This week in Lambeth:

Licensing Sub-Committee Approves Extended Hours for Clapham Tapas Bar Amidst Noise Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Thursday 16 July 2026 and decided to grant a variation to the premises licence for Le Terraza Tapas Bar, located at 27-31 Bedford Road, SW4 7SH. The application sought to extend Saturday operating hours to 3:00 AM for live music, recorded music, performances of dance, late-night refreshment, and alcohol sales, with extensions until 2:00 AM on Fridays and midnight from Sunday to Thursday.

However, the application faced objections from the Licensing Authority, Environmental Health (Public Protection), and Planning Services. The Licensing Authority noted that the requested hours exceeded Lambeth's Licensing Policy recommendations and could negatively impact residents. Environmental Health cited previous noise complaints related to sound transmission, and Planning Enforcement pointed to a conflict with a planning condition restricting A3 use to between 8:00 AM and midnight daily.

Despite these concerns, the committee granted the variation, imposing conditions including the installation of a CCTV system, operation of a Challenge 25 proof-of-age scheme, and detailed staff training records. Other conditions focused on preventing public nuisance, such as keeping doors and windows closed after 9:00 PM and displaying notices requesting patrons to leave quietly. The decision to extend hours, even with conditions, may still be a point of concern for residents living near the venue, particularly regarding potential noise and disturbance late into the night.

The committee also considered other licensing applications, including a new premises licence for Crispies on Clapham Road, a Temporary Event Notice for Man In Action on Clapham Common which was withdrawn due to police objections and lack of land permission, and a variation to Metropolis London's licence to extend hours. A review of Payless off-licence on Kennington Lane was requested by the Metropolitan Police due to concerns about crime and disorder. Megan's Deli also applied to vary its licence, facing objections from residents and a local councillor concerned about potential changes to the premises' character.

• View the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting details

Council Constitution Undergoes Review

The Council Constitution committee met on Wednesday 15 July 2026 to discuss and potentially approve a revised Constitution for the London Borough of Lambeth. This comprehensive document outlines how the council operates, makes decisions, and defines the roles and responsibilities of residents, councillors, and officers.

The Constitution is divided into numerous parts, covering everything from executive and scrutiny functions to ethical governance, access to information, and members' allowances. The proposed revisions aim to ensure clarity and accessibility for all stakeholders. While the meeting was confirmed as held, the details of any decisions made are pending council publication. A revised constitution is fundamental to how local government functions, impacting everything from how decisions are made about local services to how residents can engage with the council.

• View the Council Constitution meeting details

Pensions Board Reviews Fund Performance and Draft Business Plan

The Pensions Board met on Thursday 16 July 2026 to examine the performance of the Lambeth Pension Fund, its risk register, and the draft business plan for the upcoming financial year. The meeting also covered updates on pension administration, governance reviews, and investment strategies.

The Board received an update on the Lambeth Pension Administration Service, noting a total membership of 22,179 as of March 2026. While most cases were processed within target times, the report also covered breaches of law and complaints. A review of the Pension Fund Risk Register identified seven amber-rated risks, including insufficient resources for the Pension Committee and Board, potential for higher-than-anticipated inflation, investment risks, the impact of climate change, and concerns about the audit opinion on upcoming financial statements.

The draft Business Plan for 2026/27 outlines key objectives for administration, communication, actuarial matters, financial management, and investment strategy. Updates on the London Collective Investment Vehicle (LCIV) and progress on private equity fund investments were also provided. The Board's work is crucial for ensuring the long-term financial health of the pension fund, which impacts the retirement security of many former and current council employees.

• View the Pensions Board meeting details

Housing Scrutiny Sub-Committee Addresses Repairs, Voids, and Awaab's Law

The Housing Scrutiny Sub-Committee met on Tuesday 14 July 2026 to scrutinise a range of critical housing issues. The committee received updates on repairs and performance, the strategy for empty homes and voids, and preparations for Awaab's Law, which mandates social landlords to address damp and mould hazards.

Repairs and Performance: Councillor Pete Elliott, Cabinet Member for Housing, acknowledged that residents had not always received the expected standards of service from contractor Wates Property Services. He stated the council would learn from past failures and strengthen contract oversight. Ros Mundy, a former chair of the Lambeth Tenants Association, voiced significant concerns about Wates' performance, citing issues with staffing, workloads, and management presence. Georgina Shuler, a council tenant, echoed these concerns and called for greater tenant involvement. The committee recommended a report on Wates' staffing levels and contractual requirements be sent to the Cabinet Member.

Empty Homes and Voids Strategy: Councillor Elliott emphasised that reducing empty council homes and the time taken to bring them back into use is a priority. Georgina Shuler suggested breaking up estates and developing an in-house direct labour organisation for retrofitting. The committee recommended reports on the number of Airbnbs and improving void turnaround times.

Awaab's Law Preparations: The committee was updated on preparations for Awaab's Law, which sets strict timeframes for investigating and fixing damp and mould hazards. Councillor Viktor Westerdahl highlighted insulation, ventilation, and overcrowding as key causes. Councillor Tom Palmer questioned the transparency of the Savills stock condition survey. The committee recommended that the Cabinet Member share the stock condition survey with the committee and make it publicly available.

The committee also discussed the supply of housing, the expansion of social rent housing, and administration priorities, agreeing to a recommendation for a plan to increase council homes by the end of September. The draft work programme for the upcoming year was also approved. The discussions highlighted the significant challenges in ensuring safe, well-maintained housing for all residents and the importance of robust oversight and tenant engagement.

• View the Housing Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting details

Council Approves Constitution, Debates Political Assistants, and Passes Motions on Housing and Equality

The Council met on Wednesday 15 July 2026, addressing key governance matters and policy issues. The meeting saw the adoption of the council's constitution, a debate on the establishment of political assistant posts, and the passing of motions concerning housing repairs, the EHRC draft code of practice, and affordable housing quotas.

Constitution and Governance: The council approved the constitution for 2026-27, including decisions on the allocation of councillors to outside bodies. A new finance scrutiny subcommittee was established to provide oversight of Lambeth's financial recovery plans. A proposal to establish political assistant posts was debated, with concerns raised by the Liberal Democrat and Labour groups regarding the process and its impact on existing staff. Ultimately, the recommendations in the report were not agreed upon.

Housing Repairs and Affordable Housing: A Liberal Democrat motion to give tenants and leaseholders the final say on whether a housing repair is satisfactorily completed was passed. This aims to improve accountability and ensure repairs are done properly. The council also debated and passed a Green motion opposing the EHRC draft code of practice, arguing it could negatively impact trans, intersex, and gender non-conforming individuals. Amendments from the Liberal Democrats focusing on lawful action and consultation were agreed. A Labour amendment seeking to change the motion's core commitment to opposing the code was voted against. A Green motion opposing Sadiq Khan's reduction of affordable housing quotas was also carried after amendments.

These decisions reflect the council's ongoing efforts to refine its governance structures and address resident concerns, particularly in housing and equality matters. The debate around political assistants highlights the complexities of staff management and restructuring within local government.

• View the Council meeting details

This week in Lambeth:

Clapham Common to Host Colourscape Music Festival After Planning Approval

The Planning Applications Committee met on Tuesday 7 July 2026 and granted conditional planning permission for the temporary use of a section of Clapham Common for the annual Colourscape Music Festival. The event, which has been a fixture on the common since 1989, offers an immersive artistic and educational experience through a large inflatable walkthrough structure.

The application was brought before the committee as it involved council-owned land. Officers recommended approval, noting the event's temporary nature and minimal impact. While acknowledging a very low level of less than substantial harm to the Clapham Conservation Area due to temporary structures, this was deemed outweighed by significant public benefits. These include free workshops for local schools and pupils with special educational needs, providing accessible cultural and educational experiences for the community.

Concerns about past noise issues were addressed by officers, who confirmed there had been none, and that the event concludes at 5 pm. The structure is also deflated nightly to allow the grassland to recover. Councillor Jacqueline Bond expressed support, highlighting the event's positive community engagement. The decision was unanimous, with conditions attached to ensure the prompt removal of structures and adherence to management plans for waste, noise, and ecology.

• View the Planning Applications Committee meeting details

Standards Committee Meeting Cancelled

The Standards Committee meeting, originally scheduled for Wednesday 8 July 2026, was cancelled. No further information is available at this time.

Corporate Parenting Board Meeting Pending

The Corporate Parenting Board meeting was scheduled for Wednesday 8 July 2026. Details regarding its proceedings are pending council publication.

This week in Lambeth:

Council Faces £15.9 Million Overspend as Cabinet Reviews Financial Health

Lambeth Council's Cabinet met on Wednesday 1 July 2026, confronting a significant financial challenge with a projected £15.9 million overspend for the General Fund. While this figure represents an improvement since the previous quarter, pressures in demand-led services like temporary accommodation and social care remain a major concern. The Cabinet's discussions highlighted the delicate balance between financial prudence and maintaining essential services for vulnerable residents.

Budgetary Pressures and the Quest for Financial Stability

Councillor Zvikomborero Chihoro, Cabinet Member for Finance and Community Wealth Building, presented the Quarter 4 2025/26 Budget Monitoring Report. The report revealed that despite efforts, the council is facing a substantial overspend. This situation has necessitated the securing of Exceptional Financial Support (EFS) to manage budget shortfalls and rebuild reserves. An independent financial review has been commissioned to further scrutinise the council's financial standing.

The report sparked a robust debate among councillors. Concerns were raised about the savings programme and asset disposal strategy, with calls for confirmation that these are non-negotiable to ensure financial stability. Questions also focused on workforce plans, potential savings from parks and leisure budgets, and options for addressing a deficit in the Dedicated Schools Grant.

Councillor Pete Elliott, Cabinet Member for Housing, acknowledged the financial pressures, noting potential savings within the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) related to disrepair court costs and litigation. Councillor Jeremy Isaacs, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, emphasised the need to balance financial responsibility with the imperative of maintaining vital public services, referencing a previous administration's decision regarding the Central Hill Dementia Day Centre.

The Cabinet ultimately noted the report and agreed to six recommendations, signalling a commitment to addressing the financial challenges head-on.

• View the Cabinet meeting details

Performance Report Shows Mixed Results: Strengths in Recycling, Weaknesses in Safety

The Cabinet also reviewed the Outcomes Framework Performance Report for Quarter 4 2025/26. While the report indicated strong overall performance, with 76% of targeted indicators meeting their goals, specific areas require urgent attention. Positive results were noted in household waste recycling, adult social care reviews, and children's social care.

However, areas such as litter and graffiti, and the timelines for mould treatment and fire risk assessments, remain outside target levels. Councillor Nanda Manley-Browne highlighted concerns regarding community safety, particularly for victims of violence against women and girls, noting that the target for reducing risk in this area has not yet been achieved. Councillor Chris Nicholson raised critical points about the measures used in the scorecard, particularly concerning affordable homes and fire risk assessments, stating that 77% of households had not had fire risk assessments, which he described as disgraceful.

The Cabinet acknowledged the need for adaptability in the framework and the potential for revisions to reflect current administration priorities. Discussions also touched upon the possibility of including indicators related to carbon emissions from the built environment, a key focus for Councillor Scott Ainslie, Cabinet Member for Planning and Development, Built Environment, Parks and Public Realm. One recommendation for the Cabinet was agreed.

• View the Cabinet meeting details

Licensing Sub-Committee Meets

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Thursday 2 July 2026. Details of the meeting's proceedings are pending council publication.

• View the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting details

This week in Lambeth:

Council Grapples with Audit Recommendations and Financial Risks

Lambeth Council's Audit and Risk Committee met on Monday 22 June 2026 to confront a series of critical financial and operational challenges. The committee reviewed the council's action plan in response to external auditor recommendations, the 2025/26 Statement of Accounts, and the progress of internal audits, revealing ongoing concerns about financial sustainability and service delivery, particularly in areas supporting vulnerable residents.

Homes for Lambeth Future Uncertain Amidst Audit Concerns

A significant point of discussion was the council's action plan responding to recommendations from its external auditor. While progress has been made, concerns remain about the council's ability to meet its targets, especially those linked to a revised operating model. The future of Homes for Lambeth (HfL), the council's arm's-length housing company, remains a key point of uncertainty. The committee expects clarity on HfL's future by September, a decision that will significantly impact housing services and potentially the council's financial position.

The committee also received an update on the 2025/26 Statement of Accounts. Despite challenges, the council is working towards meeting the statutory deadline for draft accounts. However, the external auditors, Forvis Mazars, indicated that due to ongoing issues, only minimal audit procedures would be carried out for the 2025/26 council accounts, resulting in a disclaimed opinion. The aim is to begin rebuilding assurance work in the 2026/27 financial year, a process crucial for regaining confidence in the council's financial reporting.

• View the Audit and Risk Committee meeting details

Vulnerable Residents at Risk as Internal Audits Highlight Significant Weaknesses

Internal audit reports revealed significant control weaknesses in critical service areas. Audits concerning corporate safeguarding, homelessness prevention, and temporary accommodation all resulted in limited assurance opinions. This means that while some controls are in place, there are substantial risks that could impact the safety and wellbeing of residents.

The committee was informed that management has agreed to take actions to address these issues, but the ongoing presence of these weaknesses raises serious questions about the effectiveness of current safeguards for some of Lambeth's most vulnerable populations. The report also highlighted that while overall implementation rates for management actions have improved, a number of actions, particularly in medium-priority areas, remain overdue.

• View the Audit and Risk Committee meeting details

Financial Health and Treasury Management Under Scrutiny

The committee reviewed the council's treasury management performance, noting a borrowing level of £1.128 billion with an average interest rate of 4.18%. Investment balances stood at £32.7 million, generating £680 per day in interest. While the council generated income from its investments, an overspend on the interest payable budget was noted, attributed to the budget not being set at the correct level. This correction highlights the importance of accurate financial forecasting, especially when managing such significant sums. Discussions also touched upon the future of property funds and the potential impact of rising interest rates on borrowing costs, factors that could further strain the council's finances.

• View the Audit and Risk Committee meeting details

Health and Wellbeing Board Focuses on Prevention and Community Support

The Health and Wellbeing Board met on Wednesday 24 June 2026, underscoring the council's commitment to promoting healthy lives and tackling health inequalities. The meeting approved the Board's Annual Report, received an update from the Director of Public Health, and discussed initiatives funded by the Better Care Fund and the Strategic Investment Fund, all aimed at improving resident health and wellbeing.

Better Care Fund: Shifting Focus to Prevention and Community Care

The Board reviewed the end-of-year report for the Better Care Fund (BCF) and its plan for 2026/27. The BCF pools funding from the Integrated Care Board and local government to support residents in remaining independent at home. While Lambeth met its goals for reducing emergency hospital admissions for those over 65, performance on hospital discharge delays was mixed. The plan for 2026/27 prioritises shifting care from hospitals to community settings, focusing on prevention and supporting timely hospital discharge. This strategic shift is crucial for ensuring residents receive appropriate care closer to home and reducing the burden on acute services.

• View the Health and Wellbeing Board meeting details

Promoting Physical Activity and Tackling Health Determinants

The Board noted the vital role of physical activity in promoting health and addressing inequalities. Various programmes, including those for adults with chronic pain and cancer, and initiatives targeting inactive older adults, are in place. The Lambeth Can Move Programme, a partnership with London Sport and Sport England, aims to increase physical activity opportunities and combat inequalities across the borough. The report highlighted the importance of these initiatives in encouraging healthier lifestyles and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

The Board also discussed proposals for the South East London Integrated Commissioning Board's Strategic Investment Fund. This funding will support core prevention interventions in Streatham and Norwood, focusing on proactive identification and management of cardiovascular, renal, and metabolic risk factors. The initiative aims to reduce inequalities and reach underserved communities, demonstrating a commitment to a preventative health agenda.

• View the Health and Wellbeing Board meeting details

Planning Committee Approves New Developments

The Planning Applications Committee met on Tuesday 23 June 2026 and approved two significant planning applications. These decisions will bring new residential and visitor accommodation to the borough, with considerations for local amenities and community impact.

Norwood High Street Development Gets Green Light

Conditional planning permission was granted for a mixed-use development at 90-96 Norwood High Street. The project will deliver 14 residential units and 658 square metres of light industrial space. This decision follows a previous refusal that was overturned on appeal due to the absence of a Section 106 agreement. The new scheme includes a viability review mechanism to capture any future uplift in affordability, though no affordable housing is proposed upfront due to viability concerns. The development aims to regenerate the area, providing much-needed housing and commercial space.

• View the Planning Applications Committee meeting details

Bondway Hostel to Become Visitor Accommodation

The committee also approved a change of use at 35-43 Bondway, transforming a hostel for single homeless men into visitor accommodation. The building, which has been vacant, will provide up to 209 bed spaces. Officers deemed the loss of the homeless hostel use acceptable due to sufficient provision elsewhere and the building's unsuitability for family housing. The new use is expected to contribute to local economic activity. Conditions have been imposed to manage amenity impacts, particularly in relation to the neighbouring Fire Nightclub, and to ensure adequate transport provisions.

• View the Planning Applications Committee meeting details