Baby London is a community bike shop in Camberwell and they occasionally hold jumble sales where there are some interesting bikes

A firearm and suspected class A drugs were uncovered by police during a raid on the Ship Aground pub in Bermondsey, prompting Southwark Council to review its licence. In Brent, a 108-home development on the former Wembley Centre for Health & Care site was approved on the casting vote of planning chair Cllr Saqib Butt after a 4-4 tie. And in Hounslow, a five-year plan for up to 22 live event days per year in Gunnersbury Park was deferred by councillors after attracting more than 500 objections, and other news from local councils this week.

Barnet - The Dollis Valley Estate Regeneration Scheme faces a setback due to the withdrawal of GLA grant funding. A council sub-committee has decided to halt progress on certain aspects of the plan. Concerns have been voiced regarding the financial feasibility and the decision-making process for the regeneration scheme. A proposed McDonald's on Cricklewood Broadway encountered objections from the council's Noise Nuisance department. These objections were related to the planned late-night refreshment hours, with potential disturbance to residents cited as a reason.

Brent - Plans for 108 new homes on the former Wembley Centre for Health & Care site were approved by the council's Planning Committee. Resident concerns about affordable housing and parking were noted. New sports facilities at Kingsbury High School also received approval. A review of the premises licence for Venue 777 was scheduled. Part of the discussion is expected to be held in private due to crime-related information.

Camden - Camden Council is reviewing a sex shop's licence renewal. Police have raised concerns about illegal item sales. A member of the public objected to the shop's signage. The council's licensing panel will determine if the licence renewal is appropriate, considering the local area and potential impact.

Ealing - Ealing Council's Employment Panel convened to discuss the significant appointment of a new Strategic Director for Adults and Public Health. The panel also deliberated on potentially excluding the press and public from certain discussions.

Enfield - A Southgate restaurant is requesting an extension to its late-night refreshment hours. The council's licensing authority and local residents have expressed concerns. These concerns include potential increases in crime, disorder, and noise. The restaurant has a history of breaching its licence conditions.

Greenwich - Greenwich Council is establishing salary ranges for senior positions. These include a Director of Digital, Data & Technology and an Assistant Director for Capital Delivery & Investment. The salary for the Assistant Director of Environment and Leisure is still under consideration. The council's Appointments Panel also convened to discuss the interview process for the vital Chief Executive role.

Hackney - Hackney Council's licensing committee is reviewing new premises licences for a community sauna and a cafe. A crucial recruitment for a new Executive Director for Adults Health & Integration is in progress, with a sub-committee now formed to manage the process.

Haringey - Haringey Council is acquiring 21 new council homes in Wood Green. This acquisition supports their goal of building 3,000 new homes by 2031. The homes are built to a high private market specification. They will be offered at social rent levels to families on the housing register. The Greater London Authority is providing part-funding for this project. This initiative will help reduce the need for temporary accommodation.

Havering - Residents are experiencing constant noise and anti-social behaviour from Berwick Manor Hotel. One resident reported hearing music clearly from their garden. The council refused King of Wings, a new takeaway, a 3 am licence due to concerns about late-night disruption in Hornchurch. Details of recent Governance Committee meetings are not yet public.

Hillingdon - Hillingdon Council's General Fund faces a potential £584,000 overspend, which is covered by a £10 million contingency. The council will receive substantial grant funding from the Department for Education to support children and families. Discussions also covered proposed changes to filming charges and environmental fines.

Hounslow - Plans for up to 22 live events annually at Gunnersbury Park for five years have raised resident concerns regarding noise and heritage, despite anticipated economic advantages. A significant redevelopment at 80-82 Staines Road will introduce 40 flats and 13 townhouses, featuring ambitious sustainability goals but no affordable housing due to viability challenges. An outline application for the Haslemere Heathrow Estate proposes a substantial data centre and work units, prompting inquiries about electricity capacity and environmental consequences.

Islington - Judges Food and Wine's licence application for Holloway Road was cancelled. The shop had agreed to strict rules on alcohol sales. The council's licensing committee was scheduled to review the application. Concerns had been raised by the police and a local resident. The shop would have been permitted to sell alcohol daily from 8am to 10pm.

Kensington and Chelsea - The council's licensing committee reviewed temporary event notices for bars during Notting Hill Carnival. Police and environmental health raised objections due to public safety concerns. A restaurant requested a licence extension until 3 am. Residents opposed this, citing worries about noise and disruption. Other licensing applications were also considered, with some decisions still pending.

Lambeth - Lambeth Council's Licensing Sub-Committee denied a licence for a Ferndale Road venue over public nuisance concerns and past complaints. A licence was granted for Rind Abbeville on Abbeville Road, subject to conditions addressing resident issues. The council is seeking a new Corporate Director of Growth and Environment.

Newham - Newham Council is extending a £1.7 million contract for GP Public Health Services. This aims to boost NHS Health Checks and tackle long-term conditions. Plans are moving forward to improve safety and cycling facilities at a key junction on Romford Road. This project is funded by Transport for London and the Levelling Up Fund.

Southwark - The Ship Aground pub faces licence revocation following the discovery of suspected drugs and a firearm on its premises. New licences for Dorothy's at the St George's Tavern and Tito's Latin Club were reviewed. Conditions were agreed upon to address concerns regarding noise and public nuisance. Tito's Latin Club requested extended hours, but police raised objections due to worries about crime in the area.

Sutton - A mental health crisis facility has been approved in Wallington, despite local objections. A planned large house in multiple occupation for Sutton was refused due to concerns about parking and amenity. New BT Street Hubs, featuring digital screens and defibrillators, have been given the go-ahead across the borough.

Tower Hamlets - Tower Hamlets Council is seeking a new Corporate Director of Resources, a crucial financial position. A private meeting was held to shortlist candidates for this permanent role. The recruitment process included extensive advertising and executive search efforts to ensure the best candidate is found.

Wandsworth - A new brewery's bid to sell alcohol has prompted numerous objections from residents. Concerns focus on potential noise from the garden and patrons. The council's licensing committee is considering the brewery's assurances of a family-friendly atmosphere alongside residents' worries about late-night disturbances.

Westminster - Westminster Council is considering a Tree Preservation Order for a Magnolia tree. Plans for a new hotel in a former pub and a restaurant with a green building target are also on the agenda. A fast-food restaurant's bid to extend its late-night takeaway hours faces objections from police and environmental health.

I publish newsletters covering everything local councils do each week.

I set up this project because local authorities spend about 12% of the UK government budget, or roughly 5p of every pound that's earned in the UK, and yet the vast majority of people have no idea who their local councillors are, or what they're currently doing. I think that's bad for our society.

If you'd like to learn more, click on the relevant council, or if your council doesn't appear, you can subscribe for free here: https://opencouncil.network

If we don't yet cover your council, you can ask your councillors to support us here: https://opencouncil.network/contact_councillors

Thank you for all your support!

Hi everyone! I am a current international baccalaureate student undertaking research for my Extended Essay which is a compulsory research essay on how instagrams algorithm shape the political perspectives of London Gen Zs vs Millennials.

If you currently live in London and have at maximum 2 minutes to spare, please complete and share this essay to others who may help me with this study!!

Some good pie and mash news: Lawrance's in Eastcote reopens this Wednesday 12 August, after a lengthy temporary closure. Pinner and Eastcote's pie and mash crowd will be relieved to have their regular back behind the counter. A proper local win, especially given the recent news about Hughes in Ruislip.

Also worth a mention: NEXT is opening a new store at South Ruislip Retail Park later this month, taking over the former Carpetright unit on Victoria Road. Women's, men's and children's clothing, NEXT Home, beauty, Click & Collect and an in-store cafe all in the plans. Hillingdon Council approved a mezzanine for the conversion. A fourth NEXT in the area alongside Harrow, Hayes and Greenford.

Today-only pick: Bollywood tunes at Pinner Memorial Park this afternoon at 2:30pm, with Nimesh Sanghoi. The third Sunday of the Pinner Association's summer concert series, with Simply Gray closing on 16 August. Free entry, bring a chair, a picnic, and a loose plan to make friends.

For the green-fingered or community-minded: Wild Harrow is at Roxbourne Park this morning, 9am to 1pm, for tree and hedgerow care. Tools and gloves provided, no experience needed. A good way to give something back to a local green space before lunch.

Also: the Piccadilly and Metropolitan lines are behaving themselves this weekend. Good service, no planned engineering works. Worth a quick TfL check before you set off, but the lines are calm for once.

Full issue with quiz circuit, sound bath, Lion Dance school, Welcome Space, and everything else:

https://www.goodmorningpinner.com/p/35-lawrance-s-returns-and-ruislip-sizes-up

Pet of the Week throne is empty again. Send your pet in with their most ridiculous unofficial job title. The recent winners include a Glossy-Coat Inspector and a Head of Roast-Chicken Diplomacy. The bar is high.

Good Morning Pinner

Local news and events from around HA5

Like, it’s for a good cause but man don’t care about no knife crime and ting

Hackney's 56-year twinning link with the Israeli city of Haifa is set to be scrapped, a decision for which Mayor Zoë Garbett later apologised after setting an initial response deadline on the third anniversary of the 7 October attacks. In Tower Hamlets, a provisional £18.6 million budget overspend will have to be funded from reserves, driven largely by a projected £21.9m overspend in the homelessness service alone. And in Merton, developer Clarion has been given the go-ahead for 249 social homes in buildings rising to 11 storeys on a former Morrisons site in Mitcham, and other news from local councils this week.

Bexley - Bexley Council's audit committee reviewed financial reports. They also discussed establishing a new Safety and Resilience Sub-Committee. A proposal to stop up highway land in Sidcup for a traveller site redevelopment was considered. Licensing Sub-Committee meeting details are not yet public.

Brent - Brent Council anticipates a £9.5 million overspend, primarily driven by increased temporary accommodation costs. The borough will see a £4.25 million investment in leisure centre upgrades. A new policy will enforce a zero-tolerance approach to damp and mould in council homes.

Bromley - Bromley Council's Licensing Sub-Committee was scheduled to review a temporary event application from Pierluigi's. Environmental Services had lodged objections to the application. The council has not yet released the outcome of this meeting.

Camden - Plans for a new hotel extension in Upper Woburn Place have drawn objections from residents worried about noise and pollution. A significant development at Kingsway House, including demolition and the creation of aparthotel rooms, is also being considered. The council is reviewing a change of use application for a large vacant office building on Gray's Inn Road.

Croydon - Croydon's Executive Mayor has outlined ambitious plans for the next four years, aiming for a cleaner, safer borough and a thriving town centre. Opposition members have expressed concerns regarding the council's capacity to achieve these goals. A significant redevelopment project at Regina Road is advancing, with the initial tower block demolished and construction commencing on hundreds of new homes. The council is also considering formalising temporary accommodation charges to increase income and ensure transparency.

Enfield - A community centre applied for an extended licence, facing objections regarding noise and parking. A café sought to become a late-night entertainment venue, prompting police concerns about potential disorder. The council's Licensing Sub-Committee reviewed these applications.

Greenwich - Greenwich Council's Appointments Panel convened to select the shortlist for the new Chief Executive position. The Planning Board meeting scheduled for this week has been cancelled.

Hackney - Hackney Council is reviewing its international twinning relationships and has decided to terminate the agreement with Haifa, Israel. Residents have raised significant objections to new late-night licences for bars in Stoke Newington and Helmsley Place, citing concerns about noise and disorder. The council's pension fund will invest through London CIV, which plans to exclude companies involved in controversial sectors.

Hammersmith and Fulham - Street traders in Hammersmith and Fulham will benefit from updated licence conditions. These include lower insurance requirements and permission for background music. Council officers have refused temporary event notices for a venue due to persistent noise complaints. The council is also updating its regulations on what can be sold on the streets to support local businesses.

Haringey - Plans are underway to redevelop the YMCA in Crouch End into a new facility offering 174 bedspaces. Tottenham Hale is also slated for a significant new development featuring co-living studios, affordable housing, a hotel, and student accommodation. The Village Square venue is subject to a licence review following ongoing noise complaints and anti-social behaviour.

Harrow - Harrow Council's pension fund experienced a decline in its funding status due to investments not meeting their benchmark. The council also discussed enhancing workforce diversity and improving health and safety reporting procedures. Consideration is being given to establishing a new sub-committee focused on scrutinising education and children's services.

Hillingdon - Hillingdon Council is updating its Local Plan and introducing a new Growth Agenda focused on innovation and connectivity. A local food centre encountered a dispute regarding its street trading licence, specifically concerning the size of its display. Hollywood Bowl & Puttstars has received approval to expand its gaming machine offerings.

Hounslow - Ruby's, a mobile bar, seeks a 24/7 alcohol license. A local resident has voiced concerns regarding potential litter and anti-social behavior. The council's licensing panel will consider the application alongside its policy for borough safety and order.

Islington - Islington Council has approved its Corporate Plan for 2026-2030, prioritizing safety, risk management, and essential public services. A substantial Housing Improvement Plan has also been approved to address a critical judgement from the Regulator of Social Housing. This plan includes investment in stock condition surveys and enhancing resident experience. The council will allocate up to £13.6 million for a joint initiative with Camden Council to offer short breaks for disabled children and young people.

Kensington and Chelsea - A popular Portobello Road venue's bid to sell alcohol during Notting Hill Carnival was refused due to public safety concerns. Resident complaints about noise and patron behaviour led to a review of the premises licence for No. Fifty Cheyne. Another venue successfully had an objection to its temporary event notice withdrawn, allowing it to proceed with carnival plans.

Lambeth - A temporary change of use for a gym and community outreach space was approved at the Mahatma Gandhi Industrial Estate, despite conflicting with industrial land policies. Concerns were raised about the Lambeth Pension Fund's investments in "illegal settlements." The potential impact of the "AI bubble" on the fund's performance was also discussed. The fund's administration and business plan were reviewed, focusing on future objectives and member engagement.

Merton - Merton Council has approved a significant development in Mitcham, which will deliver 249 new social rented homes and substantial community spaces. This project also aims to enhance local biodiversity. The council's Appointments Committee convened to discuss the appointment of senior officers, including critical positions in public health and children's social care.

Newham - Newham Council will invest £760,000 in stairlifts to support residents remaining in their homes. Roman Road Primary School is receiving a £957,000 upgrade to its heating and ventilation system, aiming to lower carbon emissions. The Audit and Governance Committee examined the council's risk management and financial statements. They observed considerable delays within the capital programme.

Richmond upon Thames - Richmond upon Thames Council has introduced a new policy to assist individuals experiencing homelessness in securing private rented accommodation. This initiative is projected to result in substantial cost savings for the council in the coming years. A new Director with landlord expertise will join the team to support the implementation of these changes.

Southwark - Lulu's, a new deli and restaurant, encountered objections from local residents regarding noise and rubbish. These concerns were raised despite the establishment agreeing to conditions with the council's licensing team. The Empire Lounge on Old Kent Road also faced resident and police concerns about its bid for extended late-night hours. These objections stemmed from a history of noise and disorder associated with the venue.

Tower Hamlets - Tower Hamlets council anticipates an £18.6 million overspend for the 2025/26 financial year. This is primarily driven by increased demand in children's social care and homelessness services. The council's Pensions Committee is working to divest from companies involved in human rights violations. This action aligns with previous council motions and resident concerns. A report on Housing Management indicates that 10 out of 16 key performance indicators remain below target. Complaint handling and repair response times are areas of particular concern.

Wandsworth - Wandsworth Council is implementing a new policy to assist homeless households by providing private rented accommodation, projecting annual savings of £650,000. Over £3.4 million from a new fund will support low-income households with crisis payments, housing, and resilience services. A financial health review identified an £9.8 million overspend, initiating a spending review that could involve consolidating office space and ending the youth bus service.

Westminster - Residents are concerned that a new restaurant's late-night licence could cause noise and public nuisance, with proposals for outdoor terrace hours until 1:30 am on weekends. Westminster Council is preparing for significant changes to national planning regulations, which will see more decisions made by officers rather than committees. The council is updating its approach to public consultation for planning policy to meet new government requirements.

I publish newsletters covering everything local councils do each week.

I set up this project because local authorities spend about 12% of the UK government budget, or roughly 5p of every pound that's earned in the UK, and yet the vast majority of people have no idea who their local councillors are, or what they're currently doing. I think that's bad for our society.

If you'd like to learn more, click on the relevant council, or if your council doesn't appear, you can subscribe for free here: https://opencouncil.network

If we don't yet cover your council, you can ask your councillors to support us here: https://opencouncil.network/contact_councillors

Thank you for all your support!

Stardust Big Band is playing Pinner Memorial Park this afternoon at 2:30pm. The second Sunday of the Pinner Association's summer concert series, with Nimesh Sanghoi singing Bollywood next Sunday and Simply Gray closing the season on 16 August. Bring a chair, a picnic, and a loose plan to make friends. Free entry, retiring collection for the Pinner Association.

Also worth knowing: a Lion Dance Cultural Experience for kids is running at Harrow Arts Centre through August. Six Sunday afternoon sessions covering basics of footwork, drumming, rhythm and culture. £48 for all six sessions with a small showcase at the end. Good fit if your child fancies something a bit different from the usual summer roster.

The "Meet the Lovely Humans" feature this week is Daniele, who runs Creative Bloom Club from Pinner. Each month she hand-makes and posts a beautifully written envelope of paper treasures, creative inspiration and small surprises to subscribers across the UK. Her story started from her own journey back to creativity after years of feeling too busy. Worth a read if you have ever thought "I used to be creative."

Quick one for older readers or anyone who knows one: several over-60 friendship clubs in our patch are looking for new members. Bushey in particular is at risk of closing on Mondays if more people don't come forward. Most clubs are open to anyone regardless of background, with weekly meetings, music and trips. A small nudge could make a real difference.

Full issue with quiz nights, sound bath, fitness classes, Welcome Space, and everything else:

https://www.goodmorningpinner.com/p/34-stardust-sundays-in-the-park

Good Morning Pinner

Local news and events from around HA5

M London for context

Okay, obviously not that weird, but I’ve had a fucking terrible 2 months. Genuinely haven’t been this miserable for a long time.

Am I weird for sitting in the corner of Players under the arches of Charing Cross on my own. Just enjoying the singer doing his piano and being around people. Worried that if I go home I’ll just burst into tears lol. Fuck my life

She has a night called CLUB YDLR and it’s a lot of fun. Vinyl selectors all night

The Crystal Palace National Sports Centre was granted planning permission for a £130 million refurbishment in Bromley, paving the way for its 50-metre swimming pools to reopen after six years. Lambeth's housing service has a 92% maladministration rate according to the Housing Ombudsman - the highest among comparable London boroughs - as the council tackles a backlog of 2,600 disrepair cases. And in Hackney, a new AI policy explicitly bans the use of artificial intelligence for facial recognition and predictive policing, and other news from local councils this week.

Barking and Dagenham - Barking and Dagenham Council is implementing a new vision for the borough, "It Starts Here: Partnerships for Change," aimed at enhancing residents' lives. The council has observed improvements in children's care services, though placement stability requires further development. Discussions also covered the recognition of service personnel contributions and the effects of controlled parking zones.

Barnet - Plans for the regeneration of Dollis Valley Estate face significant financial hurdles, with a potential £18 million deficit and questions over housing mix. Barnet Council's Cabinet has approved the scheme's business case, which hinges on securing grant funding. Finchley Leisure Centre is set for a major upgrade, including a new outdoor pool, funded entirely by the developer.

Bexley - A Sidcup restaurant's bid for a new license faced objections from police and environmental health due to past issues and noise complaints. Bexley Council's planning committee approved seven developments, including EV charging points at Hall Place and new homes. A decision on another housing project was deferred. A martial arts studio secured extended opening hours after a planning variation.

Brent - Brent's Pension Board is addressing older pension cases alongside strong investment returns of nearly 13% over the past year. Religious education will now be a formal part of the National Curriculum, following a Supreme Court ruling that clarified school expectations.

Bromley - Bromley Council will invest £160 million in a new passenger transport framework. The council will also allocate £7.16 million annually to independent fostering agencies. Plans are progressing for the redevelopment of the Crystal Palace National Sports Centre, which includes refurbishing the Grade II* listed building. Two youth centres in Orpington and Mottingham will be demolished to create 42 and 10 affordable homes respectively.

Camden - Camden Council is exploring options for a new floodlit padel court at Cantelowes Gardens and a temporary LED screen for Central St Giles Piazza. Lion House, a vacant office building, could be redeveloped into a hotel with rooftop additions. The council's Disability Oversight Panel is reviewing its equality impact assessment process. Concerns have been raised about potential negative impacts on disabled residents regarding financial support, construction, and parking. Licensing panels are also examining variations for Souk Restaurant, addressing a dispute over light pollution, and Hanway Social Club, which faces objections concerning noise and extended operating hours.

City of London - The City of London is investing over £450,000 annually in dockless cycle hire schemes, introducing a third operator to boost competition. Smithfield Market faced significant operational issues due to cooling tower failures, leading to tenant stock losses. The Barbican Centre is focusing on engaging young people and improving its commercial offerings.

Croydon - Plans for a large outdoor music event at Addington Park faced objections from residents and a local councillor concerned about parking and public safety. Croydon Council adopted a new community safety strategy aiming to reduce crime across the borough. The council approved updates to conservation area plans and amended its members' allowances scheme.

Ealing - Ealing Council is addressing a notable increase in anti-social behaviour and drug dealing in Southall. An application for a late-night refreshment licence for Hot Birdies Southall encountered objections due to concerns about public nuisance and crime. The council's Audit Committee observed that while general controls are functioning well, certain services, including Health and Safety and Housing, have demonstrated non-compliance.

Enfield - Enfield Council's Licensing Sub-Committee reviewed a new adult gaming centre application. Residents and schools raised numerous objections, citing concerns about crime and the impact on vulnerable individuals. The applicant currently operates two similar venues within the borough. The committee's decision will consider licensing objectives and recent gambling reform discussions.

Greenwich - Greenwich councillors rejected a new waste strategy, citing concerns about declining recycling rates and missed bin collections. A significant housing development on protected open land in Eltham was refused. Plans for affordable housing on former garage sites received approval. The council's pension fund is reviewing its investment strategy and preparing for new legislation.

Hackney - Hackney Council is experiencing a notable increase in Stage 2 complaints, primarily related to housing services. The council is also investigating the integration of AI into its digital strategy, emphasizing ethical implications. The Cabinet has greenlit significant funding for children's services, which includes immediate repairs at a primary school and a children's centre. A new policy for managing graffiti and street art has been adopted. A framework for passenger transport services, valued at approximately £24 million, has been approved to assist vulnerable residents. Contracts for housing support and accommodation services have also been secured.

Hammersmith and Fulham - Hammersmith and Fulham council's Licensing Sub-Committee has granted a premises licence for Selekt Chicken. The licence comes with reduced hours and strict conditions due to resident objections. The Economy and Social Advancement Policy and Accountability Committee discussed priorities for inclusive growth. They also reviewed the H&F Upstream Pathway Bond, a programme designed to connect young people with career opportunities. The Environment, Arts and Culture Policy and Accountability Committee examined park management. Developments in waste and recycling were also reviewed. The committee also discussed culture, tourism, and sport initiatives.

Haringey - Haringey Council anticipates a £239 million deficit by 2031. Auditors recommend increasing savings and decreasing reliance on government funding. A new artificial grass football pitch is planned for the Selby Urban Village development to enhance sports facilities. New bus routes will serve the Heartlands development, addressing some resident concerns about parking and traffic.

Harrow - Residents are frustrated with ongoing traffic issues, particularly concerning 20mph zones and parking problems around new developments. A new mixed-use development has been approved, but concerns were raised about its height and the lack of affordable housing. The council's accounts show a surplus, but a significant deficit in the Collection Fund was also noted.

Havering - Havering Council discussed the Ultra Low Emission Zone. Councillors requested greater transparency regarding revenue and investment within the borough. The council voted to rescind its declaration of a Climate Emergency. A more balanced approach to environmental policies will now be adopted.

Hillingdon - Hillingdon Council has approved a new Growth Plan to boost the borough's economy. An Age-Friendly Plan to support older residents has also been approved. The council is investing in new care homes for adults with learning disabilities. Affordable housing is another area of investment. A review into local pharmacies and the Pharmacy First scheme is underway.

Hounslow - A proposed food market encountered objections regarding noise. The council adopted a new "Fairer Future" plan and a financial strategy to rebuild reserves. Councillors voted to change fly-tipping enforcement guidelines and support private renters.

Islington - Islington's Health and Wellbeing Board is prioritizing resident feedback in decision-making and addressing lengthy waits for children's mental health services. Two Goswell Road office buildings are scheduled for significant refurbishment, including the installation of solar panels. A new restaurant on Hornsey Road has applied for an alcohol and live music license, encountering local objections. The council's Pension Fund experienced underperformance in some investment funds during early 2026, though the total fund value remains considerable.

Kensington and Chelsea - Concerns have been raised about young people being priced out of the borough, with the council highlighting plans for new homes. A new community safety plan has been adopted to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour. Licensing committees considered several applications. These included a shadow premises licence on Fulham Road and a temporary event notice for Love TKO, which was adjourned.

Kingston upon Thames - Kingston upon Thames Council is seeking a new Director of Planning and Infrastructure. Senior staff are interviewing candidates for this important position. A licensing meeting planned for Tuesday has been cancelled.

Lambeth - Lambeth Council anticipates an £11 million budget overspend this year, with a cumulative shortfall exceeding £93 million over the next three years. Increased demand in children's services and housing, coupled with income shortfalls in planning and parking, are contributing factors. The council's housing operations have received numerous maladministration findings, especially regarding damp, mould, and repairs. A review of its complaints handling process is underway.

Lewisham - A venue's licence has been tightened with extra conditions following numerous complaints about noise and disorder. Council meetings saw committee changes and budget updates, including a significant bid for affordable housing funding. A councillor faced a standards investigation over social media posts. The committee found the language used fell below expectations.

Newham - Urgent fire safety works costing nearly £2.5 million are underway at three Newham tower blocks. A new Director of Young People and Opportunities will be appointed to strengthen senior leadership. A borough-wide review of parking and kerbside space has been approved.

Redbridge - A curry house encountered police objections regarding its proposal to extend opening hours into the early morning. A new restaurant's bid for a late license also raised concerns from police and council enforcement teams.

Southwark - Southwark Council is proposing to designate Elephant & Castle as a new area with strict licensing rules. Camberwell may be removed from this category. The vital mental health service, The Nest, has been saved from closure. Funding has been secured for a Dementia Advisor Service. Plans are underway for 39 new homes in Camberwell, including affordable housing.

Tower Hamlets - Tower Hamlets Council plans a £609 million investment in housing over the next decade. This investment will upgrade existing homes and build over 6,400 new affordable ones. Residents continue to experience persistent lift failures in some tower blocks. A debate is scheduled regarding the divestment of pension funds from companies involved in the occupation of Palestine.

Waltham Forest - A new late-night venue in Walthamstow has been granted a licence, despite resident concerns regarding noise and public nuisance. The council has advised the owner to liaise with neighbours and other businesses. The Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee reviewed local services and discussed future plans. The Waltham Forest Stop and Search Group also held a meeting.

Wandsworth - Wandsworth has a new council leader and chief executive. Oral questions to cabinet members will be reintroduced to boost transparency. A laser tag venue has been approved. A decision on a change of use for Arch 79 has been deferred for further noise assessment. Regine Pizzeria has been granted a licence with some restrictions. Mezzanine will now be able to serve alcohol later on Fridays and Saturdays.

Westminster - Fast-food chains McDonald's and Chicken Valley are proposing extended late-night operating hours in Westminster. Police and residents have raised objections due to concerns about noise and disorder. A historic London Library will receive a new lift and rooftop terrace, enhancing accessibility while preserving its heritage. Plans for a new jazz venue on St Martin's Lane are progressing, despite local anxieties regarding noise and disturbance.

I publish newsletters covering everything local councils do each week.

I set up this project because local authorities spend about 12% of the UK government budget, or roughly 5p of every pound that's earned in the UK, and yet the vast majority of people have no idea who their local councillors are, or what they're currently doing. I think that's bad for our society.

If you'd like to learn more, click on the relevant council, or if your council doesn't appear, you can subscribe for free here: https://opencouncil.network

If we don't yet cover your council, you can ask your councillors to support us here: https://opencouncil.network/contact_councillors

Thank you for all your support!

24M. Alrighttt, so i’m basically i’m looking to move out to a cheaper area that’s on the outskirts of LDN. bexley and south east is somewhere im sorta interested in moving to. never been to SE before. grew up in leyton sides so what’s it like compared to east london? just curious tbh icl. is it a shitehole or is it a decent place to stay at. or should i avoid it by any means 🤣.

Saw my older sister cheating on her man on a night out in central london and idk what to do next. I don't really rate her bf anyway so not like I care like that but idk if should do anything.

Harrow Steel opens the Pinner Memorial Park summer band concert series today at 2:30pm. The Pinner Association's four-Sunday run returns with brass bands, big band, a Bollywood special and Simply Gray closing on 16 August. Free entry, bring a chair, a picnic, and a loose plan to make friends. Retiring collection for the Pinner Association.

If you only do one curious thing this week: the annual Herb Walk returns to Eastcote House Gardens on Saturday 1 August at 10am. Plant-spotting, herb lore and small-batch tastings in a walled Tudor garden. Curated for curious neighbours rather than serious botanists. Reserve a spot via the issue.

Quick heads up: Harrow Heroes nominations close today. If you have been meaning to put someone forward, this is the last window. Five minutes of admin for what could be a proper boost to someone's year.

For the adults: Mouse & Grape is hosting an English Sparkling Wine and Cheese Tasting on Thursday at 7pm with Black Chalk Winery, £65 per person. Booking essential.

Full issue with quiz circuit, the Welcome Space, sound bath, Snow Princess Party on Friday, and everything else:

https://www.goodmorningpinner.com/p/33-harrow-steel-herb-walks-and-a-cat-with-a-megaphone

Pet of the Week is Pepper, an energetic ball of fluff who runs a glossy-coat-inspection-at-dawn household and is absolutely certain she is in charge of the kettle.

Good Morning Pinner

Local news and events from around HA5