It was a thrill to officially open Taking Care of Fitness today, a brilliant new hub just moments from Tooting Bec station. This new studio’s focus on small group training offers a welcoming space for local people.

Their dedication to holistic community health is particularly inspiring. By partnering with organisations like Parkinson’s UK and local rehab groups, they are building a truly inclusive service. This is a wonderful addition to Tooting and I encourage everyone to check out their opening offers

The energy this weekend for the Wandsworth Labour campaign launch was fantastic. A brilliant turnout of local people showed the incredible spirit and determination we have to take the fight to the Tories and secure a better future for our community. It is always inspiring to see so many neighbours and friends ready to stand up for the values we share.

Our campaign is built on a proven record of delivery. The Wandsworth Labour council has proudly kept council tax the lowest in the country, a vital support for families struggling through a cost-of-living crisis. This is what Labour in power looks like: competence, compassion, and a focus on putting residents first.

Over the summer, Rosena brought together the council and local police to address concerns about crime, antisocial behaviour and the general condition of the area. Since then, several steps have been taken.

Joint operations have taken place around Tooting Bec Underground Station to tackle drugs and weapons. Cameras have been installed in trouble spots, and work is underway to remove problem phone boxes and reduce street drinking. The area outside the old telephone exchange on the A24 has been cleaned, benches removed, and new cycle racks installed.

There is also a focus on safety for women and girls. Walk, Talk and Do events on Tooting Bec Common are helping officers understand where people feel unsafe, and training on being an active bystander will be offered locally.

Business engagement has increased, with more shops joining the Wandsworth Business Against Crime scheme. Waste enforcement has also been stepped up, with more than two hundred notices issued to improve disposal practices.
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Partners will continue working together through winter, with more joint operations planned and regular meetings to respond to concerns from residents.

The annual Balham and Tooting Community Association (BATCA) interfaith peace ceremony is always a powerful moment for our community. This week, it was an honour to join so many local people to reflect on the importance of unity and understanding. Here in Tooting, our diversity is one of our greatest strengths, and events like this showcase the incredible spirit that brings us all together.

Our community is defined by its deep-rooted tolerance and mutual respect. Now more than ever, it is vital that we continue this tradition, listen to one another, and build bridges between different faiths and cultures. 

By continuing to work together, we can ensure that understanding triumphs over discord and build a more peaceful future for everyone.

Today I brought together representatives from Wandsworth Council and our local police team to Tooting Bec on a walkabout followed by a roundtable meeting to discuss some of the issues facing the community. We all love the community we call home, and I want it to be better. That is why we were discussing how we can combat fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour.