The Sutton Shareholdings Board met on 10 March 2026 to discuss and approve business plans and budgets for three of the council's subsidiary companies: Sutton Decentralised Energy Network (SDEN), Cognus, and Sutton Living Limited (SLL). Key decisions included the approval of SDEN's three-year business plan and budget, noting Cognus's progress and financial position, and approving SLL's ten-year business plan and 2026/27 budget.

Sutton Decentralised Energy Network (SDEN) Business Plan and Budget 2026-2029

The Board approved the three-year business plan and budget for SDEN, which outlines the company's strategy for providing low-carbon energy to homes and businesses in Sutton. The plan details expansion plans, including a proposed connection to the Clarion Housing Lavenders development and further work on wider network expansion. A 3.4% price increase on unit and standing charges was agreed, effective from 1 April 2026, which the Board believes is reasonable and competitive. The plan also noted progress on transferring the primary heat connection to the Viridor Beddington Energy Recovery Facility (ERF) and a successful uplift application to the Green Heat Network Fund for new, larger pumping equipment.

Cognus Business Plan and Budget

The Board noted the progress made by Cognus Limited against its business plan and received an update on its financial position. Cognus, which provides education support services for Sutton, reported strong performance across its teams, including positive outcomes for children looked after, successful school admissions, and high satisfaction rates for education safeguarding services. Financially, Cognus is forecasting an operating surplus of £429,000 for the financial year ending 31 March 2026, a significant turnaround from the previous year's deficit. This improvement is attributed to strong traded income and efficiency savings, despite ongoing financial pressures in SEND and therapies services, which have been supported by additional council funding.

Sutton Living Limited (SLL) 2026/27 Budget & Ten Year Business Plan

The Board approved Sutton Living Limited's (SLL) updated ten-year business plan (2026-2036) and its budget for the financial year 2026/27. The plan reflects a strategic shift from new build development to the acquisition and management of affordable rented homes, aiming to reduce homelessness and reliance on temporary accommodation. SLL has secured significant funding, including from the Local Authority Housing Fund (LAHF) round 4, and expects its landlord portfolio to grow to over 300 homes by the end of the plan period. While the plan acknowledges short-term financial challenges, particularly related to the Grove development and the need to grow rental income, it forecasts improving financial performance with cash surpluses expected from 2027/28. A key element of the strategy is the progression towards becoming a Registered Provider (RP), which is expected to unlock further grant funding and improve financial sustainability. The Board also noted SLL's risk register.