The Merton Council meeting on 2 April 2025 addressed a range of issues, including the council's budget, changes to its constitution, and updates on various strategic themes. Key decisions included the approval of the 2025-26 budget and Medium Term Financial Strategy, alongside amendments to the council's constitution.

Budget and Financial Strategy Approved

The Council approved the Budget and Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for 2025-29, including the General Fund Budget and Council Tax Strategy for 2025/26. This approval came after a roll-call vote on the substantive budget motion and several amendments proposed by the Liberal Democrat and Conservative groups, all of which were lost. The approved budget includes a maximum Council Tax for a Band D property of £1,598.05, representing an increase of below 5%, inclusive of a 2% adult social care flexibility. The Capital Investment Programme and Treasury Management Strategy were also approved.

Constitution Changes Approved

Amendments to the Council's Constitution were approved, aiming to update sections with current best working practices and ensure legal compliance. These changes, which will take effect immediately, include updates to the Council Procedure Rules, Overview and Scrutiny Procedure Rules, and the Member/Officer Protocol. The amendments were approved by a vote of 28 to 26, with 0 abstentions, following the defeat of a cross-party amendment that sought to delay the changes to Parts 4A and 4E of the Constitution.

Committee Membership Changes Noted

The Council noted changes to committee memberships that had been approved under delegated authority since the previous meeting. Additionally, Councillor Shuile Syeda was appointed to the Council of Governors for St George's Hospital.

Education and Skills Focus

In response to a question from Councillor Franca Ofeimu, the Cabinet Member for Jobs, Skills and Education highlighted the success of Merton's schools, with all now rated 'Good' or 'Outstanding' by Ofsted. The council also operates a young person employability forum and has seen a 10% rise in apprenticeship uptake. The new job brokerage and employability service, Employ Merton, is in development to assist residents aged 16 and over in finding employment.

Morden Regeneration Progressed

Councillor Nick McLean's question regarding the regeneration of Morden town centre was addressed by the Cabinet Member for Housing and Sustainable Development. The regeneration remains a key priority, with £4 million allocated in the Business Plan 2024-28. The adoption of the Local Plan, which designates Morden town centre as a development 'Opportunity Area' and includes the 'Morden Regeneration Zone', is seen as significantly de-risking development. Officers are exploring delivery methods and preparing for the procurement of a delivery partner, and a new Town Centre Manager has been recruited.

Support for Private Renters

The Cabinet Member for Housing and Sustainable Development outlined steps being taken to support residents in privately rented accommodation. This includes providing legal advice, negotiating with landlords, and enforcing housing conditions under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS). Selective licensing for private tenancies and additional licensing for houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) were introduced in September 2023 to improve standards and management. The council will adapt its strategies in line with the forthcoming Renters Rights Bill, which includes the abolition of Section 21 eviction notices.

Climate Change Initiatives Highlighted

Councillor Shuile Syeda's question on mitigating climate change impacts revealed a multi-faceted approach involving partnerships with grassroots organisations, businesses, and residents. Merton's Climate Engagement Strategy aims to foster collaboration, and initiatives include the Merton Climate Action Group, Green Schools Network, and Faith & Climate Action Group. The council is also supporting residents and businesses with energy efficiency through loan schemes, grants, and guidance.

River Wandle Oil Spill Investigation

In response to Councillor Paul Kohler's question, the Cabinet Member for Civic Pride and Climate Change confirmed that the Environment Agency has opened a criminal investigation into the diesel spill in the River Wandle. It was stated that it is appropriate to await the conclusion of this investigation before considering further inquiries.

Parks and Greenspaces Investment

Councillor Michael Butcher's query about resident input into parks and greenspaces was answered by detailing how public consultation has shaped capital investments, including playground and paddling pool upgrades. The council also works with community groups and Friends of Parks to secure funding for projects, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing these valued assets based on resident feedback.

Sustainable Transport and Infrastructure

Councillor Michael Brunt's question on sustainable travel highlighted the council's commitment to active travel, with plans to double the number of bike hangars and introduce a mandatory bay-only parking model for cycle hire schemes. The development of a Sustainable Transport Strategy, Walking & Cycling Strategy, and Electric Vehicle Charging Strategy is underway. Councillor Jil Hall's question on the selection of cycle hire bay locations indicated that data, research, and statutory consultation processes inform these decisions, with feedback from elected members and the community being reviewed.

Waste and Recycling Enhancements

Councillor Gill Manly's question on environmental protection through waste and recycling collections detailed plans to introduce weekly food waste recycling for flats above shops and explore options for flexible plastic recycling by March 2027. An audit of communal waste and recycling facilities on estates is also planned, alongside expanding the Pop-up Tip service.

Changes to Council Procedure Rules

A cross-party amendment to the proposed changes to the Constitution was defeated. The amendment sought to prevent changes to the Council Procedure Rules and Overview and Scrutiny Procedure Rules from taking effect, arguing that significant changes should have cross-party consensus. The report detailing the amendments to the Constitution was subsequently approved by a recorded vote.

Academy Schools and Government Legislation

A Conservative motion supporting academy schools and expressing concern over the Labour government's Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill was amended by the Labour group. The amended motion, which was carried, calls for the Leader of the Council and the Cabinet Member for Jobs, Skills and Education to write to the Secretary of State for Education to consider the implications of the bill on Merton's local academy schools.

The meeting also included reports from community forums in Mitcham and Wimbledon, providing updates on local issues and initiatives.