The London Buzz - 9th May 2025
Today's London news round-up:
Hounslow has been slammed by the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman (LGSCO) for ‘refusing to do right’ by a homeless pregnant woman. Neighbournet
A group of Hackney traders have urged City Hall to “get on with” delivering affordable workspaces promised to them four years ago. Hackney Citizen
As Covent Garden's street artist community comes together to celebrate 50 years of outsider art and resistance, recent decisions in the High Court and by Westminster Council leave the future of this iconic performance space in doubt Big Issue
Campaigners have won a sensational High Court victory in their battle with a London council over the introduction of a hugely controversial low traffic neighbourhood scheme. Standard
Neighbours claim that proposed two-storey buildings would “tower over” bungalows in the next door street News Shopper
Mudchute Park and Farm in the Isle of Dogs have launched a fundraising campaign to fund legal action against Tower Hamlets Council over a lease dispute. The Slice
TfL has come under fire for cancelling a much-needed meeting earlier this week to discuss disruptive upcoming roadworks on Streatham Hill — with just hours’ notice. Brixton Buzz
The congregation of a 120-year-old church in Charlton could lose their home next month after their landlords threatened them with eviction. Greenwich Wire
A developer has doubled down on its 12 per cent affordable housing offer at a controversial development in Peckham. South London Press
Plans for a brain injury rehabilitation centre in Upminster have been refused as it was deemed it would have a "harmful impact" on the surrounding area. Romford Recorder
And from ianVisits:
Whale hello there Canary Wharfers
Saved by romantic spirit: New exhibition tells how Keats House was saved from demolition
Free entry to the Charles Dickens Museum to mark its centenary
Rare chance to travel into the Jubilee line overrun tunnels
One million new homes: London Mayor targets ‘grey belt’ land in housing push
Some things to do in London all weekend
Tate Modern’s 25th Birthday Weekender - Free
Alongside the gallery’s free displays, visitors can expect live music and DJs, talks, workshops, tours and a host of free experiences alongside special food and drink offers and more.
Free entry to Hampton Court Palace gardens - Free
The world-famous gardens of Hampton Court Palace include 60 acres of spectacular formal gardens and 750 acres (304 hectares) of parkland, all set within a loop of the River Thames.
Wimbledon Art Fair - Free
This free-entry event gives you the opportunity to browse, discover and buy original and affordable art directly from over 150 of the most exciting emerging and independent artists in London.
Some things to do in London on Saturday
A Day in the 1940s: VE Day 80 - £10
Step back in time and experience the sounds, sights, and tastes of the 1940s in London.
London in the Second World War - Free
The exhibition features rarely seen original artworks recording the devastation experienced in the city during WWII.
Richmond May Fair 2025 - Free
A 'village' Fair with 200 stalls, charities, small businesses and schools all represented.
Hackney History Festival - £15
A whole day of talks about local history.
Crimes without criminals - Free
A talk examining the contrasting legacies of oppressors and resistors.
Late opening at St Paul's Cathedral - Donation
Experience the beauty of St Paul’s Cathedral in the evening light and explore its heritage. Immerse yourself in little-known stories from their rich history with Spotlight Talks from their expert guides and self-guided trails.
Some things to do in London on Sunday
Historic Commercial Vehicle Society London to Brighton rally - Free to watch
Starting at the Brooklands Museum in Weybridge, over 140 vehicles are expected to join a rally to Brighton.
Kilmorey Mausoleum open day and plant sale - £3
The walled garden that surrounds the Kilmorey Mausoleum will be open for tours of the mausoleum, and a fund raising plant sale.
Cavalry Sunday - Free to watch
An annual march past by former and serving members of many cavalry regiments, followed by a short service to commemorate those who were killed on active service.
Covent Garden May Fair & Puppet Festival - Free
Punch & Judy Professors and Puppeteers from all over the country and abroad gather to perform in the Garden of St Paul’s Church on the second Sunday in May near the spot where Samuel Pepys first recorded sighting Mr Punch in May 1662.
Free entry to the Dulwich Picture Gallery - Free
As part of Dulwich Festival, you can enjoy free admission to the Permanent Collection (excludes temporary paid exhibitions).
Monthly open day at Shirley Windmill - Donation
One of only four windmills open to the public in Greater London, Shirley Windmill is a Tower Mill, built in 1854 by Richard Alwen to replace an earlier (1808) timber post-mill on this site, lost by fire
Chestnut Sunday - Free
A highlight of Chestnut Sunday is the colourful parade that proceeds down Chestnut Avenue, showcasing an array of performers, vintage vehicles, and community groups.
Monthly open day at Cobham Mill - Donation
This picturesque early 19th century mill, is situated in delightful surroundings on the banks of the River Mole. It is Grade II listed and is the only surviving fully working watermill in Surrey.