Safe Streets, Clean City, Real Action

Fri Jul 10 19:11:35 BST 2026

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Friday 10 July 2026
Welcome to MyWestminster, your weekly update on everything happening in your city. This week:
* Safe Streets, Clean City, Real Action (#main)
* More from the City (#city)
* What’s on in Westminster (#whatson)
* Have Your Say (#say)
* Public Health Updates (#health)

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WESTMINSTER PARTNERS WITH GOVERNMENT AND AIRBNB TO CRACK DOWN ON SHORT TERM LETTING: We are working with the Cabinet Office and Airbnb to tackle illegal subletting and return social homes to the people who need them most. The new data-sharing agreement allows councils to identify social housing properties being listed as short-term lets, helping to root out properties being exploited and free up homes for families on waiting lists.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Paul Swaddle, made tackling the abuses of the short-term let system an early priority – and invited the management team from Airbnb to City Hall to go over the issues. That meeting has paid dividends with the council becoming a key player in the new initiative announced by central Government and Airbnb to ensure local authority homes are not rented as short-term properties.

The agreement allows local councils to check social housing records against Airbnb listings, identifying properties being exploited by fraudsters and allowing these properties to be returned to families in genuine need. Early results have identified around 470 potential cases across participating councils, including in central London, with offenders facing eviction, fines and even imprisonment.
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COME ON ENGLAND! With England preparing for its titanic quarter-final clash with Norway, the council is flying the flag outside Westminster City Hall and getting behind the three lions. Westminster is abuzz with football fever! Good luck to Harry, Jude and the rest of the team.
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CELEBRATING PRIDE WHILE KEEPING LONDON CLEAN: A huge thank you to Westminster City Council’s Veolia teams and their dedicated teams for helping make this year’s Pride in London a success. For the fifth year running, 120 employees worked throughout the event to keep the streets clean and welcoming for the 1.8 million people who lined London’s streets to celebrate. The teams collected more than 10 tonnes of recycling and worked late into the evening to ensure the city was clean and ready for the next day. Their efforts reflect a shared commitment to keep our streets clean.
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MAKING PROGRESS ON FLOODING: Councillor Swaddle this week welcomed Thames Water’s Chief Operating Officer for a productive meeting focused on issues raised by residents, including leaking pipes, flood prevention and the impact of roadworks. The visit followed correspondence sent during his first week as Leader. In the above video (https://westminster.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a50c8b0dd980669ef713b4cca&id=0918a24e09&e=7e37558eca) , Councillor Tim Mitchell and the Leader discuss the key outcomes and next steps from the meeting.
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FREE SUMMER FUN? YES PLEASE: Inside Out returns for a summer of free fun in Westminster. Get ready for a summer of creativity, entertainment and community as Inside Out returns to Westminster in August. The free outdoor arts festival will bring a month of exciting performances, activities and experiences to spaces across the city, offering residents and visitors the chance to enjoy something new on their doorstep. Whether you’re spending time with family, meeting friends or looking for a new experience this summer, Inside Out has something for everyone. With no cost to attend, it’s the perfect opportunity to get outdoors, explore Westminster and enjoy the very best of arts and culture.
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NEW HOMES FOR OLDER RESIDENTS AND FAMILIES DELIVERED IN MAIDA VALE: Last week, Westminster councillors were joined by local community members to mark the completion of new homes designed specially for older people and families. The site of the former Carlton Dene care home has been redeveloped with 87 flats and modern facilities, and we’re proud to name one of the blocks in memory of Cllr Barrie Taylor, who dedicated his life to Westminster’s residents.
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MAKE A SPLASH THIS SUMMER WITH FREE SWIMMING: As the summer holidays approach, children and young people can enjoy a fantastic range of free and affordable activities across the city. From holiday camps and sports sessions to arts, games, cooking workshops and creative projects, there’s something for every interest and ability. If your child is eligible for Free School Meals, they may be able to access free holiday activities with healthy meals included through participating holiday programmes.
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CITY LIONS MENTORING PROGRAMME CELEBRATION: Last week, Westminster City Lions celebrated the completion of their six-month mentoring programme. The programme gave young people the opportunity to be matched with an inspirational creative professional to develop their confidence, boost their creative and employability skills, build a network of creative experts, and much more. The programme wrapped up with a celebration evening at Two Temple Place to congratulate them on their progress and development.
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FREE GARDEN PARTY AT WESTMINSTER ABBEY: Celebrate summer with an afternoon of live entertainment, family activities and community spirit at the Festival Summer Garden Party. Taking place in a relaxed outdoor setting, the event promises something for everyone, with live music, performances, creative activities, delicious food and plenty of opportunities to enjoy time with family, friends and neighbours. Whether you’re looking to unwind in the sunshine, discover local talent or simply soak up the atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to spend a summer’s day. The Festival Summer Garden Party is part of our Inside Out festival and is free to attend.
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FREE ACTIVITES AND HEALTHY MEALS: This offer is available for families who are eligible for free school meals. From sports and holiday camps to arts, cooking and creative projects – there are free and affordable activities happening all summer.
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SUMMER READING CHALLENGE 2026: We’re inviting all children to take part in the Summer Reading Challenge 2026. The challenge is simple, fun and proven to boost reading confidence over the summer.
* Read six books during the six-week holidays.
* Visit your local library to share what you’ve read.
* Collect stickers and rewards along the way.

On completing six books, children will receive a certificate, medal and an invitation to an exclusive film screening at the Odeon Luxe. The screening will be followed by an after-party at Westminster Music Library on Saturday 10 October 2026. Pop into your local library to sign up. Children can join with their school, with parents or carers, or independently.
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FREE HEAT RESILIENCE WORKSHOPS: As temperatures rise, older Westminster residents are invited to take part in two free Heat Resilience Workshops taking place this July. Organised by Age UK Westminster in partnership with Westminster City Council and community partners, the sessions will provide practical advice on staying safe, healthy and connected during periods of hot weather. Attendees will also meet others in their local community and learn how residents can support one another during warmer weather.
* Wednesday 22 July from 9.45am to 10.45am
The Fitzrovia Chapel, 2 Pearson Square, W1T 3BF
* Wednesday 15 July from 12pm to 1.30pm
Beethoven Centre, Third Avenue, W10 4JL

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ENJOY WESTMINSTER WITH CITY SAVE: Our residents’ membership scheme offers amazing discounts and savings including:
* Get a 20% discount on tickets for the London Phoenix Choir’s Sing Shakespeare concert (https://westminster.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a50c8b0dd980669ef713b4cca&id=6608426d1e&e=7e37558eca) .
* Get 15% off food and drinks at Vagabond Wines (https://westminster.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a50c8b0dd980669ef713b4cca&id=c232042002&e=7e37558eca) at their Charlotte Street, Paddington, and Victoria sites.
* Receive 25% off food, drinks, and social darts at Flight Club Darts (https://westminster.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a50c8b0dd980669ef713b4cca&id=f75f7a4f01&e=7e37558eca) Monday to Friday, from midday to 6pm.

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YOUR BUDGET, YOUR CHOICE: Over the next four years, Westminster will lose £100m in government funding, as money is redirected elsewhere. Council tax will rise next year, though Westminster will remain among the lowest-taxing councils in the country and further savings mean some services may change or reduce. Before decisions are made, we need you to tell us which services matter most to you?
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HAVE YOUR SAY ON SOUTH MOLTON: Westminster City Council is seeking feedback on improvements for the South Molton Public Realm Scheme. Initial ideas explored include opportunities to improve greening, accessibility and the pedestrian experience, while respecting the area’s distinctive identity. The consultation closes on Monday 27 July.
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HELP SHAPE THE FUTURE OF WESTMINSTER’S MARKETS: We’re reviewing how Westminster’s street markets operate and we want your views. Residents have told us they’d like to see improvements, including more variety, better quality and a stronger overall experience. Now’s your chance to help shape what happens next. The consultation includes proposed changes to how markets are run, and your feedback will help inform future decisions. Consultation closes Sunday 30 August.
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WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE CHILDREN AND YOUTH PEOPLE’S PLAN? We’re updating our priorities and what we will do to achieve them to reflect the views and aspirations of children, young people and families living in Westminster. Complete this quick survey and have your say on our plan and what we can do better to improve live in Westminster. The consultation closes on 20 September.
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KEEPING WESTMINSTER MOVING SAFELY THIS SUMMER: With World Cup excitement building and more people enjoying time out across Westminster, we’re reminding everyone to travel safely. Cycling while under the influence is a criminal offence and can put both riders and pedestrians at risk. Dockless bikes that are left blocking pavements, crossings or access routes can also make it difficult for people to move around the city safely. That’s why our City Inspectors are out every day removing obstructions and helping to keep Westminster’s streets clean, accessible and safe for everyone. If you spot a dockless bike blocking a pavement, bus stop, crossing or access route, please report it via our Report It service. Every report helps us take action and keep Westminster moving safely.
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MATERNITY CHAMPIONS VACCINATION WORKSHOP: Councillor Dean, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health visited the Brunel Happy Hub where our Maternity Champions had come together for a workshop to help them feel confident talking to residents about pregnancy and childhood vaccinations. The session included a talk from Dr Helen Skirrow, Clinical Lecturer at Imperial College London, who shared expert insights on the importance of vaccination in protecting babies, children and families from serious illnesses. Maternity Champions play an important role in supporting informed choices and keeping expectant mothers and families healthy. Got questions about vaccinations? Speak to your GP, midwife or pharmacist.
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HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW YOUR UNITS? When it comes to alcohol, many of us underestimate how much we’re drinking. Different drinks contain different numbers of units, and larger measures or top-ups at home can quickly add more than we realise. Knowing how many units are in your drink can help you make informed choices and stay in control of your alcohol intake.

This Alcohol Awareness Week, check in on your drinking habits. If you’d like information, advice or support, the free Alcohol Service from Turning Point is available to help. The service can also support anyone concerned about how alcohol may be affecting their health, mental wellbeing or daily life. Why not take the quick alcohol advice quiz to see how your drinking compares with current guidance?
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