This week in Richmond upon Thames:

Council Grants Licence for The Crane & Tap with New Conditions to Mitigate Noise and Nuisance

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Monday, 12 October 2026, to consider an application to vary the premises licence for The Crane & Tap at 1 Brewery Lane, Twickenham. The committee decided to grant the application, but with significant modifications and additional conditions aimed at addressing residents' concerns about noise and public nuisance, particularly on days when Twickenham Stadium hosts large events.

The application sought to remove a condition that restricted alcohol sales on event days to only those customers having a table meal. The applicant proposed replacing this with a clicker system to monitor customer numbers. However, local residents raised strong objections, citing past incidents of amplified music, vibrations, and disturbances on event days. They argued that removing the table meal restriction would fundamentally alter the venue's character, potentially leading to increased vertical drinking and exacerbating existing issues.

After hearing from both the applicant and concerned residents, the Sub-Committee made a decision that aimed to balance the business's viability with the residents' right to peace. The original condition was removed, but a new, stricter condition was imposed. On event days at Twickenham Stadium, alcohol sales will now cease at 10:00 p.m., with the premises closing at 10:30 p.m. The external seating area will also close at 10:00 p.m. The applicant's proposal for incidental background music was accepted, with a commitment that no live or recorded music will extend beyond 11:30 p.m. The condition requiring food to be available throughout trading hours was also added.

This decision highlights how licensing committees weigh competing interests. While the applicant sought greater flexibility to ensure business viability, especially in challenging economic times, the committee prioritised the well-being of local residents by imposing tighter controls. The outcome demonstrates a commitment to preventing public nuisance and ensuring that licensed premises operate responsibly within their communities.

Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting here.

Health and Wellbeing Board Tackles Neighbourhood Health and SEND Reforms

The Health and Wellbeing Board convened on Thursday, 15 October 2026, to discuss critical updates on neighbourhood health initiatives, review the Joint Local Health and Wellbeing Strategy, and address progress on the SEND Futures Plan. The meeting also heard annual reports from the Safeguarding Children's Partnership and the Safeguarding Adults Board.

Neighbourhood Health: Shifting Focus to Delivery

The Board received an update on the ongoing work to embed neighbourhood health initiatives. This £250,000 initiative aims to deliver practical health services within local communities, building on existing integrated services. While acknowledging the ambition, councillors raised pertinent questions about how resources, both financial and workforce-related, are being effectively shifted from acute settings into the community. The discussion underscored the complexity of this transition, with assurances that finance and resource movement would be a focus of future deep-dive updates. The Board endorsed the move from programme development to neighbourhood delivery, emphasising the need for measurable outcomes, reduced inequalities, and improved resident and carer experience.

Joint Local Health and Wellbeing Strategy: A Midpoint Review

A midpoint review of the 18 Steps to Health and Wellbeing strategy revealed positive progress in areas like mental health support in schools and frailty programmes. However, challenges remain, particularly concerning childhood obesity and vaccination rates for at-risk groups. The review proposed a refreshed reporting approach, focusing on tangible changes for residents, improvements or worsening of inequalities, and any required actions from the Board. Key risks identified included changes to Integrated Care Board capacity and the evolving national policy landscape. The Board endorsed this refreshed approach, stressing the need for agility in responding to the changing health and care context.

SEND Futures Plan: Progress Amidst Reform Uncertainty

An update on Richmond's SEND Futures Plan highlighted progress in therapy provision and the timeliness of annual reviews. Expansions at Clarendon and Strathmore Schools are nearing completion, adding vital specialist school places. However, the national SEND reform programme has created uncertainty for parents, leading to an increase in requests for assessments and plans. The Board noted the approval of Richmond's local SEND reform plan, which unlocks crucial funding for improving inclusion and implementing new support models. The plan will be updated to incorporate these reforms.

Safeguarding Updates: Children and Adults

The committee heard annual reports from both the Kingston and Richmond Safeguarding Children's Partnership and the Richmond Safeguarding Adults Board. Both reports indicated effective safeguarding arrangements supported by strong multi-agency working. The Safeguarding Children's Partnership highlighted progress in areas such as technology-facilitated harm and anti-racist safeguarding, with new priorities including online harm and safeguarding unborn and newborn babies. The Safeguarding Adults Board reported that 99% of identified outcomes from safeguarding reviews were achieved, with the majority of individuals feeling safe. The Board recognised the contribution of safeguarding activities to the Joint Local Health and Wellbeing Strategy, particularly in prevention and reducing inequalities.

Health and Wellbeing Board Work Programme

The Board reviewed its proposed work programme, inviting suggestions for future topics. A seminar is planned for January 2027 focusing on targeted support for the Board itself, with other proposed topics including women's health and neighbourhood health. The importance of resident and community involvement in future discussions was also emphasised.

Read more about the Health and Wellbeing Board meeting here.

Other Matters

Planning Committee Approves Kingston Bridge House Conversion and Heatham House Family Hub

The Planning Committee met on Wednesday, 14 October 2026, to consider three significant applications. The committee granted planning permission and listed building consent for the conversion of Kingston Bridge House into apartments and a hotel, subject to a Section 106 agreement. This retrospective application, which saw construction already substantially complete, was approved for its benefits in bringing a vacant building back into use, providing hotel accommodation, and delivering environmental improvements, despite concerns about the retrospective nature and affordable housing provision.

Permission was also granted for a new 'Summer House' and refurbishment of a garage at Heatham House Youth Centre to create a Family Hub and outdoor nursery. This development, located on Metropolitan Open Land, was approved due to very special circumstances, including the vital community benefits of the Family Hub programme and the lack of alternative viable sites. The design was considered sympathetic to the existing listed building.

Finally, a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) for a mature horse chestnut tree at 19 Queens Road was confirmed by a majority vote. While the objector raised concerns about the tree's condition and proximity to neighbouring properties, the committee found insufficient evidence to justify its removal without further arboricultural assessment. The TPO ensures that any future works will be properly justified and considered.

Read more about the Planning Committee meeting here.

This week in Richmond upon Thames:

Council Faces Unprecedented Financial Crisis and Demands Government Reconsider Funding Cuts

Richmond upon Thames Council is grappling with a severe financial crisis, projecting a staggering budget gap of nearly £70 million over the next few years. Councillors unanimously passed a motion on Tuesday, 6 October 2026, urging the government to reconsider its drastic financial cuts, warning of a cliff-edge that could disproportionately impact vulnerable residents.

The council has been praised for its strong financial stewardship since 2018, implementing efficiencies and protecting services. However, the government's imposed cuts, amounting to a projected £29 million annual reduction in core funding by 2028/29 (a 58% cut), are pushing the council to its limits.

Councillor Jim Millard, Deputy Leader and Lead Member for Finance and Resources, described the situation as the most significant financial challenge in its history. He emphasised that while the council is not seeking exemption from reform, it requires adequate time to adapt responsibly. Government is asking us to change faster than a responsible council can safely change while demand is rising at the same time, he stated.

The motion highlighted that the council currently supports 8,328 households under the Council Tax Reduction Scheme, underscoring the human cost of potential funding reductions. Councillor Gareth Roberts, Leader of the Council, drew a parallel to his woodwork teacher's motto, measure twice, cut once, urging the government to provide councils with the time needed to make informed decisions that do not disproportionately affect the most vulnerable.

The council is actively consulting residents on proposals to challenge the government's funding reforms under the Sustainable Communities Act, seeking a fairer funding settlement and more time for transformation.

Read more about the Council meeting here.

Government's Planning Delegation Changes Spark Concerns Over Local Democracy

In a separate but equally significant development, the Council also unanimously passed a motion expressing severe concern over government changes to planning committee delegation rules. These changes, set to take effect from 1 November 2026, will restrict residents' ability to speak on many planning applications at committee meetings and remove councillors' right to call in applications for committee review.

Councillor Julia Neden-Watts, who proposed the motion, argued that these changes strike at the heart of local democratic accountability. She stated that while the government claims these changes will speed up decision-making, they remove public debate from contentious schemes that alter the streetscape without necessarily creating new homes. The government should reconsider these restrictions at the earliest opportunity and restore democratic accountability to the planning system, she urged.

Councillor Jonathan Cardy, seconding the motion, described the changes as misguided and unhelpful, arguing that they remove public debate from many contentious schemes that alter the streetscape without creating new homes. He pointed out that developers often land bank approved schemes, indicating that planning itself is not the bottleneck to development.

Councillor John Coombs, with extensive experience on planning committees since 1993, lamented the continuous erosion of local authority powers, stating, They have taken power away from local communities to build more housing. The changes mean that decisions on many applications, previously open to public scrutiny and debate by elected councillors, will now be made by officers, potentially without local democratic oversight.

Read more about the Council meeting here.

Religious Education Council Reviews Academic Year and Looks Ahead

The Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) was scheduled to consider its annual report for the academic year 2025-26 on Thursday, 8 October 2026. The report was expected to detail SACRE's work, including updates on interfaith week activities and the work of the Mental Health Support Team.

The annual report was set to cover key areas of SACRE's statutory responsibility, such as advising the authority on religious worship and Religious Education (RE), reviewing the Agreed Syllabus, and determining applications to modify the requirement for collective worship. It was also scheduled to highlight initiatives like the launch of a revised Richmond Locally Agreed Syllabus for RE and the development of an e-learning module.

The report was expected to note a national and local shift away from organised religion, with statistics showing a decrease in those identifying as Christian and an increase in those stating No Religion between 2011 and 2021 in the borough. Teacher training and engagement with national developments in RE were also on the agenda.

While the meeting was scheduled, we have no evidence that it took place or that any decisions were made.

Read more about the Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) meeting here.

This week in Richmond upon Thames:

Council Approves Garden Extension and Home Extension, Amidst Debate on Access and Precedent

The Planning Committee met on Wednesday, 23 September 2026, to consider two planning applications. The committee approved a proposal to change the use of land from an accessway to a residential garden at 49 Winchendon Road, Teddington, and also approved a single-storey side infill extension and chimney removal at 36 Morley Road, Twickenham.

49 Winchendon Road, Teddington: Accessway Becomes Garden

The committee approved the proposed change of use of land from an accessway to a residential garden at 49 Winchendon Road, Teddington. The application, called in by Councillor Jonathan Cardy, also included proposals for new boundary fencing and gates, and the construction of a new garden shed.

The decision was not without debate. Jonathan Gore, a neighbour living at number 47, spoke against the application, expressing concerns about the potential impact on his amenity. He cited issues such as the accumulation of dry leaves in small gaps between fences, the risk of rats, and privacy concerns for his neighbours who currently use the passageway. He also raised worries that the decision could set a precedent for other shared access routes.

Luke Aaron, the applicant, explained that the accessway is within his title and that its current state presents difficulties for him, including issues with remortgaging. He highlighted the need for a safer and more accessible home for his two young children, including imminent wheelchair access to the rear of his house. He stated that the proposal aimed to retain practical access and make better use of his property.

Councillor Cardy, speaking as an interested ward councillor, reiterated concerns about the amenity value for other users of the accessway and the potential loss of privacy. He also raised the issue of precedent, given the number of alleyways with disputed or historic legal rights in the borough.

Officers clarified that planning permission decisions do not affect existing civil law rights, such as rights of way or easements. They also confirmed that each case is considered on its own merits and that this particular situation, where a single owner wishes to incorporate a service alleyway into their garden, is not necessarily commonplace. The committee discussed the practicalities of maintaining access to a large tree located within the area, with officers explaining that a new gateway would be provided and the pathway diverted around the proposed shed.

The committee voted to delegate authority to the Head of Development Management to approve the application, subject to conditions and informatives. An additional informative was agreed regarding the possibility of an access code for the gate. This decision means that while the accessway will be incorporated into the applicant's garden, provisions for access to the tree and a potential access code for neighbours were considered, aiming to balance the applicant's needs with community concerns.

Read more about the Planning Committee meeting here.

36 Morley Road, Twickenham: Extension and Chimney Removal Approved

The committee also approved the application for a single-storey side infill extension and chimney removal at 36 Morley Road, Twickenham. The applicant for this property is Councillor Jeremy Davis.

The proposal involved the demolition of an existing rear extension and the construction of a new single-storey infill extension in its place, along with the removal of a chimney from the rear elevation. The new extension would be slightly taller than the existing one, aligning with the neighbouring property at number 38.

Officers presented the application, noting that it had been brought to the committee due to the applicant being a councillor, as per council protocol. There were no objections from neighbouring residents or internal consultees. The report highlighted that the design, scale, and materials were sympathetic to the host dwelling and surrounding area, and that the development would not result in a material loss of daylight, sunlight, privacy, or outlook to neighbouring occupiers. Flood risk and fire safety were also considered, with the submitted Flood Risk Assessment and Fire Safety Statement deemed acceptable.

The committee voted to delegate authority to the Director of Place Planning to approve the application, subject to conditions and informatives. This decision allows for the home improvement, with assurances that it meets planning requirements and does not negatively impact neighbours.

Read more about the Planning Committee meeting here.

Council Faces Significant Financial Challenges and Approves Transformation Programme

The Finance, Policy and Resources Committee met on Thursday, 24 September 2026, to address the council's substantial financial challenges and approve a critical Transformation Programme. The committee also discussed the renewal of the Be Richmond Business Improvement District (BID) and the feasibility of an Accommodation BID, reviewed the annual equality report, and examined the capital programme and treasury management.

Tackling a £29 Million Funding Gap: The Transformation Programme

Councillor Jim Millard, Deputy Leader and Finance and Resources Lead Member, introduced the council-wide Transformation Programme, designed to address an unprecedented financial challenge of a £29 million annual cut to core funding over three years. The programme, which aims to deliver £39 million in annual savings by its fourth year, focuses on prevention, early intervention, better use of technology, streamlining processes, and optimising assets.

The committee was asked to approve the programme's structure and scope, and to allocate a further £18 million from reserves to the Transformation Programme Delivery Fund. Concerns were raised about the scale of the challenge and the timeline for delivering savings. Assurances were given that savings are predicated on both immediate actions with current cohorts and longer-term preventative measures. The committee approved the recommendations, including the allocation of £18 million to the fund. This significant investment signals the council's commitment to fundamentally reshaping its services to meet future financial realities, with the aim of protecting essential services for vulnerable residents.

Be Richmond BID Renewal and Accommodation BID Feasibility

The committee received an update on the Be Richmond Business Improvement District's intention to hold a renewal ballot in February 2027. The council's role in supporting this ballot was discussed, with delegated authority recommended for the Executive Director for Growth and Place to manage the process.

Regarding an Accommodation BID (ABID), a feasibility study indicated that while an ABID could potentially generate between £300,000 and £900,000 annually, there was not yet sufficient clear support from the accommodation sector to justify proceeding to a ballot. The council will continue to engage with the sector to explore how the borough's visitor economy can be best promoted, considering alternative models such as a subscription model for Visit Richmond or advocating for revenue from a potential London Overnight Levy to be retained locally. This reflects an ongoing effort to support local businesses and boost the visitor economy, even if a specific BID model proves unfeasible at this time.

Annual Equality Report and New Interfaith Champion

The committee received the Annual Equality Report for 2025/26, highlighting the council's work in promoting equality and inclusion across the borough. Councillor Maureen Goldthorpe was appointed as the new Interfaith and Belief Champion, tasked with strengthening relationships between faith and belief communities and promoting mutual understanding. The report detailed various events and projects undertaken to celebrate diversity, including Refugee Week, Black History Month, and initiatives supporting older people and those with disabilities. The committee noted the recommendations and congratulated Councillor Goldthorpe on her appointment. This appointment underscores the council's commitment to fostering an inclusive and understanding community for all residents.

Capital Programme and Financial Monitoring

The committee reviewed the six-year capital programme, totalling £233.9 million, which supports council priorities in schools, affordable housing, independent living, highways, public realm, active travel, and decarbonisation. The report detailed changes since the 2025/26 outturn, new schemes, and funding arrangements. More than half of the programme is funded by borrowing, and while the borrowing requirement has reduced, its cost remains significant. The committee was asked to approve the revised capital programme and its funding.

The committee also received an overview of the revenue and capital budget management for Quarter 1 of 2026/27. A projected £3.1 million overspend on the General Fund was noted, largely due to pressures in social care and homelessness, despite £5.6 million in mitigating actions. The committee noted the overspends and mitigating actions, and the latest position on the capital programme. This highlights the ongoing financial pressures, particularly in essential services, and the council's efforts to manage these challenges.

Read more about the Finance, Policy and Resources Committee meeting here.

This week in Richmond upon Thames:

Council Approves Flood Resilience Work at Leg o' Mutton Reserve and Finalises Response to Draft London Plan

The Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee met on Tuesday, 15 September 2026, making key decisions on flood resilience and shaping the borough's response to London's future development. The committee also noted progress on strategies for healthier living and reviewed the council's financial health.

Boosting Flood Defences and Improving Water Quality at Leg o' Mutton Nature Reserve

The committee gave the green light to crucial flood resilience work at the Leg o' Mutton Nature Reserve. This project, part of the Community BlueScapes partnership, aims to divert surface water from the drainage network into the reserve's reservoir during heavy rainfall and high tides. This will significantly reduce flood risk in North Barnes, protecting homes and businesses from potential water damage. Crucially, the scheme will also improve water quality and enhance the habitat within the nature reserve, benefiting local wildlife.

The project tackles a dual problem: the reserve itself suffers from low water levels in summer, impacting its ecosystem, while the surrounding Beverley Brook catchment faces flooding due to high tides preventing surface water drainage. By channelling this excess water into the reserve, the council is tackling both issues simultaneously. This is a vital step in adapting to changing weather patterns and protecting vulnerable communities.

Read more about the Community BlueScapes Flood Resilience Project here.

Shaping London's Future: Council's Response to Draft London Plan

The committee approved the council's response to the Mayor of London's consultation on the draft London Plan. While supporting the plan's overall ambition for growth, the council is pushing for greater local flexibility to address Richmond's unique circumstances. Key concerns include:

• Housing Targets: The proposed increase in Richmond's annual housing target from 440 to 540 homes is questioned for its deliverability, given the borough's limited strategic sites and existing build-out challenges. The council fears that unrealistic targets could negatively impact the local plan's influence.
• Affordable Housing: While welcoming Richmond's placement in a favourable band for affordable housing requirements, the council is concerned that lower thresholds for smaller sites could embed viability issues and reduce overall affordable housing delivery. The proposed London-wide 60-40 split in favour of social rent is also a point of contention, with Richmond advocating for its existing 70-30 split, which better reflects local needs.
• Density and Tall Buildings: The draft plan's revised definition of a tall building (30 metres or 10 storeys) is seen as potentially undermining local character, as Richmond's current definition is 21 metres (around seven storeys). The council seeks safeguards to ensure density decisions remain design-led and sensitive to Richmond's heritage and low-rise suburban character.
• Environmental Standards: While supporting stronger climate policies, the council opposes the removal of the carbon offsetting payment, which currently provides a mechanism for developments that cannot achieve net-zero on-site.

The council's response, to be finalised by the Director of Place Planning, aims for a balanced approach that ensures growth is deliverable, locally responsive, and respects the borough's distinctive character and environmental priorities. This is crucial for ensuring that new developments benefit existing residents and do not overwhelm local infrastructure or diminish the borough's unique appeal.

Read more about the Draft London Plan Response here.

Richmond Moves for a Healthier Borough: Year 3 Plan Endorsed

The committee noted the progress made in Year 2 of the Richmond Moves for a Healthier Borough strategy and endorsed the proposed Action Plan for Year 3. The strategy focuses on reducing inactivity through accessible opportunities, aligning with Public Health priorities, strengthening partnerships, and investing in inclusive facilities. This initiative is vital for promoting physical and mental well-being across all age groups and abilities, particularly for vulnerable residents.

Future Management of Sports Centres Under Review

The committee noted the current operating and financial position of the council's directly managed sports centres. While acknowledging the positive performance of the GLL leisure management contract at Pools on the Park and Teddington Pools, the committee delegated authority to the Executive Director of Resident Services to explore consolidating the management of the remaining five council-managed sports centres. This move aims to achieve best value for the council and potentially improve the customer journey by having a single leisure operator.

Other Matters

• Ward Concerns and Petitions: The committee heard a ward concern regarding the Lack of Play Facilities for Young Children North of the A316 and a petition requesting a Splash Pad at Kneller Gardens. Officers are undertaking a play sufficiency assessment across the borough, which will inform future priorities, including the potential for a splash pad.
• Q1 Financial Monitoring: The committee noted a projected underspend of £337,000 for the first quarter, largely due to income overachievement in the sports service and reduced transport strategy costs.

Read more about the Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee meeting here.