Councillor Adam Hug
Email: leader@westminster.gov.uk
Council: Westminster
Council Profile: View on council website
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Positions, Voting Record & Activity Summary
Adam Hug's council service, particularly in 2025, showcases a leader deeply engaged in strategic governance and addressing critical community needs. His recent activities as Leader of the Council, Chair of the Cabinet, and Chair of the Shareholder Committee highlight a strong focus on financial responsibility, community safety, housing solutions, and economic development.
Key Themes and Priorities:
Across his tenure, Hug has consistently prioritized financial prudence and effective budget management. In 2025, this manifested in overseeing budget discussions, announcing modest council tax increases, and emphasizing spending on essential services while seeking efficiencies, particularly in housing and property acquisitions. This focus on fiscal responsibility was also evident in 2024 through his engagement with financial projections of council-owned entities.
Community safety and public order emerged as a significant and amplified priority in 2025. Hug spearheaded initiatives to combat antisocial behaviour, including substantial investments in CCTV and a new street-based intervention team. The introduction of Westminster's first nighttime strategy, Westminster After Dark,
further underscores this commitment. While not as detailed in 2024, the general oversight of council services implies a foundational concern for public well-being.
Housing and homelessness have been a persistent area of focus. In 2025, Hug championed a new strategy to address homelessness and rough sleeping, alongside investments in housing development and the strategic acquisition of properties for temporary accommodation. This builds upon the groundwork laid in 2024, where he emphasized the Westminster Builds
program and the Temporary Acquisitions programme,
aiming to deliver more homes and enhance existing projects.
Economic development and regeneration have also been central. In 2025, Hug was actively involved in major regeneration projects like Church Street and proposed changes to Oxford Street, demonstrating a commitment to safeguarding residents' interests and engaging constructively with the Greater London Authority. His pragmatic approach to the Oxford Street discussions, stating,
The reality is the Mayor of London has the power to do this we can make a song and dance about it or we can roll and ultimately the chances of success are minuscule so we have taken the pragmatic decision to fight for our residents and get those agreements and safeguard the long term future of our communities and of the council's interests here.
Council operations and governance are a constant thread, with Hug presiding over numerous Shareholder Committee meetings and Cabinet discussions in both years, approving business plans, appointments, and reports. He also demonstrated a commitment to social inclusion and equality in 2025 by moving a motion to Stand United Against the Rise of the Far Right and in Support of Inclusive Communities.
Evolution of Focus:
Hug's focus has intensified and broadened in recent years, particularly in 2025. While 2024 saw him laying the groundwork for housing initiatives and engaging in financial oversight, 2025 reveals a more proactive and comprehensive leadership style. The emphasis on tangible strategies for community safety, the development of a dedicated nighttime economy strategy, and the robust defense of the council's interests in major regeneration projects indicate a deepening of his strategic engagement and a more assertive approach to policy implementation.
Most Significant Contributions (Especially in Recent Years):
In 2025, Hug's most significant contributions include the comprehensive Westminster After Dark
strategy, the substantial investments and strategies to tackle antisocial behaviour, and his active role in negotiating the future of Oxford Street, where he championed a pragmatic approach to protect residents' interests. His leadership in developing and implementing the Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy 2025-2030 and overseeing strategic property acquisitions for temporary accommodation are also notable.
Patterns and Consistent Areas of Interest:
Across his council service, Adam Hug consistently demonstrates a commitment to resident welfare, whether through ensuring financial stability, enhancing safety, providing housing, or fostering economic opportunity. His approach is characterized by a blend of pragmatism and a strong defense of local interests, particularly when engaging with higher levels of government or addressing complex urban challenges. He consistently champions transparency and effective governance through his leadership of key committees.
Yearly Activity Timeline
Throughout 2025, Adam Hug demonstrated significant leadership across multiple council roles, including Leader of the Council, Chair of the Cabinet, and Chair of the Shareholder Committee. His activities spanned a wide range of policy areas and strategic initiatives.
Key Themes and Priorities:
- Financial Responsibility and Budget Management: Hug consistently emphasized financial prudence, overseeing budget discussions, announcing modest council tax increases, and highlighting significant spending on essential services. He also focused on efficiencies and cost management, particularly in housing and property acquisitions.
- Community Safety and Public Order: A major focus was tackling antisocial behaviour, with announcements of increased investment in CCTV and a new street-based intervention team. He also introduced Westminster's first nighttime strategy,
Westminster After Dark,
and addressed public order concerns during council meetings. - Housing and Homelessness: Hug championed initiatives to address homelessness and rough sleeping, including the development of a new strategy and investments in housing. He also highlighted efforts to build new social homes and the strategic acquisition of properties for temporary accommodation.
- Economic Development and Regeneration: He was actively involved in discussions regarding major regeneration projects, including the Church Street Joint Venture Business Plan and the proposed changes to Oxford Street. He emphasized safeguarding residents' interests and engaging constructively with the Greater London Authority.
- Council Operations and Governance: Hug presided over numerous Shareholder Committee meetings, guiding the approval of business plans, appointments, and recommendations. He also oversaw the approval of minutes and reports in his Cabinet role.
- Social Inclusion and Equality: He moved a motion to
Stand United Against the Rise of the Far Right and in Support of Inclusive Communities,
demonstrating a commitment to combating racism and promoting diversity.
Significant Activities:
- Budget and Vision Speeches: Delivered comprehensive speeches on the council's budget and vision for Westminster, outlining priorities such as financial responsibility, safety, empowered communities, and opportunity.
- Oxford Street Negotiations: Actively engaged in discussions and negotiations with the Greater London Authority and the Mayor's team regarding the proposed changes to Oxford Street, stating the council had
robustly fought for Westminster's interests.
- Antisocial Behaviour Initiatives: Announced significant investments and strategies to tackle antisocial behaviour, including doubling CCTV cameras and establishing a new street-based intervention team.
- Housing Strategy Development: Thanked officers for their work on the Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy 2025-2030 and acknowledged efforts to improve housing services and build new social homes.
- Property Acquisitions: Highlighted the strategic value of property acquisitions for temporary accommodation, emphasizing benefits for families and cost management for the council.
- Westminster After Dark Strategy: Introduced and discussed the council's nighttime strategy, focusing on resident experience and collaboration.
- Addressing Industrial Disputes: Urged for resolutions to tube strikes, stating,
I urge obviously both sides of the current industrial dispute to get round the table and sort this out these are not in the interest of the people of London.
- Defending Pragmatic Approaches: Defended the pedestrianization of Oxford Street, advocating for a pragmatic approach to work with the Mayor of London and protect residents' interests, stating,
The reality is the Mayor of London has the power to do this we can make a song and dance about it or we can roll and ultimately the chances of success are minuscule so we have taken the pragmatic decision to fight for our residents and get those agreements and safeguard the long term future of our communities and of the council's interests here.
Monthly Activity in 2025
In November 2025, Adam Hug was active in two council meetings. On November 12th, he moved a motion titled Standing United Against the Rise of the Far Right and in Support of Inclusive Communities,
aiming to combat racism and promote diversity in Westminster. During the Cabinet meeting on November 17th, as Leader of the Council, Hug opened the meeting, approved previous minutes, and introduced several key reports. These included the Westminster After Dark strategy, Waste Concrete (the council's largest contract), Future service delivery, repairs, maintenance, and major works, and the North Paddington Serious Violence Task Force. He emphasized the importance of resident experience, collaboration, sustainability, and community engagement. Hug also engaged in discussions about service delivery and major works, stressing the need to meet resident needs, maintain a relationship with the GLA, and conduct further analysis on electric combi boilers and DE storage. He sought clarification on capital costs, project lifecycles, and their impact on service charges, acknowledging the challenges of construction inflation and leaseholder charges. Regarding the pipe network, Hug prioritized safety and stated that government grant support would be crucial for any option beyond 'Do Minimum.' He advocated for minimizing costs for residents for new low carbon heat sources through council funding and keeping all options open to address uncertainties.
Meetings in November 2025
Cabinet - Monday 17th November, 2025 6.30 pm - 17 November 2025
Adam Hug, in his capacity as Leader of the Council and Chair of the Cabinet, opened the meeting, welcomed attendees, and outlined procedural matters. He moved to approve the minutes of the previous meeting. Hug introduced several key reports, including the Westminster After Dark strategy, emphasizing the need for balance and thanking teams and residents for their input. He also introduced reports on Waste Concrete, highlighting its significance as the council's largest contract and thanking Councillor Smith-Roy for their work, and on Future service delivery, repairs, maintenance, and major works, acknowledging past issues and the importance of improving resident experience, collaboration, and sustainability, and thanking Councillor Taylor. Furthermore, he thanked Councillor Sankaras and teams for their work on the North Paddington Serious Violence Task Force, stressing community engagement and a joined-up approach.
In discussions regarding service delivery and major works, Hug highlighted the importance of the Council's proposals in meeting resident needs and maintaining a working relationship with the GLA. He sought clarification on further analysis of electric combi boiler and DE storage options, reiterating the Cabinet's desire for more detailed analysis. Hug also inquired about further capital costs over a project's lifecycle and their impact on major works and service charges, stressing the need for clarity on charging timelines and amounts. He acknowledged the scale of challenges and difficult decisions ahead, particularly concerning construction inflation and managing leaseholder charges, and emphasized the urgency of addressing these issues for residents.
Regarding the pipe network, Hug identified safety as the most pressing need and stated that if an option other than 'Do Minimum' was preferred, government grant support would be essential. He advised that costs for new low carbon heat sources should be minimized for residents through council funding sources like grants, Strategic CIL, or Carbon Offset funding, and reiterated the importance of keeping all options open to address unknowns.
Council - Wednesday 12th November, 2025 7.00 pm - 12 November 2025
Adam Hug moved a motion titled Standing United Against the Rise of the Far Right and in Support of Inclusive Communities
. This motion aimed to address racism, discrimination, and xenophobia, and to promote diversity and inclusion within Westminster.
In October 2025, Adam Hug, as Chair of the Cabinet, presided over a meeting on October 16th. He expressed his appreciation to the officers for their work on the Reshaping of Housing Solutions Service: Phase 2
report, acknowledging the pressures necessitating the transformation and highlighting the expected benefits for residents. Hug also emphasized the need for careful oversight of the related expenses.
Meetings in October 2025
Cabinet - Thursday 16th October, 2025 6.30 pm - 16 October 2025
As Chair of the Cabinet, Adam Hug was present at the meeting. He expressed gratitude to the officers for their efforts on the Reshaping of Housing Solutions Service: Phase 2
report. Hug acknowledged the significant pressures on the current system that made this transformation necessary. He also pointed out the anticipated positive outcomes for residents, while stressing the importance of closely monitoring the associated expenditure.
During September 2025, Adam Hug was active in multiple council meetings. As Leader of the Council, he defended the pedestrianization of Oxford Street, emphasizing a pragmatic approach to work with the Mayor of London and protect residents' interests, stating,
. He also urged for a resolution to tube strikes, stating,
The reality is the Mayor of London has the power to do this we can make a song and dance about it or we can roll and ultimately the chances of success are minuscule so we have taken the pragmatic decision to fight for our residents and get those agreements and safeguard the long term future of our communities and of the council's interests here ultimately you can stand on the outside shouting or you can roll up your sleeves and get on with it and try and make change for the future of our city and that is what we have done
. Hug highlighted Westminster's efforts in addressing homelessness, including increased funding and the reintroduction of PSPOs, and indicated he would make representations regarding the Vagrancy Act. As Chair of the Cabinet, he addressed the Huguenot House redevelopment, assuring leaseholders the right to return and discussing project timelines. He also acknowledged work on the Fairer Westminster Annual Progress Overview and temporary accommodation resources. Regarding the Leisure Contract Extension, he suggested exploring alternative cooling methods. In his role as Chair of the Shareholder Committee, Hug opened meetings, welcomed presenters, and facilitated discussions on Westminster Community Homes and Westminster Builds reports, including seeking approval for recommendations and entering private sessions for specific reports.
I urge obviously both sides of the current industrial dispute to get round the table and sort this out these are not in the interest of the people of London and obviously we as everyone else urging the TFL and the union to come round the table and come to agreement to get these strikes done so everyone can get on with their lives
Meetings in September 2025
Shareholder Committee - Friday 26th September, 2025 12.00 pm - 26 September 2025
As Chair of the Shareholder Committee meeting on September 26th, 2025, Adam Hug opened the session by welcoming members and requesting declarations of interest. He noted apologies from Councillor Liza Begum and proceeded to ask for the approval of the previous meeting's minutes. Hug then welcomed Neil Tryner and Elizabeth Roberts-Mills to present the report on Westminster Community Homes, inquiring about the utilization of Council-run surveys for customer satisfaction and the impact of Healthy Homes Investment, as well as plans for kitchens and bathrooms. Following this, he invited Neil Tryner to introduce the Director Appointment report for Westminster Community Homes and sought approval for the recommendations on page 12. Hug subsequently welcomed James Green, Zohaib Nizami, and Georgina Nash to present the Westminster Builds report. He then requested the Committee's approval to enter a private session for the Westco report, after which he invited Ian Farrow, Christos Pishias, and Lyndsey Gamble to introduce the Westco report. Hug concluded the meeting at 10:57 am and signed the minutes as Chair.
Cabinet - Monday 15th September, 2025 6.30 pm - 15 September 2025
As Chair of the Cabinet, Adam Hug addressed several key issues during the meeting. Regarding the Huguenot House redevelopment, he stated that leaseholders would retain the right to return to the future development under the same principles as other regeneration schemes. He inquired about the redevelopment timelines, noting that while a start on-site is some years away, the project is envisaged to take three to five years. Hug acknowledged the challenges faced by residents, thanking Dr. Kertesz for his contribution and receipt of a written deputation. He emphasized the importance of maximizing the asset for additional housing and revenue to fund public services, assuring continued work with residents to manage the situation. He also thanked individuals for their work on the 2024/25 Fairer Westminster Annual Progress Overview and for delivering temporary accommodation resources to address cost pressures in the Revenue and Capital Outturn and Statement of Accounts 2024/25. In relation to the Leisure Contract Extension, Hug suggested exploring alternative building cooling methods, referencing the Council's Cool Neighbourhoods Strategy and its potential learnings.
Council - Wednesday 10th September, 2025 7.00 pm - 10 September 2025
During the Council meeting on September 10th, 2025, Adam Hug, as the Leader of the Council, was actively involved in discussions. He defended the council's approach to the pedestrianization of Oxford Street, emphasizing a pragmatic strategy to protect the council's and residents' long-term interests by working constructively with the Mayor of London. He stated,
. He also addressed concerns about the secrecy of the Oxford Street decision-making process, calling such suggestions
The reality is the Mayor of London has the power to do this we can make a song and dance about it or we can roll and ultimately the chances of success are minuscule so we have taken the pragmatic decision to fight for our residents and get those agreements and safeguard the long term future of our communities and of the council's interests here ultimately you can stand on the outside shouting or you can roll up your sleeves and get on with it and try and make change for the future of our city and that is what we have done
completely bizarre
.
Furthermore, Hug urged for a resolution to the current industrial dispute affecting tube strikes, stating,
.
I urge obviously both sides of the current industrial dispute to get round the table and sort this out these are not in the interest of the people of London and obviously we as everyone else urging the TFL and the union to come round the table and come to agreement to get these strikes done so everyone can get on with their lives
In response to a question about homelessness, he highlighted Westminster's actions, including reversing cuts to rough sleeping funding and investing over £8 million directly, supplemented by nearly £9 million from the Labour government. He also mentioned the reintroduction of PSPOs to address anti-social behaviour.
Regarding the Vagrancy Act, Hug indicated he would make representations on behalf of the city to the relevant minister.
Earlier in the year, on June 25th, 2025, Adam Hug seconded a motion to confer the title of Honorary Alderman on Mrs Nickie Aiken.
During July 2025, Adam Hug was active in two council meetings. As Chair of the Cabinet on July 14th, he acknowledged Councillor Sanquest's enthusiasm for the Beethoven Centre and its potential to combat inequality and expand community space. He also thanked the team responsible for property acquisitions, emphasizing the benefits of stability for families and cost management for the council. Hug specifically highlighted the strategic value of the W2 property acquisition for temporary accommodation, noting its location within Westminster would preserve local connections for residents and generate savings.
On July 17th, Adam Hug chaired the Shareholder Committee meeting. He welcomed members, noted apologies, and oversaw the approval of previous minutes. Hug introduced presenters for reports on Westminster Builds, Westminster Community Homes, and Westco, inviting them to present their business plans. He actively questioned the presenters on topics such as the RP status and delay implications for Westminster Builds, and engagement with the regulator for Westminster Community Homes. Hug consistently sought committee approval for the presented business plans. He also moved the meeting to a private session and concluded by inquiring about any other business. He subsequently signed the minutes as Chair.
Meetings in July 2025
Shareholder Committee - Thursday 17th July, 2025 10.00 am - 17 July 2025
Adam Hug chaired the Shareholder Committee meeting on July 17th, 2025. He began by welcoming members and offering apologies for Cllr Begum. He then guided the committee through the agenda, asking for approval of the minutes from the previous meeting. Hug welcomed presenters for several key reports, including Westminster Builds, Westminster Community Homes, and Westco, inviting them to introduce their respective business plans. He actively engaged with the reports by asking specific questions, such as about the RP status and implications of delays for Westminster Builds, and about Westminster Community Homes' engagement with the regulator. Hug consistently asked the Committee to approve the business plans presented for Westminster Builds, Westminster Community Homes, and Westco. He also initiated the move to a private session for Item 5 and concluded the meeting by asking if there was any other business. Adam Hug signed the minutes as Chair.
Cabinet - Monday 14th July, 2025 6.30 pm - 14 July 2025
As Chair of the Cabinet, Councillor Adam Hug acknowledged Councillor Sanquest's passion for the Beethoven Centre and its potential to address inequality and expand community space in North Paddington. He expressed gratitude to the team involved in identifying properties for bulk acquisition and spot purchases, noting the benefits of providing stability for families and managing council costs. Councillor Hug also highlighted the strategic advantage of the W2 property acquisition for temporary accommodation, stating that its location within Westminster would allow residents to maintain local connections while also delivering savings.
During June 2025, Adam Hug was active in multiple council meetings. As Chair of the Cabinet, he presided over a meeting on June 23rd, referencing his previous emphasis on accurate data regarding property ownership and STLs. On June 25th, in his role as Leader of the Council, Hug seconded a motion to appoint Nikki Akin as an honorary alderman, acknowledging her significant contributions. He also addressed the proposed changes to Oxford Street, stating that the council had engaged in active discussions with the Greater London Authority and the Mayor's team, and had robustly fought for Westminster's interests.
Hug confirmed multiple meetings with the Mayor and ongoing dialogue with his team, emphasizing that the council had taken legal advice and found no clear grounds for judicial review at present. He stated the council would look at the whole legal landscape and make sure that whatever is done is in compliance with the law,
and would not engage in speculative runs.
He acknowledged the Mayor's powers regarding Mayoral Development Corporations and confirmed the council's constructive engagement to safeguard residents' interests while respecting the Mayor's process. Hug also reiterated the Labour Party's commitment to representing the people of Westminster.
Meetings in June 2025
Council - Wednesday 25th June, 2025 7.00 pm - 25 June 2025
Adam Hug, as Leader of the Council, was present at the meeting. He seconded a motion to appoint Nikki Akin as an honorary alderman, expressing his respect for her and highlighting her significant contributions to Westminster. He also responded to a question about Oxford Street and discussions with the Mayor, stating he had met with the Mayor multiple times and was in active dialogue with the Mayor's team. Hug also commented on the lack of obvious grounds for a judicial review at present and emphasized the Labour Party's commitment to representing the people of Westminster.
Council - Wednesday 25th June, 2025 7.00 pm - 25 June 2025
As Leader of the Council, Adam Hug addressed the proposed changes to Oxford Street, stating that the council had engaged in active discussions with the Greater London Authority (GLA) and the Mayor's team, and had robustly fought for Westminster's interests.
He confirmed he had spoken with the Mayor on multiple occasions and was in ongoing dialogue with his team. Hug emphasized that the council had taken legal advice throughout the process and that there were currently no clear grounds for judicial review. He stated the council would look at the whole legal landscape and make sure that whatever is done is in compliance with the law,
and would not engage in speculative runs.
He acknowledged the Mayor's broad powers to create Mayoral Development Corporations (MDCs) and confirmed the council's constructive engagement to achieve the best outcome for Westminster, prioritizing safeguarding residents' interests while respecting the Mayor's process.
In addition, Adam Hug seconded the motion to confer the title of Honorary Alderman on Mrs Nickie Aiken and signed the Notice of Motion for this conferral.
Cabinet - Monday 23rd June, 2025 6.30 pm, NEW - 23 June 2025
Adam Hug, as Chair of the Cabinet, presided over the meeting on 23rd June 2025. His prior statement from the previous meeting (19th May 2025) emphasized the importance of gathering accurate data on property ownership, particularly in relation to STLs.
During May 2025, Adam Hug was active in two meetings. In the Council meeting on May 14th, he voted against an amendment and in favor of the Cabinet report's recommendations. As Chair of the Cabinet on May 19th, he thanked officers for their work on the Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy 2025-2030 and expressed gratitude to the Council team and Paddington Arts for ensuring the stability of a community institution.
Meetings in May 2025
Cabinet - Monday 19th May, 2025 6.30 pm - 19 May 2025
As Chair of the Cabinet, Adam Hug expressed gratitude to officers for their engagement with stakeholders and resident groups on the Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy 2025-2030. He also extended thanks to the Council team and Paddington Arts for securing long-term stability for a community institution.
Council - Wednesday 14th May, 2025 7.00 pm - 14 May 2025
During the Council meeting on 2025-05-14, Adam Hug was present and cast votes on several matters. He voted against an amendment proposed by Councillor Paul Swaddle and seconded by Councillor Alan Mendoza. Additionally, Adam Hug voted in favour of the recommendations presented in part 1 of the Cabinet report.
In March 2025, Adam Hug was active in three council meetings. As Leader of the Council, he delivered a comprehensive speech on the council's budget and vision for Westminster, emphasizing financial responsibility, safety, empowered communities, and opportunity. He announced a modest increase to council tax
and highlighted significant spending on homelessness, cost of living support, housing initiatives, and climate action. Hug also addressed public order concerns during a meeting, stating,
He also clarified procedures for deputations and external questions. Further investments were announced for tackling antisocial behaviour, including doubling CCTV cameras and establishing a new street-based intervention team. Hug also introduced Westminster's first nighttime strategy,
Excuse me, could you, could you, could you, could you quiet down please? Excuse me, to be, to be clear. Could you quiet down. This is not a meeting for petitions. Petitions do not come to full, full, budget full council. That is never the process for this council. I'll suspend the meeting.
Westminster After Dark.
As Chair of the Shareholder Committee, he guided the meeting, welcomed members, and sought approval for minutes and recommendations. As Chair of the Cabinet, he reiterated the council's commitment to efficiencies and city improvements, highlighting initiatives for adult care, tackling antisocial behaviour with a £1m investment, and improving housing services. He also acknowledged the Rent Support Fund and efforts to build new social homes, and introduced the WCC Pay Policy Statement 2025/26.
Meetings in March 2025
Cabinet - Monday 31st March, 2025 6.30 pm - 31 March 2025
As Chair of the Cabinet, Adam Hug chaired the meeting on Monday 17th February, 2025, noting virtual attendance from Councillors Barraclough, Jude, and Sanquest. He echoed Councillor Barraclough's remarks on the budget, emphasizing the Council's commitment to delivering efficiencies while pursuing progressive and ambitious city improvements, and a prudent approach to future risks.
Hug highlighted key initiatives including payments for adult care, doubling CCTV cameras, and increasing city inspectors to address anti-social behavior and the cost of living crisis with a £1m investment. He recognized the potential of Oxford Street for reallocating funding to maximize city-wide impact. He expressed appreciation for the team's rapid work on temporary accommodation units, which will reduce revenue budget costs and offer residents stability. Hug also thanked Sarah and her team for improvements in Housing Services as part of the Housing Improvement programme, noting progress in responsiveness despite sector-wide pressures. He acknowledged the significance of the Rent Support Fund for residents not receiving housing benefit and the efforts in Councillor Noble's portfolio to build new social homes. He pointed out that financial arrangements allow the Council to avoid absorbing upfront capital program costs and thanked officers for their work on this.
Finally, he introduced the agenda item concerning the WCC Pay Policy Statement 2025/26.
Shareholder Committee - Monday 24th March, 2025 11.00 am - 24 March 2025
As Chair of the Shareholder Committee, Adam Hug opened the meeting by welcoming members and requesting declarations of interest. He then guided the committee through the agenda, asking for approval of the minutes from the previous meeting and seeking agreement on recommendations presented on pages 8 and 16 of the report pack. Hug also extended welcomes to Setareh Neshati and Nick Haverly during the meeting and concluded by inquiring about any other business the members wished to raise.
Council - Wednesday 5th March, 2025 7.00 pm - 5 March 2025
As the Leader of the Council, Adam Hug delivered a comprehensive speech outlining the council's budget and vision for Westminster, framing it as a blueprint for a fairer Westminster.
He acknowledged changes in the Cabinet, welcoming Councillor Max Sullivan. Hug detailed the budget's balance between financial responsibility and ambition, focusing on safety, empowered communities, and opportunity, despite the cost of living crisis and constrained national funding. He announced a modest increase to council tax,
with a 2.2% rise for core services and an additional 2% for adult social care, noting this would result in the second-lowest council tax rate nationally. He highlighted significant spending on homelessness, including temporary accommodation and measures to reduce reliance on nightly bookings, alongside efficiency savings of £30 million and continued support schemes. Hug emphasized the administration's commitment to continuous improvement, citing positive Ofsted and CQC outcomes. He detailed investments in cost of living support, free school meals, housing initiatives, community infrastructure, creative industries, and climate action. During the meeting, he addressed public order concerns, stating:
Excuse me, could you, could you, could you, could you quiet down please? Excuse me, to be, to be clear. Could you quiet down. This is not a meeting for petitions. Petitions do not come to full, full, budget full council. That is never the process for this council. I'll suspend the meeting.
He also clarified the council's procedures for deputations and external questions:
And just to put on the record that as a full, as a budget full council, there is not an opportunity for deputations or, or external questions. But obviously those opportunities happen at, at future councils in response to, um, uh, compliance petitions and questions that is, that are approved by officers, not by members for, um, for this point.
Further investments were announced for tackling antisocial behaviour, including doubling CCTV cameras, a dedicated team, and a new street-based intervention team. Hug reiterated commitments to addressing the housing crisis with further funding for temporary accommodation and tackling rough sleeping. He also spoke about improving the private rented sector and increasing personal care assistance pay. He highlighted continued local investment in mental health services and support for families with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as initiatives for the voluntary community sector and economic growth. Hug introduced Westminster's first nighttime strategy, Westminster After Dark,
and reiterated commitments to climate leadership, including net-zero targets. He concluded by contrasting the Labour council's investments with the Conservative party's perceived lack of new ideas. In voting, Adam Hug voted against an amendment to Cabinet report recommendations and for the unamended recommendations in part 1 of the Cabinet report.
In February 2025, Adam Hug chaired the Cabinet meeting on February 17th. He facilitated the introduction of several agenda items by other councillors, including reports on Safeguarding Adults, the Housing Allocation Scheme, Fees and Charges, Council Tax Discounts, and Capital Budget changes. Hug also introduced a discussion on Temporary Accommodation Acquisitions, noting its private nature. During the Council Tax Discounts discussion, he sought clarification on the reclassification of homes as primary residences and measures to prevent system gaming. He also acknowledged the team's efforts on the Housing Allocation Scheme.
Meetings in February 2025
Cabinet - Monday 17th February, 2025 6.30 pm - 17 February 2025
As Chair of the Cabinet meeting on 2025-02-17, Adam Hug presided over the proceedings. He invited various councillors to introduce agenda items, including Councillor Butler-Thalassis for the Safeguarding Adults Executive Board Annual Report, Councillor Begum for the Housing Allocation Scheme report, and Councillor Boothroyd for the Fees and Charges Review, Council Tax Discounts and Council Tax Base Report, and Capital Budget Re-profiling & Budget Changes 2024/25. Hug also introduced the Temporary Accommodation Acquisitions item, noting its exempt appendix, and advised that the meeting would move to a private session for its discussion. During the Council Tax Discounts and Council Tax Base Report discussion, he inquired about the reclassification of homes as primary residences and how the system would prevent gaming. He also expressed his thanks to the team for their work on the Housing Allocation Scheme.
During January 2025, Councillor Adam Hug, in his capacity as Leader of the Council and Chair of the Shareholder Committee, presided over the Shareholder Committee meeting on January 29th. He opened the meeting, welcomed attendees, and facilitated the approval of previous minutes. Councillor Hug actively engaged by posing questions about the auditing process and timelines for Registered Provider status. He also guided the committee through the approval of recommendations for the Church Street Joint Venture Business Plan and the appointment of directors to a subsidiary, before concluding the open session.
Meetings in January 2025
Shareholder Committee - Wednesday 29th January, 2025 12.00 pm - 29 January 2025
Councillor Adam Hug, as Leader of the Council and Chair of the Shareholder Committee, opened the meeting by welcoming members and requesting declarations of interest. He then asked for the approval of the previous meeting's minutes. Throughout the meeting, he welcomed various attendees, including Setareh Neshati, Nick Haverly, Neil Tryner, Mark Davies, Elizabeth Robert-Mills, James Green, Zohaib Nizami, Georgina Nash, Ian Farrow, Christos Pishias, and Lindsay Gamble. Councillor Hug also posed questions regarding issues with the auditing process and the timelines for Registered Provider status. He sought the committee's approval for recommendations concerning the Church Street Joint Venture Business Plan and the appointment of directors to a subsidiary. Finally, he inquired if there was any other business to raise before adjourning the meeting and bringing it into a closed session.
Council - Wednesday 22nd January, 2025 7.00 pm - 22 January 2025
Adam Hug was present at the Council meeting on January 22nd, 2025, but the minutes do not record him speaking or taking any specific action.
Throughout 2024, Adam Hug demonstrated significant leadership as Chair of the Cabinet and the Shareholder Committee, and as Leader of the Council. His activities spanned a range of responsibilities, from administrative duties like opening meetings and confirming minutes to strategic discussions on housing, finance, and council services. A key focus for Hug was the development and improvement of council housing initiatives, including the Westminster Builds
program and the Temporary Acquisitions programme,
with an emphasis on delivering more homes and enhancing inherited projects. He also actively engaged in financial oversight of council-owned entities like Westminster Community Homes and Westco, probing operational efficiencies and financial projections. Hug consistently championed the needs of residents, particularly concerning housing affordability and support for pensioners, advocating for measures like a local awareness campaign for Pension Credit and opposing the means-testing of Winter Fuel Payments. He also addressed broader policy issues, including working with TfL on pedicab licensing and expressing concerns about the Mayor's takeover of the Oxford Street project. His leadership involved welcoming new councillors, thanking outgoing members, and ensuring clear communication regarding council processes, such as the WESTMINSTER NEIGHBOURHOOD CIL (NCIL) – HIGH-VALUE ALLOCATIONS
item.
Monthly Activity in 2024
During the December 16th Cabinet meeting, Adam Hug, as Chair, welcomed attendees and noted the meeting would be livestreamed with a recording available. He also highlighted the need for improved clarity regarding the process for ward members in relation to the WESTMINSTER NEIGHBOURHOOD CIL (NCIL) – HIGH-VALUE ALLOCATIONS
item, stating this should be addressed in the future.
Meetings in December 2024
Cabinet - Monday 16th December, 2024 6.30 pm - 16 December 2024
As Chair of the Cabinet, Adam Hug welcomed attendees to the meeting and informed them that it would be livestreamed with a recording available online. He also stated that no apologies for absence were received. During the discussion of the WESTMINSTER NEIGHBOURHOOD CIL (NCIL) – HIGH-VALUE ALLOCATIONS
item, Councillor Hug highlighted the need for greater clarity on the process for ward members, stating that this should be addressed in the future.
In November 2024, Councillor Adam Hug was active in a council meeting on November 13th. He moved an amendment to a motion regarding the Winter Fuel Allowance and Protecting Pensioners from Fuel Poverty.
His amendment specifically addressed the Labour Government's decision to means-test Winter Fuel Payments, highlighting its potential impact on Westminster pensioners. The amendment also proposed further council actions, including a local awareness campaign for Pension Credit and a letter to the Chancellor of the Exchequer. This amendment was carried, and subsequently, the amended motion was also passed.
Meetings in November 2024
Council - Wednesday 13th November, 2024 7.00 pm - 13 November 2024
Councillor Adam Hug played a key role in the council meeting by moving an amendment to a notice of motion concerning Winter Fuel Allowance and Protecting Pensioners from Fuel Poverty.
His amendment aimed to address the Labour Government's decision to means-test Winter Fuel Payments, which he noted could impact a significant number of pensioners in Westminster. The amendment also highlighted the council's existing initiatives to support older residents and protect them from fuel poverty, and proposed further actions such as a local awareness campaign for Pension Credit and a letter to the Chancellor of the Exchequer urging a review of the policy. The amendment was seconded by Councillor Nafsika Butler-Thalassis, and after being put to a vote, it was carried. Subsequently, the amended motion was also carried.
In October 2024, Adam Hug chaired the Appointments Sub-Committee meeting on October 4th. As Chair of the Cabinet on October 21st, he opened the meeting, welcomed Councillor Sanquest back from maternity leave, and announced a transfer of responsibility for the North Paddington programme. Councillor Hug also voiced support for the Housing Solutions Service reshaping proposal, emphasizing the council's commitment to insourcing, and explained the postponement of the Neighbourhood CIL High Value Allocations item to gather more feedback.
Meetings in October 2024
Cabinet - Monday 21st October, 2024 6.30 pm - 21 October 2024
As Chair of the Cabinet, Adam Hug opened the meeting, noting it would be livestreamed and welcoming Councillor Sanquest back from maternity leave. He announced that responsibility for the North Paddington programme would transfer from Councillor Barraclough to Councillor Sanquest following the meeting. Councillor Hug expressed support for the Housing Solutions Service reshaping proposal, stating it signals the council's commitment to insourcing services when appropriate. He also explained that the Neighbourhood CIL High Value Allocations item was postponed to allow for further community and Ward Councillor feedback.
Appointments Sub-Committee - Friday 4th October, 2024 10.00 am - 4 October 2024
Adam Hug chaired the Appointments Sub-Committee meeting on Friday 4th October, 2024.
In September 2024, as Leader of the Council, Adam Hug addressed several key issues. He emphasized the council's urgency in working with TfL for pedicab licensing regulation and agreed to draft a joint letter to Sadiq Khan to maintain pressure. Regarding the Oxford Street project, he explained the council's concerns about the Mayor's takeover and their pragmatic approach to safeguarding residents and businesses. Hug highlighted the council's progress on new housing schemes, including the Lissen Grove site and the Church Street CPO, stating they have enhanced the inherited program and are delivering more homes. He expressed pride in maintaining low council tax and assured that the council would explore local actions to protect those on the lowest incomes. Hug also moved an amendment to a motion concerning the Winter Fuel Allowance and Protecting Pensioners from Fuel Poverty,
proposing council actions to support eligible pensioners and urging a review of the government's decision to means-test Winter Fuel Payments. Finally, he moved a Vote of Thanks to Councillor Patricia McAllister and her Consorts.
Meetings in September 2024
Council - Wednesday 18th September, 2024 7.00 pm - 18 September 2024
As Leader of the Council, Adam Hug addressed several key issues during the meeting. He responded to questions regarding pedicab licensing, emphasizing the council's urgency in working with TfL for regulation implementation and agreeing to draft a joint letter to Sadiq Khan to maintain pressure. On the Oxford Street project, he explained the council's recent discovery of the Mayor's takeover and their expressed concerns to the Deputy Prime Minister and Mayor of London, while stating the council's pragmatic approach to safeguarding residents and businesses.
Hug also discussed new housing schemes, highlighting the council's efforts to expand the housing pipeline for council and intermediate homes, mentioning progress on the Lissen Grove site and the conclusion of the CPO process for Church Street. He defended the council's record, stating they have enhanced the inherited program and are delivering more homes.
Regarding council tax and fiscal challenges, Hug expressed pride in maintaining low council tax and the plan to continue doing so, while assuring that the council would explore local actions to protect those on the lowest incomes. He also moved an amendment to a notice of motion concerning the Winter Fuel Allowance and Protecting Pensioners from Fuel Poverty,
which included several points noting the impact of the government's decision to means-test Winter Fuel Payments and proposing council actions to support eligible pensioners and urge a review of the policy. Additionally, Hug moved a Vote of Thanks to Councillor Patricia McAllister and her Consorts.
In July 2024, Adam Hug was active in two council meetings. As Chair of the Cabinet meeting on July 15th, he welcomed attendees, confirmed previous minutes with an amendment, and introduced an item concerning a positive investment for Church Street. Later, as Chair of the Shareholder Committee on July 22nd, he opened the meeting, approved minutes, and facilitated presentations on Westminster Builds,
Westminster Community Homes,
and Westco.
Hug actively engaged in discussions by asking clarifying questions on various aspects of their operations, including profit utilization, retrofit levels, company relationships, director appointments, shared ownership, tenant standards, market niches, tenure suitability, build-to-rent opportunities, overhead costs, and client retention. He guided the committee through the approval of recommendations and business plans for each entity.
Meetings in July 2024
Shareholder Committee - Monday 22nd July, 2024 11.00 am - 22 July 2024
Adam Hug, as Chair of the Shareholder Committee, opened the meeting, welcomed attendees, and facilitated the approval of previous minutes. He introduced various individuals to present updates and business plans for Westminster Builds,
Westminster Community Homes,
and Westco.
Throughout the meeting, Hug actively engaged by asking clarifying questions on profit utilization, retrofit levels, company relationships, director appointments, shared ownership, tenant standards, identifying market niches, tenure suitability, build-to-rent opportunities, overhead cost calculations, and client retention strategies. He guided the committee through the approval of recommendations and business plans for each entity before closing the public session and moving to a private one.
Cabinet - Monday 15th July, 2024 6.30 pm, NEW - 15 July 2024
Adam Hug chaired the Cabinet meeting on July 15, 2024. He welcomed attendees to the meeting, noting it would be livestreamed. He also confirmed the minutes of the previous meeting (February 19, 2024) as a true and accurate record, with a minor amendment. Hug introduced an item by inviting Councillor Noble and Debbie Jackson to speak. He commented on the importance of bringing a decision forward, highlighting the positive investment it would bring to Church Street.
During May 2024, Adam Hug chaired the Appointments Sub-Committee meeting on May 20th. No specific statements or actions by him were recorded in the provided documents.
Meetings in May 2024
Appointments Sub-Committee - Monday 20th May, 2024 9.30 am - 20 May 2024
Adam Hug chaired the Appointments Sub-Committee meeting on May 20th, 2024. No specific statements or actions by him were recorded in the provided documents.
During the March 26, 2024, Shareholder Committee meeting, Adam Hug, in his capacity as Chair, welcomed attendees and confirmed committee membership. He then focused on inquiries regarding the financial and operational aspects of Westminster Community Homes, Westminster Builds, and Westco. His questions for Westminster Community Homes centered on the source of operating surpluses, increased repair demand (requesting pre-pandemic data for comparison), and the timing of shared ownership lease agreements relative to inflation. For Westminster Builds, he probed the strategic shift, niche identification, unique offerings, and suitable tenure types. Regarding Westco, Hug sought information on new business duration, cost reduction strategies, confidence in future financial projections, overheads calculation clarity, and client retention strategies. He also directed the committee to note the reports for each entity and stressed the importance of addressing increased repair demand and aligning repair timelines with council officers.
Meetings in March 2024
Shareholder Committee - Tuesday 26th March, 2024 2.00 pm - 26 March 2024
As Chair of the Shareholder Committee, Adam Hug welcomed attendees to the meeting on March 26, 2024, and confirmed the presence of all committee members, noting the absence of apologies or declarations of interest. He also confirmed that Councillor Tim Roca is no longer a member of the committee and expressed thanks to Jake Bacchus.
During the meeting, Hug addressed several key areas:
Regarding Westminster Community Homes, he inquired about the source of the operating surplus and the reasons behind the increased demand for repairs, asking for pre-pandemic data to compare demand levels. He also questioned the timing of shared ownership lease agreements in relation to inflation and asked about Westminster Community Homes' capacity to improve standards for existing tenants.
Concerning Westminster Builds, Hug noted a strategic shift in its operations and asked about the work done to identify particular niches, the unique offerings of the Westminster Builds model compared to others, and the tenure types best suited to its structure.
For Westco, Hug asked about the duration of new business, how the company is reducing costs, and when they would be confident in providing projections for the next financial year. He also questioned the overheads calculation, specifically if it included costs like building use, and noted that this saving should be more clearly understood. Additionally, he inquired about Westco's strategies for turning short-term clients into longer-term ones.
Throughout the discussions, Hug asked the committee to note the respective reports for Westminster Builds, Westminster Community Homes, and Westco. He also highlighted the need to address the increased repair demand with council officers and emphasized the necessity of aligning repair timelines.
As Chair of the Cabinet, Adam Hug opened the meeting on February 19th, 2024, welcoming attendees and noting the livestream and online recording. He confirmed the previous meeting's minutes and thanked officers for their work on a balanced budget, acknowledging challenges with temporary accommodation and the private rented sector, and emphasizing the need to expedite the Temporary Acquisitions programme. Hug invited councillors to present reports, congratulated Cllr Butler-Thalassis on her election as Deputy Leader, and welcomed Cllr Ryan Jude to his first Cabinet meeting. He also thanked Cllr Tim Roca for his service and highlighted the importance of stakeholder engagement for the Future of Regent Street and Haymarket report.
Meetings in February 2024
Cabinet - Monday 19th February, 2024 6.30 pm - 19 February 2024
As Chair of the Cabinet, Adam Hug opened the meeting, welcoming attendees and informing them that it would be livestreamed with a recording available online. He confirmed the minutes of the previous meeting (held on 29 January 2024) as a true and correct record.
During discussions, Hug thanked officers for their work on a balanced budget amidst challenging times, specifically mentioning the difficulties with temporary accommodation and the private rented sector, and confirmed a plan was in place to address these. He also emphasized the importance of expediting the Temporary Acquisitions programme.
Hug invited other councillors to present specific reports, including Cllr Butler-Thalassis for the Safeguarding Executive Board Annual Report and Cllr Boothroyd for the Capital Budget Re-profiling & Budget Changes 2023/24 report. He congratulated Cllr Butler-Thalassis on her recent election as Deputy Leader.
Regarding the Future of Regent Street and Haymarket report, Hug thanked the team and highlighted the necessity of greater stakeholder positivity and engagement for the plans to progress. He also welcomed Cllr Ryan Jude to his first Cabinet meeting and thanked Cllr Tim Roca for his service as Cabinet Member.
Activity Timeline
Meetings Attended Note this may include planned future meetings.
41 meetings · Page 3 of 9
Cabinet - Monday 14th July, 2025 6.30 pm
The Cabinet of Westminster City Council is scheduled to meet on 14 July 2025 to discuss several key items, including the Fairer Westminster Strategy, the council's financial performance, property acquisitions for temporary accommodation, a leisure contract extension, and the redevelopment of Huguenot House. The meeting will cover a range of strategic and financial decisions impacting the City of Westminster.
Council - Wednesday 25th June, 2025 7.00 pm
The Westminster City Council meeting included a tribute to former Councillor Nikki Aiken, presentations from the public, questions to the cabinet, and debates on housing and private renters. Councillors voted to approve constitutional changes and amend the members' allowance scheme.
Council - Wednesday 25th June, 2025 7.00 pm
At a meeting of Westminster Council, Councillor Nickie Aiken was made an Honorary Alderman, and councillors debated a range of issues including school mergers, service charge increases, adult social care funding, cycle route safety, and housing priorities. Councillors also approved constitutional changes and an amendment to member allowances for 2025-2026.
Cabinet - Monday 23rd June, 2025 6.30 pm, NEW
Here is a summary of the key items scheduled for discussion at the Westminster Council Cabinet meeting on 23 June 2025. The Cabinet will be considering the acquisition of the Beethoven Centre, as well as the acquisition of several properties for use as temporary accommodation. Also included in the agenda is the approval of the minutes from the previous meeting.
Cabinet - Monday 19th May, 2025 6.30 pm
Here is a summary of the scheduled Cabinet meeting for the City of Westminster Council on 19 May 2025. The Cabinet is scheduled to discuss the introduction of a private rented sector licensing scheme, allocate funding from the Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) to local projects, and consider the medium-term financial plan. These items are on the agenda for discussion, but it is not yet known whether any decisions will be made.
Decisions from Meetings
27 decisions · Page 1 of 6
Westminster After Dark Strategy 2025-2040
From: Cabinet - Monday 17th November, 2025 6.30 pm - November 17, 2025
...to approve the Westminster After Dark Strategy 2025-2040 and its accompanying Implementation Plan, aimed at improving night-time life in Westminster.
Recommendations Approved
North Paddington Serious Violence Taskforce - Council Response to Recommendations
From: Cabinet - Monday 17th November, 2025 6.30 pm - November 17, 2025
...to approve the Council's response to the North Paddington Serious Violence Taskforce recommendations, allocate initial funding of £150,000 for implementation, and delegate authority for further spending up to £100,000 to the Cabinet Member for Communities.
Recommendations Approved
Future Service Delivery - Repairs, Maintenance and Major Works
From: Cabinet - Monday 17th November, 2025 6.30 pm - November 17, 2025
...the Cabinet approved the establishment of a Strategic Alliance underpinned by the Framework Alliance Contract (FAC-1) for repairs, maintenance, and major works on Council homes, delegating authority to the Executive Director of Housing & Commercial Partnerships to implement the alliance and approve procurement strategies.
For Determination
Procurement Strategy - Waste Contract
From: Cabinet - Monday 17th November, 2025 6.30 pm - November 17, 2025
...the procurement strategy for awarding a new contract for Waste and Recycling Collections, Street Cleansing, and Winter Maintenance, commencing on 16 September 2027, was approved.
Recommendations Approved
Report to Full Council: Constitutional Update - London Squares Preservation Act 1931
From: Council - Wednesday 12th November, 2025 7.00 pm - November 12, 2025
Recommendations Approved
Summary
Meetings Attended: 41
Average per Month: 1.7
Decisions Recorded: 27