This week in Kingston upon Thames:

Climate Action Debate Stalls as Council Meeting Fails to Proceed

A crucial Council meeting scheduled for Tuesday 14 July 2026 was unable to proceed with its planned agenda, meaning key decisions on climate action, the Blue Badge appeals process, and health governance were postponed. The meeting was intended to address the urgent need for more government action on climate change, a review of the Blue Badge appeals process, and the re-establishment of the Health and Wellbeing Board. Link to the Council meeting

The most significant item on the original agenda was a motion calling for increased government action on climate change. Proposed by Councillor Mike Massimi, Portfolio Holder for Climate Action, Biodiversity and Regulatory Services, the motion highlighted the impacts of recent heatwaves and Kingston Council's commitment to tackling the climate emergency. It sought to lobby the government for increased funding to address climate change impacts on infrastructure, health, and green spaces. An amendment from Councillor James Giles, Leader of the Kingston Independent Residents' Group, aimed to add further resolutions, including the publication of a heat resilience action plan and a review of the tree planting programme. However, with the meeting unable to proceed, these important discussions and potential decisions were put on hold.

Blue Badge Appeals Process Under Review

The Council was also set to consider recommendations from the Corporate and Resources Committee regarding the Blue Badge appeals process. The proposal was to move away from the current member-led appeals panel to an outsourced, single-stage review. Proponents argued this would streamline the process and achieve efficiency savings. However, concerns were raised by opposition councillors, including Councillor James Giles, about a potential gap in service for disabled residents and the lack of consultation with relevant disability groups. Councillor Giles proposed an amendment to delay implementation and require a performance report, highlighting worries about fairness and continuity of service. The postponement of this decision means the future of the appeals process for Blue Badge holders remains uncertain.

Health Governance Changes Delayed

Changes to health governance, including the re-establishment of a separate Health and Wellbeing Board, were also on the agenda. The Corporate and Resources Committee had recommended this move to better align with national policy and ensure sufficient capacity for statutory responsibilities. Councillor James Giles had proposed an amendment to the board's membership to ensure better representation for opposition groups. The inability of the Council meeting to proceed means these important structural changes to how health and wellbeing are governed locally are now delayed.

Planning Committee Approves University Teaching Building, Refuses Care Home

The Planning Committee met on Thursday 16 July 2026 and made decisions on three significant planning applications. The committee approved the demolition of student accommodation at Middle Mill Halls of Residence, Portland Road to make way for a new five-storey teaching building for Kingston University. They also approved the removal of a condition restricting the use of two flats at 3 The Mall, Surbiton from being converted into Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). However, an application for an 80-bed residential care home at Hobkirk House, 109 Blagdon Road, New Malden was refused. Link to the Planning Committee meeting

Kingston University Expansion Moves Forward

The approval for Kingston University's new teaching building at Middle Mill Halls of Residence will see the demolition of existing student accommodation to make way for a 4,827sqm facility for the Kingston School of Art. While the application attracted significant objections from residents and the Kingston Town Society regarding the building's height, scale, and impact on heritage assets, officers recommended approval. They argued that the benefits of modernising the university's estate and future-proofing its educational facilities outweighed the low to moderate harm to heritage assets. The university stated the new building is essential for maintaining its status as a world-leading art school and will provide enhanced spaces for students and civic events.

HMO Restrictions Removed for Surbiton Flats

The committee voted to remove a condition that had previously prevented two new flats at 3 The Mall, Surbiton, from being used as Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). Officers argued the condition did not meet the necessary tests for planning conditions, citing a lack of evidence of over-concentration of HMOs in the area and the importance of HMOs for local housing needs. They also noted that the existing property was already licensed as a seven-person HMO without significant issues. Objectors, including Mr. Harry Wilder and Councillor Olly Wehring, argued that removing the condition undermined the council's previous decision and would lead to a loss of family housing, potentially increasing occupancy to 12 people without proper assessment. Despite these concerns, the committee approved the removal of the condition.

New Care Home Application Refused

An application for an 80-bed residential care home at Hobkirk House, New Malden, was refused by the Planning Committee. The application, which had been recommended for approval by officers, attracted significant public objection due to concerns about the building's height, scale, massing, design, and impact on neighbouring amenity, parking, and servicing. Residents argued the proposed building was too large and out of character with the surrounding residential area. Councillor Roger Hayes proposed refusal on grounds of excessive scale, discordant design, and negative impact on heritage assets, which was seconded by Councillor Ian George. The committee voted to refuse the application based on these grounds.

Former Councillors Honoured as Honorary Aldermen

A special meeting of the Council was held on Tuesday 14 July 2026 to confer the title of Honorary Alderman on two former councillors, Liz Green and Diane White. This honour recognises their significant service to the borough. Link to the Council meeting

Both former councillors have served for over 12 years and have indicated they will not seek re-election. The title of Honorary Alderman is a civic honour bestowed upon individuals who have rendered eminent service to the council. The formal installation will take place at the next council meeting on 13 October 2026.

Council Constitution Review Underway

The Constitution of Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames committee met on Friday 17 July 2026 to review the council's governing document. The Constitution outlines how the council operates, makes decisions, and engages with the public. The committee examined various parts of the document, including its introduction, articles, responsibility for functions, rules of procedure, codes of conduct, and members' allowances scheme. Recent revisions noted include updates related to the disestablishment of the Blue Badge Appeals Panel and the re-establishment of the Health and Wellbeing Board. Link to the Constitution of Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames meeting

This week in Kingston upon Thames:

Mental Health Act Reforms: A Major Overhaul for Patient Rights and Treatment

The Health Overview and Scrutiny Panel met on Thursday 9 July 2026 to discuss significant upcoming changes to the Mental Health Act 2025 and the Mental Capacity Act. These reforms, rolling out over the next decade, aim to modernise mental health legislation, giving patients greater autonomy and addressing inequalities. The impact on local services and residents, particularly vulnerable groups, is substantial. Link to the Health Overview and Scrutiny Panel meeting

Key changes to the Mental Health Act include:

• Stricter Detention Criteria: Individuals will only be detained if they pose a serious risk of harm and will benefit from hospital treatment. This aims to prevent unnecessary detentions.
• Focus on Community Support: People with autism or learning disabilities will no longer be detained under Section 3 of the Act unless they have a co-occurring mental illness. The focus will shift to community-based alternatives.
• Patient Choice: The Nearest Relative role is being replaced by a Nominated Person, allowing patients more say in who represents them. Patients can also create Advanced Choice Documents outlining future treatment preferences.
• Increased Advocacy: Independent Mental Health Advocates (IMHAs) will be automatically offered to patients, enhancing their rights and support.
• Safer Places of Safety: Police stations and prisons will no longer be used as places of safety for those in mental health crisis, directing individuals to health-based settings instead. This could increase demand on local crisis teams.

Officers from Adult Social Care and South West London and St George's Mental Health NHS Trust (SWLSTG) explained that these reforms require significant workforce training and potential expansion. The full impact and resourcing plans will become clearer as a new Code of Practice is developed.

Mental Capacity Act: Liberty Protection Safeguards Disrupted

The panel also received an update on changes to the Mental Capacity Act, specifically concerning the Liberty Protection Safeguards (LPS). A recent UK Supreme Court judgment has significantly altered the definition of deprivation of liberty. Previously, individuals lacking capacity could be deprived of their liberty even if content, based on the Cheshire West ruling. The new judgment requires a more nuanced, multifactorial assessment, allowing individuals to consent to their care arrangements if they express contentment and no objection, even if they lack legal capacity.

This change means Kingston Council and SWLSTG are adapting their processes, continuing to operate under existing safeguards while navigating the new ruling. The fundamental processes for supporting individuals with learning disabilities are expected to remain similar, with a continued multi-agency approach to safeguarding.

Christmas Tree Sales Approved for King Charles Road

The Licensing Sub-Committee granted a temporary street trading licence for the sale of Christmas trees on King Charles Road, Surbiton, from 27 November to 15 December 2026. The licence allows trading between 7am and 5pm daily on the grass area adjacent to Alexandra Recreation Playground. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

The applicant, Mr. Kyle Hyams of Coffee on the Corner Surbiton LTD, has operated this seasonal sale for several years, highlighting its community benefits, including charitable donations and the creation of a local tradition. Despite two objections from residents concerning safety and the appropriateness of commercial activity overlooking a play area, the subcommittee granted the licence. Mr. Hyams assured the committee that any Christmas lighting would be contained within private premises and that trees would not be stored overnight on public property. The decision was made after considering the council's street trading policy and the London Local Authorities Act 1990.

Major Redevelopments Approved by Planning Committee

The Planning Committee met on Wednesday 8 July 2026, approving three significant planning applications that will reshape parts of the borough. Link to the Planning Committee meeting

Surbiton Library to Get Greener with Air Source Heat Pumps

Permission was granted for the installation of three air source heat pumps at Surbiton Library. The pumps will be enclosed by railings on the rear roof, alongside the relocation of existing solar panels. An objection from a resident of the library's first-floor flats concerning potential noise was addressed by agreeing to an additional condition for a post-installation noise measurement at the flats themselves. This ensures residents receive the same protection as other neighbours.

Kingston Hospital Site to Become 150 New Homes

The former Regent Wing at Kingston Hospital will be demolished and redeveloped into 150 build-to-rent residential apartments. The approved scheme includes communal spaces, landscaping, and blue badge parking. A key aspect of the decision was the disapplication of the standard late-stage review for affordable housing contributions. Instead, the applicant will make a £2.25 million upfront payment, a move supported by officers as providing greater certainty and accelerating delivery. Councillor Roger Hayes proposed an amendment to the Section 106 agreement to bring forward the early-stage review to 18 months, ensuring timely construction. This development promises significant housing delivery, with a focus on sustainability and accessible design.

Mixed-Use Development at 7A The Triangle Approved

A new mixed-use building at 7A The Triangle, Kingston Upon Thames has been approved. The development will feature commercial space on the ground floor and 34 residential flats above, stepping from three to five storeys. The scheme is car-free, with extensive cycle parking and electric vehicle charging points. It includes significant public realm improvements and landscaping, removing a hostile boundary to the adjacent Dickeridge Road recreation ground. The development aims for a 68% carbon reduction beyond building regulations and a 63.17% biodiversity net gain. While the proposal offers no on-site affordable housing due to viability constraints, a £100,000 contribution towards enhancements at the Dickeridge Road recreation ground has been secured.

KFC Premises Licence Granted with Amended Hours and Conditions

The Licensing Sub-Committee granted a new premises licence for KFC at Dawson House, 131-135 High Street, New Malden, with amended hours and additional conditions. The application sought to extend late-night refreshments until midnight Sunday-Thursday and 1am Friday-Saturday, with a delivery and collection service only after midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Despite objections from residents and Councillor James Giles concerning noise, odour, litter, and potential crime and disorder, the subcommittee granted the licence. The granted hours for late-night refreshment are 11pm to midnight Sunday-Thursday, and 11pm to 1am Friday-Saturday. Crucially, after midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, the premises will operate as a delivery and collection service only, with no customer access.

Additional conditions were imposed, including:

• Delivery drivers to park at the front of the premises after 11pm and wait inside after midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
• Adherence to a code of conduct for delivery drivers to minimise noise and litter.
• Regular litter patrols in the final hour before closing.
• Extraction and ventilation systems to be maintained and attenuated.
• Foyer lights to be turned off after midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
• Maintenance of an incident log and CCTV system.
• Staff training on safety and policy.
• Provision of a direct contact number for residents to report concerns.

The decision reflects a balance between the applicant's operational needs and the council's commitment to preventing public nuisance and crime.

Blue Badge Appeals Panel Meets to Review Refusals

The Blue Badge Appeals Panel met on Friday 10 July 2026 to consider appeals against the refusal of Blue Badges. The panel reviewed four individual appeals in private due to the sensitive nature of the information involved. Link to the Blue Badge Appeals Panel meeting

The panel's role is to ensure the correct procedures were followed during the initial assessment and internal review stages. If procedural irregularities are found, cases are referred back for reassessment. If the process is deemed sound, the original decision is upheld. The panel also confirmed the minutes of its previous meeting.

This week in Kingston upon Thames:

Schools Face Funding Uncertainty as High Needs Block Overspends Loom

The Schools Forum met on Monday 29 June 2026 to grapple with significant financial pressures impacting local education. A key concern is the projected overspend in the High Needs Block, which funds support for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). This overspend, driven by increasing demand for specialist places and placements in independent settings, could mean difficult choices ahead for schools and potentially impact the level of support available for the borough's most vulnerable students. Link to the Schools Forum meeting

The forum reviewed the 2025/26 finance outturn, which showed the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) and its application to the Schools Budget. While the overall financial picture for maintained schools was presented, the High Needs Block is a particular area of concern. The projected overspend for 2026/27 is significant, and the impact of the High Needs Stability Grant, intended to offset historical deficits, is being closely monitored. The forum also looked ahead to budget setting for 2027/28, with the ongoing pressures in the High Needs Block likely to dominate discussions.

SEND Reforms and Future Support

The meeting also delved into the SEND Futures Plan, which aligns with national reforms aimed at transforming support for children and young people with SEND. The plan outlines a layered model of support, digital Individual Support Plans (ISPs), and the development of Specialist Inclusion Bases. The Experts at Hand offer, designed to bring specialist teams into mainstream settings, was also discussed. These reforms aim to improve early identification, intervention, and the commissioning of services, but their successful implementation will be heavily reliant on adequate and sustainable funding, especially in light of the current High Needs Block pressures.

School Place Planning and Financial Frameworks

The forum also received an update on school place planning, covering primary, secondary, and specialist provision. While primary school rolls are seeing a decrease, secondary schools are experiencing high in-borough demand. The report also detailed strategies for managing falling rolls in primary schools and capacity management in secondary schools.

Additionally, the Schools Forum was asked to approve the updated Scheme for Financing Schools for maintained schools for the 2026/27 academic year. This scheme sets out the financial framework and controls applicable to schools, ensuring transparency and accountability in how funds are managed.

This week in Kingston upon Thames:

Local Plan Approved for Public Consultation Amidst Fierce Debate on Housing and Green Belt

The Council convened a special meeting on Monday 22 June 2026, where the final draft of the Local Plan (Regulation 19) was approved for publication and public consultation. This pivotal document outlines the council's strategy for housing, infrastructure, and development over the next decade. The decision, passed by 38 votes to three with two abstentions, followed a lengthy public question session and a passionate debate among councillors. Link to the Council meeting

The Local Plan has been a source of significant contention, with residents raising concerns about the reclassification of Green Belt land, the suitability of sites for tall buildings, and the perceived lack of time to review extensive documentation. During public questions, residents like Mr. Davidson questioned the justification for de-designating Green Belt land, while Ms. Sue Towner of the Chessington and District Residents Association voiced worries about the impact of proposed traveller sites. Councillor James Stanton, representing Kingston Labour, criticised the council for the plan's delay, stating Kingston has one of the most out-of-date local plans in London.

Councillor Andreas Kirsch, Leader of the Council, defended the plan, emphasizing the necessity of a local plan to guide development rather than leaving decisions to national policy or developers. He highlighted that the plan, while not perfect, provides a framework for Kingston's future and allows the council to influence development. Councillor Andrew Wooldridge, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Economic Development and Planning Policy, addressed concerns about building heights, stating that tall buildings are defined as over 21 metres, with potential for modest taller buildings up to 25 metres, primarily along the A3. He also clarified that technical studies were released alongside the draft plan to provide the necessary planning context.

The approval of the Local Plan for consultation is a critical step, but the strong resident objections and the debate among councillors signal that further scrutiny and engagement will be vital as the plan progresses.

Council's Financial Health Assessed: Underspend in General Fund, but Pressures Remain

The Corporate and Resources Committee met on Thursday 25 June 2026, reviewing the council's financial performance for the 2025/26 financial year. Despite global economic challenges, including inflation and the cost of living crisis, the council reported an underspend of £0.62 million in its General Fund revenue outturn. Link to the Corporate and Resources Committee meeting

Councillor Manish Shukla, Portfolio Holder for Finance and Assets, presented the Revenue and Capital Outturn Report, highlighting that this underspend was achieved through effective financial management. He noted underspends in Adult Social Care and Children's Services, which are crucial areas for supporting vulnerable residents. However, the report also flagged an overspend of £2.96 million in the Housing Revenue Account, primarily due to urgent asset maintenance, and a significant overspend of £12.27 million in the Schools Budget, largely driven by pressures in high needs education. This latter point is particularly concerning, as it directly impacts the resources available for children with special educational needs and disabilities.

The capital outturn also showed a substantial underspend of £36.17 million. Approved capital budgets for the upcoming year include £1.42 million for the Local Implementation Plan, £0.82 million for highways maintenance, and £1.44 million for flood alleviation schemes in New Malden and Hook. These investments are vital for improving local infrastructure and resilience, particularly in light of increasing climate risks.

Health Governance Reforms to Enhance Focus on Public Health

The Corporate and Resources Committee also recommended to Full Council the re-establishment of a separate Health and Wellbeing Board for Kingston. This move aims to strengthen the council's ability to fulfil its public health duties and improve collaboration with partners to deliver the government's 10-year health plan. Link to the Corporate and Resources Committee meeting

Councillor Andreas Kirsch, Leader of the Council, explained that a standalone board is necessary due to significant changes in the National Health Service and the evolving landscape of neighbourhood systems. The current Kingston Partnership Board, which also served as the Health and Wellbeing Board, will be disestablished. This reform is crucial for ensuring that public health initiatives are effectively scrutinised and implemented, with a particular focus on improving health outcomes for all residents, especially those in more deprived areas who often face greater health challenges.

New Housing Management System to Improve Resident Services

The Corporate and Resources Committee also approved an additional £372,000 for the implementation of the NEC Housing Management System. This investment will enhance customer service through a resident portal, allowing tenants to manage their accounts and report repairs online, and improve internal processes for regulatory compliance and health and safety management. Link to the Corporate and Resources Committee meeting

Matthew Essex, Executive Director of Place, explained that the additional funding will cover Phases 3 and 4 of the rollout, with Phase 5 to be scoped. The new system promises to streamline operations and provide tenants with greater access to information and services. This is particularly important for residents who may not have easy access to digital services, as the council has committed to maintaining existing contact methods to ensure no one is left behind.

Other Matters

The Audit, Governance and Standards Committee met on Wednesday 24 June 2026. The committee received the Annual Internal Audit Report, noting that the council has reasonable risk management, internal control, and governance arrangements. However, one report on Cash and Bank received a limited assurance opinion due to identified weaknesses, though these recommendations have since been implemented. The committee also reviewed the Member Code of Conduct Complaints Annual Report, noting an increase in complaints, some of which were AI-generated, making them more difficult to assess. The Treasury Management Annual Report for 2025/26 was also presented, highlighting a volatile market environment but a positive investment return of 4.18%, exceeding the benchmark. Link to the Audit, Governance and Standards Committee meeting

The People Committee met on Tuesday 23 June 2026, approving several key strategies. These included endorsing the SEND Reform Plan, approving the Housing Landlord Complaints Self Assessment and Annual Performance Report, and adopting new enforcement policies for private sector housing. The committee also approved the procurement strategy for the Acre Road Supported Living Project, aiming to provide 12 self-contained flats for adults with learning disabilities and autism. Link to the People Committee meeting

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Monday 22 June 2026 and granted new premises licences for V&M Off Licence and Basera Restaurant. The decision for V&M Off Licence, located on Fife Road, was made subject to stringent conditions aimed at preventing crime and disorder, public nuisance, and protecting children from harm, following objections from local residents concerned about the cumulative impact of off-licences in the area. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting