Councillor Ben Curtis

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.

Licensing Sub-Committee - Thursday 12 December 2024 1.00 pm

The Licensing Sub-Committee met to consider two applications. The first was for a new premises license for an off-license at 47 Waterloo Station, submitted by Gardshol Enterprises Limited. The committee determined that the application should be granted with additional conditions, including that all alcohol be kept in secure storage and only sold alongside food between 7am and 11am. The second application was a review of an existing premises license for Mosquito Bar at 5 Clapham High Street. After extensive discussion, the committee deferred its decision for five working days.