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Weekly updates
Lewisham: Housing Concerns, IT Changes, Islamic Centre Approved
This week in Lewisham:
Council Faces Tough Choices on Housing and IT Amidst Financial Pressures
Lewisham Council is grappling with significant decisions regarding housing developments, IT infrastructure, and financial sustainability. Key discussions this week revolve around affordable housing contributions, the exit of a partner from a shared IT service, and the future of religious education in schools.
Affordable Housing Stalled at Hesper House Development
The Planning Committee B met this week to discuss a planning application for Hesper House, a building on Wells Park Road. Despite a recommendation for approval, the committee faced a difficult decision regarding affordable housing contributions.
- Increased Units, No Affordable Housing: The application sought to increase the number of flats from 15 to 17, but the applicant claimed that providing on-site affordable housing or a financial contribution would not be viable.
-
Tilted Balance
in Play: The report pack noted that Lewisham's housing completions are significantly underperforming, engaging the presumption in favour of granting permission and thetilted balance
in decision-making1. - Future Review Mechanisms: The committee approved the application, subject to conditions and a legal agreement, with early-stage and late-stage review mechanisms in case costs or values improve during development.
This decision highlights the ongoing challenges Lewisham faces in balancing development goals with the pressing need for affordable housing, especially given the council's underperformance on housing delivery targets.
Southwark's Exit Threatens Shared Technology Service
The Brent, Lewisham and Southwark IT Committee met this week to discuss updates from the Shared Technology Service (STS), including the significant news of Southwark Council's intention to withdraw from the partnership.
- Financial Pressures: Southwark's decision is linked to a wider recommissioning exercise and significant financial pressures resulting from the Local Government Fair Funding Review.
- Transition Team: A transition team will be established to develop a plan addressing TUPE implications, contract changes, and the transfer of documentation and security protocols.
- Service Demand: The committee noted the growing demand for STS services, with the number of supported users increasing from 10,500 in 2020 to 12,693 in 2025.
Southwark Councillor Hargrove, chairing the meeting, expressed the need to ensure the exit is done in a way that is beneficial and best for everybody.
This withdrawal raises concerns about the future of the STS and the potential impact on IT services for Lewisham residents.
Council Backs Islamic Centre Redevelopment Despite Parking Concerns
Planning Committee B also convened this week to discuss an application for 363-365 Lewisham High Street SE13 6NZ, which included the demolition of existing buildings and the construction of a four-storey building to accommodate a place of worship and ancillary uses with an adjoining three-storey residential block accommodating six apartments.
- Community Benefits: The proposal would deliver a modern, accessible place of worship and enhance community facilities, including meeting rooms, classrooms, and a new library.
- Parking Concerns: Despite the scheme being car-free, some residents raised concerns about increased parking pressure during peak events.
- Travel Plan: The committee heard that a travel plan would be implemented to encourage people to use alternative means of transport.
Councillor Anwar, speaking in favour of the application, said that Lewisham Islamic Center is the most attended place of worship in Lewisham, which have on Friday 3,000 attended and same in Ramadan.
The committee ultimately approved the application, recognizing the significant community benefits of the project.
Religious Education Focus: Teaching Hours and SACRE Member Qualities
The Standing Advisory Council of Religious Education (SACRE) met this week to discuss religious education (RE) teaching hours, curriculum assessment, and the qualities of a good SACRE member.
- Curriculum and Assessment Review: A significant portion of the meeting was allocated to discussing the Curriculum and Assessment Review, with reference to the document, Curriculum and Assessment Review final report - Building a world-class curriculum for all.
- RE Teaching Hours: The meeting included a discussion of RE teaching hours in Lewisham schools, based on data from the school workforce census.
- SACRE Member Qualities: Attendees were asked to consider a list of characteristics and agree on a ranking to determine
What makes a good SACRE member?
.
These discussions highlight the council's commitment to providing quality religious education and ensuring effective oversight through SACRE.
Other Matters
- The Council met this week to discuss the statement of accounts for 2024-25, consider several motions, and address questions from both the public and council members, but no transcript was provided.
- The Appointments Committee met this week to elect a chair and appoint a Director of Housing Strategy, but no transcript was provided.
- The Licensing Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday 27 November 2025 was cancelled.
- The meeting scheduled for Thursday 27 November 2025 was cancelled.
Upcoming Meetings
- Pension Board - Tuesday 09 December 2025
- Governance Committee - Wednesday 10 December 2025
- - Thursday 11 December 2025
- - Thursday 11 December 2025
- Audit and Risk Committee - Thursday 11 December 2025
- Mayor and Cabinet - Wednesday 03 December 2025
- Planning Committee B - Thursday 04 December 2025
- Strategic Planning Committee - Tuesday 02 December 2025
- Unknown committee - Tuesday 09 December 2025
-
The
tilted balance
is a principle in planning law that gives significant weight to the benefits of a proposed development when a local authority is significantly underperforming on its housing delivery targets. ↩
Lewisham: Housing Failings, Leegate Approved, Conduct Probes
This week in Lewisham:
Social Housing Delivery Under Scrutiny as Committee Expresses Extreme Disappointment
Over Homelessness Failings
Lewisham Council's Housing Select Committee met this week to grapple with key issues, including social housing delivery targets, antisocial behaviour, and failures in handling homelessness cases. The committee expressed strong concerns about the council's approach to homelessness, highlighting potential legal challenges and a perceived practice of delaying accommodation until the last minute.
Deeply Dishonest
Claims as Social Housing Targets Debated
The Building for Lewisham (BfL) Programme, an initiative to build new council homes, was a central focus. While the committee agreed to note the report's recommendations, concerns were raised about the council's ability to meet its target of 800 social homes by 2026.
-
Spades in the Ground
vs. Completion: Councillor Stephen Penfold, Chair, questioned the practice of countingspades in the ground
(the commencement of construction) as delivery, suggesting it could be misleading. The committee agreed to request clarification from the mayor and cabinet on the definition ofdelivery.
- Developer Reliance: Councillor Liam Shrivastava, Leader of the Lewisham Green Group, expressed concern about relying on developers for phase three of the Achilles Estate regeneration, citing past проблемs with developer-led projects.
- Target Doubts: Councillor Shrivastava accused the mayor of being
deeply, deeply dishonest
in public statements about social home delivery, arguing that the council was unlikely to meet its targets.
Nnenna Urum-Eke, Assistant Director for Housing Development, clarified that the 800 homes target refers to spades in the ground
and includes homes enabled through partnerships with housing associations1. She also stated that the strategic partner for phase three of the Achilles Estate would be subject to a 50/50 decision-making framework with the council.
Extreme Disappointment
Over Homelessness Case Handling
The Housing Select Committee expressed its extreme disappointment
with a Local Government & Social Care Ombudsman (LG&SC) report, noting that similar failings had arisen again after being raised by the Committee in 2023.
- Breach of Guidance: The committee noted that the Council’s approach in this case breached the Homelessness Code of Guidance and exposed the authority to potential legal challenge.
- Delayed Accommodation: The committee expressed serious concern at the apparent practice of only providing interim accommodation shortly before the execution of a bailiff’s warrant.
- Potential Referral: The Committee noted it would have been minded to make a formal referral to Mayor and Cabinet were Section 21 notices2 not due to be abolished, and that it will keep the handling of possession and homelessness cases under close review as the new legislative framework comes into force.
Councillor Penfold expressed his disappointment with the report, noting that the bailiff's warrant was issued a year ago and that the council had a blanket policy of waiting a week before execution of a warrant before providing interim accommodation. He also said that he was not convinced by the attempt to blame agency staff.
Awaab's Law Compliance and Damp and Mould Cases
The Housing Select Committee agreed to note the Housing Ombudsman Special Investigation report and requested that officers provide an updated report to the January meeting of the Housing Select Committee on the council’s work to comply with Awaab's Law, including progress on damp and mould cases and related repairs processes.
- Total Mobile System: The committee discussed Total Mobile, an integrated repair system designed to improve efficiency from diagnosis to completion.
- Resident Engagement: Councillor Theresa Reid asked about resident engagement in strengthening the management of subcontractors.
- Internal Culture: Councillor Shrivastava asked about the negative internal culture and gossip culture within the contact centre.
Other Matters
- Antisocial Behaviour: The Housing Select Committee discussed antisocial behaviour (ASB) casework, mediation, noise nuisance, and partnership working.
- Select Committee Work Programme: The Housing Select Committee agreed to update the Select Committee work programme to include a report on compliance with Awaab’s Law at the next (January) meeting and that the Major Works and Stock Condition report be deferred to the March meeting.
Link to the Housing Select Committee meeting
Standards Committee Addresses Conduct Complaints and Framework Updates
The Standards Committee met this week to discuss updates to the handling of standards and conduct, and to appoint members to sub-committees. The committee was also scheduled to note the minutes of the previous meeting, and to consider a report on complaints made under the Members' Code of Conduct.
- Complaints Under Investigation: The committee received updates on three ongoing complaints against councillors, including allegations of breaches of the code relating to equality, respect, and high standards of conduct.
- Appointments to Sub-Committees: The committee considered a report regarding appointments to sub-committees that would consider complaints and appeals under the Members' Code of Conduct.
- Strengthening the Framework: The committee received a verbal update on strengthening the standards and conduct framework for local authorities in England, including potential new powers to suspend councillors and a national appeals body.
Link to the Standards Committee meeting
Leegate Shopping Centre Redevelopment Approved Amidst Height Concerns
The Strategic Planning Committee convened this week to discuss proposed amendments to a previously approved development plan for the Leegate Shopping Centre site. Councillors unanimously approved the application for a Section 73 minor material amendment, which includes increasing the number of residential units, affordable housing, and the height of some buildings, while reducing commercial space and car parking. The committee also addressed concerns raised by residents and ward councillors regarding the height of the development and its impact on the surrounding area.
- Increased Height: The approved amendments include an increase in the height of Building A1 from 15 to 17 storeys, with smaller increases to other buildings on the site.
- Affordable Housing Boost: The development will see an increase in affordable housing from 36.2% to 46.3% by habitable room.
- Car-Free Scheme: The scheme will be car-free except for 21 residential and one commercial blue badge bays.
Link to the Strategic Planning Committee meeting
Public Accounts Select Committee Discusses Financial Monitoring and Risk Management
The Public Accounts Select Committee met this week to discuss financial monitoring, income collection, risk management, and its work programme. The committee was expected to review the council's financial performance, examine strategies for improving income collection, and assess the effectiveness of risk management practices.
- General Fund Underspend: The committee discussed a £3.7 million underspend in the General Fund (GF), attributed to early delivery of savings.
- Dedicated Schools Grant Overspend: The committee noted a £2.5 million overspend in the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) on the high needs block.
- Income Collection Improvements: The committee discussed a report on Income Collection, which outlined the council's Debt Improvement Programme and strategies for improving income collection across various departments.
Link to the Public Accounts Select Committee meeting
Upcoming Meetings
- Standing Advisory Council of Religious Education (SACRE) - Tuesday 25 November 2025
- Brent, Lewisham and Southwark IT Committee - Tuesday 25 November 2025
- Planning Committee B - Tuesday 25 November 2025
- Council - Wednesday 26 November 2025
- Appointments Committee - Wednesday 26 November 2025
- Licensing Committee - Thursday 27 November 2025
- - Thursday 27 November 2025
- Strategic Planning Committee - Tuesday 02 December 2025
- Mayor and Cabinet - Wednesday 03 December 2025
- Planning Committee B - Thursday 04 December 2025
Lewisham: 24/7 Mental Health Hub, Day Services Reimagined
This week in Lewisham:
Mental Health Services Expansion and Day Opportunity Overhaul Take Centre Stage
Lewisham Council has been actively addressing crucial community needs, with a focus on mental health support and reimagining services for vulnerable adults. Simultaneously, the Audit and Risk Committee has been scrutinizing financial practices and risk management within the council.
24/7 Mental Health Hub to Open in Lee
The Healthier Communities Select Committee met this week to discuss the progress of the Lewisham Neighbourhood 2 Central (N2C) 24/7 Community Mental Health Centre, set to open at 1 Heather Close in Lee in May 2026. This initiative, one of six national pilot sites selected by NHS England, aims to provide neighbourhood-based, patient-centred care and prevent unnecessary hospital admissions.
- VCSE Cooperative: A key component of the N2C is the Voluntary and Community Sector Enterprise (VCSE) Cooperative, commissioning 15 local providers to support adults aged 18 and over.
- Culturally Appropriate Services: The VCSE Cooperative includes providers focused on culturally and faith-appropriate support, particularly for Black communities, to build trust and engagement in mental health services.
- Evaluation: The project's impact will be evaluated through national standards, research by King's College London, and ongoing analysis of live data sets like emergency department usage.
Professor Derek Tracy, Chief Medical Officer, emphasized the importance of building trust with the community, stating,
It's very nice what you're saying. It all sounds good. But I don't currently have faith in what you're doing. So I think there's a longer term relationship to build up.
Reimagining Day Opportunities: Choice, Connection, and Purpose
The Healthier Communities Select Committee also discussed findings from workshops and surveys on reimagining day opportunities for older adults, people with dementia, and people with learning disabilities/autism.
- Resident Priorities: Residents expressed a desire for choice, connection, purpose, and culturally rooted activities that are part of everyday community life.
- Calabash Centre: The committee discussed the future of the Calabash Centre, a culturally significant service for Caribbean and Windrush elders, with plans to maintain its cultural roots while improving flexibility and access.
- Carer Support: The findings highlighted the importance of day opportunities in providing support for both the cared for and unpaid family carers.
Audit and Risk Committee Focuses on Financial Oversight
The Audit and Risk Committee met this week to review external and internal audit updates, the Anti Fraud and Corruption Team's annual report, and the Corporate Risk Register.
- External Audit: KPMG anticipates issuing clean opinions for both the authority and the pension fund, with no significant weaknesses identified in the value for money conclusion.
- Prior Period Adjustment: The committee discussed a prior period adjustment related to the Housing Revenue Account (HRA), where internal borrowing had been incorrectly recorded as a revenue contribution to outlay.
- Internal Audit: Internal audits are generally positive, with completed reviews obtaining substantial or satisfactory assurance ratings.
- Anti-Fraud Efforts: The Anti Fraud and Corruption Team reported a slight increase in results, attributed to the effectiveness of qualified investigators and a new case management system.
- Corporate Risk Register: The committee reviewed the Corporate Risk Register, noting ongoing engagement with management to improve risk management across the council.
Resident Engagement Review Aims for Consistent Practice
The Safer Stronger Communities Select Committee met this week to discuss a review of Lewisham Council's corporate approach to engagement. The review, commissioned by the Mayor of Lewisham, aims to understand existing engagement and consultation practices, identify areas of good practice, and develop a new engagement framework.
- Engagement Principles: The framework will be guided by principles of informing, engaging, consulting, and co-producing/co-designing services with residents.
- Learning from Others: The review examined engagement practices in other councils, including Tower Hamlets Council and Westminster City Council.
- Next Steps: The council will finalize the engagement framework, conduct further stakeholder engagement, and embed and test the framework over the next 12 months.
Town Centre Regeneration Plans Progress, Face Funding Challenges
The Sustainable Development Select Committee met this week to receive an update on town centre regeneration programs in Lewisham and Catford.
- Lewisham Town Centre: The committee was updated on the Lewisham Shopping Centre scheme, which includes a reimagined shopping centre, new housing, and community spaces. Public realm improvements along the High Street are nearing completion.
- Catford Town Centre: The refurbishment of the former Catford Constitutional Club, now known as The Catford House, is complete, with the operator expected to open the venue in November 2025. However, the A205 Road Realignment project faces a significant funding gap after TfL was unable to secure funding from the Department for Transport.
Upcoming Meetings
- Brent, Lewisham and Southwark IT Committee - Tuesday 25 November 2025
- Standing Advisory Council of Religious Education (SACRE) - Tuesday 25 November 2025
- Planning Committee B - Tuesday 25 November 2025
- Council - Wednesday 26 November 2025
- Appointments Committee - Wednesday 26 November 2025
- Licensing Committee - Thursday 27 November 2025
- - Thursday 27 November 2025
- Housing Select Committee - Tuesday 18 November 2025
- Standards Committee - Wednesday 19 November 2025
- Public Accounts Select Committee - Thursday 20 November 2025
- Strategic Planning Committee - Tuesday 18 November 2025
Lewisham Youth Services Overhaul, Home Education Rise & Lighting Costs
This week in Lewisham:
Youth Services Face Scrutiny Amidst Home Education Rise and Street Lighting Costs
Lewisham Council has recently addressed critical issues affecting young people, from the overhaul of youth services to rising numbers of electively home-educated children. Meanwhile, the Croydon & Lewisham Street Lighting Joint Committee has approved significant spending on street lighting, raising questions about financial priorities.
Youth Offer Restructure Aims for Collaboration and Equity
The Children and Young People Select Committee met this week to discuss the council's new Strategic Youth Offer and five-year Youth Strategy (2025-2030). The strategy aims to transform the council into a strategic youth leader, taking greater responsibility for youth provision within the borough.
- Insourcing and Redesign: The council has insourced commissioned youth provision, previously delivered by Youth First, and is redesigning the youth provision to align with the new Strategic Youth Offer.
- Youth Alliance: The council is developing a Youth Alliance, bringing together the council, voluntary, community, and faith sectors to streamline communication, share resources and monitor the impact of youth services.
- Challenges: Historically, the borough's youth offer has faced challenges such as fragmented service delivery and limited youth engagement.
- Young Advisor's Perspective: One Young Advisor stated that
The best thing about being involved is having the direct impact in changing and influence my community not only for my generation but for the future too
.
The committee also discussed the need to address gaps in service provision for young women, LGBTQ+ youth, and young people with additional needs. The council plans to hold focus groups to better understand the needs of these groups and tailor services accordingly.
Elective Home Education Numbers Rise, Mental Health Concerns Highlighted
The Children and Young People Select Committee also discussed the annual report on elective home education (EHE) in Lewisham for the 2024/25 academic year.
- Rising Numbers: There were 586 children and young people registered for EHE in Lewisham at the end of the 2024-25 academic year, 46 more than the previous year.
- Mental Health: Anxiety and mental health continue to be a significant reason for parents choosing to home educate their children.
- Limited Powers: The council has no formal powers to monitor home education, but it has a duty to identify children not receiving a suitable education1.
The committee also received updates on school attendance, exclusions, and managed transfers in Lewisham. The report pack noted disproportionality in exclusions affecting children from 'Any other' and 'Mixed White/Black Caribbean' backgrounds.
Street Lighting Costs Approved Amidst Financial Scrutiny
The Croydon & Lewisham Street Lighting Joint Committee met this week to discuss the Joint Street Lighting Private Finance Initiative (PFI).
- Performance Review: The committee reviewed the service provider's performance between September 2024 and August 2025, noting adherence to performance standards related to maintenance, responsiveness, and contract management.
- Unitary Charges Approved: The committee approved unitary charges for 2025/6 of £2.978m for Croydon and £1.675m for Lewisham (based on a 64% to 36% split).
- Contract Management Costs: The committee approved forecasted contract management and monitoring costs for 2025/6 of £185,254 for Croydon and £104,205 for Lewisham (based on 64% to 36% split).
The report pack noted that both Lewisham and Croydon have variant lighting level policies, with few inquiries received regarding these policies.
Other business
The Licensing Committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday 05 November 2025 was cancelled.
Upcoming Meetings
- Healthier Communities Select Committee - Tuesday 11 November 2025 - Discuss the Lewisham Neighbourhood 2 Central 24/7 Community Mental Health Centre and findings on reimagining day opportunities.
- Audit and Risk Committee - Tuesday 11 November 2025 - Discuss updates on external and internal audits, a review of anti-fraud and corruption efforts, and an update to the corporate risk register.
- Safer Stronger Communities Select Committee - Wednesday 12 November 2025 - Discuss budget savings, resident engagement, and the committee's work programme.
- Sustainable Development Select Committee - Thursday 13 November 2025 - Discuss town centre regeneration and review the committee's work programme.
- Housing Select Committee - Tuesday 18 November 2025
- Strategic Planning Committee - Tuesday 18 November 2025
- Standards Committee - Wednesday 19 November 2025
- Public Accounts Select Committee - Thursday 20 November 2025
-
Section 436A of the Education Act 1996 places a duty on local authorities to identify children of compulsory school age who are not registered at a school and are not receiving a suitable education otherwise than at school. ↩
Lewisham approves Active Travel Strategy amid housing changes
This week in Lewisham:
Council Approves Active Travel Strategy Amidst Housing and Waste Service Changes
Lewisham Council's Mayor and Cabinet met this week to discuss a range of issues, including housing policies, the Active Travel Strategy, and changes to the Bulky Waste Disposal Service. The meeting also covered financial performance, contract extensions for various services, and the Ladywell Playtower restoration project.
Active Travel Strategy Aims to Boost Walking and Cycling
The council approved the Active Travel Strategy, which aims to encourage walking and cycling in the borough. The strategy identifies 21 prioritized routes for improvement, with a focus on equity and data-driven decision-making. Councillor Louise Krupski, Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Environment, Transport and Climate Action, emphasized that the strategy is led by data and aims to benefit residents from all walks of life, particularly those who cannot afford to run a car or even use public transport.
Housing Policies Updated to Streamline Services
The council discussed several housing-related policies, including those related to housing assistance, adaptations, and private rented sector enforcement. These policies aim to improve clarity, accessibility, and enforcement within the housing sector. Councillor Will Cooper, Cabinet Member for Better Homes, Neighbourhoods and Homelessness, highlighted the importance of effective knowledge and information management within housing services, stating that it is essential for good governance, regulatory compliance, and rebuilding residents' trust in services.
Changes to Bulky Waste Disposal Service Aim to Combat Fly-Tipping
The council approved changes to the Bulky Waste Disposal Service, including a reduced fee for single-item pickups and extended hours at the recycling site. These changes aim to address fly-tipping and make waste disposal more accessible for residents. Councillor Krupski expressed her frustration with fly-tipping, stating that the costs are huge and the money should be spent on vital services or things that could bring joy, like new play equipment in parks or more cycle hangars.
Transfer of Whitefoot Lane Playing Fields Sparks Community Concerns
The council discussed the proposed transfer of Whitefoot Lane Playing Fields to Bonus Pastor Catholic College. While the council intends to safeguard community use, concerns were raised by local groups about potential impacts on their activities. Terry Archbold, secretary of the archery club, expressed concern that the club's license to use the field would be ended if the transfer goes ahead.
Other Key Decisions
- Advice Services Grant Extension: The council approved a 12-month extension of the current advice services grant to maintain service continuity.
- Sexual Health Services: The council discussed the procurement of sexual health services, both in primary care and online.
- NHS Health Checks Contract Extension: The council approved the extension of the contract for NHS health check support services for two years.
- Ladywell Playtower: The council discussed the Ladywell Playtower restoration project and the identification of an alternative restoration solution.
- Temporary Accommodation: The council approved entering into a long-term lease agreement with L&Q for 35 flats to be used as temporary accommodation.
Schools Forum Discusses Budget Challenges and Funding Transfers
The Lewisham Council Schools Forum met this week to discuss school finances, including the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) and changes to the Scheme for Financing Schools.
Funding Shift Proposed to Address High Needs Deficit
The Schools Forum was scheduled to discuss the final position of the 2024/25 Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) and an update on the 2025/26 DSG. A key recommendation was to transfer £854,000 from the Early Years (EY) block to support the High Needs Block (HNB) in 2025/26. This transfer is intended to address a significant overspend in the High Needs Block, which has led to a cumulative deficit of £18.6 million.
Schools Face Budget Pressures
The report pack noted that school balances showed an overall reduction from £13.0 million to £9.9 million. Additionally, 22 schools are projecting a deficit at the end of the three-year period. Lewisham plans to engage with the highest-risk schools through a panel consisting of the Director for Education, Head of Lewisham Learning, Strategic Business Partner, and HR Advisory Manager.
Scheme for Financing Schools Updated
The Schools Forum was scheduled to receive an update on changes required by the Department for Education (DfE) to the Scheme for Financing Schools and associated documents, as well as the updated Schools Finance Manual. These updates reflect current policy positions and changes in legislation, including provisions for energy invoice disputes and the introduction of International Financial Reporting Standard 16 (IFRS16).
Delivering Affordable Homes Task Group Finalizes Recommendations
The Delivering Affordable Homes in Partnership Task and Finish Group met this week to agree on a report outlining recommendations for how Lewisham Council can deliver more affordable housing through effective partnerships.
Strategic Partnership Agreement Review Recommended
The Task and Finish Group agreed to a report containing recommendations to be made as part of the review. The report recommended that a light-touch lessons learned
review be carried out after the SPA appointment (mid-2026) to assess whether the partnership structure, governance, and KPIs are delivering on agreed objectives, and identify refinements for future phases.
Resident Engagement Emphasized
The report recommended embedding resident engagement in the Small Sites Aggregator pilot from the outset, with a clear published pipeline, transparent timelines and visible commitments to local jobs and suppliers.
Collaboration with City Hall Urged
The report also recommended that the Council engage proactively and at pace with City Hall's forthcoming developer investment fund to position a pipeline of eligible schemes for early consideration on launch in order to maximize access.
Other Matters
- The Licensing Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday 23 October 2025 was cancelled.
- The Licensing Sub Committee A of Lewisham Council scheduled a meeting to take place on 23 October 2025 to discuss a new premises licence application submitted by Empire Lounge Services Ltd for the Grand Empire, but no transcript was provided.
- The Standing Advisory Council of Religious Education (SACRE) of Lewisham Council scheduled a meeting to discuss religious education and safeguarding in schools, but no transcript was provided.
Upcoming Meetings
- Croydon & Lewisham Street Lighting Joint Committee - Tuesday 04 November 2025
- Children and Young People Select Committee - Thursday 06 November 2025
- Licensing Committee - Wednesday 05 November 2025 - Discuss planning applications for residential properties in the borough.
Planning Committee B - Thursday, 4th December, 2025 7.00 pm
Here is a summary of the scheduled discussions for the Planning Committee B meeting.
Mayor and Cabinet - Wednesday, 3rd December, 2025 6.00 pm
The Mayor and Cabinet of Lewisham Council are scheduled to meet on 3 December 2025 to discuss a range of issues, including housing, complaints, financial performance, and contract extensions. They will also discuss the setting of the 2026/27 council tax base. Several of the items for discussion relate to contract extensions and procurement.
Strategic Planning Committee - Tuesday, 2nd December, 2025 7.00 pm
The Strategic Planning Committee of Lewisham Council is scheduled to meet on 2 December 2025 to discuss a planning application concerning the Achilles Street Estate and 355-383 New Cross Road. The main item on the agenda is a report outlining an officer's recommendation for the phased redevelopment of the estate. Councillors will also be asked to declare any personal interests they have in the agenda items, and to approve the minutes of the previous meeting.
Licensing Committee - Thursday, 27th November, 2025 7.00 pm
This meeting has been cancelled.
Licensing Sub Committee B - Thursday, 27th November, 2025 7.00 pm
This meeting has been cancelled.
Appointments Committee - Wednesday, 26th November, 2025 9.30 am
The Lewisham Council Appointments Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 26 November 2025 to elect a chair and appoint a Director of Housing Strategy. The committee will also review the minutes from previous meetings and consider any declarations of interest. Finally, the committee will consider a motion to exclude the press and public from the meeting.
Council - Wednesday, 26th November, 2025 7.30 pm
The Council of Lewisham was scheduled to meet on Wednesday, 26 November 2025, to discuss the statement of accounts for 2024-25, consider several motions, and address questions from both the public and council members.
Planning Committee B - Tuesday, 25th November, 2025 7.00 pm
The Planning Committee B of Lewisham Council met to consider a number of planning applications. These included applications for developments at Lewisham High Street, Catford Police Station, Chilthorne Close, Breakspears Road, Dartmouth Road, Gillian Street and Perry Hill.
Brent, Lewisham and Southwark IT Committee - Tuesday, 25th November, 2025 6.00 pm
The Brent, Lewisham and Southwark IT Committee is scheduled to meet on 25 November 2025 to discuss updates from the Shared Technology Service, including performance, risks, and the future of the partnership. Of particular note is Southwark's intention to withdraw from the Shared Technology Service (STS). The meeting will also cover cyber security and a technology roadmap for the coming years.
Standing Advisory Council of Religious Education (SACRE) - Tuesday, 25th November, 2025 6.30 pm
The Lewisham Standing Advisory Council of Religious Education (SACRE) convened a meeting to discuss a range of topics, including a review of the curriculum and assessment, religious education (RE) teaching hours, and what makes a good SACRE member. The meeting also included a safeguarding update and an information exchange.
Corporate Parenting Group - Tuesday, 9th December, 2025 6.00 pm
Governance Committee - Wednesday, 10th December, 2025 7.00 pm
Agreed Syllabus Conference '25 - Thursday, 11th December, 2025 6.30 pm
Audit and Risk Committee - Thursday, 11th December, 2025 7.00 pm
Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday, 16th December, 2025 7.00 pm
Health and Safety Committee - Wednesday, 17th December, 2025 6.30 pm
Public Transport Liaison Forum - Wednesday, 17th December, 2025 7.00 pm
Pensions Investment Committee - Thursday, 18th December, 2025 7.00 pm