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Weekly updates

Sutton: Cleaner streets, town centre plans, pension fund review

This week in Sutton:

Abandoned Vehicles Policy Overhauled: A Cleaner Borough on the Horizon?

The Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee has adopted a revised policy for dealing with abandoned vehicles, aiming to tackle a problem that has more than doubled in recent years. From April 1, 2026, the council will no longer consider a vehicle's value when deciding whether to remove it, a move designed to speed up the process and clear streets of eyesores. This change is particularly welcome for residents living near abandoned cars, trailers, and caravans, which can blight neighbourhoods and pose safety risks.

  • Broader Scope: The new policy broadens the definition of abandoned vehicles to include non-motorised ones, meaning more nuisances can be dealt with.
  • Contractual Clarity: A new contract with a removal specialist will introduce clearer performance indicators and penalties for non-compliance, ensuring a more reliable service.
  • Resident Concerns: While the policy aims to improve the situation, some councillors raised concerns about the potential for storage costs and the process for dealing with untaxed, yet claimed, vehicles. Councillor Andrew Jenner highlighted a case where a truck had been parked for nearly a year, causing distress to residents.

The revised policy, unanimously agreed, signals a commitment to a cleaner and safer borough, though its effectiveness will depend on robust implementation and ongoing monitoring. Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee

Sutton Town Centre Masterplan Moves Forward: Greener, Safer, and More Vibrant Spaces on the Cards

Sutton's town centre is set for a transformation as the Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee approved the development of a demonstrator project for the southern end of the High Street. This move is part of a wider masterplan aiming to create a greener, safer, better-connected, and culturally vibrant town centre, reflecting the aspirations of residents and local businesses.

  • Community Input: Initial community engagement has highlighted key opportunities, including enhancing green spaces, reinventing Trinity Square, and strengthening the evening economy.
  • Balancing Needs: A significant challenge identified is balancing pedestrian priority with the needs of cyclists and delivery vehicles. Councillor Luke Taylor raised concerns about the potential conflict between pedestrian safety and the rise of e-bikes and delivery bikes, particularly in relation to the town centre's gyratory system.
  • Evidence-Based Approach: The council has collected data, including camera footage and surveys, to inform decisions on e-bike usage and other transport modes. Councillor Nick Mattey requested a specific study to gather more data on e-bike usage, emphasizing the safety implications.

The masterplan, due for completion in April 2026, promises to make Sutton Town Centre a more attractive and functional place for everyone, but careful consideration of transport integration and safety will be crucial. Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee

Pension Fund Administration Faces Scrutiny: Delays and Digitalisation Take Centre Stage

The Sutton Pension Board reviewed the performance of the Shared Pensions Administration Service, noting a slight increase in outstanding processes, largely attributed to the end-of-year leaver processes for schools. While new performance targets are in place, the board was assured that a recovery plan has successfully brought numbers back in line.

  • McCloud Remedy Delays: The McCloud Remedy project, aimed at addressing historical discrimination in pension calculations, has a revised completion date of June 30, 2026, after missing the original statutory deadline. The primary risk identified is the timely delivery of software patches from the provider, Civica.
  • Digital Payslips Rollout: The fund has successfully transitioned overseas pensioners to digital payslips and P60s, with plans to extend this to UK-based pensioners by the end of 2026. This move aims to improve efficiency and security, with members having the choice to opt out. Councillor Sunita Gordon raised important questions about the security of digital communications and the potential for miscommunication regarding opt-outs.
  • Data Security and Governance: The board also reviewed the fund's governance and risk management, with a red-rated risk concerning Civica's software compliance. The report highlighted the importance of protecting key information and data from cyber-attacks, with existing policies and training in place.

The board's discussions underscore the complexities of managing a large pension fund, from ensuring timely benefit payments to navigating technological advancements and regulatory changes. Pension Board

Other Matters

  • Licensing Sub-Committee and Planning Committee Cancelled: The Licensing Sub-Committee and the Planning Committee meetings scheduled for Wednesday, 07 January 2026, were cancelled. Licensing Sub-Committee, Planning Committee

Upcoming Meetings

Sutton Civic Centre Plan Scrapped, Schools Face £22.5M Deficit

This week in Sutton:

Civic Centre Regeneration Deal Collapses: Housing Ambitions Remain

The Strategy and Resources Committee has decided to scrap the Genr8 Kajima Regeneration Ltd (GKRL) bid for the Sutton Civic and Town Centre Regeneration project, citing unaffordable cost increases. While the ambitious plan to redevelop the town centre, including a new civic centre and improved shopping, is off the table for now, the council insists it remains committed to building housing on the Civic Centre site, Gibson Road and the Secombe Centre.

  • Rising Costs: Lucy Taylor, Programme Manager for Sutton Civic and Town Centre Regeneration, attributed the cost increases to additional construction, new fire regulations, and the risk of further cost escalation.
  • Housing Focus: Councillor Barry Lewis, Leader of the Council, emphasized the council's continued ambition to provide housing on key sites.
  • Office and Library Concerns: Councillor Neil Garratt raised concerns about demolishing existing council offices and the library without a concrete replacement plan.

The decision highlights the financial pressures facing local authorities and the challenges of delivering large-scale regeneration projects. The future of key civic services and town centre amenities now hangs in the balance. Strategy and Resources Committee

Schools Funding Crisis Looms: £22.5 Million Deficit Projected

The Strategy and Resources Committee discussed the dire financial situation surrounding the dedicated schools grant (DSG), with a cumulative deficit of £22.5 million projected by March 31, 2026. This shortfall threatens the provision of essential educational services for Sutton's children, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

  • National Problem: Richard Simpson, Strategic Director of Resources, acknowledged that the government recognizes the current system is no longer affordable and expects a policy paper in the new year.
  • Exceptional Support Needed: Councillor Tom Drummond asked about the council's plan if the government demands the deficit be repaid. Mr. Simpson responded that the council would need to seek exceptional financial support from the government.
  • Impact on Services: The deficit is estimated to cost the council £1 million per year in lost interest or additional borrowing costs, further straining the general fund budget.

The looming schools funding crisis underscores the urgent need for government action to address the systemic underfunding of SEND and other essential educational services. Strategy and Resources Committee

Cloud Contract Awarded to Amazon Web Services Amid Data Security Assurances

The Strategy and Resources Committee approved a contract with Amazon Web Services (AWS) for cloud data centre services for the next five years. The move aims to ensure reliable, secure, and cost-effective IT systems for the council.

  • Direct Relationship: The contract marks a shift to a direct relationship with AWS, eliminating a third-party intermediary.
  • Data Encryption: Ben Unsworth, Director for Digital & IT Shared Service, assured the committee that data is encrypted in transit and at rest, preventing AWS from accessing sensitive information.
  • UK Data Storage: Councillor Christopher Woolmer sought and received confirmation that all data will be stored locally within the UK.

While the contract promises improved IT infrastructure, it also raises questions about data security and the potential for vendor lock-in1. Strategy and Resources Committee

Other Matters

  • Local Government Association Corporate Peer Challenge Progress Review: The committee discussed the Local Government Association Corporate Peer Challenge Progress Review and the Residents and Staff Survey findings. Councillor Marian James said that she often hears from staff how supported they are by their managers and how much they enjoy working for Sutton. Strategy and Resources Committee
  • Sutton College Annual Report: The committee discussed the Sutton College Annual Report 2025-26, congratulating the college on its improved Ofsted rating. Strategy and Resources Committee
  • Resilience Standards for London Self Assessment: The committee discussed the Resilience Standards for London Self Assessment 2025, highlighting the gas water leaks in July 2025 on Carshalton Road. Councillor Dave Tchil requested that the council consider and undertake a proactive plan to manage such incidents. Strategy and Resources Committee
  • Scrutiny Committee and Audit and Governance Committee Workplans: The committee noted the work plans of the scrutiny committee and audit and governance committee, and agreed that the work plans will continue to be presented to the strategy and resources committee on an annual basis. Strategy and Resources Committee

Upcoming Meetings

  • The Pension Committee was scheduled to meet on Tuesday 09 December 2025. No video was provided. Pension Committee
  • The Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday 10 December 2025 to discuss flood risk management and to receive an update from the Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust (ESTH). No video was provided. Scrutiny Committee

  1. Vendor lock-in is a situation where a customer becomes dependent on a particular vendor's products or services, making it difficult or costly to switch to another vendor. ↩

Sutton: Cremation Fee Hike, Youth Justice Data Doubts Raised

This week in Sutton:

Cremation Fee Hike Sparks Affordability Concerns

The North East Surrey Crematorium Board (NESCB) has approved a £30 increase to the standard cremation fee, bringing the total cost to £730 from January 1, 2026. While the board argues this 4.3% rise is necessary to cover service costs and remain competitive with neighboring crematoria, the decision raises concerns about affordability for bereaved families, especially those on low incomes.

  • Treasurer's Justification: The board noted that current cremation charges are among the lowest in the country, and the increase is needed to maintain income levels.
  • Competitive Pricing: Despite the increase, fees are expected to remain competitive compared to other crematoria in the region.
  • Memorial Fee Increase: Lease/dedication and maintenance fees for multiyear memorial products will also increase by £1 per year (3.1%), while single-year renewals will rise by £2 per annum (3.8%) to cover administrative costs.

The decision highlights the difficult balance between maintaining essential services and ensuring they remain accessible to all residents, particularly during times of grief. North East Surrey Crematorium Board

Youth Justice Data Doubts Raised Over Accuracy

The People Committee approved the Sutton Youth Justice Plan 2025-2028, but not without concerns raised about the accuracy of the data used to inform the plan. Councillor Tom Drummond, Leader of the Opposition, questioned the reliability of the data, particularly after discovering discrepancies in mental health reporting.

  • Data Reliability: Councillor Drummond stated, I don't know what I can trust and what I can't because there's clearly a problem with data because it's manual input and things like that.
  • KPI Challenges: It was acknowledged that there were challenges across the board in reporting on the new Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) introduced by the Youth Justice Board1 a year prior.
  • Data Improvement: A data analyst is working on improving system accuracy and staff data skills.

Despite the data concerns, the committee emphasized the importance of incorporating youth voices in service development and praised the work of the youth justice service. People Committee

Planning Committee Considers Key Developments

The Planning Committee convened to discuss several planning and development proposals, including significant applications concerning the Elm Grove Estate and a change of use application for 6 Woodcote Road, Wallington.

  • Elm Grove Estate: The committee considered applications to vary conditions of a previously granted outline planning permission and approve reserved matters relating to the Elm Grove Estate.
  • 15 Surrey Grove: An application for a change of use from a Class C3 dwelling (residential) to a Class C4 small HMO2 was discussed.
  • 6 Woodcote Road: The committee considered an application for a change of use from Sui Generis (drinking establishment) to a flexible Class E use (commercial and business) or Sui Generis use (drinking establishment).

These decisions will shape the future of Sutton's built environment and have a direct impact on residents' lives. Planning Committee

Families First Programme Aims for Better Support

The People Committee noted a report on the Families First Partnership Programme, a government-led initiative aimed at unifying early help and child protection services. The program focuses on family-led decision-making and strengthening kinship offers.

  • Key Deliverables: The program aims to unify targeted early help with child in need services, develop multi-agency child protection teams, and strengthen family-led decision-making.
  • Data Privacy Concerns: Some councillors raised concerns about data privacy and potential implications for families with the introduction of a unique child identifying number.
  • System Update Contingency: Councillor Drummond raised concerns about the volume and clarity of guidance from the Department for Education (DfE) and asked what the contingency plans were if the Mosaic case management system update did not deliver as expected.

The program aims to provide more seamless and effective support for families in need, but its success will depend on addressing data privacy concerns and ensuring the smooth implementation of the new case management system. People Committee

Safeguarding Concerns Highlighted in Annual Reports

The People Committee reviewed the Sutton Safeguarding Adults Board (SSAB) and Local Safeguarding Children Partnership (LSCP) Annual Reports for 2024-2025, highlighting ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable residents.

  • Financial Constraints: Councillor Cairn raised concerns about the impact of financial constraints and restructuring within the Integrated Care Board (ICB) on safeguarding.
  • Self-Neglect: Councillor Butt enquired about how the council helps people experiencing self-neglect, with the council stating that they are working in collaboration with partners through a multi-agency risk board for vulnerable people.
  • Child Sexual Abuse: Councillor Drummond raised concerns about the child sexual abuse section of the LSCP report, specifically regarding improving strategy meetings and the quality of achieving best evidence.

The reports underscore the importance of multi-agency collaboration and vigilance in safeguarding adults and children at risk. People Committee

Upcoming Meetings

  1. The Youth Justice Board (YJB) is a non-departmental public body created to advise the government on the operation of the youth justice system in England and Wales. ↩

  2. A house in multiple occupation (HMO) is a property rented out by at least 3 people who are not from 1 'household' (for example a family) but share facilities like the kitchen and bathroom. ↩

Sutton Council: Waste Budget Debate, HMO Licensing Approved

This week in Sutton:

Waste Budget Increase Sparks Debate Over Value for Money

The South London Waste Partnership Joint Committee met to discuss a proposed management budget increase of nearly £16,000 per borough for 2026/27, sparking debate about value for money and contract performance. The proposed budget of £707,435 would mean each borough contributes £177,859.

  • Budget Breakdown: The increase is attributed to a new legal budget, inflation on staffing costs, and higher data storage costs.
  • Strategic Goals: The South London Waste Partnership (SLWP) Work Programme 2025-30 aims for a carbon-neutral waste management system with high-quality, cost-effective services.
  • Contamination Concerns: Despite recycling efforts, fully comingled dry mixed recycling (DMR) collected in Croydon, Merton and Sutton was rejected due to excessive contamination.

The committee also reviewed a Contracts Performance Report, which highlighted a failure in the calibration of the Continuous Emissions Monitoring (CEMS) system at the Beddington Energy Recovery Facility (ERF), leading to breaches in permitted daily emissions limits for Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx).

This raises questions about the effectiveness of current waste management practices and the need for greater transparency and accountability. South London Waste Partnership Joint Committee Meeting

HMO Licensing Scheme Approved Amid Enforcement Concerns

The Housing, Economy and Business Committee approved a new discretionary licensing scheme for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)1, despite concerns about enforcement and the potential impact on landlords and tenants. The scheme aims to regulate smaller HMOs, addressing issues like poor property conditions and inadequate management standards.

  • Enforcement Doubts: Councillor Wendy Clark expressed concerns about enforcement, stating, If we don't have the resources to enforce every single one that is non-compliant, there really isn't any point in going forward.
  • Retrospective Application: The licensing will apply retrospectively to HMOs that may not have required planning permission previously.
  • Minimum Room Size: The council's standard for minimum room size in HMOs is 10 square metres, exceeding the statutory minimum of 6.5 square metres.

The decision follows a consultation and aims to raise housing standards and hold landlords accountable, but its success hinges on effective enforcement and adequate resources. Housing, Economy and Business Committee Meeting

Social Housing Services Praised, But Improvements Needed

The Housing, Economy and Business Committee received the outcome of a recent inspection of the council's social housing services by the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH), with Sutton Council achieving a C1 rating, the highest possible for compliance with consumer standards.

  • Positive Feedback: The RSH commended the council's strong governance around health and safety, stock conditions data, and proactive work on damp and mould.
  • Areas for Improvement: The council acknowledged the need to strengthen responses to antisocial behaviour and improve customer satisfaction with complaints and repairs handling.
  • Continuous Improvement: Councillor Ruth Dombey emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and sharing good practice with other councils.

While the C1 rating is a significant achievement, the council recognizes the need to address ongoing challenges and ensure high-quality services for all residents. Housing, Economy and Business Committee Meeting

Beech Tree Place Tenure Change Approved to Address Housing Crisis

The Housing, Economy and Business Committee approved a change of tenure for Block D at Beech Tree Place from shared ownership to affordable rent, aiming to increase the availability of homes for those in temporary accommodation.

  • Temporary Accommodation Crisis: The decision responds to the shocking crisis of rising numbers in temporary accommodation.
  • Financial Benefits: The change is expected to provide financial benefits to the council's general fund and improve the long-term position of the Housing Revenue Account (HRA).
  • Allocation Concerns: Councillor David Hicks raised concerns about ensuring fair allocation of the properties, given their higher standard compared to other council homes.

The decision reflects the council's efforts to address the housing crisis, but careful consideration will be needed to ensure equitable allocation and manage potential impacts on the housing waiting list. Housing, Economy and Business Committee Meeting

Other Matters

Upcoming Meetings

  1. HMOs are properties rented out by at least three people who are not from one 'household' (for example, a family) but share facilities like a kitchen or bathroom. ↩

Sutton Council: Cemetery Costs Questioned, Community Projects Funded

This week in Sutton:

Cemetery Landscaping Costs Questioned Amid Budget Scrutiny

The Bandon Hill Cemetery Joint Committee met to discuss financial forecasts, treasury strategies, and potential improvements to The Lodge, located within the cemetery grounds. A key point of contention was a proposal to spend £54,014 on landscaping works at The Lodge, raising questions about the appropriate use of funds.

  • Lodge Improvements: The committee considered a request for £70,000 to improve The Lodge, including removing ivy, repairing brickwork, and installing a new boundary fence.
  • Landscaping Debate: While essential repairs were deemed necessary, the proposed landscaping, designed to separate The Lodge from the cemetery for potential future lease, faced scrutiny due to its high cost.
  • Financial Prudence: The finance comment in the report suggested that a £15,000 budget would cover essential works, prompting the committee to weigh the benefits of the landscaping against its cost.

This discussion highlights the challenges of balancing necessary maintenance with strategic investments, particularly when resources are limited. Bandon Hill Cemetery Joint Committee Meeting

Community Projects Vie for Funding in North Cheam, Stonecot and Worcester Park

The North Cheam, Stonecot and Worcester Park Local Committee discussed various funding opportunities available to local groups and projects. The Neighbourhood Fund, Sutton Community Fund, and Local Committee Funding are all potential sources of support for initiatives ranging from playground upgrades to community events.

  • Neighbourhood Fund: A public consultation is open until 16 November to decide which projects should receive funding, including improvements to Cuddington Rec, Worcester Park Library's community garden, and British history-themed comic workshops at Whitehall Historic House.
  • Sutton Community Fund: Charity, Faith and Community groups with an income of less than £100,000 can apply for up to £5,000.
  • Local Committee Funding: Groups can apply for up to £1,400 for community events and projects.

The committee's discussions underscore the importance of local funding in supporting community initiatives and improving the quality of life for residents. North Cheam, Stonecot and Worcester Park Local Committee Meeting

Other Matters

Upcoming Meetings

Hackbridge, St Helier and The Wrythe Local Committee

Hackbridge, St Helier and The Wrythe Local Committee - Thursday, 22nd January, 2026 7.00 pm

We have not been able to find a video broadcast of this meeting.

January 22, 2026
Beddington and Wallington Local Committee

Beddington and Wallington Local Committee - Tuesday, 20th January, 2026 7.00 pm

The Beddington and Wallington Local Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 20 January 2026. The meeting agenda includes an update on the Responsible Dog Ownership Programme, a presentation from Citizens Advice Sutton, and a community showcase featuring local groups.

January 20, 2026
Health and Wellbeing Board

Health and Wellbeing Board - Monday, 19th January, 2026 6.30 pm

We have not been able to find a video broadcast of this meeting.

January 19, 2026
Licensing Sub-Committee

Licensing Sub-Committee - Monday, 19th January, 2026 10.30 am

The Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to consider a new premises licence application for Rose Hill Bowling Club. The committee will also review the procedure for licensing hearings.

January 19, 2026
Audit and Governance Committee

Audit and Governance Committee - Thursday, 15th January, 2026 7.00 pm

The Audit and Governance Committee is scheduled to meet on 15 January 2026 to review the council's financial performance, internal audit progress, and risk management strategies. Key topics for discussion include the 2024/25 final accounts, the operation of the Code of Conduct for councillors, and an update on the treasury management activities for the first half of the financial year.

January 15, 2026
Housing, Economy and Business Committee

Housing, Economy and Business Committee - Wednesday, 14th January, 2026 7.00 pm

The Housing, Economy and Business Committee is scheduled to convene on 14 January 2026 to discuss a range of housing-related matters. Key agenda items include proposals for the continuation of the affordable homes acquisition programme, proposed changes to housing rents and other charges for the upcoming financial year, and the approval of a long-term Housing Revenue Account Business Plan.

January 14, 2026
Carshalton and Clockhouse Local Committee

Carshalton and Clockhouse Local Committee - Tuesday, 13th January, 2026 7.00 pm

The Carshalton and Clockhouse Local Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 13 January 2026. The meeting's agenda includes a community showcase by the Sutton, Kingston, Epsom & Merton Parkinson's Group, updates from various Friends of Parks Groups, and an opportunity for public questions. The committee will also reflect on past community showcases and public realm initiatives.

January 13, 2026
Licensing Sub-Committee

Licensing Sub-Committee - Monday, 12th January, 2026 10.30 am

The Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to consider a new premises licence application for Chicken World. The committee will also review the standard procedure for licensing hearings.

January 12, 2026
Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee

Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee - Thursday, 8th January, 2026 7.00 pm

The Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee met on 8 January 2026, adopting a revised policy for dealing with abandoned vehicles and receiving an update on the Sutton Town Centre Public Realm and Placemaking Programme. The committee also discussed the planned maintenance programme for highways and transport works for the upcoming year.

January 08, 2026
Pension Board

Pension Board - Thursday, 8th January, 2026 10.00 am

The Sutton Pension Board met on Thursday, 08 January 2026, to review the fund's administration performance, project updates, budget monitoring, governance and risk, and investment strategy. Key decisions included noting the pension administration performance update, approving the budget monitoring report, and noting the governance and risk update.

January 08, 2026

No upcoming meetings scheduled.