Many thanks to James Knight of the Twickenham Tribune for his review of Richmond’s recent Full Council meeting on 8th July. Highlights include:
“The most pointed challenge came from Green councillor Chas Warlow, who asked how the Council’s public commitment to democratic values aligned with its opaque decision-making around the Pensford Field lease. The decision was made in a private meeting involving the Council Leader and a trustee of the organisation. No minutes were published. The response confirmed that the action was within procedural powers but made no attempt to explain why the public was excluded. In a council that prides itself on openness, the reply appeared defensive and insufficient.”
“Four motions were scheduled for debate. Two passed with ease, but the other two revealed deeper divisions, particularly over environmental ambition and democratic accountability. […] The risk of centralised decision-making behind the curtain of collective governance persists. More contentious was the second motion, proposed by Green councillor Caroline Wren, calling on the Council to prepare parking charges based on vehicle size and emissions. The case was clear: SUVs are getting wider, more polluting, and increasingly dominate residential streets. The motion merely asked for options to be developed. But the administration refused, arguing the proposal was too complex and could alienate voters ahead of the 2026 elections. No amendment was offered. The motion was voted down.
The debate laid bare a dilemma that now confronts the Council. It speaks often of climate leadership, but on this issue it declined even to consult residents. The zero-emission parking discount has already been scrapped. Now, charges remain flat regardless of emissions or size. The Council has not only removed the green incentive, it has also rejected a chance to introduce a disincentive for more polluting vehicles. The result is a system that rewards no one and discourages nothing.”
“Tuesday’s motions confirmed the shape of Richmond’s political debate. The Liberal Democrats remain dominant, but their appetite for bold decisions is visibly limited. The Greens, though small in number, continue to press them on transparency, environmental issues, and public accountability. For a Council that often discusses ambition, it is time to demonstrate it through actions as well as words.”
