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CONTENTS
YOUR NEWS
All the latest from Westminster including our new Anti-Poverty Action plan
Westminster in Action
What we’re doing to ensure that our streets are clean and safe
Community Hubs
The opening of our new community hub at Brunel
New Affordable Homes
The construction of ten new social rent homes at Balmoral House in South Pimlico
Hidden Gems
Uncovering Lunar New Year hidden gems around Westminster
What’s on in Westminster
There’s plenty to see and do in the cityhere are some of the current highlights
Healthy Hearts
Your health is your future
Faces of Westminster
How the team at the Women’s Mosaic Trust are making a difference
Shaping your neighbourhoods
What we’re doing to help shape and improve your communites
Westminster City Save
Make the most if your city with our fabulous discounts
Diverted Giving
Working together to help rough sleepers to find a home
Council services
How to get in touch with your council teams
It’s Your Right Your City, Your Voice
Your voice matters in shaping the services you rely on every day, from bin collections and housing to park maintenance and community safety – all decided by the people you vote for.
The UK government has introduced a requirement for voters to show photo ID when voting at a polling station at elections.
You will only need to show one form of photo ID, but it needs to be the original version and not a photocopy. The name on your ID must be the same name you used to register to vote.
Nearly half of Westminster residents rent privately. The new Renters’ Rights Act strengthens tenant protections, and alongside our Selective Licensing Scheme and Tenant’s Charter, we’re raising standards to ensure every resident has a safe, secure and decent home. If you’re a private renter or landlord, find support by visiting:
If you’re struggling with the cost of living, a wide range of support is available to help you stay secure and well.
Our cost of living support hub brings together practical help with food, energy bills, housing and money advice, alongside other local and national support for Westminster residents.
This includes immediate assistance such as access to affordable and culturally appropriate food, guidance on strengthening financial resilience, and support to prevent homelessness, reduce health inequalities and improve access to training and good quality
employment. These areas reflect the everyday pressures many residents face – from rising living costs to challenges with secure housing and limited disposable income.
All of this work is brought together in our new Anti Poverty and Food Action Plans, which set out our long-term aim to reducing poverty and improving access to good food across
Cyber security incident
Some limited council data was copied without permission by a third party during a cyberattack at the end of 2025.
This incident also disrupted some of our services, but we have been working hard to get them all back up and running as usual. Work is underway to establish what exactly the data is that’s been copied, and how it relates to any individuals. This will take time to complete, and we will continue
to work with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) recommendations.
Need help from the council about the cyber security in incident? 020 7641 1919
cyberenquiry@westminster. gov.uk
We also update our website regularly with the latest service information.
www.westminster.gov.uk
Westminster. The plans outline clear, practical actions to build a fairer, more resilient city and ensure support reaches those who need it most.
www.westminster. gov.uk/cost-ofliving-support
What can individuals do?
Be careful with unexpected calls, emails, or texts.
Follow advice from the National Cyber Security Centre: www.ncsc.gov.uk/guidance/ data-breaches www.ncsc.gov.uk/collection/ top-tips-for-staying-secureonline
MAJOR INVESTMENTS AT THE HEART OF the COUNCIL BUDGET
Westminster City Council plans to freeze the main Westminster element of Council Tax for 2026/27 to help local residents deal with cost of living pressures. The adult social care precept that funds care for the elderly and disabled will see a below-inflation rise of just two percent, meaning the Westminster share of the bill that Band D payers receive will increase by just 20p a week.
Thanks to the council’s strong financial management, efficiency and an innovative transformation programme changing the way Westminster works the council will simultaneously be able to deliver an ambitious multi-million pound investment in affordable homes, high streets and funding community schemes, while maintaining the second lowest Council Tax in the country. Headline investments include:
£28m on four sites to build affordable homes.
£174m to deliver 300 new homes and a new community health and wellbeing programme at Lisson Grove.
£96m for new homes and specialist residential accommodation at 291 Harrow Road.
£8m to improve high streets across Paddington and Bayswater.
An investment of £3.8m around Pimlico station and Lupus Street to improve the public realm, modernise shop fronts and fund a public art programme.
£6.2m for North Paddington to tackle social and health inequalities, funding more than 25 community projects.
“Keeping council tax low is just one way we are helping local people with rising bills and the cost of living crisis,” says Cllr Adam Hug. “This Budget represents an ongoing solid and substantial commitment to build a fairer Westminster.”
Westminster City Council’s budget for 2026/27 is set to be formally approved following a vote at Full Council on 4 March. The Band D Council Tax proposed for 2026/27 will be £537.34 and includes a two per cent rise in the adult social care precept.
Westminster City Council’s precept is one element which makes up the overall Council Tax. The Mayor of London charges £510.51. That amount – called the GLA precept – covers services like fire and the police.
FROM THE Leader
Welcome to this first 2026 edition of YourWestminster.
Since the start of the year, we have been hard at work on what we know matters to you – safer streets, strong neighbourhoods and truly affordable housing. Have a look at the great regeneration working going on in Pimlico and North Paddington, and at our progress on delivering truly affordable housing (see page 9).
Our dedicated frontline teams are out and about across Westminster, responding to issues like litter, graffiti, and anti-social behaviour to help keep our streets clean and safe. Check out some of the success stories on page 7 and page 8. One of the realities of our streets are significant numbers of rough sleepers, so do read the update on our new diverted giving campaign. The council spends £8m a year on helping rough sleepers, and we know the public also often want to help by giving spare change – this campaign outlines the most effective way you can help.
While Christmas is a fading memory, the bills for it probably hit most of us in January so have a look at our latest CitySave discounts on page 20 for ways to make your money go further. Also our Community Hubs are a fantastic resource for families and local people so do have a look at what’s on offer.
Finally, New Year fitness resolutions may have faded – but check out our feature on heart health for some great tips for staying in shape all year round!
Best wishes,
Cllr Adam Hug Leader of Westminster City Council
We’re committed to making our streets cleaner, safer, and more welcoming for everyone. From the dedicated frontline heroes who work tirelessly to keep our public spaces spotless, to the enforcement teams tackling issues like pedicabs and antisocial behaviour, we’re taking action where it matters most. We want to make sure that Westminster remains a place where residents, businesses, and visitors can thrive. Together, we’re not just maintaining standards; we’re setting them.
How we are keeping
NEW TEAM TO COMBAT ASB HITS THE STREETS
Westminster’s first ever police team dedicated to tackling anti-social behaviour notched up a hattrick of arrests on its first day on patrol.
The Metropolitan Police team made up of eight officers and a sergeant has been set up following a £3m investment by the council. Working with our City Inspectors, it concentrates solely on the shared priorities that matter most to our communities across the city.
The new team got off to a flying start on its first patrol in January, making its first arrest in just 40 minutes while walking the streets of Victoria. By the end of the first patrol the team had been involved in three arrests – a man wanted for recall to prison, another in possession of class A drugs, and an offender spotted by the team who ran off but was arrested by officers on Victoria Street.
Making Westminster Safer with a PSPO
A Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) is a legal tool used to address behaviour in public areas that harms the community. Introduced in November 2025, our PSPO for parts of the West End and St James’s targets issues caused by rogue pedicabs, including disruptive amplified music and blocked pavements that affect safety and accessibility.
Since its introduction, 114 Fixed Penalty Notices have been issued across locations such as Victoria Embankment, Westminster Bridge and Buckingham Palace. Unpaid notices may lead to prosecution. Through targeted enforcement, partnership working and future regulation, we are improving Westminster’s streets for residents, businesses and visitors.
keeping your streets clean and safe
Doris the dog is on the case
A sharp-nosed Labrador called Doris played a key role in uncovering illegal cigarettes worth more than £8,000 in a series of raids carried out by council officers and police. The threeyear-old Labrador – a former police dog – gave a helping paw on the visit to two shops on Edgware Road. At one address, 500 packets of illegal cigarettes with a retail value of £8,250 was uncovered, along with 150 single use vapes which are now illegal. The joint council and police team also recovered more than 250 food products from both shops suspected of being illegal on the UK market.
Westminster in Action
Clean streets make a real difference to how we feel about the places we live, work and spend time in. Across Westminster, keeping neighbourhoods tidy, safe and welcoming is a top priority, and it’s something we all benefit from. Westminster is one of the busiest cities in the world and keeping it clean is a 24/7 operation.
Our streets are regularly swept and washed to maintain high cleanliness standards, supported by 300 street sweepers working day and night, with 6,650 tonnes of litter collected from bins and 12,350 tonnes swept from the ground every year. Services are out daily tackling fly-tipping, clearing litter,
removing graffiti and caring for public spaces, helping protect the character of our communities and supporting local businesses. These actions reduce antisocial behaviour, improve safety and create more enjoyable neighbourhoods.
Residents, businesses and community groups also play a vital role – reporting issues, taking care of their local area and working together through associations and BIDs. Looking ahead, we’re focused on practical, visible improvements that people can see and feel.
See something that needs attention? Report it here
www.westminster.gov.uk/ report-it
Earlier this year, we launched the Brunel Happy Hub, an exciting new community space at the heart of the Brunel Estate in the Westbourne ward.
The Brunel Happy Hub will provide a welcoming and inclusive environment where local residents of all ages can connect, learn, create and thrive together.
Brunel Happy Hub has been shaped by the local community by street conversations, doorknocking and a series of codesign workshops involving hundreds of residents. Your ideas and insights have been central to the design of the Brunel Hub and the services it will offer.
Activities and Services
The hub has a diverse programme of activities and services designed to support wellbeing, skills development and social connection. This includes:
A welcoming community café
Advice and support from Westminster services and Citizens Advice
Access to local health checks
Free and low-cost adult activities such as gardening, cooking, sewing, arts and crafts, exercise sessions, games and social clubs
For families and children:
After-school and holiday clubs
Toddler groups
SEN support
Cultural sessions
For young people:
Coding, gaming and media
Sports and skills development
Employment opportunities
Additional facilities:
The hub also provides access to computers, printers and digital support, as well as affordable spaces for hire for community groups, classes and events.
New Affordable Homes at Churchill Gardens
The council is well on its way to deliver 2,000 new homes by 2030, including 1,100 affordable properties for residents waiting for social housing.
A major milestone for this ambition has been reached in the construction of ten new social rent homes at Balmoral House in South Pimlico, marking an important step forward for the Churchill Gardens estate.
The Lord Mayor, Cllr Paul Dimoldenberg, joined Cllr Ellie Ormsby, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters, and the team from Wates Residential to complete the final shovel of cement on the building’s roof – an age-old ‘topping-out’ tradition that celebrates the end of structural works.
When finished, Balmoral House will offer a mix of eight spacious four-bedroom homes, along with a three-bed and a one-bed, all set around landscaped gardens designed for families to enjoy. Overcrowded households from
“The apprenticeship opened my eyes to the construction industry and the impact of creating social value for the community”
Local resident Ilyas
within the estate will be first in line for the new properties.
Reflecting on the moment, Cllr Ormsby said it was “a privilege” to take part, adding that the council had reshaped earlier proposals to ensure the scheme aligned with its Truly Affordable Housing Strategy. “By delivering all ten homes at 100% social rent,” she said, “the project ensures local families can access high-quality, energy-efficient accommodation and put down lasting roots in their community.”
Balmoral House – named after the former Balmoral Castle pub that once stood nearby – is the second phase of the wider Darwin and Balmoral development. The first phase has already delivered 34 modern homes for Community Supportive Housing, along with visitor rooms and shared spaces for residents to socialise.
Working in partnership with Wates Residential has also ensured that the construction brings benefits beyond bricks and mortar. Local resident Ilyas, 18, secured an apprenticeship on the project and described the experience as “amazing”, saying it had “opened my eyes to the construction industry and the impact of creating social value for the community.”
Alongside apprenticeships,
work placements and training opportunities, Wates Residential has contributed over £90,000 to voluntary organisations and social enterprises supporting Westminster communities – from small businesses and start-ups to rough sleepers and school initiatives.
Find out about more of our housing renewal projects at www.westminster.gov.uk/ housing-renewal
RETROFIT STRATEGY
We’ve also retrofitted more than 2,000 social homes, adding insulation, ventilation and solar panels to make them warmer, greener and more affordable. These upgrades cut energy bills, improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions, marking a major step in the city’s sustainable, retrofit-first strategy.
In each edition of YourWestminster, we’ll uncover some of the city’s hidden gems, from tucked-away cafés to local favourites you might not yet know. This issue, we’re continuing the Lunar New Year celebrations by spotlighting some of Westminster’s East and Southeast Asian hidden gems. Whether it’s a spot you’ve walked past without noticing or somewhere completely new, these gems offer a different way to experience Westminster, rooted in culture, community and everyday life.
Ji Chickens
14 Little Newport Street
WC2H 7JJ
Ji Chickens brings the bold flavours of Taiwanese night markets to the heart of Chinatown. Known for its crisp fried chicken, seasoned with a choice of spice powders, it’s a fast, comforting stop that’s easy to miss among the brighter lights nearby. Alongside its signature chicken, you’ll find snacks like sweet potato fries, crispy tofu and bubble tea, perfect for sharing or grabbing on the go. Popular with locals and visitors alike, Ji Chickens offers a fun, flavour-packed taste of East Asian street food, proving that some of Westminster’s best bites come from the smallest shopfronts. www.jichickens.com
Shan Shui Social
14 Buckingham Palace Road
SW1W 0QP
Tucked away near Victoria, Shan Shui Social is a lovely spot for a relaxed take on modern Chinese dining. Inspired by shan shui, traditional Chinese landscape painting, the space is calm, thoughtfully designed and perfect for sharing dishes with friends or family. It’s stylish without feeling stuffy, and a great place to escape the rush around Victoria Station for a while. If you’re exploring beyond the usual routes, Shan Shui Social is an easy, welcoming way to experience Chinese culture through food.
www.shanshuisocial.co.uk 020 4617 8888
hello.victoria@shanshuisocial. co.uk
Chun Fun How
5 Artillery Row, SW1P 1RH
Just a short walk from St James station, Chun Fun How is a quietly brilliant bubble tea spot that’s easy to miss but well worth finding. From classic milk teas to refreshing fruit options, everything feels thoughtfully made. The space is simple and calm, making it a great stop during a busy day or a quick break between errands. If you’re in the area and want bubble tea done well, Chun Fun How is a lovely little find.
London Chinese Community Centre
Gerrard Street, WC2H 7DW
Tucked just off Gerrard Street, the London Chinese Community Centre is easy to overlook, but it has long been one of the most important spaces in Westminster’s Chinese community. Beyond the restaurants and lanterns, the centre provides year-round support, cultural activities and a place to connect across generations. From advice services to language and cultural learning, it represents the everyday life behind Lunar New Year celebrations. Visiting – or simply noticing it – offers a quieter, more meaningful way to experience Chinatown beyond the festival weekend.
www.ccc.org.uk 020 7439 3822
info@ccc.org.uk
Got a favourite café, a peaceful green space you’d love to share, or a secret spot that always puts a smile on your face? We want to hear about the places that make your corner of Westminster special. Your recommendations help celebrate everything that makes the city feel like home. yourwestminster@ westminster.gov.uk and your hidden gem could feature in a future issue.
Chinese School
London
45 Oxford Street, W1D 2DZ
Located just off Oxford Street, Chinese School London offers structured weekend education in Mandarin for children and young people. The school focuses on language learning alongside cultural understanding, helping students develop reading, writing and speaking skills while engaging with Chinese traditions and values. Classes are designed to support different age groups and abilities, providing continuity for families seeking long-term language education. Through its teaching and community involvement, the school plays an important role in sustaining cultural knowledge across generations.
www.chineseschoollondon. com
020 8948 8588
hello@chineseschoollondon. com
Your guide to events and offers in your local area...
Digital Support Sessions
Every Monday Maida Hill Library, W9 2QT
Build your digital confidence in a relaxed, welcoming environment with Westminster Libraries’ Digital Support Sessions. These friendly one-to-one sessions offer practical help for anyone wanting to better understand technology, from complete beginners to those with specific questions. Volunteers provide tailored support with everyday digital tasks, helping you learn at your own pace - it’s a great way to gain useful skills and feel more confident navigating the online world. Sessions can be pre-booked by calling the below telephone number or enquiring with staff at the library. www.westminster.gov. uk/event/digital-supportsessions-monday-evening 0207 641 6200
Community Choir
Fridays (term time only)
The Abbey Centre, SW1P 3BU
Are you looking for a stressbusting activity? Join Abbey Centre’s fun-filled Community Choir singing sessions to boost your confidence, meet new people and sing your heart out. Open to all abilities (even those that don’t think they can sing but love it anyway!) We have a mixture of singers, some have been singing for years, and others are just beginning their singing journey. Only £1 per session. www.theabbeycentre.org.uk/ community-choir/ 078 4565 5872
Rhea.Varma@theabbeycentre. org.uk
VIP (Very Inclusive Party) Club Night
Friday 27 March
Grand Junction, W2 5TF
An inclusive club night for learning disabled adults, neurodiverse people and friends. The event will feature DJs playing great music, lots of dancing and a chill out zone. Food and drinks will be available to buy. This is an 18 plus event. This is a ticketed event it is £7 in advance and £10 on the door (support staff go free). www.grandjunction.org.uk/ events/vip-very-inclusiveparties-club-nights-4/ 075 4147 7677
info@grandjuction.org.uk
Lego Code Club
Every Tuesday
Church Street Library, NW8 8EU
Come and join Church Street’s Lego Code Club. It’s a great chance to create and build your own Lego models, have fun and make new friends. The Lego Code Club is held in the community room and designed for six to 14 year olds. For younger children, Lego Club is also available at the same time in the children’s library. An adult must accompany children under the age of eight. No need to book, just turn up. www.westminster.gov.uk/ event/lego-code-clubchurch-street-library 0207 641 5490
Hosting a community event in Westminster?
Are you a local business with an offer to share with our readers? Send the details to the address on page 3 or to yourwestminster@westminster. gov.uk and we’ll look to include you on our website and in a future edition of this magazine!
Check in Your Health, Your Future
Heart disease and strokes are among the leading causes of early death in the UK, but the good news is that most of us can reduce our risk with simple, everyday changes.
Your heart works hard for you every day, so why not give it a little care in return? We are committed to helping residents live longer, healthier lives by making heart health a priority.
Book Your Free NHS Health Check
If you’re aged 40–74, you can book a free NHS Health Check. This simple check-up measures your blood pressure, cholesterol, and other key indicators to give you a clear picture of your heart health. It’s quick, easy, and could help prevent serious problems later on.
What can you do today?
Book your health check
If you’re aged 40 to 74, book your free NHS Health Check. This simple check-up measures your blood pressure, cholesterol, and other key indicators to give you a clear picture of your heart health. It’s quick, easy, and could help prevent serious problems later on.
Feeling lonely or isolated?
You’re not alone
Loneliness and social isolation affect thousands across Westminster. Nearly 700,000 Londoners report feeling lonely “most” or “all” of the time. It’s more than emotional - the World Health Organization warns loneliness can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, increasing risks of dementia, stroke, heart disease, and early death.
Certain groups are at higher risk of becoming lonely - those living alone, facing poverty, disability, or discrimination; people with language barriers or limited digital access; and anyone undergoing major life changes like starting school, becoming a parent, retiring, or grieving.
What we’re doing
We’ve developed a strategy to tackle loneliness, which includes:
• Raising awareness: Free 90-minute sessions on loneliness, run by Mind, are available for anyone working or volunteering with at-risk groups.
• Improving identification: Frontline staff are being encouraged to ask about loneliness sensitively. A social media campaign and printed booklet will list local support services available.
• Targeting support: In partnership with Imperial College London, we’re mapping loneliness ‘hotspots’ across Westminster
How you can help
Feeling lonely, or know someone who’s struggling?
Visit the Wellbeing Hub for a wealth of activities and meet up opportunities: www.westminster.gov.uk/wellbeing-hub
Want to shape future support?
Share your experiences of loneliness or social isolation by completing the Interact Survey: bit.ly/westminster-interact-study
and help
is here
Together, we can build a more connected, compassionate community
How partnership with Mosaic Community Trust is supporting women’s wellbeing in Westminster.
Improving health and wellbeing is a priority for Westminster –and tackling inequality sits at the heart of our Health and Wellbeing Strategy. That commitment comes to life in our longstanding partnership with Mosaic Community Trust, an organisation dedicated to supporting women who may be isolated or living with long-term health challenges. Mosaic’s whole-person approach – nurturing physical, mental and emotional wellbeing while fostering social connection –helps women build confidence, strengthen community ties, and amplify their voices. The result? Healthier, more connected and more resilient neighbourhoods.
From near isolation to community leader
When Shazia moved from Pakistan to the Church Street area more than 25 years ago, London felt close and far all at once. “In my first years here, I never went out much,” she recalls. “I was very shy and felt scared to mix with local people.”
Everything began to change in 2012. A neighbour brought her to a Mosaic drop-in – and the room shifted from unfamiliar to welcoming. “I realised I wasn’t alone,” she says. “Many other women had gone through similar experiences of loneliness and isolation. Sharing those experiences felt like a relief – and empowering.”
What started as an hour to talk became a pathway to purpose. Shazia first joined sessions to meet and connect. Soon she trained as a qualified massage therapist,
then progressed to a community health and wellbeing advocate – roles that took her out into the neighbourhood to listen to women’s concerns and encourage them to try Mosaic. “I enjoyed giving head massages and helping others,” she says. “It gave me the confidence to go to college to study English and Computing.”
CREATING SAFE SPACES
Confidence turned into community action when the pandemic hit. Shazia volunteered to support isolated residents –shopping, cooking and delivering meals, collecting prescriptions, and making wellbeing calls. “Through that, my confidence grew further,” she explains. “I began opening my home to women who needed a safe space – inviting them to talk, eat together and share support.”
Learning remained a constant
thread. Through Mosaic, Shazia completed courses in community health advocacy, mental wellbeing, food hygiene and recycling – and became a community health champion for mental health and wellbeing. “Not only have I learned a lot,” she says, “I’ve always felt warmly supported – especially when being unwell.”
WOMAN OF THE YEAR
Her impact hasn’t gone unnoticed. On International Women’s Day 2023, Shazia received the ‘Woman of the Year’ award for service to the local community and for her role as an advocate and ambassador for Mosaic and Church Street women. “If I hadn’t joined Mosaic, I wouldn’t have made new friends, had the confidence to study, or the ability to speak up for local women and help the most vulnerable,” she says.
Why it matters
Shazia’s journey captures what Mosaic does best: creating the conditions for women to thrive –starting with trust, belonging and practical support. By bringing women together, Mosaic helps turn isolation into connection, skills into confidence and experience into leadership. That shared strength flows back into families, streets and services – exactly the kind of community-led health and wellbeing we’re committed to building across Westminster.
“Mosaic gave me a voice and empowered me to be the woman I am today”
Local resident Shazia
with Mosaic, we’re championing
– one woman, one conversation and one community at a time
Want to learn more about Mosaic’s programmes, classes and community events – or refer someone who might benefit?
www.mosaiccommunitytrust.org.uk 020 7289 1170
info@mosaiccommunitytrust.org.uk
The North Paddington Programme shows what’s possible when long-term investment and strong local partnerships come together.
How you’re shaping your neighbourhoods
This programme is all about improving neighbourhoods, supporting local people, and creating new opportunities for those living in North Paddington. At its heart, the programme focuses on bringing together housing, public spaces, youth services and community funding to improve everyday life and tackle inequality. It works closely with residents, community groups and local organisations, making sure changes are shaped by what the area actually needs.
Over the last few years, this has led to some real improvements to local spaces, including a major refresh of the Westbourne Green canalside. The area is now safer, greener and fully accessible along the Grand Union Canal, giving people more chances to walk, play and enjoy the outdoors. A bold new mural under the Westway has also helped build local pride, turning a previously overlooked spot into a recognisable community landmark.
And it’s not just about places – people are at the centre of the programme too. New projects for young people are helping them build skills, grow in confidence and take steps towards education and jobs. At the same time, extra funding for community champion schemes has supported trusted local groups to expand their work, offering everything from wellbeing support to events that bring neighbours together.
Find out more about our North Paddington Programme and how you can get involved: www.westminster.gov.uk/north-paddington-programme
Building a city that residents, businesses and partners are proud of means working closely with everyone who calls Westminster home…
We’re listening to local voices to improve, modernise and shape our city together. With everchanging infrastructural, planning and environment needs, a longterm vision for Westminster is needed, alongside meeting current city-wide demands.
You may already have noticed changes – new landscape designs in Queen’s Park, refreshed shopfronts on Harrow Road, and enhanced public spaces along Regent Street – all shaped by your feedback. As we move forward, policy frameworks such as a New City Plan will pinpoint key opportunities for the city.
Pimlico
Our resident-shaped investment plan will improve public spaces, support businesses, housing and community facilities while strengthening community hubs and boosting digital and economic inclusion. Priorities include safer streets, better access to services, greener spaces and more cultural activity. Early projects include business shopfront upgrades, improvements to Lupus Street and
Pimlico Station, the Rampayne Street Community Hub, Digital Dash, and multiple greening initiatives across estates.
Queen’s ParK
The area opposite Queen’s Park Library has been revamped with safer crossings, new seating, accessible ramps, biodiverse planting and wildlife habitats. Community input shaped the plans, which also tackled long-standing canal wall issues, creating a safer, more welcoming space overlooked by an art mural co-created with locals.
Lisson Grove Studios
is the latest Creative Enterprise Space under our Fairer Economy ambitions. We’ve set out to offer local entrepreneurs, creatives
and businesses more affordable workspaces, business support programmes and opportunities for employment. Tenants from the local community are already calling Lisson Grove their new creative home and it follows on from the opening of other creative spaces at Somerset House, Paddington Works and Pop Hub in Soho.
Regent Street
This iconic corner of London is on the brink of a major transformation – shaped by one of Westminster’s most engaged public consultations to date. Nearly 5,000 people helped shape plans for Regent Street, Haymarket and Piccadilly Circus, with 60% supporting greener, safer and more pedestrian-friendly spaces. Feedback on traffic and accessibility is guiding the next design stage ahead of a full consultation this June.
City Plan
Our upcoming City Plan will set out six big aspirations shaped by residents, businesses and community voices. It outlines a 20-year vision for the delivery of more affordable housing as a top priority, mixed communities, better quality homes and neighbourhoods, climate action, thriving high streets and a thriving, sustainable and equitable West End.
Keep up to date on everything we’re doing to improve your neighbourhoods at www.westminster.gov.uk
I
in Westminster and
you’re missing out!
Explore the Lyceum Theatre
£5 off tour tickets
Step behind the scenes of one of London’s most iconic West End venues, Westminster City Save members can enjoy £5 off tour tickets. Led by expert guides, the tour explores the theatre’s rich history, striking architecture and hidden spaces rarely seen by audiences. A great way to learn more about a landmark theatre at a lower cost.
www.westminster.gov.uk/ westminster-city-save/ lyceum-venue-tour-ps5discount 020 7420 8100 conorhunt@theambassadors. com
Wright of Derby –From the Shadows
Visit for as little as £1
Enjoy a world-class art experience for less with Westminster City Save. Wright of Derby: From the Shadows at the National Gallery is the first major exhibition dedicated to the artist’s dramatic candlelight paintings. Every Friday evening until 24 April, you can pay what you wish to visit – from as little as £1. See glowing scenes of discovery, science and wonder in the atmospheric setting of the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square. Tickets are available online in advance or on the daya brilliant, affordable way to enjoy culture in the city.
Fancy learning a new language this year? Westminster City Save members can enjoy 15% off Italian courses. Classes run on weekday evenings (6.30pm–8.30pm), making them easy to fit around work or study. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to build confidence, these friendly, interactive courses combine language, culture and conversation in a relaxed setting. Spaces are limited, so it’s a great time to sign up and save.
Take a relaxing break in the heart of the city with ‘A Taste of Westminster’ afternoon tea at Wesley’s Café. Enjoy a freshly baked scone with jam and clotted cream, plus a tea of your choice –for just £7.25, available from 2pm every day. Located inside Central Hall Westminster, Wesley’s Café is a bright, welcoming spot perfect for a mid-afternoon pause while exploring the area. Simply show your City Save card on arrival to claim this great-value offer.
The Royal Parks will be working hard with our event organisers to minimise disruption to park visitors and the local community.
If you have a question or comment about events in the Royal Parks: Email eventfeedback@royalparks.org.uk
During an event, call 0300 061 2222
Schedule of events:
American Express presents BST Hyde Park
Swim Serpentine
GOSH Race for the Kids
Friday 26 June to Sunday 12 July
Open House:
Monday 29 June to Thursday 2 July
Monday 6 July to Thursday 9 July
Sound check times will be available 28 days before event at: royalparks.org.uk/whats-on
All Hyde Park roads close at 11am on concert days
Saturday 19 September
Saturday 10 October
Royal Parks Half Marathon Sunday 11 October
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland November, December and January (except Christmas Day)
(Dates subject to change)
Together we find a way home
Carla and Chloe’s story
Ending homelessness in Westminster is our priority, and thanks to the work of our charity partners, lives are being transformed every day. Hear about Carla’s journey - which is proof that the right support can make all the difference.
For twenty years Carla had been sleeping rough, and in 2024, Carla was living in a tent near the Strand in Westminster. “Life on the streets was dangerous. I was constantly having to be alert. I used to drink a lot back then too. I was blocking a lot of it out.” Carla recalls.
Carla was eventually put in touch with The Connection at Martins, a homelessness charity that operates in the area. She was assigned a key worker called Chloe. Chloe, Carla’s key worker, took time to build trust and a positive relationship. With consistent support and encouragement, Carla began
How to get help
If you or someone you know is facing homelessness, help is available now. Our Housing Solutions Service offers confidential support to anyone in housing crisis. You can register online for housing advice or make a homeless application. A dedicated officer will guide you through the process, including what documents to bring and what support is available.
Even if social housing isn’t immediately available, the council will work with you on a Personalised Housing Plan to help you find and keep a stable home.
www.westminster.gov.uk/homelessness
020 7641 1000
“I feel a lot better in myself. Now I can look forwards, not back”
attending services regularly, finding comfort in the womenonly group sessions.
Eventually, Chloe secured Carla a room in a women-only hostel, a safe space where she could cook, rest, and start rebuilding her life. Now, Carla is preparing to move into her very own flat, supported by the Connection’s Solo Homes team.
Carla says, “Now, I feel a lot better in myself. I feel a happier, more relaxed, and more at ease with myself. Now I can look forwards, not back.”
Carla
Carla
Chloe
General Contact Details
020 7641 6000 www.westminster.gov.uk
Adult Education
020 7297 7297 info@waes.ac.uk www.waes.ac.uk
Adult Social Care
020 7641 2500
Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm adultsocialcare@ www.westminster.gov.uk www.peoplefirstinfo.org.uk
Animal Welfare
020 7641 2000
Monday to Friday 8am – 6pm awarden@westminster.gov.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/ animal-welfare
