This week in Harrow:

AS Food & Wine Granted Licence Despite Police Concerns, Sparking Debate on Local Safety

The Licensing Panel has granted a new premises licence to AS Food & Wine, located at 50 South Parade, Mollison Way, Edgware, despite objections from the Metropolitan Police and the Licensing Authority. The decision has ignited debate about balancing business interests with community safety, particularly in an area already facing issues with street drinking and antisocial behaviour.

• The police had objected to the application due to the applicant's initial reluctance to agree to conditions aimed at preventing crime and disorder. These conditions included restrictions on the hours of alcohol sales, the sale of spirits in small bottles, and the sale of single cans and high-strength beers, lagers, and ciders.
• The Licensing Authority supported the police's concerns, citing issues with street drinking and antisocial behaviour in Harrow, particularly in town centres and transport hubs.
• The applicant's agent argued that the proposed conditions were disproportionate and would damage the business, stating that other licensed premises in the area faced no such restrictions.
• During the hearing, the applicant initially refused to accept all of the police's proposed conditions, leading to tense exchanges and concerns from the panel.
• Ultimately, the applicant withdrew their application for a new licence, and will continue with their existing licence.

The decision highlights the complex challenges faced by the Licensing Panel in balancing the needs of local businesses with the concerns of residents and law enforcement. While the applicant argued that the restrictions would unfairly harm their business, the police and Licensing Authority maintained that they were necessary to protect the community from crime and disorder.

Read more about the discussion.

Pension Fund Committee Reviews Investments Amidst Economic Uncertainty

The Pension Fund Committee convened to discuss a range of issues related to the management and investment of the council's pension fund, including the triennial valuation, investment performance, and risk management. The meeting took place against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, with concerns about market volatility and the potential impact on the fund's ability to meet its future obligations.

• The committee approved a draft Funding Strategy Statement (FSS) related to the 2025 triennial valuation and endorsed proposals for consulting with employers and other stakeholders.
• The committee received an update on the fund's investments in the context of government pooling requirements, and on developments within the London Collective Investment Vehicle (LCIV) and the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) in general.
• The committee reviewed the updated Pension Fund Risk Register for Q2 2025/26, which identified key risks such as a significant fall in asset values and failure by fund managers to achieve benchmark returns.
• The committee received an update on compliance with the new Pensions Regulator (TPR) Code of Practice, which came into force in March 2024.
• The committee considered a revised draft Responsible Investment Policy, which sets out a 2050 net zero target.
• The Pension Board expressed concern over the underperformance of the LCIV equities and highlighted that at the LCIV Annual General Meeting, the LCIV had apologised for their lower-than-expected performance, and noted that their performance should be closely monitored and that concerns over their performance be put to LCIV.

The meeting underscored the importance of prudent financial management and effective risk mitigation in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the council's pension fund. As economic conditions continue to evolve, the committee will need to remain vigilant and adapt its investment strategies to protect the interests of its members.

Read more about the meeting.

Planning Committee Approves Harrow Arts Centre and Park High School Applications

The Planning Committee approved planning applications for the Harrow Arts Centre and Park High School, paving the way for improvements to community facilities and educational infrastructure.

• The committee approved the replacement of two existing modular portacabins at the Harrow Arts Centre with two new, modern modular portacabins, enhancing accessibility and providing improved community spaces.
• The committee approved the demolition and replacement of a teaching block at Park High School, providing nine classrooms, toilets, a staffroom, and an office in a new, attractive two-story building.
• The committee also approved an application for 41-43 Station Road in Harrow, for the creation of an additional storey to provide five self-contained flats; works to the existing two storey flat to convert into one self-contained flat; a new front entrance; a new brick finish facing to front facade; installation and replacement of windows; external alterations; and bin / cycle storage.

These decisions reflect the council's commitment to investing in community facilities and educational infrastructure, providing residents with access to high-quality services and resources.

Read more about the meeting.

North West London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee Discusses Dental Health and Place Based Partnerships

The North West London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee met to discuss dentist commissioning and children's dental health, the future of place based partnerships, and special school nursing.

• The committee discussed a report on dentist commissioning and children's dental health across North West London, noting that North West London was one of the highest performing Integrated Care Boards (ICB) nationally.
• The committee discussed a report on the future of Place Based Partnerships (PBPs) delivering health and care services, stating that North West London's PBPs have made substantial progress in improving outcomes for residents by integrating services around local needs, reducing inequalities, and making the system more sustainable.
• The committee discussed a report on the current position of Special School Nursing provisions across North West London.

Read more about the meeting.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a summary of upcoming meetings:

• The Chief Officers' Employment Panel is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 03 December 2025.
• The Pension Board is scheduled to meet on Thursday 04 December 2025.
• The Governance, Audit, Risk Management and Standards Committee met on Tuesday 25 November 2025 to discuss directorate risk registers, the annual complaints report, treasury management, internal audit progress, and the risk management strategy.
• Councillor Paul Osborn, Leader of the Council, attended a Portfolio Holder Decision Meeting on Wednesday 26 November 2025.
• Council met on Thursday 27 November 2025.

This week in Harrow:

Council Eyes Borough-Wide HMO Crackdown, Raising Questions for Landlords and Tenants

Harrow Council is considering implementing an Article 4 Direction across the entire borough to control the growth of small Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)¹. The Planning Policy Advisory Panel discussed a scoping report on the proposal, which would require landlords to seek planning permission to convert family homes into shared housing for 3-6 unrelated people. While the council argues this is necessary to protect family homes and address issues like antisocial behaviour, the move could face opposition from landlords and raise concerns about affordable housing options for residents.

• The council's report acknowledges that HMOs provide an important source of low-cost housing, but also highlights potential negative impacts like poor refuse management and noise.
• The report states that the council's current policies are quite permissive when it comes to HMOs, limiting their ability to address these concerns.
• Councillor Marilyn Ashton, Deputy Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Planning & Regeneration, expressed strong support for the proposal, stating, It's been something that I've wanted to do for a long time actually.
• The council recognizes the risk of compensation claims from landlords if the Article 4 Direction is implemented immediately, and is therefore recommending a non-immediate approach, giving landlords 12 months' notice.
• The council aims to present the proposal to the Planning Committee early next year.

The decision to pursue a borough-wide Article 4 Direction is a significant one, as it would reverse national policy allowing up to six people to live together under permitted development rights. The council will need to provide strong evidence to the Secretary of State to justify the move, demonstrating the specific harms caused by HMOs in Harrow.

Read more about the discussion.

Planning Obligations Policy to be Updated, Aiming for Clearer Guidance for Developers

The Planning Policy Advisory Panel also discussed a scoping report for a replacement Planning Obligations Supplementary Planning Document (SPD). This document will guide how the council secures contributions from developers to mitigate the impact of new developments on the community. The current SPD was adopted in 2013, and the council says it needs updating to reflect changes in national and local planning policy.

• The new SPD will cover a range of issues, including affordable housing, transport, public open space, and sustainable design.
• The council hopes the updated SPD will provide clearer guidance for developers and speed up the planning process.
• The SPD will support the new Harrow Local Plan (2021-2041), if it is found sound by the Planning Inspectorate.

By updating its planning obligations policy, the council aims to ensure that new developments contribute to the well-being of the community and address local needs. The SPD will be a key tool for negotiating with developers and securing benefits for Harrow residents.

Read more about the discussion.

West London Waste Plan Update Aims for Sustainable Waste Management

The Planning Policy Advisory Panel considered the draft updated West London Waste Plan (WLWP), which sets out how waste will be managed in west London up to 2041. The plan, prepared jointly by six boroughs and the Old Oak/Park Royal Development Corporation (OPDC), addresses household, industrial, and commercial waste.

• The plan aims to safeguard existing waste sites and ensure sufficient capacity is available to manage expected waste arisings.
• Two sites in Harrow are safeguarded in the plan: the Forward Drive Council depot site and 151 Pinner View.
• The council is seeking public input on the draft plan through a consultation process.

The West London Waste Plan is crucial for ensuring that waste is managed sustainably and efficiently in the region. The plan will guide investment in waste management infrastructure and promote waste reduction and recycling.

Read more about the discussion.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a summary of upcoming meetings:

• The Pension Fund Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday 17 November 2025 to discuss investment manager performance, the triennial valuation, and responsible investment.
• The North West London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 18 November 2025.
• The Planning Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 19 November 2025 to discuss planning applications.
• The Licensing Panel is scheduled to meet on Thursday 20 November 2025 to discuss licensing applications.
• Councillor Paul Osborn, Leader of the Council, is scheduled to attend a Portfolio Holder Decision Meeting on Wednesday 26 November 2025.
• The Governance, Audit, Risk Management and Standards Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 25 November 2025.
• Council is scheduled to meet on Thursday 27 November 2025.

This week in Harrow:

Top Council Job Filled Behind Closed Doors

Harrow Council's Chief Officers' Employment Panel met on November 5th to appoint a Strategic Director of Corporate Resources and Innovation. The entire discussion about the candidates was held in private, excluding the public and press. This lack of transparency raises questions about how the council makes key decisions and whether residents have enough information about who is leading their local government.

• The panel interviewed shortlisted candidates before making the appointment.
• The council cited confidentiality regarding individuals' financial and business affairs as the reason for excluding the public.

While confidentiality is sometimes necessary, keeping the entire process secret prevents residents from understanding the qualifications and vision of the person chosen for this important role. The Strategic Director of Corporate Resources and Innovation will be responsible for key areas like finance and technology, impacting services across the borough.

Read more about the meeting.

Trading Standards Cracks Down on Illegal Tobacco, But Challenges Remain

The Trading Standards Joint Advisory Board met on November 5th to review the work being done to protect consumers and support legitimate businesses in Harrow and Brent. A key focus was Operation CeCe, which targets the sale of illegal tobacco. While Trading Standards has made significant seizures and secured convictions, the problem persists, highlighting the ongoing challenge of tackling organized crime in the borough.

• Since March 2021, Trading Standards has seized over 480,580 illegal cigarettes and other tobacco products.
• 24 cases have been concluded in court, resulting in fines exceeding £38,000.
• Trading Standards officers have carried out 184 enforcement visits to businesses.
• The Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024, which replaces the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008, came into force in April 2025.
• The Environmental Protection (Single-use Vapes) (England) Regulations 2024, which bans the sale and supply of single-use vapes, came into force in April 2025.

Councillor Daniel Kennelly asked about how Trading Standards counters shopkeepers texting each other to warn about inspections. Anu Prashar, Senior Regulatory Service Manager for Trading Standards and Licensing, explained that they use sniffer dogs to find concealed products.

The board also discussed the possibility of using closure orders for shops repeatedly caught selling illegal tobacco.

Read more about the meeting.

Pension Board Examines Performance Amidst Concerns

The Pension Board met on November 4th to discuss the performance of Harrow's pension fund and the administration of pension services. While the board noted some improvements in administration, concerns were raised about investment performance and the costs of running the fund.

• 72% of pension administration tasks were completed within target time in the last quarter, an improvement from 63% in the previous quarter.
• The board expressed concern about the performance of the administration team, as measured through the service KPIs, and that officers have explained that after the loss of key personnel the team has struggled to meet KPI expectations.
• The market value of investments increased by £32.8m to £1.11bn in the quarter, with a return of 3.3% net of fees, but that the fund underperformed its benchmark by 0.7% net of fees.
• Over a 12-month period to 31 March 2025, the Fund underperformed its benchmark net of fees by 1.9%, despite returning 6.9%, and that this underperformance can be largely attributed to the LCIV active equity funds.

Gerald Balabanoff, Scheme Members' Representative - Pensioners, expressed concern about the underperformance of the fund, particularly by the LCIV equities. He suggested that the board should send a direct representation to LCIV expressing their concerns.

The board also discussed the draft Pension Board Annual Report 2024-25, which will be presented to the Full Council.

Read more about the meeting.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a summary of upcoming meetings:

• The Pension Fund Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday 17 November 2025 to discuss investment manager performance, the triennial valuation, and responsible investment.
• The North West London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 18 November 2025.
• The Planning Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 19 November 2025 to discuss planning applications.
• The Licensing Panel is scheduled to meet on Thursday 20 November 2025 to discuss licensing applications.

This week in Harrow:

Adult Social Care Strategy Approved Amidst Rising Demand

Harrow Council's Cabinet approved the Adult Social Care Strategy 2025-2030, outlining the council's plan to address the increasing demand for adult social care services. The strategy focuses on prevention, early intervention, and person-centred care, aiming to support an ageing population with complex needs.

• The strategy prioritizes promoting independence, providing timely support, and ensuring choice and control for individuals.
• It emphasizes working with partner organizations to deliver joined-up services.
• Councillor Jean Lammiman, Portfolio Holder for Adult Services & Public Health, highlighted the strategy's focus on prevention and early intervention.

The strategy aims to ensure that vulnerable adults in Harrow receive the care and support they need to live fulfilling lives. As demand for these services continues to grow, the council will need to carefully monitor the strategy's effectiveness and adapt its approach as needed.

Read more about the decision.

Grange Farm Demolition Extended, Paving Way for Redevelopment

The Cabinet approved additional demolition works at Grange Farm Phase 2a, a large housing estate in Harrow. This decision allows for the demolition of two more blocks, clearing the way for future redevelopment.

This decision is a step forward in the long-term plan to regenerate the Grange Farm estate. By demolishing these additional blocks, the council is preparing the site for new housing and community facilities.

Read more about the decision.

Grants To Move Scheme Aims to Free Up Family Homes

The Cabinet approved the Grants To Move Incentive Scheme, designed to help Harrow residents move to more suitable accommodation. The scheme will provide financial assistance to eligible residents, freeing up larger properties for families in need.

This scheme could help to alleviate the pressure on social housing in Harrow by encouraging residents to downsize. By providing financial assistance, the council hopes to make it easier for people to move to more appropriate homes, freeing up larger properties for families who need them.

Read more about the decision.

West London Waste Plan Consultation Approved

The Cabinet approved the draft West London Waste Plan for public consultation. The plan, prepared by the West London Waste Authority¹ on behalf of its constituent boroughs, sets out the long-term strategy for managing waste in West London.

• The plan includes policies on waste reduction, recycling, and disposal.

The West London Waste Plan will guide waste management in Harrow and neighbouring boroughs for years to come. By consulting with the public, the council hopes to ensure that the plan reflects the needs and priorities of local residents.

Read more about the decision.

Other Matters

• The Cabinet approved delegating authority to the Strategic Director for Housing and Regeneration to increase the supply of long-term leased accommodation.
• The Cabinet approved continued resourcing for the Regeneration programme to ensure the delivery of key projects. Councillor Marilyn Ashton, Deputy Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Planning & Regeneration, emphasized the importance of investing in regeneration.
• The Cabinet approved commencing procurement for a new Pensions Administration IT System.
• The Cabinet approved awarding a contract to DSSL for Borough Public Space Video Surveillance Systems (VSS) provision. Councillor Pritesh Patel, Portfolio Holder for Cleaner Streets & Public Safety, stated that this procurement would help to improve public safety and reduce crime in Harrow.
• The Cabinet approved the Strategic Performance Report for Quarter 1 of 2025-26.
• The Cabinet approved the recommendations outlined in the Local Government & Social Care Ombudsman (LGSCO) decision and report.

Read more about the meeting.

Standing Advisory Council for Religious Education Met

The Standing Advisory Council for Religious Education met on Thursday 30 October 2025. No video was provided.

Read more about the meeting.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a summary of upcoming meetings:

• The Pension Board is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 04 November 2025 to discuss pension administration, review the Pension Fund Committee items, and review the draft Pension Board annual report.
• The Chief Officers' Employment Panel is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 5 November 2025 to discuss the appointment of a Strategic Director of Corporate Resources and Innovation.
• The Trading Standards Joint Advisory Board is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 5 November 2025 to discuss the Trading Standards mid-year review, and to receive an update on Operation CeCe.
• The Planning Policy Advisory Panel is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 11 November 2025.