Councillor Ben Curtis

Licensing Sub-Committee - Tuesday 25 March 2025 7.00 pm

The Licensing Sub-Committee convened to discuss three applications for premises licence variations. The committee approved the variation for Estrella Bar Tapas Restaurant and Rittos, with additional conditions for Rittos. The Hope and Anchor's application was also granted, with encouragement for the applicant to engage with residents.

Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 11 March 2025 7.00 pm

The meeting discussed and agreed to recommendations on three key issues: a review of library services; how the Council supports cultural and performing arts; and the night-time economy in the borough. There was concern that plans to cut £1 million from the libraries' revenue budget would affect staffing, the range of books available and opening hours. In relation to the Council's support for culture and performing arts, the Committee recommended that it should do more to promote the borough's cultural provision, especially to raise the profile of grassroots organisations. Finally, the Committee recommended that the Council do more to increase the police presence and develop security partnerships to address safety concerns in key night-life areas and on public transport at night.

Budget Council, Council - Wednesday 5 March 2025 7.00 pm

The meeting approved the Revenue and Capital Budget 2025/26, the External Auditor Recommendations and the Pay Policy Statement 2025/26. Both the Green and Liberal Democrat groups presented alternative budgets that were not carried.

Council - Wednesday 22 January 2025 7.00 pm

The meeting began with tributes to past Councillors Rob Hill and Burt Williams, who had recently died. Councillors then heard deputations from residents on the condition of Palace Road Nature Garden, the need for cycle hangers suitable for cargo bikes, and poor housing conditions and repairs on the Tulse Hill Estate.

Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 21 January 2025 7.00 pm

The meeting considered two reports, one on the council's employment, skills and training programmes and another on the future of 'Key Guarantees' that were made to residents living on estates that are due to be, or may be, redeveloped. The committee agreed to note both reports, as well as agree a number of recommendations relating to both topics.