This week in Kingston upon Thames:

Licensing Decisions Spark Debate: Ancient Marketplace Gains Licence, Market House Decision Postponed

The Licensing Sub-Committee has granted a new premises licence for the Ancient Marketplace, a decision that has been met with mixed reactions. While the applicant, Between the Bridges Ltd, celebrated the outcome, some residents had voiced concerns about potential noise and public nuisance. The committee granted the licence with a raft of conditions, including CCTV, staff training, a dispersal policy, and a Noise Management Plan. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

However, a decision on a similar application for Market House, also by Between the Bridges Ltd, was postponed. Councillors expressed significant concerns about the proposed late hours, particularly the 1 am finish on Thursdays to Saturdays, citing potential disturbance to nearby residents. The committee will deliberate further on the hours and conditions for Market House before making a final decision. This highlights the delicate balance the council must strike between supporting new businesses and protecting the quality of life for residents.

Council Tackles Poverty with New Joint Strategic Needs Assessment

Kingston Partnership Board met to discuss crucial initiatives aimed at understanding and addressing poverty within the borough. A key focus was the development of a new Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA) for 2026/27. This assessment is a statutory function designed to identify current and future health and social care needs, informing service planning and aiming to reduce inequalities. Link to the Kingston Partnership Board meeting

The board heard that while Kingston is relatively less deprived compared to many other areas in England, there are still five areas within the borough now falling into the most deprived 40%. The assessment will delve into local data on cost of living, welfare benefits, income, employment, debt, housing, and digital access. This detailed local insight is vital for ensuring that support services are targeted effectively, particularly for vulnerable groups such as single adults and single parents who are disproportionately affected by rising costs. The JSNA will be crucial in shaping future council strategies to combat poverty and improve the well-being of all residents.

Frailty Programme Aims to Keep Residents Independent and Healthy

An update on the Kingston & Richmond Integrated Frailty Programme was presented to the Kingston Partnership Board, outlining a strategic approach to supporting older residents living with frailty. The programme aims to integrate services, improve health outcomes, and reduce reliance on hospital care, enabling individuals to maintain independence in their own homes for longer. Link to the Kingston Partnership Board meeting

With 23% of Kingston's over-65 population coded as frail, and this demographic set to grow significantly, the programme's focus on prevention, early intervention, and person-centred care is vital. Key initiatives include digitising comprehensive geriatric assessments, improving care in hospitals and care homes, and developing a more integrated pathway for frailty services. This proactive approach is essential for ensuring that our older residents receive the best possible support and can live fulfilling lives within their communities.

Council Budget and Financial Strategy Under Review

The Council convened for a Budget Council meeting to discuss and approve the financial strategy and detailed budget for the upcoming years. The Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for 2026-2030 and the detailed budget for 2026/27 were central to the discussions. Link to the Council meeting

The council faces significant financial pressures, including rising demand for services like social care and insufficient national funding. The budget proposals include a substantial capital programme of £248 million, prioritising housing, a new leisure centre, and decarbonisation schemes. However, the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) shows a concerning deficit, which could impact support for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). The council's S151 Officer highlighted the need for robust financial management and careful scrutiny of reserves to navigate these challenges. These financial decisions will directly influence the level and quality of services available to all residents, particularly those most reliant on council support.

Other Matters

• The Kingston Partnership Board also received an update on the River Safety Forum, highlighting initiatives to improve safety along the Thames and other open water bodies in the borough. This included the implementation of throw line boards and lifelines, and efforts to prevent suicides through targeted signage. Link to the Kingston Partnership Board meeting
• The Council meeting also included discussions on the Statement of Licensing Policy, a determination of a complaint against Councillor Kamala Kugan, and a review of political proportionality on Council bodies. Link to the Council meeting
• The Surbiton Neighbourhood Committee meeting was scheduled to discuss community grants, an update on the Seething Wells Filter Beds, and the council's work programme. Link to the Surbiton Neighbourhood Committee meeting
• The New and Old Malden Planning Sub-Committee was scheduled to consider a planning application for a single-storey rear extension at 26 Westbury Road, New Malden. Link to the New and Old Malden Planning Sub-Committee meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• Kingston and North Kingston Neighbourhood Committee will meet on Tuesday 03 March 2026 to discuss community grants, highway maintenance, and the extension of a public spaces protection order. Link to the Kingston and North Kingston Neighbourhood Committee meeting
• New and Old Malden Neighbourhood Committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday 04 March 2026 has been cancelled.
• New and Old Malden Planning Sub-Committee will meet on Wednesday 04 March 2026 to consider a planning application. Link to the New and Old Malden Planning Sub-Committee meeting
• Scrutiny Panel will meet on Thursday 05 March 2026 to consider a community call-in regarding traffic management orders in North Kingston. Link to the Scrutiny Panel meeting
• Blue Badge Appeals Panel will meet on Friday 06 March 2026. Link to the Blue Badge Appeals Panel meeting
• Pension Fund Panel will meet on Wednesday 11 March 2026. Link to the Pension Fund Panel meeting
• Planning Committee will meet on Wednesday 11 March 2026. Link to the Planning Committee meeting
• People Committee will meet on Tuesday 10 March 2026 to discuss partnership agreements and contract extensions. Link to the People Committee meeting
• Licensing Sub-Committee will meet on Tuesday 10 March 2026. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting
• Place Committee will meet on Thursday 12 March 2026. Link to the Place Committee meeting
• South of the Borough Neighbourhood Committee will meet on Thursday 12 March 2026. Link to the South of the Borough Neighbourhood Committee meeting

This week in Kingston upon Thames:

Councillor Sanctioned for Code of Conduct Breach: Formal Censure and Committee Removal Recommended

The Standards Sub-Committee has found Councillor Kamala Kugan in breach of the Members' Code of Conduct for failing to comply with a previous sanction. The committee unanimously agreed that Councillor Kugan had not issued a required written apology to the Executive Director of Children's Services by the stipulated deadline. Link to the Standards Sub-Committee meeting

The original sanction, imposed on 30 September 2025, required Councillor Kugan to apologise by 14 November 2025. The Investigating Officer reported that the apology was not sent, constituting a breach of paragraph 14.1.iv of the Code of Conduct, which states: As a Councillor, I will comply with any sanction imposed on me following a finding that I have breached the code of conduct.

Councillor Kugan, represented by Ms Mihaela McKendrick, argued that her conduct was justified by safeguarding concerns and that she had issued an apology via email on 28 November. However, the Sub-Committee determined this email was accusatory and not addressed to the correct person, thus not fulfilling the requirement.

The Sub-Committee has recommended several sanctions:

• A formal censure, with details to be published on the Council's website.
• Councillor Kugan must issue the required apology by 5:00 pm on Sunday, 15 February 2026.
• A recommendation for Councillor Kugan's removal from all Council committees.
• Exclusion from Council offices and premises, except for attending official meetings.
• Revocation of Councillor Kugan's access to the all-councillor email distribution address.

The Independent Person, Gary Rogers, noted Councillor Kugan's lack of self-reflection and continued reiteration of concerns that led to the original complaint. He emphasised the importance of the standards regime in ensuring members act with respect and courtesy. This decision highlights the council's commitment to upholding ethical standards and ensuring accountability among its elected members.

Council Faces Significant Budget Pressures: Financial Strategy and Budget for 2026/27 Under Review

The Corporate and Resources Committee met to scrutinise the council's financial health, reviewing the revenue and capital budget monitoring for the 2025/26 financial year and the proposed Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) and detailed budget for 2026/27 to 2029/30. Link to the Corporate and Resources Committee meeting These discussions are critical for understanding how council services will be funded and delivered in the coming years, with potential impacts on residents, particularly vulnerable groups.

The monitoring report for 2025/26 indicated a forecast overspend of £0.17m against the General Fund budget. Significant pressures were identified in Adult Social Care and Health (£0.83m adverse variance) and Place (£3.73m adverse variance), largely attributed to increased demand and rising costs. Children's Services also reported an adverse variance of £0.99m. While some areas showed favourable variances, the overall picture points to ongoing financial challenges.

The capital programme for 2025/26 is forecasting an underspend, but over the four-year programme, an overspend of £0.32m is anticipated for the General Fund and £4.66m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Pressures within the Place Directorate, particularly concerning Community Housing and temporary accommodation, are a key concern.

The Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) is forecasting a substantial overspend of £12.67m, primarily within the High Needs Block, increasing the accumulated deficit to £20.93m. This directly impacts the funding available for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), potentially affecting the support they receive.

The proposed budget for 2026/27 to 2029/30 includes recommendations for budget growth and savings. The committee also considered motions referred from the Full Council, including proposed amendments to the council constitution regarding the threshold for members to call in decisions. This mechanism allows elected members to scrutinise and potentially delay decisions made by committees, ensuring greater oversight. The opposition, represented by Councillor James Giles and Councillor Jamal Chohan, proposed reducing the call-in threshold from nine to six elected members, citing concerns about the current opposition's composition. Officers noted that constitutional changes require Full Council approval and suggested a broader review post-elections.

Another motion, reaffirming Kingston as a borough of respect and safety, and pledging commitment to community cohesion, was also discussed. This aligns with the council's existing work through the Inclusive Kingston Strategy and its accreditation as a Borough of Sanctuary.

An urgent decision was also noted regarding a contract modification for Cloud Data Centre Services with Amazon Web Services (AWS), extending the contract term and increasing its value. This highlights the council's reliance on digital infrastructure and the need for robust service provision.

Statement of Licensing Policy and Gambling Harm on the Agenda for Licensing Committee

The Licensing Committee was scheduled to discuss proposed revisions to the Statement of Licensing Policy for 2026-2031 and consider a motion regarding gambling harm. Link to the Licensing Committee meeting The Statement of Licensing Policy is a crucial document that guides the council's approach to licensing, impacting businesses and the local environment.

The draft policy updates reflect current best practices and legislative changes, including guidance on public health and counter-terrorism. It also addresses emerging issues such as safety concerns related to delivery services and potential noise from licensed premises. A key point of discussion was the absence of a formal Cumulative Impact Assessment (CIA) and Cumulative Impact Zone (CIZ) for Kingston Town Centre. While some consultation respondents expressed concern, the report indicated that gathering sufficient evidence for a CIZ is complex. The policy aims to balance managing potential cumulative effects with supporting new businesses.

The committee was asked to recommend the revised policy to the Full Council for approval.

The committee was also set to consider a motion concerning gambling harm, which highlighted the growing issue of gambling addiction and its social costs. The motion called for national gambling reform, including stronger local licensing powers and the removal of the Aim to Permit rule in the Gambling Act 2005. It also urged the council to support harm reduction campaigns and strengthen local policy on gambling. Officers' comments noted that while uncontrolled gambling can lead to harm, in-depth local analysis had not yet been conducted. The report also indicated that the government is considering measures for gambling reform, but Kingston may not meet the thresholds for certain assessments due to a declining number of licensed premises. The motion's call for a detailed report on gambling harm and policy strengthening would require additional resources.

Other Matters

• The Licensing Sub-Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday 10 February 2026 was cancelled. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting
• The Planning Committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday 11 February 2026 was cancelled. Link to the Planning Committee meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• Licensing Sub-Committee will meet on Tuesday 24 February 2026. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting
• Licensing Sub-Committee will meet on Tuesday 24 February 2026. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting
• Surbiton Neighbourhood Committee will meet on Tuesday 24 February 2026. Link to the Surbiton Neighbourhood Committee meeting
• Kingston Partnership Board will meet on Wednesday 25 February 2026. Link to the Kingston Partnership Board meeting
• Audit, Governance and Standards Committee will meet on Wednesday 25 February 2026. This meeting has been cancelled.
• Council will meet on Thursday 26 February 2026. Link to the Council meeting
• Council will meet on Thursday 26 February 2026. Link to the Council meeting

This week in Kingston upon Thames:

Council Grapples with Budget Shortfalls: Tough Decisions Ahead for Services

Kingston Council is facing significant financial challenges, with the People Committee and Place Committee both reviewing the proposed Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for 2026-2030 and the detailed budget for 2026/27. These committees are tasked with making recommendations that will shape the council's spending priorities and potentially impact a wide range of services relied upon by residents, especially the most vulnerable.

The reports highlight a challenging financial context, with projected budget gaps and the necessity for substantial savings and transformational activity. This means difficult decisions will need to be made about where money is spent and where cuts might be necessary. For residents, this could translate into changes in service delivery, potential increases in council tax, and shifts in how essential services are funded.

• People Committee discussions included proposed increases to average social rent, tenant service charges for sheltered accommodation, and service charges for estates. They also reviewed the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget and capital programme, which includes significant investment in housing and a new community leisure centre.
• The Place Committee also considered the MTFS and budget, with a focus on recommendations for Property, Strategic Planning and Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development, and other place-based services. They are also reviewing the Capital Strategy, which outlines planned investments over the next four years.

The implications of these budget decisions are far-reaching. For example, changes to social rent or service charges directly affect the affordability of housing for many residents. Investments in new facilities like a post-16 campus for young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) signal a commitment to specific groups, while the need for savings elsewhere could impact broader community services.

The council's commitment to financial sustainability is paramount, but the balancing act between essential service provision and fiscal responsibility will be a key theme in the coming months.

Link to the People Committee meeting Link to the Place Committee meeting

Urgent Care Pressures and Children's Mental Health on the Agenda

The Health Overview and Scrutiny Panel met to address critical issues within local health services, including the pressures on urgent and emergency care at the Kingston and Richmond NHS Foundation Trust and the provision of mental health services for children and young people.

The report on urgent and emergency care highlighted that a significant challenge is the mismatch between the demand for services and the available capacity. Bottlenecks were identified in areas such as nursing home capacity for complex care needs, mental health inpatient provision, and the availability of seven-day ambulatory services. This directly impacts residents who require immediate medical attention, potentially leading to longer waiting times and increased strain on healthcare professionals.

• The report detailed how population growth and an ageing demographic are exacerbating these pressures.
• Key bottlenecks include the availability of assessment and admission for patients who could be managed at home, and delays in accessing inpatient beds due to delayed discharges.
• Kingston Hospital was noted as one of the few in London without a hospital-employed Alcohol Care Team (ACT), a service that can support individuals with alcohol-related health issues.

The panel also received a verbal update on the Independent Review of Children's and Young People's Mental Health Services. This is a crucial area, as timely and accessible mental health support is vital for the well-being of young people. Any shortcomings in this provision can have long-lasting consequences for individuals and families.

The discussions underscore the complex interplay between health services, social care, and the broader community's needs, particularly for those with complex health requirements and for younger residents.

Link to the Health Overview and Scrutiny Panel meeting

Religious Education and School Conduct: SACRE Discusses Code of Conduct and RSHE Guidance

The Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) met to discuss important matters concerning religious education and ethical conduct within schools. A key item was the proposed approval of a Code of Conduct for SACRE members, aiming to enhance governance and ethical practice. This code, which incorporates the Seven Principles of Public Life (also known as the Nolan Principles), provides guidance on expected conduct for those involved in shaping religious education.

The council also reviewed updated national statutory guidance on Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE). This guidance, which will be implemented in schools from September 2026, aims to equip pupils with essential knowledge and skills for well-being and relationships. The report highlighted new and expanded content areas, including online harms and mental health, and placed a renewed emphasis on pupil engagement and age-appropriateness. Ensuring that RSHE is delivered effectively and sensitively is crucial for the development and safety of young people.

• The proposed Code of Conduct covers areas such as safeguarding, confidentiality, equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• The updated RSHE guidance addresses contemporary issues and aims to provide comprehensive support for schools.

The SACRE's work is fundamental in ensuring that religious education and related personal development programmes in schools are delivered to a high standard, reflecting both community values and national requirements.

Link to the Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education meeting

Other Matters

• The Place Committee also discussed motions referred from the Council concerning the over-concentration of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and the Vehicle Crossover Policy. The HMO motion, in particular, raised concerns about the impact of HMOs on community cohesion, parking, and waste management, with residents calling for stricter planning policies and enforcement. The Vehicle Crossover Policy discussion focused on balancing highway safety with residents' needs for off-street parking. Link to the Place Committee meeting
• The People Committee also addressed school admission arrangements for community schools for the 2027/28 academic year, including a proposal to lower the Published Admission Number (PAN) for King's Oak Primary School due to declining birth rates. They also received an update on Adult Social Care services, noting a 'Good' CQC inspection outcome but also areas for improvement. Link to the People Committee meeting
• The Constitution of Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames meeting was scheduled, but information status is pending council publication. Link to the Constitution of Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• Licensing Committee will meet on Tuesday 10 February 2026. Link to the Licensing Committee meeting
• Licensing Sub-Committee will meet on Tuesday 10 February 2026. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting
• Standards Sub-Committee will meet on Monday 09 February 2026 to consider a complaint against Councillor Kamala Kugan. Link to the Standards Sub-Committee meeting
• Corporate and Resources Committee will meet on Thursday 12 February 2026. Link to the Corporate and Resources Committee meeting

This week in Kingston upon Thames:

Street Trading Licence Granted for Pizza Van Amidst Resident Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee has granted a permanent 12-month street trading licence to Vesuvio On The Road, a pizza van operating from two parking spaces outside St. Pius X Church on The Triangle. The decision, made on Tuesday, allows the van to trade hot and cold food from Tuesday to Saturday, 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM. This comes after significant opposition from local residents and the church, who raised concerns about parking, noise, litter, and the proximity of the trading to a place of worship. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

The applicant, Mr. Vincenzo Rea, argued that they have operated responsibly under a temporary licence and have invested in quieter power solutions. He highlighted that their trading hours do not conflict with church services and that they actively manage waste and customer behaviour. However, objectors, including Mr. Dougal Heath representing several residents and Mr. Richard Smith speaking for the church community, argued that the location was unsuitable, citing highway safety concerns, potential for undue interference, and adverse effects on the amenity of the area. The church specifically raised issues with Saturday evening masses and the general disturbance a food van could cause.

Despite these objections, the sub-committee granted the licence with a slight variation to the hours, from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM, and maintained previous conditions regarding no trading on holy days of obligation and providing seven days' notice for funerals. The decision aims to balance the applicant's livelihood with community concerns, though some objectors felt the decision did not adequately address their worries.

North Kingston Traffic Management Orders to Become Permanent

The Kingston and North Kingston Neighbourhood Committee is set to consider making permanent the experimental traffic management orders implemented in King's Road, New Road, and Crescent Road. Link to the Kingston and North Kingston Neighbourhood Committee meeting While the one-way schemes on King's Road and New Road received majority support, the Crescent Road exit only restriction faced significant opposition from residents, particularly those in social housing.

Concerns raised during the consultation included perceived inequality, traffic rerouting onto main roads like Kingston Hill, and impacts on local businesses. However, officers' analysis suggests the schemes have reduced traffic on the internal roads without a severe increase on main routes, and air pollution modelling showed negligible changes. The recommendation to make the orders permanent acknowledges the unpopularity of the Crescent Road measure but aligns with the council's Active Travel and Healthy Streets vision.

Dickerage Lane Parking Scheme Faces Resident Objections

The committee will also consider objections to a proposed Permit Parking Area (PPA) in Warwick Road, Stafford Road, and Lincoln Road, impacting Dickerage Lane residents. Link to the Kingston and North Kingston Neighbourhood Committee meeting Objections centre on permit costs, the impact on residents of a car-free development, and perceived hostility between neighbours. Officers acknowledge these concerns but recommend proceeding with the scheme, which aims to manage parking demand in the area.

Schools Forum Discusses Budget Pressures and SEND Futures Plan

The Schools Forum met on Monday to review the financial outlook for the current and upcoming academic years. Link to the Schools Forum meeting A projected overspend of £12.760m for 2025/26, largely due to pressures in the High Needs Block, was highlighted. This block is forecast to overspend by £13.148m, with a significant increase in the number of Education, Health and Care (EHCP) plans.

The forum also discussed the 2026/27 budget, with a provisional Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) allocation of £219.200m. An update on Kingston's SEND Futures Plan was also provided, noting progress in issuing EHCPs within statutory timeframes but also concerns about increasing assessment requests and finding suitable sites for alternative provision.

Other Matters

• The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Tuesday to consider an application for a new premises licence for a Co-op store at 57B Clarence Street. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting Representations from the police and Trading Standards were reportedly addressed through amendments, but one resident raised concerns about the location within the Hexagon area and the applicant's track record with delivery partners. The sub-committee granted the licence with modified hours and conditions.
• The Blue Badge Appeals Panel and Home to School Travel Appeals Panel met on Friday and Monday respectively to consider appeals. Link to the Blue Badge Appeals Panel meeting and Link to the Home to School Travel Appeals Panel meeting
• The Audit, Governance and Standards Committee met on Wednesday to consider the external audit of the council's accounts for the 2024/25 financial year. Link to the Audit, Governance and Standards Committee meeting

Upcoming Meetings

• Standing Advisory Council for Religious Education will meet on Monday 02 February 2026 to discuss a Code of Conduct, updated RSHE guidance, and preparations for the Agreed Syllabus Conference. Link to the Standing Advisory Council for Religious Education meeting
• People Committee will meet on Tuesday 03 February 2026 to discuss the Medium Term Financial Strategy, post-16 education, and adult social care updates. Link to the People Committee meeting
• Health Overview and Scrutiny Panel will meet on Wednesday 04 February 2026 to discuss urgent and emergency care, children's mental health services, and public health matters. Link to the Health Overview and Scrutiny Panel meeting
• Place Committee will meet on Thursday 05 February 2026 to review the Medium Term Financial Strategy, discuss HMOs, and consider the Local Development Scheme. Link to the Place Committee meeting
• Licensing Committee will meet on Tuesday 10 February 2026. Link to the Licensing Committee meeting
• Licensing Sub-Committee will meet on Tuesday 10 February 2026. Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting
• Planning Committee will meet on Wednesday 11 February 2026. Link to the Planning Committee meeting
• Corporate and Resources Committee will meet on Thursday 12 February 2026. Link to the Corporate and Resources Committee meeting