r/LDN

Underground temperatures of 176.4°C have been recorded at the 'Rainham Volcano', the 17-hectare contaminated field in Launders Lane where Havering Council is now serving a Remediation Notice. In Southwark, a 38-flat development on Peckham's Rye Lane will provide zero affordable homes after a viability assessment concluded the scheme had a £1.85 million deficit. And in Enfield, the Illyrian Grill House on Green Lanes will keep its licence after a committee chaired by Cllr Penny Heathwood rejected a Home Office request to revoke it over alleged illegal working, and other news from local councils this week.

Bromley - Bromley Council's planning committee discussed a proposal to convert a commercial building in Beckenham into new homes. They also reviewed plans for a new vehicle access ramp at Crystal Palace Park. A licensing meeting concerning a new café's alcohol and music application was cancelled.

Camden - A popular Camden venue underwent a licence review following a police request. Allegations of breaches related to crime prevention and public nuisance were raised. Local residents also expressed concerns about noise and anti-social behaviour linked to the venue. The council's licensing panel evaluated possible outcomes, including changes to operating hours or licence revocation.

Croydon - A fast-food takeaway in South Norwood has secured a late-night licence. This followed agreement on strict conditions with the police and a local councillor. A convenience store on Lower Addiscombe Road encountered objections from residents. Their concerns focused on late-night alcohol sales within a residential area.

Enfield - A popular grill house faces potential closure following allegations of illegal working and licence breaches, despite significant community backing. A music venue's request for extended late-night operating hours has met with objections from police and residents due to concerns about crime and noise. The council's planning committee convened to review development proposals throughout the borough.

Greenwich - Secret Cinema's application for a new premises licence encountered objections from residents worried about noise and anti-social behaviour. The immersive entertainment company requested permission for plays, films, live music, dance, and alcohol sales. The council's Licensing Sub-Committee B reviewed these concerns along with the applicant's proposed operating conditions.

Hackney - The Black Eel pub received a later licence following commitments to staff training and improved waste management. Bar A Bar's temporary licence application was denied due to police concerns regarding its management. Hackney Council awarded Homerton Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust a contract exceeding £2 million for children's speech and language therapy services.

Haringey - Haringey Council is reviewing new licences for a restaurant and a supermarket, with concerns noted regarding past operations and potential anti-social behaviour. Urgent repairs and fire safety measures are being incorporated into major works on the Broadwater Farm Estate. An administrative correction has been made to a dockless e-bike hire service contract, ensuring it is with the correct company.

Havering - Havering Council is investing £8.4 million in new providers to ensure children who cannot attend mainstream school continue their education. A contaminated land site at Arnold's Field is causing concern, with the council preparing to serve a remediation notice on those responsible for waste fires. A local café's bid to sell alcohol was refused by the council's Licensing Sub-Committee due to resident concerns about noise and potential disruption.

Hillingdon - Local councillors are concerned a hotel's bid to extend operating hours and capacity could worsen existing anti-social behaviour. A local shop's licence review continues behind closed doors due to sensitive information. Hillingdon Council is set to appoint a new senior figure to oversee children's services.

Kensington and Chelsea - A winter light exhibition in Holland Park has been granted a licence with conditions. A proposed alcohol sale during Notting Hill Carnival on Golborne Road was refused due to public safety concerns. A new mixed-use development on Old Brompton Road has been approved.

Kingston upon Thames - A new Pepe's Piri Piri has been granted a licence in Tolworth. A decision on a new KFC in Chessington has been postponed due to resident concerns about late-night noise and disturbance. The council's main meeting proceedings are not yet public.

Lewisham - A five-storey residential building has been approved for 27 Longton Avenue. McDonald's at The Garden Gate will now be able to stay open until 1 am. A new premises licence was granted for Bottle Cave Ltd, with amended operating hours and conditions following resident objections. A complaint was made against Councillor Hau-Yu Tam regarding her social media activity. The Standards Sub-Committee A determined her language was problematic but did not breach the council's Code of Conduct.

Newham - Newham Council will extend a vital online sexual health service. This service is used by 20,000 residents annually and is projected to save the council £1.5 million each year. A request for a temporary street trading licence for a Mexican food truck near Canning Town Station was denied. This refusal was due to worries about illegal parking on the footway and potential obstruction.

Redbridge - Smash, a new fast-food restaurant in Ilford, encountered objections from council teams and residents. Concerns were raised regarding late-night noise, crime, and public health. The council's Licensing Sub-Committee reviewed the application for a late-night refreshment licence. The restaurant is situated within an area already designated as a Cumulative Impact Zone. Public Health also expressed concerns about the health implications of consuming fast food late at night.

Richmond upon Thames - Richmond upon Thames council has formally objected to Heathrow expansion. Serious concerns about noise, air quality, and climate change were cited. The council argues the proposed expansion is not justified. It would disproportionately harm local communities. Hundreds of homes could be demolished or rendered uninhabitable by the expansion plans.

Southwark - A large mixed-use development in Peckham, planned to include 38 flats and commercial space, is heading to the Secretary of State for a decision after the council's planning committee couldn't determine it. Despite the developer arguing they couldn't afford any affordable housing contribution, the council's officers would have recommended approval had the appeal not been made. The plans include a car-free development with plenty of cycle spaces and a significant boost to biodiversity.

Sutton - Sutton Council is establishing a new not-for-profit organization to increase affordable housing and secure additional funding. A KFC in Worcester Park has applied to extend its operating hours, prompting resident concerns regarding noise and potential anti-social behavior.

Tower Hamlets - Tower Hamlets is investing over £143 million in new housing development schemes. The council is implementing new enforcement policies for the Renters' Rights Act 2025 to address landlords. The Standards Advisory Committee has elected its new Chair and Vice-Chair. This committee is reviewing conduct matters, including a declined gift to the Mayor.

Waltham Forest - Waltham Forest Council will now employ Coroner Officers, previously from the Metropolitan Police Service. Four years of salary funding has been secured for these roles. This transition makes the council responsible for operational costs in five boroughs, as required by law. The council successfully negotiated for increased funding beyond the initial offer. This ensures the terms and conditions of the transferring officers are protected.

Westminster - Westminster Council is reviewing licence applications for an ice cream parlour and a multi-level venue in Soho and Paddington. Concerns have been raised regarding late-night noise and public nuisance. The ice cream shop's request for late-night refreshment until 3 am met objections from police and residents due to its busy location. Torino, a new venue featuring a rooftop bar, also addressed worries about potential disturbances from its proposed operations.

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!

I’ve lived in London for three years now, and I’m finally trying to experience the local sports culture properly instead of watching from the pub. Everyone recommends Wimbledon or a Premier League match at Emirates, but official ballot tickets sell out instantly. Last month, a coworker suggested comparing verified reseller platforms like Sports Events 365 to snag legitimate tickets for sold out fixtures, which opened up way more options. Now I'm deciding between the NFL London games or catching a local derby.

What’s the one London sporting event you attended that was actually worth the hype?

Im looking to cop some jewellery. Any type of jewellery tbh chains, necklaces and earrings. Im mainly looking for silver and gold. Honestly, I dont mind spending around three to four figures as long as its just made of great quality, lasts long and and its not cheaply made. Do you guys know any good jewellers in london or any shops i could go to.

Made me jump

im bored and have nothing to do today. so i might as well go and see it its saying. apparently, its a once in a lifetime opportunity una. its not gonna come to the uk until 2080. thats crazyyy. not gonna lie, im heading out rn to buy some glasses. im not risking my eyes icl they’re too precious to me. furthermore, i heard that if they get damaged its irreversible. not that im scared but i dont wanna have black dots in my eye or sum hell nah. i aint risking it 😭. where are you lots going to watch it? i know primrose hill is gonna be overly busy today.

update: I could not get my hands on solar glasses so unfortunately i missed out. But dont get fomo, this isn’t particularly a once in a lifetime event as I’m to Egypt to 2027 to see a total eclipse! But in the Uk its confirmed there wont be another one until 2090. So ig they werent lying 😭🤣

I’m organising a men’s 7-a-side game this Sunday, 9 August, at Valentines High School in Ilford from 11am–12pm.

It’s just a relaxed Sunday kickabout rather than a league or team trial. We’ve already got a few people playing but still have some spaces left.

Goalkeepers will rotate, and we’re keeping it sensible, no slide tackles, aggressive behaviour, shouting or arguments.

If anyone around East London fancies playing, let me know and I’ll send you the Footy Addicts game link.

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!

Circumstances have allowed me (9 ish UTR) to be in London today (Saturday) into Sunday. Would love to play if one of you are able. I just do not have a racket or tennis shoes but will try to at least buy a pair of tennis shoes during the day (Saturday). Just let me know, been months since I've played and going through withdrawal