Westminster City Council's Cabinet met on Monday 16 March 2026 to discuss and approve the renewal of the Additional Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) Licensing Designation. The Cabinet also approved the Westminster Housing Strategy 2026-2031 and two high-value Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) applications.

Renewal of Additional Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) Licensing Designation

The Cabinet approved the renewal of the council's Additional Licensing Scheme for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) for a further five years. This scheme, originally introduced in 2021, targets HMOs not covered by mandatory licensing, such as smaller HMOs and flats in purpose-built blocks, to improve property conditions, fire safety, and landlord accountability. Evidence presented indicated that many HMOs continue to pose safety, health, and management risks, with an estimated 1,748 operating without a licence. The renewal follows an 11-week public consultation, which revealed strong support from tenants and residents for the scheme's objectives and proposed licence conditions, although landlords and agents expressed concerns about fees and regulatory burden. The scheme will continue to apply borough-wide, with a proposed fee structure that includes discounts for accredited landlords and properties with good EPC ratings.

Westminster Housing Strategy 2026-2031

The Cabinet approved the Westminster Housing Strategy 2026-2031. This overarching strategy aims to bring together existing housing policies and set a future vision for the city. It is built around five key priorities: supplying the homes Westminster needs and increasing social rent homes; preventing homelessness and rough sleeping; providing good quality and well-managed homes for tenants and leaseholders; ensuring a well-run private rented sector; and working together to make homes and housing services fit for the future. The strategy was shaped by extensive resident and stakeholder engagement and consultation, with priorities ranging from 65% to 86% support among survey respondents. An Equalities Impact Assessment indicated a positive impact on groups with protected characteristics.

NCIL High Value Allocations - March 2026

The Cabinet approved two high-value Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) applications totalling £661,931.

The first approval grants £411,931 of NCIL funding from the St John's Wood neighbourhood area towards the Upgrade of St John's Wood Primary School (Upper School). This project will involve a full refurbishment of the Upper School building, including redecoration, replacement of flooring and fixtures, refurbishment of washrooms, and improvements to data cabling. The aim is to create a safe, inclusive, and modern learning environment, addressing concerns raised by parents, governors, and staff about the building's deteriorating condition. The project aligns with Westminster CIL priorities for community facilities and accessible public spaces.

The second approval grants £250,000 of NCIL funding from the Bayswater neighbourhood area towards the WCC Strategic Transport and Connectivity Informal Side‑Road Zebra Crossings. This project will install at least 20 new informal zebra crossings at side-road junctions across the Bayswater ward. Following a successful trial, these low-cost, high-impact improvements aim to enhance pedestrian safety and driver compliance, particularly for vulnerable road users. The project supports the council's priorities for sustainable and active travel, and accessible and inclusive public spaces. Ward councillors for Bayswater expressed support for the proposal.