhelming concerns raised by the community and responsible authorities.

• Why this matters: This decision is a victory for residents and community groups who have campaigned against the proliferation of gambling venues. It demonstrates the council's commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and communities from the harms associated with excessive gambling, and to maintaining the safety and well-being of neighbourhoods. For residents, it means a reduced risk of increased crime, anti-social behaviour, and the negative social impacts associated with such establishments.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Council to Consider New Street Trading Regulations to Boost Local Economy

The Licensing Sub-Committee is set to meet on Wednesday 29 July 2026 to discuss proposed changes to street trading regulations. The aim is to update licence conditions and the list of commodities that can be sold, with the goal of raising standards, attracting new businesses, and creating employment opportunities.

Revised Street Trading Conditions and Commodity Regulations

The proposed changes, detailed in the Public reports pack, aim to modernise street trading in Hammersmith and Fulham. Key updates include a reduction in the minimum public liability insurance cover from £10 million to £5 million, which is intended to make it easier for traders, especially those operating for short periods. Provisions for background music in specialty markets are also being introduced, subject to council consent.

To support the council's environmental goals, the use of generators will be restricted, with a preference for battery power and a ban on diesel and petrol generators. The regulations for shop front trading licences on private land are also being clarified.

The revised Regulation of Commodities aims to offer greater flexibility. For example, separate categories for men's, women's, and children's clothing will be consolidated into a general clothing category. A comprehensive list of banned commodities, including cigarettes, medicines, weapons, and counterfeit products, will also be enforced.

The council has consulted with existing traders, residents, and businesses on these proposals. The changes are intended to be implemented for new licences from 1 August 2026 and for existing licences upon renewal.

• Why this matters: These changes could lead to a more vibrant and diverse street trading scene, offering new opportunities for local entrepreneurs and potentially enhancing the visitor experience in the borough. For traders, the updated regulations aim to simplify processes and reduce costs. For residents, the focus on environmental sustainability and clear regulations aims to minimise disruption and ensure a positive impact on local areas.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Council's Economic Strategy Focuses on Innovation and Inclusive Growth

The Economy and Social Advancement Policy and Accountability Committee met on Monday 20 July 2026 to discuss the borough's economic strategy, focusing on innovation and ensuring that residents benefit from economic growth.

Upstream London Vision: Driving Innovation and Jobs

The committee reviewed the Priorities and Challenges for the Economy and Social Advancement report, which outlines the council's Upstream London vision. This initiative aims to establish Hammersmith and Fulham as a leading innovation campus borough and a hub for inclusive, innovation-led growth. The strategy highlights the borough's strengths, including a highly educated population and a diverse business base, with significant investment in sectors like Life Sciences, Clean Energy, Digital & AI, and the Creative Industries, particularly through the White City Innovation District.

However, the report also acknowledges challenges such as inflationary pressures, youth economic inactivity, and the impact of AI. Locally, the borough faces a weakening employment rate and pockets of deprivation.

Key initiatives discussed include:

• Pathway Bond: This programme aims to help young people access opportunities in growth sectors through tailored development and employer connections.
• Employment and Skills (H&F Works): This service acts as a job brokerage, connecting residents to employment, apprenticeships, and training, with a focus on STEM³ sectors and the green economy.
• Strategic Partnerships & Nexus: Collaborations with innovation districts and Imperial College London to support science, tech, and creative industries.
• Economic Development & Growth: Support for small businesses, place-shaping, affordable workspace provision, and ensuring social value from developments.
• H&F Adult Learning & Skills (HFALS): Providing adult learning opportunities to support residents in achieving qualifications and improving well-being.

The committee also discussed the importance of affordable housing delivery, working with the voluntary sector, and embedding equity and inclusion across all services through the Hammersmith & Fulham Equalities Plan 2026–2030.

• Why this matters: This strategy is crucial for creating a thriving local economy that benefits all residents. By focusing on innovation and skills development, the council aims to generate high-quality jobs and opportunities, particularly for young people and those facing barriers to employment. This approach seeks to ensure that economic growth is inclusive and sustainable, reducing inequality and improving the quality of life across the borough.

Link to Economy and Social Advancement Policy and Accountability Committee meeting

Council's Finance and Corporate Services Department Under Review

The Public Sector Reform Policy and Accountability Committee met on Tuesday 21 July 2026 to review the operations of the Finance and Corporate Services department and discuss the concept of preventative investment.

Finance and Corporate Services: Vision and Budget

The committee received an overview of the Finance and Corporate Services department, which manages a significant budget of £57.8 million for 2026/27. The department's vision is to create A Stronger, Safer, Kinder Borough for Everyone, focusing on resident-centric services, effective governance, and a skilled workforce. Key areas of responsibility include Digital Services, Finance, Revenues and Benefits, and Customer Services.

Preventative Investment: Shifting Focus to Proactive Measures

A key discussion point was preventative investment, based on a report by CIPFA and The Health Foundation. This report explores how public sector organisations can shift from reactive services to proactive measures that build community resilience and reduce future demand. The presentation highlighted that preventative investment can be quantified and that finance teams play a vital role in this process. The report details a four-step approach to mapping and measuring preventative investment, with case studies from other local authorities illustrating practical applications.

The committee also considered its draft work programme for 2026/27, which includes topics such as transformation programmes, digitalisation, and resident engagement.

• Why this matters: Understanding the operations of the Finance and Corporate Services department provides insight into how public funds are managed and services are delivered. The discussion on preventative investment is crucial for ensuring that the council's resources are used effectively to address issues before they escalate, leading to better outcomes for residents and more efficient use of public money in the long term.

Link to Public Sector Reform Policy and Accountability Committee meeting

Parks, Waste, and Culture Services Under Scrutiny

The Environment, Arts and Culture Policy and Accountability Committee met on Wednesday 22 July 2026 to review updates on key services and plan for the upcoming year. Discussions covered the management of parks and environment, waste and recycling, and culture, tourism, and sport.

Parks and Environment: Green Spaces and Flood Resilience

The committee received an update on the Parks & Environment Service, highlighting plans to procure new grounds maintenance and drainage contracts, deliver the Playground Transformation Programme, and enhance local flood resilience through Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS). Challenges include infrastructure maintenance and the impact of climate change. The Cemeteries and Bereavement Service faces a critical issue with limited grave space remaining, prompting exploration of solutions like grave reclamation. The Arboriculture team is focused on increasing tree canopy cover and protecting the borough's trees.

Waste and Recycling: High Performance and Future Plans

An update on waste and recycling services revealed that Hammersmith & Fulham is a high-performing borough, with a recycling rate exceeding 30%. Recent improvements include expanded food waste recycling and the introduction of wheeled bins and garden waste recycling. Future plans include a digital campaign for food waste recycling and exploring soft plastic recycling by 2027/28.

Culture, Tourism and Sport: Enhancing Engagement and Visitor Economy

The committee also received a briefing on Culture, Tourism & Sport services, which aim to improve health inequality through physical activity, boost visitor numbers, and increase cultural engagement. Initiatives include supporting arts organisations, managing events, operating a film locations service, and providing library and archive services. The Sport & Active Wellbeing service works to encourage physical activity across the borough.

The committee reviewed its draft work programme for 2026/27, which includes detailed examinations of these services and future strategic priorities.

• Why this matters: These services are vital for the quality of life in Hammersmith and Fulham. The effective management of parks and green spaces, efficient waste and recycling services, and vibrant cultural and sporting offerings contribute directly to the health, well-being, and environmental sustainability of the borough. Residents benefit from well-maintained public spaces, effective waste management, and access to cultural and recreational activities.

Link to Environment, Arts and Culture Policy and Accountability Committee meeting