This week in Kingston upon Thames:

Council Honours Former Councillors and Tackles Plastic Waste in Cemetery

The Council met on Tuesday 13 October 2026, formally honouring two former councillors and debating a petition calling for an end to plastic use in Kingston Cemetery. The meeting also saw public questions on the council's pension investments and a range of updates on local services.

Honorary Aldermen: Liz Green and Diane White Recognised for Service

The meeting began with the formal installation of former councillors Liz Green and Diane White as Honorary Aldermen. This prestigious title, conferred under Section 249 of the Local Government Act 1972, recognises their eminent service rendered as former Members of the Council. Councillors spoke warmly of their contributions, highlighting their dedication and positive impact on the borough. Both Ms Green and Ms White expressed their gratitude for the honour.

Petition to End Plastic Use in Kingston Cemetery Gains Traction

A petition signed by 1,241 residents, urging the council to phase out plastic decorative items in Kingston Cemetery, was debated. The organiser highlighted the environmental damage caused by plastic waste and the need for a more respectful, natural environment. While the council acknowledged the environmental concerns and the emotional significance of tributes, it was noted that plastic fencing and decorations are already prohibited. The council is prioritising an educational campaign, including new signage and QR codes, to encourage sustainable practices. While the petition was noted, the council did not commit to immediate removal of plastic items, opting instead for an educational approach. This decision may disappoint those who feel a more direct approach is needed to tackle plastic pollution in this sensitive space.

Link to the Council meeting

Pension Investments and Responsible Investment Policy Under Scrutiny

Three public questions were raised concerning the council's pension investments and its responsible investment policy, particularly in relation to companies involved in the occupied Palestinian territories. Councillor Mark Beynon, Chair of the Pension Fund Panel, explained that the panel operates independently and adheres to government guidance that discourages specifying individual holdings or geographic zones of investment. He clarified that while the UN OHCHR database is used as a screening tool by the London Collective Investment Vehicle (LCIV) for engagement, divestment is considered only as a last resort. The council stated its commitment to incorporating the OHCHR database into its decision-making process via the LCIV, aligning with its manifesto commitment to use policy and influence for real-world change. However, critics voiced concerns that vague engagement is insufficient and called for hard deadlines for compliance, arguing that the current approach prioritises administrative convenience over international law.

Other Matters Discussed:

• Kingston Carnival 2026: The carnival has been postponed, not cancelled, and is expected to return next year. The £20,000 allocated for this year has not been spent and can support its return.
• Community Library Service: Assurances were given that there are no plans to cut or reduce the community library service or its book stock.
• Cambridge Road Estate Regeneration: Over 200 people are expected to move into new homes by Christmas, with Phase 1C of the regeneration project commencing, including new council homes and a community centre.
• Dockless Cycle Hire: Measures are being implemented to manage dockless cycle hire bikes, including geo-fencing in busy areas and no-parking zones, while a new procurement process takes place.
• Black History Month: Kingston Council is running a range of activities in partnership with communities, including a decolonising Kingston project and Black British Ballet presentations.
• Planning Enforcement Service: Recruitment for new officers, including an enforcement lead, is nearing completion, and a backlog of over 800 enforcement cases has been cleared.
• Kingston Leisure Centre Redevelopment: The project is on track and within budget, with an anticipated opening in Spring 2027.
• Canbury Place Car Park Development: The council decided not to extend the development agreement, leading to its lapse.
• Murray House Care Home Site Redevelopment: The project is proceeding well, with brickwork completed and topping out expected soon.
• Air Quality Action Plan: A revised plan for 2027-2032 is being prepared for public consultation, including actions on PM2.5 and PM10.
• Plant-Based Treaty: While the council supports plant-based eating, it will not formally endorse the treaty as many of its requests fall under national government remit.
• Blue Badge Appeals Process: The £70,000 figure represents the estimated annual budget growth required for a permanent Member-led appeals framework.
• Hook Park Development: The site has been identified as potential 'Grey Belt' land for housing as part of the Local Plan evidence base.
• Youth Services Expansion: Funding is being sought to increase staffing capacity for weekend and evening services.
• Kingstonian FC Return: There are no active proposals or formal discussions with the council regarding the club's relocation.

Motion on Roadworks Defeated

A motion calling for a dedicated officer post to manage roadworks and improve traffic flow was defeated. Councillors argued that existing staff and the upcoming lane rental scheme would address the issue, making the proposed post unnecessary.

Constitutional Changes Approved Despite Opposition

Recommendations from the Corporate and Resources Committee regarding amendments to the council's constitution, to comply with the Planning and Infrastructure Act 2025, were approved. While some councillors expressed concerns that these changes reduce local power, the motion to approve the amendments was carried.

Honorary Aldermen and Committee Appointments

Sean Maher was appointed as the Catholic Diocese representative and Co-opted member of the People Committee. Changes to committee appointments were also noted.

Link to the Council meeting

This week in Kingston upon Thames:

Late-Night Food Outlet Faces Scrutiny Over Noise and Nuisance Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Tuesday 29 September 2026 to consider a new premises licence application for Popeyes, located at 65-67 Clarence Street, Kingston Upon Thames, KT1 1RB. The applicant, PLK Chicken UK Ltd, sought permission for late-night refreshments daily from 11:00 PM to 5:00 AM, with the premises closing at 1:00 AM from Sunday to Wednesday and 2:00 AM from Thursday to Saturday, while continuing a delivery service until 5:00 AM.

The application triggered significant objections from the Metropolitan Police, the Council's Lead Officer for Pollution Control, and a local resident, all raising concerns about the potential impact on the licensing objectives, particularly the prevention of public nuisance and crime and disorder.

Police Sergeant Jeremy Weston stated that Kingston Town Centre already experiences considerable crime and disorder associated with its night-time economy, and an additional late-night venue could worsen these issues. He specifically raised concerns about managing delivery operations from the pedestrianised Clarence Street and the cumulative effect of such establishments.

John Sibson, the Council's Lead Officer for Pollution Control, highlighted that Clarence Street is a pedestrianised area with nearby residential properties. He warned that the proposed late hours for deliveries could disturb residents due to vehicle noise, engines, and doors closing. He recommended restricting late-night refreshment hours, with deliveries ceasing by midnight on weekdays and 2:00 AM on weekends.

Saffron Sassaroni, a local resident, shared similar concerns about public nuisance and safety. She described existing issues with delivery drivers using a rear access point, causing noise and disturbance, and expressed worry that extending operations until 5:00 AM would severely impact residents' sleep. She also noted problems with litter and the potential for anti-social behaviour in the unlit rear area.

The applicant's representative, Mark Browning, proposed reducing the hours for late-night refreshment to midnight daily, with deliveries ceasing at 1:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. They also offered to implement measures to manage delivery drivers and liaise with the police regarding door staff if necessary.

The committee deliberated on these representations, with the final decision to be confirmed by email later that day and full reasons to follow within five working days. The outcome will have a direct impact on the quality of life for residents living near Clarence Street, particularly concerning noise levels and potential disturbances during late hours.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Schools Forum Grapples with Significant Deficit in Dedicated Schools Grant

The Schools Forum met on Monday 28 September 2026 to discuss the 2026-27 finance update and progress on the SEND Futures Plan. A key concern raised was the projected deficit in the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG).

Financial Pressures on Schools

Melanie Hanson, Head of Finance for Richmond, presented the 2026-27 finance update, revealing a projected in-year overspend of £18.508 million. The majority of this overspend (£18.495 million) is attributed to the High Needs Block, which funds support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). This brings the cumulative deficit on the DSG to £20.532 million.

Councillor Sachin Tulyani voiced concerns about the escalating deficit and sought to benchmark Kingston's spending on students with special educational needs against other boroughs. Ms. Hanson explained that these pressures are national, and while Richmond faces similar issues, the safety valve programme had provided some relief. Charis Penfold added that the historical formula for the high needs block contributes to inequalities across local areas.

The Central Schools Services Block is projected to have an overspend of £314,000, while the Early Years Block is forecast to have an underspend of £300,000. The forum noted these figures, highlighting the significant financial challenges facing the education sector, which could impact the resources available for schools and support services for students.

SEND Futures Plan and Cluster Model Expansion

An update on the SEND Futures Plan and SEND Reforms was provided, with the plan set to launch at a conference on 15 October 2026. A key initiative is the Specialist Expertise at Hand model, designed to offer early intervention and support to schools without the need for an Education, Health, and Care (EHC) needs assessment.

However, concerns were raised about the recruitment of educational psychologists and occupational therapists, a national challenge that could hinder the implementation of this model. The Integrated Care Board's (ICB) potential cuts also pose a risk to its capacity to engage with SEND reforms.

The successful pilot of the cluster model, which encourages schools to share resources and expertise, is planned for expansion across Kingston and Richmond by September 2027. This model has been praised for fostering proactive networking and case triaging among Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs).

The meeting also noted Carol Buchanan's resignation from Christchurch Primary School to join The Kingston Academy, with her willingness to serve as a governor representative for the latter confirmed.

Link to the Schools Forum meeting

This week in Kingston upon Thames:

Council Faces Tough Choices on Budget and Planning Reforms

Kingston Council's Corporate and Resources Committee met on Thursday 24 September 2026, grappling with the council's financial performance and proposed changes to planning regulations. The meeting highlighted the ongoing pressure on local government finances and the need to adapt to new national legislation.

Financial Tightrope: Budget Monitoring and Dedicated Schools Grant Deficit

The committee reviewed the council's financial position at the four-month mark of the financial year. While a slight overspend of £720,000 was forecast for the General Fund revenue budget, this was noted as a positive position compared to previous years, attributed to the ongoing transformation programme. However, the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) is projecting a significant £18 million deficit for the current year, with a cumulative deficit expected to reach £38.72 million. This deficit, primarily driven by pressures in the high-needs block, poses a substantial challenge for future service delivery, potentially impacting support for children with special educational needs. The council is seeking a High Needs Stability Grant to alleviate some of this pressure.

The capital programme is forecast to underspend by nearly £32 million, with a £650,000 budget approved for the Guildhall refurbishment business case.

Planning Reforms: Neighbourhood Committees Lose Decision-Making Power

Significant changes to the council's Constitution were recommended to align with the Planning and Infrastructure Act 2025. These reforms, effective from 31 October 2026, aim to streamline planning decisions nationally. Key changes include a presumption in favour of delegating smaller applications to officers and the introduction of a gateway test for larger schemes to determine if they should be heard by the Planning Committee. Crucially, neighbourhood committees will no longer have the authority to determine planning applications. This shift could reduce local democratic input on planning matters, with decisions on many applications moving to officer-level delegation. While the council aims to retain routes for councillors to highlight concerns, the loss of neighbourhood committee decision-making power on planning applications is a significant change that could impact local influence.

Service Improvements and Contract Awards

The committee also reviewed the Annual Corporate Performance and Service Improvement Report 2025/26, noting a substantial 48% reduction in corporate complaints. Waste services saw an impressive 84% decrease in initial complaints, demonstrating successful operational improvements. The council also achieved 100% compliance with Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman recommendations, outperforming the average for similar authorities.

A contract for cleaning services for Housing for Older People (HFOPS) schemes and hostels was awarded to Bidder A for an initial three-year term, valued at £1,105,337.74 over five years. While this represents a 9% increase on the previous contract, it covers a broader scope of services. The increased costs will be recouped through service charges, with an average increase of less than £1 per week per tenant.

The committee also approved the entry into a new Power of Attorney for the Cambridge Road Estate (CRE) regeneration project to streamline business transactions.

Link to the Corporate and Resources Committee meeting

Pension Fund Navigates Administration Challenges and Investment Performance

The Pension Fund Panel met on Wednesday 23 September 2026, addressing challenges in pension administration and reviewing investment performance. The panel heard that while priority cases like deaths and retirements are being handled effectively, there's an increase in overdue processes, particularly concerning leavers.

Administration Backlog and Digital Payslip Uptake

Tom Taylor, Head of Pensions Administration, reported an increase in outstanding processes to 738, with 106 cases overdue by 31 days or more. This was attributed to the annual year-end exercise, a temporary suspension of transfer processing, and increased queries related to the digital payslip initiative. While priority cases maintained a 100% performance target, Councillor Mark Durrant raised concerns about the 45.3% of total cases being overdue. Officers explained that leavers are prioritised as P3 cases with a three-month legal deadline, and these overdue cases have since been cleared. The digital payslip initiative has seen 783 pensioners sign up, with plans for an opt-out scheme to further increase uptake.

McCloud Remedy and Access & Fairness Reforms: Delays and Compliance

Key projects include the implementation of the McCloud Remedy, which addresses historical age discrimination in pension calculations. Due to industry-wide software delays, individual underpin calculations could not be included in the initial Annual Benefit Statements (ABS). This has resulted in a reported breach of law, with the Fund awaiting software releases to complete recalculations by 31 January 2027. The Access & Fairness reforms, aimed at improving equality in the scheme, are being implemented in phases and are on track. These reforms address gender discrimination in survivor benefits and remove the age 75 limit for death grants.

Investment Performance: Outperforming the Discount Rate, But Below Benchmark

The Investment Performance Report showed the Fund's market value increased to £1.51 billion, with a quarterly return of 7.6%, outperforming its benchmark. However, the one-year return of 13.7% was below the benchmark of 14.7%, and three and five-year returns also underperformed. Councillor Mark Durrant questioned the consistent underperformance against benchmarks. Charlie Sheridan from London CIV acknowledged that some fund manager performance had not met expectations and that efforts are underway to improve this, including the launch of a core equity fund. Despite the underperformance against benchmarks, the Fund's returns have consistently exceeded the actuaries' expected return of 5.6%.

Concerns were also raised about the Fund's cash flow negative position, with investment income crucial to bridging the gap between contributions and benefit payments. Officers assured the panel that measures are in place to manage liquidity and volatility without impacting employer contribution rates.

Link to the Pension Fund Panel meeting

Local Initiatives Approved: School Streets, Zebra Crossings, and Community Safety

The Kingston and North Kingston Neighbourhood Committee met on Tuesday 15 September 2026, approving several local initiatives aimed at improving safety and supporting community groups.

Robin Hood School Street Scheme to Trial Traffic Restrictions

The committee approved the implementation of an experimental School Street scheme for Robin Hood Primary School. This will restrict motor traffic on Bowness Crescent, Windermere Road, and a section of Robin Hood Lane during school term times. The trial aims to improve air quality, reduce road danger, and encourage active travel. Exemptions will be in place for residents, those with disabilities, and essential service providers. The scheme will be monitored for 6 to 18 months, with a review to determine its permanent implementation.

Disabled Bay Approved Despite Objections

An objection to the introduction of a disabled bay on Clifton Road was set aside, and the implementation of the bay was approved. While objectors raised concerns about parking capacity and potential congestion, officers confirmed the applicant met eligibility criteria, and the bay would replace an existing parking space without altering traffic or visibility. The committee acknowledged that while the bay is designated for disabled badge holders, it cannot be exclusively allocated to one individual.

Community Grants Support Local Projects

Two applications for Neighbourhood Community Grants were approved:

• Barnfield Riding for the Disabled: Received £2,200 to support therapeutic horse-riding sessions for children with disabilities.
• RB Cares: Awarded £3,000 for their Warmer in Winter Bags initiative, providing essential items to vulnerable residents to help them stay warm during colder months.

Community Safety Update Highlights Partnership Efforts

An update from the Community Safety Team showcased the work of the Safer Kingston Partnership. Achievements included progress on CCTV upgrades, the launch of the MetaEngage platform for communication, and initiatives to prevent violence and exploitation. New priorities for online harm and reducing re-offending were also highlighted. The committee noted the launch of a 24-hour helpline for victims of hate crime and an Anti-Hate Crime Action Plan.

Link to the Kingston and North Kingston Neighbourhood Committee meeting

Planning Committee Approves Christmas Tree Nursery and Healthcare Centre, Refuses Care Home

The Planning Committee met on Wednesday 16 September 2026, making decisions on two significant planning applications. The committee approved the use of land at Riverhill Yard for a Christmas tree nursery and the demolition of buildings at Warren Park Children's Centre for a healthcare rehabilitation centre.

Riverhill Yard Christmas Tree Nursery Approved with Conditions

The committee approved the use of land at Riverhill Yard for a Christmas tree nursery, including the installation of a modular office, storage containers, and poly-tunnels. This decision was made subject to conditions and the completion of a legal agreement. While local residents and a councillor from Epsom and Ewell Borough Council raised concerns about increased traffic, noise, and light pollution, the applicant argued that the development would bring a derelict site back into use and had significantly reduced issues over the past three seasons. The committee acknowledged the site's designation as Metropolitan Open Land (MOL) and agreed that the horticultural use was acceptable, with conditions to manage traffic and noise.

Warren Park Children's Centre Redevelopment Approved for Healthcare Facility

The committee approved the demolition of existing buildings at Warren Park Children's Centre and the erection of a three-storey healthcare rehabilitation centre. This decision was also subject to conditions and a legal agreement. The application faced objections from local residents and a ward councillor regarding the scale, massing, height, and impact on daylight, sunlight, privacy, and parking. Concerns were also raised about the visual impact on Richmond Park and potential noise and odour. The applicant highlighted the need for such facilities and the positive impact on healthcare outcomes. The committee, while acknowledging the concerns, voted to approve the application, recognising the benefits of bringing a disused site back into use for a much-needed healthcare facility and addressing potential impacts through conditions and legal agreements.

Link to the Planning Committee meeting

This week in Kingston upon Thames:

Post-16 Education and Adult Social Care Priorities Approved: Council Focuses on Young People and Vulnerable Adults

The People Committee met on Thursday 17 September 2026, making key decisions that will shape the future of education and social care services in Kingston. The committee approved strategic priorities for adult social care for the next three years and endorsed progress on vital plans for children and young people.

Strong Post-16 Education Offer for All Young People

Kingston upon Thames continues to boast a strong and sufficient education and training offer for young people aged 16 and over. The committee noted that nearly 97% of young people are engaged in meaningful education, training, or employment – a figure significantly above the national average. This success is a testament to the hard work of our schools, colleges, and the dedication of young people and their families.

The report highlighted a broad range of academic and vocational pathways available, with schools increasingly offering BTEC and other vocational qualifications alongside traditional A-levels. For young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), provision in special schools is robust, and efforts are underway to expand vocational opportunities, including supported internships and traineeships. A priority for the council is the development of a dedicated Post-16 Campus for young people with SEND, though a suitable site is still being sought.

Concerns were raised about increasing apprenticeship opportunities, with the council acknowledging the need to strengthen vocational pathways and potentially incorporate more apprenticeships into council contracts and commissioned services. The evolving landscape of Artificial Intelligence and its impact on future employment was also discussed, with a commitment to ensuring young people are equipped with skills resilient to these changes.

Adult Social Care: Putting People at the Heart of Services

The committee approved the strategic priorities for adult social care for 2026-2029. These priorities are the result of extensive engagement with residents, carers, and families, and are built around the council's vision of putting people at the heart of its services. Key themes include:

• Promoting Independence: Helping residents to live well and stay independent for as long as possible.
• Choice and Control: Ensuring individuals have greater choice and control over their care.
• Supporting Carers: Valuing and supporting the crucial role of unpaid carers.
• Partnership Working: Collaborating effectively with health, voluntary, and community partners.
• Clear Information and Advice: Providing accessible and understandable information about services.

The priorities also address the transition from children's to adult social care, skills and employment opportunities, and ensuring fair and equal access to services for all. The council's adult social care service was previously rated Good by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

Children and Young People's Plan: Progress and Future Focus

The committee endorsed the progress made in delivering the actions set out in the 2024-2027 Children and Young People's Plan. This plan, developed with young people, aims to make Kingston a happy, healthy, safe, and fair place to grow up. Achievements include significant reach for mental health support campaigns and active involvement of the Youth Council in community safety initiatives. A key focus moving forward is ensuring young people's voices continue to shape council plans and decisions.

SEND Futures Plan: Improving Timeliness and Support

Progress on the SEND Futures Plan was noted, with improvements in the timeliness of annual reviews, with 72% of decisions now made within four weeks – a significant increase from 57%. Waiting times for autism and ADHD assessments are also showing signs of improvement. Challenges remain, particularly in recruiting specialist therapy roles and addressing NHS budget pressures. The plan aims to strengthen inclusion, improve access to local placements and specialist support, and foster inclusive cultures.

Motion on Cannabis-Based Products Noted

The committee also noted a motion regarding the protection of patients prescribed cannabis-based products for medicinal use (CBPMs). While acknowledging the principle of dignity and fair treatment, the committee noted that addressing this issue fundamentally lies with national legal, regulatory, and clinical frameworks. The council resolved to write to the government and relevant national bodies to call for clear and consistent national guidance, while ensuring its own services treat individuals fairly and understand the distinction between prescribed medication and illegal substances.

Link to the People Committee meeting

School Streets, Disabled Bays, and Community Safety: Kingston and North Kingston Neighbourhood Committee Approves Local Initiatives

The Kingston and North Kingston Neighbourhood Committee met on Tuesday 15 September 2026, approving several local initiatives aimed at improving safety and supporting community groups.

Robin Hood School Street Scheme to Trial Traffic Restrictions

The committee approved the implementation of an experimental School Street scheme for Robin Hood Primary School. This will restrict motor traffic on Bowness Crescent, Windermere Road, and a section of Robin Hood Lane during school term times. The trial aims to improve air quality, reduce road danger, and encourage active travel. Exemptions will be in place for residents, those with disabilities, and essential service providers. The scheme will be monitored for 6 to 18 months, with a review to determine its permanent implementation.

Disabled Bay Approved Despite Objections

An objection to the introduction of a disabled bay on Clifton Road was set aside, and the implementation of the bay was approved. While objectors raised concerns about parking capacity and potential congestion, officers confirmed the applicant met eligibility criteria, and the bay would replace an existing parking space without altering traffic or visibility. The committee acknowledged that while the bay is designated for disabled badge holders, it cannot be exclusively allocated to one individual.

Community Grants Support Local Projects

Two applications for Neighbourhood Community Grants were approved:

• Barnfield Riding for the Disabled: Received £2,200 to support therapeutic horse-riding sessions for children with disabilities.
• RB Cares: Awarded £3,000 for their Warmer in Winter Bags initiative, providing essential items to vulnerable residents to help them stay warm during colder months.

Community Safety Update Highlights Partnership Efforts

An update from the Community Safety Team showcased the work of the Safer Kingston Partnership. Achievements included progress on CCTV upgrades, the launch of the MetaEngage platform for communication, and initiatives to prevent violence and exploitation. New priorities for online harm and reducing re-offending were also highlighted. The committee noted the launch of a 24-hour helpline for victims of hate crime and an Anti-Hate Crime Action Plan.

Link to the Kingston and North Kingston Neighbourhood Committee meeting

Planning Committee Approves Christmas Tree Nursery and Healthcare Centre, Refuses Care Home

The Planning Committee met on Wednesday 16 September 2026, making decisions on two significant planning applications. The committee approved the use of land at Riverhill Yard for a Christmas tree nursery and the demolition of buildings at Warren Park Children's Centre for a healthcare rehabilitation centre.

Riverhill Yard Christmas Tree Nursery Approved with Conditions

The committee approved the use of land at Riverhill Yard for a Christmas tree nursery, including the installation of a modular office, storage containers, and poly-tunnels. This decision was made subject to conditions and the completion of a legal agreement. While local residents and a councillor from Epsom and Ewell Borough Council raised concerns about increased traffic, noise, and light pollution, the applicant argued that the development would bring a derelict site back into use and had significantly reduced issues over the past three seasons. The committee acknowledged the site's designation as Metropolitan Open Land (MOL) and agreed that the horticultural use was acceptable, with conditions to manage traffic and noise.

Warren Park Children's Centre Redevelopment Approved for Healthcare Facility

The committee approved the demolition of existing buildings at Warren Park Children's Centre and the erection of a three-storey healthcare rehabilitation centre. This decision was also subject to conditions and a legal agreement. The application faced objections from local residents and a ward councillor regarding the scale, massing, height, and impact on daylight, sunlight, privacy, and parking. Concerns were also raised about the visual impact on Richmond Park and potential noise and odour. The applicant highlighted the need for such facilities and the positive impact on healthcare outcomes. The committee, while acknowledging the concerns, voted to approve the application, recognising the benefits of bringing a disused site back into use for a much-needed healthcare facility and addressing potential impacts through conditions and legal agreements.

Link to the Planning Committee meeting