This week in Lambeth:

Council Approves Sports Pitch at Bishop Thomas Grant School Amidst Environmental and Amenity Concerns

Lambeth Council's Planning Applications Committee has granted conditional planning permission for an all-weather sports pitch, floodlights, and changing facilities at Bishop Thomas Grant School. The decision, made on Tuesday 14 April 2026, followed extensive debate, with objectors raising significant concerns about woodland loss, biodiversity impact, noise, light pollution, and flood risk. Supporters, including students and parents, emphasised the urgent need for improved sports facilities for pupils and the wider community.

Environmental and Amenity Worries Raised

Objectors voiced strong opposition to the development, citing the loss of approximately 75% of the woodland on the site, which is designated as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC). Concerns were raised about the adequacy of bat surveys, which were over four years old, and the potential impact of floodlighting on sensitive species. Residents also highlighted the potential for noise and light spill from the pitch, impacting nearby homes on Valley Road and Hill House Road.

Vanessa Bastian, a resident of Valley Road, submitted a statement expressing serious concerns about flood risk, arguing that the drainage calculations were based on outdated data and that the proposed retention pond was undersized. Helena Ward, a resident of Valley Field Road, highlighted that noise assessments showed an adverse impact on weekday evenings and weekends, and that the noise assessment did not fully consider intrusive noise like shouts and whistles. Greg Lomas, an architect and lighting designer living on Hill House Road, argued that the loss of woodland was not a marginal harm and that the ecological evidence was fundamentally flawed.

Supporters Highlight Urgent Need for Facilities

On the other side, supporters stressed the critical need for improved sports facilities at the school. Alex McReynolds, a parent of three boys who attend Bishop Thomas Grant School, stated that teenager sport isn't a luxury, it's one of the healthiest outlets they have. He highlighted that comparable Lambeth state schools have all-weather outdoor facilities, and Bishop Thomas Grant is asking for the minimum standard.

Rasmus Curran, a student at the school, spoke about how current activities are often disrupted or cancelled due to weather and a lack of suitable facilities. He also noted that the proposed ecological education area would provide a valuable outdoor learning environment. Emily Hunks, another parent, pointed out that the school has a high percentage of students on pupil premium, and denying them accessible sport could deprive disadvantaged students of hitting their health and activity goals.

Committee's Decision and Conditions

The committee acknowledged the concerns raised but ultimately voted to grant permission, citing the significant public benefits of the scheme, including enhanced social infrastructure, sports provision, and ecological improvements. Councillor Malcolm Clark, the ward councillor, supported the application but suggested strengthening conditions related to hours of operation for community use, construction traffic management, and resident communication.

The approved development includes:

• An all-weather sports pitch (AWSP) measuring approximately 62m x 42m.
• Six 12-metre high floodlighting columns.
• A changing room building.
• An ecological education area (EEA) with a pond, diverse habitat areas, and new tree planting.

Conditions imposed include measures to manage noise and light spill, ensure the long-term management of the AWSP and EEA, and protect ecological and arboricultural interests. A Section 106 agreement will secure a contribution towards the monitoring of the on-site biodiversity net gain and the 30-year management and monitoring obligations.

• View the Planning Applications Committee meeting details

Nolan's Freehouse Redevelopment Approved, Bringing New Homes and a Revitalised Pub

The Planning Applications Committee has granted conditional planning permission for the redevelopment of Nolan's Freehouse at 33 Wilcox Road, London SW8 2PL. The proposal involves demolishing the existing building and constructing a new six-storey development comprising a public house, pub manager's accommodation, and 14 new residential units.

The decision aims to revitalise a local centre and provide much-needed housing. Officers noted that while the development would increase the building's height, it would align with the emerging context of the area. The design was praised for its quality and sensitive response to the local context.

Concerns were raised about the financial viability of the scheme, which indicated it could not support affordable housing contributions. However, the committee agreed to include early and late-stage review mechanisms within a Section 106 agreement to capture any future changes in market conditions. The loss of the existing six-bedroom House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) was deemed acceptable as the units were undersized and not compliant with modern standards.

Conditions were imposed to manage noise from the public house and communal amenity spaces, and transport implications were addressed with the development being car-free.

• View the Planning Applications Committee meeting details

Other Matters

The Pensions Board met on Wednesday 15 April 2026 to discuss the financial health of the Lambeth Pension Fund. The meeting reviewed the actuarial valuation results, which showed a significant improvement in the fund's funding level to 120%, with a surplus of £297 million. The Board also considered updates on the fund's risk register, the outcome of a governance review, and investment performance. The report indicated that the external audit of the Pension Fund accounts for 2024/25 had concluded with a disclaimed opinion, and work was underway to resolve historical data issues.

• View the Pensions Board meeting details

This week in Lambeth:

Council Approves Major Housing Developments Amidst Concerns Over Affordability and Sustainability

Lambeth Council is pushing forward with ambitious plans to build thousands of new homes, but not without significant debate. This week, the Cabinet approved the New Homes Programme for 2026/27, aiming to deliver at least 10,000 new homes over the next decade, with a target of 40% being affordable. Meanwhile, the Planning Applications Committee granted conditional permission for two major developments in Brixton and Highland Road, sparking discussions about heritage, sustainability, and the true meaning of affordable housing.

New Homes Programme: Ambition vs. Reality

The Cabinet meeting on Monday, 23 March 2026, saw the approval of the New Homes Programme (NHP) for 2026/27. Councillor Danial Adilypour, Deputy Leader of the Council (Housing, Investment, & New Homes), highlighted the urgent need for housing, with over 28,000 households on the council housing waiting list and 4,400 in temporary accommodation. The programme aims for 40% affordable housing across the borough's development pipeline, a figure that was met with scrutiny.

Councillor Scott Ainslie raised concerns about sites being included in the pipeline before planning permission was secured, questioning the pace of delivery. He also voiced worries about national policy shifts potentially weakening affordable housing requirements, a point echoed by visiting objector Georgina Schuller, who questioned the definition of affordability and the lack of transparency in the financial implications of closing Homes for Lambeth.

Despite these concerns, the Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to delivering homes, with officers assuring that viability and value-for-money assessments would be conducted for all schemes. The council also refuted claims that only four homes had been delivered in recent years, stating that 359 social rent homes have been completed since 2017.

• View the Cabinet meeting details

Brixton Developments: Housing, Heritage, and Community

The Planning Applications Committee meeting on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, saw the approval of two significant developments.

At 49 Brixton Station Road and 6 Canterbury Crescent, a major residential-led mixed-use scheme was approved. This development will deliver 288 homes, with 98 designated as affordable (all Social Rent), alongside commercial space, workspace, and improved market infrastructure. Councillor Donatikanao, ward councillor for Brixton, hailed the scheme as transformative, citing its potential to enhance public safety and support the market. Councillor Scarlet O'Hara also supported the application, emphasizing the critical need for social rent homes for families in temporary accommodation.

However, Councillor Scott Ainslie voted against the proposal, citing concerns about sustainability and heritage impacts. He questioned the height of the new buildings, which exceed the indicative local plan guidance, and the carbon footprint calculations. Officers and consultants defended the sustainability credentials, stating that the methodology was compliant and that the scheme significantly reduces carbon emissions. The committee also heard from existing tenants of International House, who expressed concerns about their relocation and the loss of a valuable community hub. Officers outlined a comprehensive support package for these tenants, including brokerage services and financial contributions.

A separate application for 3 Highland Road was also approved, granting conditional planning permission for 16 new residential units. This decision was made despite objections regarding heritage harm, design, and the loss of temporary accommodation. Officers concluded that the harm to heritage assets was less than substantial and outweighed by the provision of new homes and an in-lieu contribution towards affordable housing. Councillor Scott Ainslie again voted against, citing sustainability concerns and the level of affordable housing contribution.

• View the Planning Applications Committee meeting details

Pension Fund Strengthens, But Risks Remain

The Pensions Committee met on Wednesday, 25 March 2026, to review the Lambeth Pension Fund's performance and strategy. The fund's financial health has significantly improved, with a funding level of 120% and a surplus of nearly £300 million, a marked turnaround from previous years. This positive shift is attributed to updated actuarial assumptions.

However, challenges persist. The committee noted underperformance in global equities and a persistent underweight allocation to private equity. The risk register highlighted concerns about reputational risk and the impact of climate change on investments. The committee also discussed the ongoing transition of assets to London CIV and the implementation of new pooling arrangements. The report detailed efforts to address historic accounting issues, with additional resources being brought in to support the finance team.

• View the Pensions Committee meeting details

Licensing Sub-Committee Approves New Premises Licence

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Wednesday, 25 March 2026, to consider a new premises licence application for AA Plus London at 98-100 Knights Hill, West Norwood. The committee granted the licence with modified hours, permitting the sale of alcohol and public access from 06:00 to 01:00, Monday to Sunday. While the Licensing Authority initially objected to the extended hours, citing policy for residential areas, the committee found that the modified conditions would promote licensing objectives. Notably, one condition regarding the minimum sale of four cans/bottles was refused, with the applicant arguing it would negatively impact local residents.

• View the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting details

Corporate Committee Reviews Financial Health and Audit Actions

The Corporate Committee met on Thursday, 26 March 2026, to review the council's financial position and its response to external auditor recommendations. The committee approved the final Statement of Accounts for 2024-25, which received an audit opinion ahead of the deadline. Progress was noted on the action plan to address auditor recommendations, with two actions recommended for closure due to completion. The committee also received updates on internal audit, counter-fraud activities, and the whistleblowing policy, highlighting ongoing efforts to strengthen governance and financial controls.

• View the Corporate Committee meeting details

Other Matters

The Health and Wellbeing Board meeting scheduled for Wednesday, 25 March 2026, was set to cover a range of significant public health matters, including updates on the Better Care Fund, the Director of Public Health's quarterly report, and a review of the Health and Wellbeing Strategy. Discussions were also planned on the governance of the Health and Wellbeing Board and the Lambeth Together Care Partnership Board, alongside strategies from King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and the Act Early South London initiative. Finally, the meeting was scheduled to address the Best Start in Life Perinatal Mental Health Pathway. However, no video was provided for this meeting.

This week in Lambeth:

Late-Night Pizzeria Approved, But Rowdy Lounge Shut Down

Lambeth Council's Licensing Sub-Committee made tough decisions this week, granting a new licence for a pizzeria but revoking the licence of a popular lounge due to persistent breaches of licensing objectives. The decisions highlight the council's commitment to balancing business needs with community safety and preventing public nuisance.

Milan Pizzeria Gets Green Light with Conditions

The Licensing Sub-Committee granted a new premises licence for Milan Pizzeria, located at 143 South Lambeth Road, London SW8 1XN. The applicant sought permission to operate late-night refreshments from 11:00 PM to 3:00 AM daily.

While the requested hours fell outside Lambeth's licensing policy, which typically recommends earlier closing times, the committee carefully considered the specific nature of the business. The applicant's agent, Mr. Olsen Daly, argued that Milan Pizzeria operates primarily as a delivery-led service with limited on-site customer space, posing a lower risk than a traditional late-night venue. He presented comprehensive conditions aimed at managing noise, litter, and customer congregation, including CCTV, an incident log, and controls for delivery drivers.

Councillor Linda Bray raised concerns about waste disposal, proposing a condition that waste disposal should not occur between 10:00 PM and 8:00 AM, aligning with the council's policy. Mr. Daly agreed to this, with a slight exemption for food items to prevent pest issues.

Ultimately, the committee resolved to grant the licence with amended hours: Sunday to Thursday from 11:00 PM to midnight, and Friday and Saturday from 11:00 PM to 2:00 AM. An additional condition was added regarding waste disposal, stating that waste disposal, including bottle and bins shall not occur between 2200 hours and 800 hours. This decision aims to support a local business while mitigating potential disturbances for residents.

• View the Milan Pizzeria Licensing Sub-Committee discussion

Macan Lounge Licence Revoked Amidst Noise and Disorder Complaints

In a stark contrast, the premises licence for Macan Lounge, located at 136-138 Streatham Hill, London SW2 4RS, was revoked following a review initiated by the licensing authority. The review was prompted by repeated failures to comply with licence conditions and uphold licensing objectives, specifically concerning public safety and public nuisance.

Seven representations were received in support of the review from various parties, including the licensing authority, environmental health, a ward councillor, the Metropolitan Police, and three residents. These representations detailed a pattern of breaches, including:

• Allowing open vessels of alcohol off the premises.
• Permitting vertical drinking in external areas and within the premises.
• Failure to engage SIA security personnel to monitor noise escape during DJ hours.
• Customers remaining beyond permitted hours.

Lambeth Licensing Officer, Ms. Pam Riley, presented evidence of breaches identified through CCTV footage and an inspection, highlighting that the prohibition of vertical drinking was specifically imposed to ensure the venue operated as a restaurant, not a bar.

Mr. Bill Don, representing the licence holder, argued that Temporary Event Notices (TENs) had been used for celebrations, which he contended trump licence conditions. He conceded that breaches occurred on the night of the inspection but disputed that there was any public disorder.

However, residents provided compelling testimony. Aaron Golding, who lives above the lounge, described severe emotional distress caused by routine music playing until the early hours, impacting her and her children. She also reported witnessing public urination and drug use affiliated with the premises. Boyan, another resident, stated that the noise vibrated through furniture and made sleep impossible, describing the premises as operating more like a nightclub than a restaurant.

Matthew Onakoya, a Commercial and Technical Officer for Environmental Health, testified about an inspection where officers experienced obstructive behaviour from staff and noted that the noise limiter had potentially been tampered with.

Following deliberation, the Licensing Sub-Committee concluded that the licensing objectives of preventing crime and disorder, public safety, and preventing public nuisance were not being met. They found that the business's approach of using TENs to evade compliance demonstrated a material lack of awareness of responsibility. Consequently, the committee decided to revoke the premises licence for Macan Lounge, a decision that prioritises the well-being and peace of residents over the continued operation of a venue that repeatedly failed to adhere to its legal obligations.

• View the Macan Lounge Licensing Sub-Committee discussion

Appointments Sub-Committee Discusses Senior Housing Role

The Appointments Sub-Committee met on Tuesday 10 March 2026 to discuss the recruitment process for the Corporate Director of Housing. This senior role is crucial for Lambeth's housing strategy, impacting homelessness, temporary accommodation, and the improvement of council homes. The meeting focused on the established recruitment procedures and the final interview stage for this politically restricted position. The outcome of this recruitment will significantly influence the council's ability to deliver on its housing promises.

• View the Appointments Sub-Committee meeting details

Overview and Scrutiny Committee Reviews Environmental Enforcement and Air Quality

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 10 March 2026 to examine Lambeth Council's approach to environmental enforcement and its Air Quality Action Plan (AQAP). The discussions highlighted the challenges in tackling issues like fly-tipping and vehicle idling, while also reviewing progress in improving air quality across the borough.

Environmental Enforcement: The committee heard that while Lambeth issues a significant number of Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) and Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs), the focus is on an outcome-focused model rather than simply issuing more notices. Residents and businesses raised concerns about persistent fly-tipping in specific locations despite evidence being provided, slow graffiti removal processes, and the impact of utility works on pollution and trading. Councillor Deepak Seydewal requested a report within 30 days detailing how the council is utilising additional legislative powers to tackle fly-tipping, such as seizing and crushing vehicles. The committee also recommended stepping up signage and enforcement for idling vehicles, particularly in sensitive areas like schools.

Air Quality Action Plan: The committee reviewed the AQAP for 2026-2028, noting that pollutant levels have fallen significantly since 2015. However, representatives from Mums for Lungs and Breathe London expressed concern that air pollution remains too high, with illegal levels around Brixton Road and other monitoring sites. They stressed the health impacts on children and the need for stronger action on reducing car use and traffic emissions. Recommendations included improving communication about air quality, lobbying Transport for London (TfL) for better public transport provision, and continuing to develop school streets programmes.

• View the Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting details

This week in Lambeth:

Council Grapples with Budget Crisis and Sanctuary Strategy

Lambeth Council's Cabinet met on Monday, 23 February 2026, to tackle a critical budget deficit and reaffirm the borough's commitment to supporting those seeking sanctuary. The meeting highlighted the immense financial pressures facing local government, with significant decisions made regarding the council's financial strategy and the adoption of an updated Borough of Sanctuary Strategy.

Borough of Sanctuary Strategy Adopted

The Cabinet formally adopted the Lambeth Borough of Sanctuary Strategy for 2025-2028, reinforcing the council's commitment to being a welcoming place for individuals seeking safety. This strategy, shaped by engagement with partners and those with lived experience, focuses on six key areas:

• Integration and Accommodation: Improving access to housing and support services.
• Communication and Awareness: Enhancing understanding of rights and services.
• Education, Skills, and Employment: Expanding opportunities for integration.
• Health and Wellbeing: Strengthening support for physical and mental health.
• Safeguarding: Ensuring robust protection for all individuals.
• Youth Support: Providing targeted assistance for young people seeking sanctuary.

Councillor Nanda Manley-Browne, Cabinet Member for Healthier Communities, emphasised that sanctuary is a golden thread running through the council's ambitions for equity and justice. The strategy is fully funded through central government grants, ensuring that support remains available for those arriving through safe and legal routes. The decision to adopt the strategy was met with broad support, with councillors highlighting Lambeth's long-standing commitment to welcoming those in need.

Financial Storm Clouds: Budget Monitoring and Medium-Term Strategy

The council's financial performance for the third quarter of 2025/26 was reviewed, revealing ongoing significant pressures. Councillor Judith Cavanagh, Acting Cabinet Member for Finance, presented a stark picture of the council's financial challenges, attributing them to real-terms cuts in government funding since 2010, increased service demand, and high inflation rates.

The Cabinet discussed proposals for the revenue and capital budget for 2026/27 and the Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for 2026/27 to 2029/30. To balance the budget, the council is proposing over £99 million in savings and income-generating measures. This includes a 2.99% increase in general Council Tax and a 2.00% increase in the Adult Social Care precept.

The financial report highlighted critical areas of pressure, including:

• Rising Temporary Accommodation Costs: The national housing crisis continues to place a significant burden on the council's finances.
• Increased Demand in Social Care: Both adult and children's social care services are experiencing unprecedented demand.
• Pressures in Growth and Environment Services: These services are also facing increased costs and demand.

The Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget also came under scrutiny, with significant investment required for the council's 23,600 homes. The Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) budget is forecast to move from a surplus to a deficit in 2026-27, largely due to rising High Needs costs.

The council is seeking exceptional financial support from the government to help stabilise its finances and fund necessary transformations. This support will be funded through the sale of council-owned assets, rather than through increased borrowing. The report acknowledged that exceptional is no longer exceptional and has become the norm for government.

The discussions were robust, with visiting councillors raising concerns about savings delivery and the council's financial grip. However, the Cabinet maintained that decisive action is being taken to rectify the financial position, with external auditors acknowledging the progress made.

Adult Social Care and Health Scrutiny: Supporting Carers and Performance Review

The Adult Social Care and Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee met on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, to review progress on the Carers Strategy Action Plan and the Annual Performance Report for Adult Social Care. You can review the meeting details here.

Carers Strategy Action Plan: The committee received an update on the Lambeth Carers Strategy 2024-2029, highlighting achievements in supporting unpaid carers. Initiatives include discounted memberships at Active Lambeth sites, an increase in carers' assessments, and the implementation of the MyChart system to improve information access for carers. The Hospital Discharge Project aims to support carers during hospital stays and after discharge.

Annual Performance Report: The report for Adult Social Care indicated a stable number of people receiving long-term support, but an increase in requests for support and short-term reablement episodes. While the completion of reviews for individuals receiving services for 12 months or more has improved, there was a noted overrepresentation of Black British individuals in long-term support compared to the Lambeth population.

Care Quality Commission (CQC) Assessment: The committee was awaiting the final report from the CQC's assessment of Lambeth's Adult Social Care services, which concluded in October 2025. Early feedback acknowledged the dedication of Lambeth's workforce.

Planning Committee Decisions: Housing, Student Accommodation, and Events

The Planning Applications Committee met on Tuesday, 24 February 2026, to consider several significant planning applications. You can review the meeting details here.

• Land At New Park Road (Clapham Park): Conditional planning permission was recommended for the erection of four buildings to provide 129 residential units, all designated as affordable housing (45 social rent and 84 intermediate). This development will transform a site previously allocated for a primary school.
• 10 Leake Street (Waterloo and South Bank): The committee considered a proposal for a seventeen-storey building to provide student accommodation. The applicant's offer of 22.5% on-site affordable student accommodation was noted, alongside a Payment in Lieu of £2.88 million for conventional affordable housing.
• Brockwell Park (Herne Hill and Loughborough Junction): The committee was to consider a recommendation to grant conditional planning permission for the temporary use of part of Brockwell Park for the Brockwell Live 2026 event series. This proposal faced objections concerning the scale of events and loss of public space, alongside support highlighting the cultural and economic benefits.
• 60 Courland Grove (Stockwell West and Larkhall): Permission was recommended for a 4-storey building to provide 14 residential units on an existing car park site. The report indicated that the scheme is not viable for on-site affordable housing.

Appointments Sub-Committee: Housing Director Recruitment

The Appointments Sub-Committee met on Tuesday, 24 February 2026, to discuss the recruitment process for the Corporate Director of Housing. You can review the meeting details here. The role is described as pivotal in shaping the council's housing ambitions, including improving home quality and safety, modernising services, and addressing homelessness. The committee was tasked with shortlisting candidates for this key position.

Licensing Committee: Gambling Principles Review

The Licensing Committee met on Tuesday, 24 February 2026, to discuss and potentially adopt a new Statement of Gambling Principles for 2026-2029. You can review the meeting details here. The proposed changes include encouraging engagement with gambling support groups, updating the definition of vulnerability, and incorporating public health data on gambling-related harms. The number of identified Gambling Clusters, areas with a high concentration of gambling premises, has been reduced from seven to five.