This week in Lewisham:

New 20-Metre Telecoms Mast Approved for Sanford Street Despite Resident Objections

The Planning Committee B met on Thursday, 16 April 2026, and approved the installation of a 20-metre-high telecommunications mast on a grass verge at Sanford Street, New Cross Gate. The decision, made under the General Permitted Development Order (GPDO) ¹, means the council's assessment was limited to the siting and appearance of the proposed development.

While the council granted prior approval, local residents voiced significant concerns about the mast's visual impact on their residential area and its proximity to a well-known local mural, Riders of the Apocalypse by Brian Burns. Ibrahim Abdullah, speaking on behalf of residents, argued that the application was based on inaccurate information regarding heritage assets and that the mast's scale was disproportionate to the surrounding two- and three-storey properties. He also questioned the thoroughness of the site selection process.

Councillor Rosie Parry acknowledged the residents' concerns, particularly regarding the mural's visibility. However, the case officer clarified that the proposed mast would not be directly in front of the mural and that tree coverage would limit direct views. The committee noted the narrow scope of a prior approval application, with Councillor Jack Lavery, Chair of the committee, stating, I think it's worth pointing out that the application in front of us is quite different from applications we see at planning committees normally. We're operating in a very different kind of framework.

The committee voted unanimously to grant prior approval, accepting the officers' recommendation. The decision was based on the assessment that the proposed siting and appearance were acceptable within the limited framework of the GPDO. A condition was imposed requiring the monopole to be finished in light grey (RAL 7035) and the equipment cabinets in fir green (RAL 6009) to ensure visual amenity. This decision highlights how national permitted development rights can sometimes override local planning concerns, particularly for essential infrastructure.

You can find more details in the Planning Committee B meeting papers.

This week in Lewisham:

Key Appointment Decision Looms as Committee Meets in Private

The Appointments Committee met on Monday, 23 March 2026, with a crucial decision regarding the appointment of a Director of Family Quality and Commissioning on the agenda. The report pack indicated that this significant discussion was held behind closed doors, with the press and public excluded.

This exclusion was justified under Section 100(A)(4) of the Local Government Act 1972, which allows for the exclusion of the public when discussions are likely to involve the disclosure of exempt information. The council stated that the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information. This approach is often taken when sensitive personal or commercial details are involved in appointments, aiming to protect individuals and ensure a fair selection process. However, it means that residents will not have direct insight into the deliberations that led to this key leadership appointment, which will shape vital family services within the borough.

The committee also covered procedural matters, including the election of a chair and declarations of interest. Members were reminded of the council's Member Code of Conduct, which defines disclosable pecuniary interests, other registerable interests, and non-registerable interests. Failure to declare a disclosable pecuniary interest can lead to prosecution and a fine of up to £5,000, underscoring the importance of transparency and ethical conduct in local government.

You can find more details in the Appointments Committee meeting papers.

Other Matters

• The Appointments Committee met on Monday, 16 March 2026. As this meeting's information is pending council publication, details of its proceedings are not yet available. You can find more details in the Appointments Committee meeting papers.
• The Appointments Committee met on Monday, 09 March 2026. As this meeting's information is pending scraping, details of its proceedings are not yet available.
• The Appointments Committee met on Wednesday, 18 March 2026. As this meeting's information is pending council publication, details of its proceedings are not yet available. You can find more details in the Appointments Committee meeting papers.
• The Appointments Committee met on Monday, 23 March 2026. As this meeting's information is pending council publication, details of its proceedings are not yet available. You can find more details in the Appointments Committee meeting papers.

This week in Lewisham:

Shared Technology Service Faces Uncertain Future as Southwark Council Confirms Exit

The Brent, Lewisham and Southwark IT Committee met on Tuesday, 17 March 2026, confirming a significant shift in the shared technology partnership. Southwark Council has formally served notice to exit the Shared Technology Service (STS) by March 2028, a decision that will undoubtedly reshape the future of IT services for all three boroughs.

The STS, designed to provide cost-effective and efficient IT support, has been a cornerstone of technological infrastructure for Brent, Lewisham, and Southwark. Southwark's departure, however, raises questions about the long-term viability and potential cost implications for the remaining partners. While the STS managing director, Fabio Negro, assured the committee that efforts are underway to manage the transition and explore continued collaboration on procurement, the loss of a major partner will inevitably impact economies of scale and service delivery.

The committee also received updates on the STS's performance, noting improvements in service level agreements for operational issues, despite an increase in open tickets due to ongoing laptop refresh projects. However, concerns were raised about the reliance on specific individuals for reporting and the need for greater resilience and continuity planning, particularly following the recent passing of key staff members. The committee also noted significant savings achieved through various procurement initiatives, but the impact of Southwark's exit on future savings remains to be seen.

This development underscores the complexities of shared service arrangements and the challenges of maintaining them in the face of changing local government priorities. The future of the STS will be a critical focus for Brent and Lewisham as they navigate this significant change.

You can find more details in the Brent, Lewisham and Southwark IT Committee meeting papers.

Health Inequalities Programme Reviewed, with Focus on Future Strategies and Community Impact

The Health and Wellbeing Board met on Monday, 16 March 2026, to review the progress and future direction of the Health Inequalities Programme. This programme, established in 2022, acts as the operational arm for addressing health disparities identified in the Birmingham and Lewisham African and Caribbean Health Inequalities Review (BLACHIR).

The board heard how the programme has engaged nearly 4,000 residents through various projects, including community spaces, elective surgery waiting list support, and smoking cessation programmes during pregnancy. While these initiatives have made a tangible impact at a local level, the board acknowledged that shifting health inequalities at a population level requires a broader, system-wide approach. Councillor Denise Radley highlighted the need to ensure current insights are sufficient to drive significant change, while officers from the Integrated Care Board (ICB) emphasised the joint venture aspect of the funding and the importance of a holistic view of all interventions targeting health inequalities.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Health Equity Teams (HETs) Cycle Two, which partners GP leads with Black-led community organisations. These teams have engaged over 1,100 residents in community-based health activities, including cardiovascular checks, identifying numerous abnormal results requiring follow-up. The programme has also focused on workforce development, with over 300 primary care staff receiving health equity training. The HET programme's success has been recognised nationally, being shortlisted for an MJ Award.

The board also heard compelling perspectives on sickle cell disorder in Lewisham, a borough with one of the largest patient populations in Southeast London. Community leaders highlighted the significant pain, psychological burden, and public awareness challenges faced by those with sickle cell. NHS representatives from Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust presented the work of their dedicated Sickle Cell Unit, showcasing dramatic improvements in patient care, reduced waiting times, and significant cost savings. However, they stressed the urgent need for continued funding to sustain these vital services and address unmet needs.

The discussions underscored the council's commitment to tackling health inequalities through targeted programmes and community partnerships. The board noted the plans to review and reconfigure the Health Inequalities Programme to align with current health needs and future strategies, ensuring that efforts remain focused and impactful.

You can find more details in the Health and Wellbeing Board meeting papers.

Pension Fund Operations and Investment Strategy Updates

The Pension Board convened on Monday, 16 March 2026, to review the ongoing operations of the Lewisham Pension Fund. The meeting covered updates on administration, the rolling action log, and the work programme, alongside a review of the investment monitoring report.

A key focus was the administration team's work, including the completion of a dashboard for the Information Services Provider (ISP), ongoing data cleansing, and the finalisation of a Data Improvement Plan. The launch of a new member self-service portal, Engage, was also highlighted, aiming to improve member access to pension information. The board also received updates on McCloud remediation work and planning for end-of-year accounting.

The board was presented with the rolling action log, detailing progress on various initiatives, including the LGPS Reform and Pooling, and the review of a formal training plan for 2026/27. The report indicated that the Data Improvement Plan had been completed, and results from the Triennial Valuation had been shared with board members.

The meeting also included a notice regarding the exclusion of the press and public from discussions on sensitive matters, such as the General Report - Part Two and the Investment Monitoring Report Q4 December 2025. This is a standard procedure when confidential information is discussed, as defined by the Local Government Act 1972. The board also noted the dates for future Pension Board meetings.

You can find more details in the Pension Board meeting papers.

Other Matters

• The Appointments Committee met on Monday, 16 March 2026. As this meeting's information is pending council publication, details of its proceedings are not yet available. You can find more details in the Appointments Committee meeting papers.
• The Pensions Investment Committee met on Tuesday, 17 March 2026. The committee discussed updates on the fund's general operations, including progress on a council motion regarding divestment and the transition to investment pooling with the London Collective Investment Vehicle (LCIV). They also reviewed and approved updates to the Investment Strategy Statement, Funding Strategy Statement, and Responsible Investment policies, informed by a member survey. You can find more details in the Pensions Investment Committee meeting papers.
• The Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday, 19 March 2026. The committee reviewed the delivery of the Corporate Strategy 2022-2026 and discussed lessons learned for the development of the next strategy. Key themes included the need for greater agility, innovation, and a stronger focus on outcomes. You can find more details in the Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting papers.

This week in Lewisham:

Planning Committee Debates Sun Wharf Development Amidst Resident Concerns

The Planning Committee A met on Thursday, 12 March 2026, to discuss a significant development proposal. While the full details of the decisions made are pending council publication, the meeting's agenda indicates a focus on planning applications that will shape the borough's landscape and impact residents' lives.

The committee's role is crucial in balancing development needs with the concerns of local communities. Decisions made by this committee can have a direct impact on housing availability, the character of neighbourhoods, and the environment. For instance, previous planning decisions have led to debates about the loss of daylight and sunlight to existing homes, the mix of housing types proposed, and the environmental impact on local waterways. Residents often voice concerns about overdevelopment, strain on local infrastructure, and the potential for increased noise and traffic.

The committee's deliberations are a key example of how local government directly influences the physical environment in which people live. The outcomes of these meetings can lead to new homes, commercial spaces, or public amenities, but they also require careful consideration of the potential negative consequences for existing residents, particularly vulnerable groups who may have fewer resources to adapt to change.

You can find more details in the Planning Committee A meeting papers.

Public Accounts Committee Reviews Financial Health and IT Programme

The Public Accounts Select Committee met on Tuesday, 10 March 2026, to scrutinise the council's financial performance and its ongoing IT and Digital Programme. The committee reviewed the financial monitoring for Period 9, which indicated a projected overspend of £0.7 million on the General Fund, largely due to increased demand and costs within the Children and Young People Directorate. This overspend highlights the pressures on essential services that support vulnerable children and families.

The committee also examined the IT and Digital Programme, focusing on its governance, project portfolio health, and key risks. Effective IT systems are vital for the efficient delivery of council services, from social care to housing management. Any delays or issues within this programme can have a knock-on effect, potentially impacting the council's ability to support residents and manage its resources effectively.

Furthermore, the committee reviewed the Public Accounts Select Committee's scrutiny activities and change work from 2022 to 2026, and the end of the administration's work programme. This retrospective look is important for understanding the council's performance over the past term and for informing the priorities of the incoming administration.

You can find more details in the Public Accounts Select Committee meeting papers.

Audit and Risk Committee Meeting Cancelled

The Audit and Risk Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday, 12 March 2026, was cancelled. This committee plays a vital role in ensuring the council's financial integrity, managing risks, and overseeing internal and external audits. While the cancellation means that planned discussions on these critical areas did not take place, the council will likely reschedule these important oversight functions.

Other Matters

• The Appointments Committee met on Monday, 09 March 2026. As this meeting's information is pending scraping, details of its proceedings are not yet available.