River recovers, 200 social homes confirmed, and The Apprentice gets SW London flair. Here’s SWhat’s happening…

🇬🇧 SW News

Battersea Power Station to Get Social Rent Homes 🏠

Wandsworth Council has teamed up with Battersea Power Station to develop at least 200 new social rent homes for local families as part of the Homes for Wandsworth programme. Contracts were exchanged late last year to deliver these genuinely affordable homes. Source

Cleaner Thames but Climate Risk 🌊

The River Thames has shown signs of recovery with improved water quality and wildlife returning, but scientists warn climate change and pollution still pose serious threats to its long‑term health and fragile ecosystem. Source

South London Nurse Struck Off Register 🚨

A mental health nurse at the Royal Hospital for Neuro‑disability in Putney has been struck off the Nursing and Midwifery Council register after giving the wrong medication through a patient’s tracheostomy and hiding regulatory problems over more than two years. Patients were put at risk, the panel ruled. Source

Battersea Entrepreneur Joins The Apprentice 📺

A Battersea‑based entrepreneur who runs a subscription box business is set to appear on the next series of BBC One’s The Apprentice, competing for investment and business mentoring from Lord Alan Sugar. Source

Planetarium Comes to Battersea 🌌

An immersive pop‑up planetarium called Planetarium Go UK will debut at Battersea Power Station from 30 January until 1 March 2026. Visitors of all ages can enjoy high‑resolution 360 degree space films inside a giant dome and learn about planets, stars and galaxies. Source

🎉 Upcoming Events

Craft Comedy at The Craft Beer Co.

A lively stand‑up night with a fresh line‑up of comedians ready to bring laughs, good vibes and a relaxed pub atmosphere. Source

Ella Clayton, Yaz, We Lost Alice

Three rising indie/alternative acts share the bill with distinctive voices and engaging live performances that span emotive lyrics and rich melodies. Source

Arctic Monkeys 20th Anniversary Tribute

A tribute night celebrating 20 years of Whatever People Say I Am, with live music and homage to one of indie’s most influential albums. Source

Escapist with Support

Escapist headlines with support from emerging acts, blending energetic indie-rock, catchy hooks and dynamic stage presence for a memorable live experience. Source

Love Tutorial with Auntie Samuel

Love Tutorial leads the night with soulful melodies and indie-pop vibes, accompanied by Auntie Samuel’s eclectic, heartfelt performances. Source

Flo Smart and Maus

Flo Smart shares the stage with Maus, delivering a mix of vibrant alternative and electronic sounds with engaging live energy. Source

Destination House Birthday Celebration

Jon E Cash and Lil London host a lively birthday party, spinning house, hip-hop and R&B tracks to keep the dance floor buzzing. Source

✨ Hidden Gems

(Click each title to see them on Google Maps)

Home SW15

Home SW15 on the Thames serves seasonal British dishes with modern flair in a stylish riverside setting. Locals love its relaxed vibe, creative menus and great drinks list - ideal for brunch, date nights or long lunches by the water.

Lime & Thyme

Lime & Thyme in Balham is a cosy neighbourhood bistro offering classic British comfort food with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Warm service and hearty plates make it a favourite for relaxed dinners and weekend family meals.

La Pizzica – Italian (Apulian) Restaurant & Pizzeria

La Pizzica brings authentic Apulian Italian cuisine to SW London, with wood‑fired pizzas, fresh pastas and regional specialties. Casual and welcoming, it’s a great choice for pizza nights, family dinners or Italian feasts with friends.