The Cabinet of Merton Council met on Monday 4 November 2024 to discuss several key items, approving the award of contracts for adult drug and alcohol treatment services and corporate cleaning, as well as agreeing revisions to the Council Tax Support Scheme for 2025/26. A significant decision was made to recommend the adoption of Merton's new Local Plan, which will replace previous planning strategies dating back to 2011 and 2014. The Cabinet also noted an increase in funding for the JMC/Riverside Redevelopment Project.

Adoption of Merton's Local Plan

The Cabinet recommended that the full council adopt Merton's new Local Plan and Policies Map, replacing the Core Planning Strategy 2011 and the Sites and Policies Plan 2014. This comprehensive plan, developed over six years with extensive public consultation, will guide future planning decisions in the borough. It includes new policies aimed at increasing the number of socially rented homes, reducing carbon emissions from new developments, supporting the regeneration of Morden, and investing across the borough. The plan has been examined by independent planning inspectors who found it to be sound, subject to recommended modifications.

Council Tax Support Scheme 2025/26

The Cabinet agreed to update the Council Tax Support scheme for 2025/26, ensuring that residents on lower incomes and other vulnerable individuals will continue to benefit from low council tax charges. This decision maintains Merton's commitment to supporting its residents, ensuring they are not worse off compared to the previous Council Tax Benefit scheme. The proposed revisions will be subject to final approval by the Full Council in January 2025.

Award of Contract for the Merton Adult Drug and Alcohol Treatment Service

A five-year contract for the Merton Integrated Adult Substance Misuse Prevention and Treatment Service was awarded to Via, the incumbent provider. This decision follows a thorough procurement process, ensuring the continued provision of essential services for adult residents experiencing drug and alcohol problems. The contract, valued at approximately £1.54 million per annum, will commence in April 2025.

Award of Corporate Cleaning Services Contract

The Cabinet agreed to award the corporate cleaning services contract to Tenderer A for an initial two-year period, with an option to extend for a further four years, up to a maximum of six years. The total cost for the six-year period is estimated at £4.46 million. This decision ensures the continued cleanliness of the council's corporate buildings, including libraries and community centres, with a commitment to paying staff at least the London Living Wage and incorporating social value within the contract.

JMC/Riverside Redevelopment Project

The Cabinet noted an increase in funding for the JMC/Riverside Redevelopment Project, which will deliver a new day centre with 21 supported living homes and approximately 60 general needs homes. The project aims to provide modern facilities for residents with complex care needs and contribute to the council's affordable housing targets. The Cabinet also noted the VAT position and ongoing specialised work to optimise Merton's financial status related to the project.