The Sutton Shareholdings Board is scheduled to convene on Tuesday 10 November 2026 to review the performance and financial standing of key council-owned entities. Discussions are expected to cover Cognus Limited, the Sutton Decentralised Energy Network, and Sutton Living Limited.

Cognus Limited Mid-Year Performance and Finances

The board will receive an update on the mid-year performance and finances of Cognus Limited for the 2025-26 academic year. Cognus Limited is a Local Authority Trading Company (LATC) responsible for delivering Sutton's education support services, including statutory functions such as Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) support, school admissions, and attendance. The report details the performance of various Cognus teams, including the Virtual School, School Admissions, Education Safeguarding, Educational Psychology, SEND Service, Attendance Service, and others.

The report highlights that for the year ended 31 March 2026, the Cognus Group reported an operating surplus of £180,000, an improvement from the previous year's deficit. This was supported by increased traded income and additional funding. The report also seeks approval for a refreshed Cognus Business Plan for 2025-2029.

The financial commentary indicates that while the group achieved an operating surplus, the 2026/27 forecast outturn is an operating deficit of £175,000. Risks identified include increasing pressure on the therapies budget due to rising EHCP numbers and high demand, as well as inflationary pressures on pay and service delivery costs. The legal commentary notes that the London Borough of Sutton has numerous duties under education legislation, which are discharged through Cognus.

Sutton Decentralised Energy Network Mid-Year Performance and Finances

The board is scheduled to review the mid-year performance and finances of the Sutton Decentralised Energy Network (SDEN) for 2026-27. SDEN aims to provide low-carbon sustainable heating and hot water to residents, aligning with the Council's environmental objectives. The report covers performance updates for the New Mill Quarter development in Hackbridge, where SDEN currently provides heating and hot water.

A customer satisfaction survey conducted in summer 2026 indicated that 72% of SDEN customers are satisfied with the service, with satisfaction levels higher among newer customers. However, perceptions of price and value for money were identified as key concerns. The report also details progress on the expansion of the heat network, including the connection to the Lavenders estate and the transfer of the primary heat connection to the Viridor Beddington Energy Recovery Facility.

The financial commentary notes that SDEN reported a loss before taxation of £26,000 for the year ended 31 March 2026, an improvement from the previous year. However, the company remains in negative equity. The report outlines financial risks including energy market volatility, inflation, and the extended loan repayment schedule to the Council. A market engagement exercise has been conducted to explore future investment strategies for expanding the heat network.

Sutton Living Limited

The agenda also includes a report on Sutton Living Limited's mid-year performance and finances for 2026-27, though the details of this report are to follow. Additionally, the board is scheduled to consider the appointment of a Chair for Sutton Living Limited.