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One in five London food bank providers anticipates demand to double in the next year, according to a survey by the Felix Project. Nearly 85% of food banks reported increased demand, with many organizations struggling to meet the rising needs amid the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
London's Barbican Centre plans a £240 million refurbishment of its conservatory, lakeside, and foyers, with construction set to start in 2027. The upgrades aim to enhance accessibility and sustainability ahead of the Centre's 50th anniversary in 2030. Public feedback has shaped the designs, with over 90% supporting the initial proposal.
A 34-year-old man was arrested in Chelsea on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson related to fires at properties linked to Sir Keir Starmer. This follows the arrests of two other men, including a 26-year-old caught at Luton Airport. The incidents are under investigation by the Metropolitan Police's Counter Terrorism Command.
Westminster City Council launches a three-month trial of air purifiers in central London restaurants to combat cooking emissions contributing to air pollution. The initiative, which incurs no costs for participating businesses, aims to track and reduce particulate matter (PM2.5) from cooking. Four restaurants, including Apricity in Mayfair, are participating in the pilot program.
Three masked intruders who robbed Olympic cyclist Mark Cavendish at knifepoint must repay over £750,000 or face extended prison sentences. The Chelmsford Crown Court ordered the gang to pay the sum within three months, with luxury watches still missing from the robbery. Judge Alexander Mills emphasized their financial benefits from the crime and the need for restitution.
Crystal Palace won their first FA Cup after defeating Manchester City 1-0 in the final at Wembley. Fans in Croydon celebrated wildly as the match concluded. This victory marks a historic achievement for the club.
MP Patrick Spencer faces two sexual assault charges stemming from incidents at London's Groucho Club in August 2023, prior to his election. His legal team asserts his innocence and plans a robust defense. Spencer is suspended from the Conservative Party and will appear in court on 16 June 2025.
A Metropolitan Police constable, Che Homersham, was sentenced to six months in jail for inappropriate sexual behavior towards a 16-year-old girl he encountered while on duty. He resigned following the incident, which involved kissing and inappropriate touching under the guise of taking a statement. The case has raised concerns about trust in the police force.
The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) urged London Mayor Sadiq Khan to halt a controversial 16-storey flat development in Penge, citing serious fire safety risks due to a single staircase. Despite developer Hadley Clarion's claims of compliance with building regulations, concerns persist regarding the safety standards following the Grenfell Tower tragedy.
The G15, representing major housing associations in London, reports a 66% decline in new affordable home builds over two years, highlighting a worsening housing crisis. The report reveals that only 4,708 new homes started in 2024–25, down from 13,744 previously, with a call for immediate government action.