This week in Bexley:

Council Approves Budget with Tax Rise Amidst Financial Challenges

Bexley Council's Public Cabinet met on Monday, 23 February 2026, to finalise the budget for the upcoming financial year, a decision that will directly impact residents through a proposed Council Tax increase. The meeting also saw the adoption of a new Economic Growth Strategy, aiming to shape the borough's future development.

Balancing the Books: A 4.99% Council Tax Hike

The council is facing significant financial pressures, as outlined in the Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for 2026/27 to 2029/30. To balance the budget for 2026/27, a 4.99% increase in Council Tax is proposed, comprising a 2.99% general increase and a 2.00% rise for the Adult Social Care precept. This means a Band D property will see its council tax rise to £1,855.85 annually.

This decision comes as the council grapples with a projected budget gap of £17.815 million by 2029/30. The report highlights that central government funding is decreasing in real terms, forcing local authorities to rely more heavily on Council Tax. Councillor David Leaf, Leader of the Council, stated, Because the government have let Bexley down we're not receiving the fair share of funding that we deserve or need. This increase will disproportionately affect lower-income households, who spend a larger percentage of their income on council tax.

The budget also includes increased provisions for pay inflation (£2.8 million), contract inflation (£10.6 million), and service growth (£10.4 million). A one-off £5 million contingency has been added to mitigate potential pressures. Despite these challenges, the council plans to invest over £21 million in key frontline services, including children's and adults' social care, libraries, and highways.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Bexley's Future: Economic Growth and Cultural Ambitions

The council also adopted the Bexley Economic Growth Strategy, a document designed to guide the borough's development over the coming years. The strategy, which replaces one from 2017, focuses on good growth that is inclusive and economically resilient. It outlines ten strategic outcomes, from increasing investment and meeting housing targets to improving transport and fostering a green economy.

The strategy is underpinned by principles of directing council investment, fostering a thriving investment climate, and working transparently with communities. A draft strategy was consulted on, with feedback incorporated into the final document. The associated Cultural Strategy was also endorsed, aiming to leverage culture as a driver for economic regeneration and community cohesion.

Councillor Cafer Munur, Cabinet Member for Place Shaping, emphasised the strategy's importance, stating, This strategy sets us up to go against those headwinds to stand up and say Bexley is open for business. The strategy aims to unlock commercial opportunities, drive job creation, and support local businesses. However, some residents have expressed concerns about the impact of development on green spaces and the need for more defined timescales and metrics for success.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Other Matters

Budget Monitoring Shows Slight Overspend

The Public Cabinet meeting also reviewed the council's budget monitoring for the 2025/26 financial year up to December. The report indicated a forecast revenue budget overspend of £1.762 million against a net budget of £253.425 million. While this represents a favourable movement of £0.176 million since the previous month, it highlights the ongoing challenge of managing expenditure within the allocated budget. For the capital programme, forecast expenditure was £47.028 million against a budget of £48.778 million.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• The Council is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, 04 March 2026, to formally approve the budget for 2026/27, including Council Tax levels and the Capital Programme. View the agenda here.
• The Planning Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday, 05 March 2026, to consider several planning applications, including proposals for residential development and sports facilities. View the agenda here.
• The Bexley Agreed Syllabus Conference is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, 11 March 2026. View the agenda here.
• The Bexley Health and Wellbeing Board is scheduled to meet on Thursday, 12 March 2026. View the agenda here.
• The Bexley Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, 11 March 2026. View the agenda here.
• The Constitution Review Panel meeting scheduled for Thursday, 12 March 2026, has been postponed.
• The Pensions Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday, 10 March 2026. View the agenda here.
• The Transport Users' Sub-Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday, 12 March 2026. View the agenda here.

This week in Bexley:

Key Appointment Looms for Integrated Commissioning as Staffing Panel Convenes

The Members' Staffing Panel met on Thursday, 12 February 2026, to discuss a crucial appointment that will shape how services are commissioned across the borough. The panel considered the selection of a new Deputy Director of Integrated Commissioning, a role that plays a vital part in ensuring residents receive the support they need.

Shaping Future Service Delivery

The primary focus of the meeting was the appointment of a Deputy Director of Integrated Commissioning. This senior role is responsible for overseeing the planning and procurement of various services, ensuring they are effective, efficient, and meet the diverse needs of Bexley's residents, particularly vulnerable groups. The appointment process involved reviewing detailed documentation, including a job description and specification, and a proposed timetable for the selection process.

The panel also discussed an exempt item, indicating that confidential information related to the appointment was considered. This is common practice for senior recruitment to protect personal data and ensure a fair and robust selection process.

Review of Past Decisions and Future Business

In addition to the key appointment, the panel reviewed minutes from previous meetings held in April 2025. They also addressed the possibility of late business being introduced to the agenda and discussed procedures for excluding the press and public when necessary, a standard practice for sensitive discussions.

The decisions made by this panel have a direct impact on the council's ability to deliver essential services, from adult social care to children's services, by ensuring the right leadership is in place to manage complex commissioning arrangements.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• The Public Cabinet is scheduled to meet on Monday, 23 February 2026. View the agenda here.

This week in Bexley:

Budget Pressures Mount as Adult Social Care Faces Inflationary Headwinds

The Adult Social Care & Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Monday, 2 February 2026, to scrutinise the draft budget and financial plans for 2026/27. The discussions revealed significant pressures, particularly from inflation on commissioned services, which could impact the support available for vulnerable residents.

Inflationary Pressures Threaten Service Delivery

The committee heard that the Adult Social Care and Public Health Directorate faces substantial inflation pressures, with £3.762 million allocated for uplifts to external providers. This is in addition to growth and pay inflation, totalling £23.815 million. The report highlighted a projected overspend of £3.621 million as of November 2025, largely attributed to inflation exceeding initial allocations.

Councillor Lisa Moore raised concerns about the £10.572 million allocated for contract inflation, questioning if it adequately accounted for the Employment Bill 2025¹. She also sought reassurance that savings from direct payments would not negatively affect vulnerable individuals unable to find care staff. Officers confirmed that estimations for contract inflation included considerations for new legislation and that direct payment funds are not recouped without consultation, with checks in place to ensure people still receive necessary care.

The committee also discussed a nearly 10% increase in the budget for placements, from an original estimate of £3.224 million to £3.533 million. While officers explained this was due to an unexpected increase in demand, the reasons for people needing care earlier than anticipated, particularly since COVID-19, are still being investigated. This trend could lead to longer-term support needs and increased costs for the council.

Reablement Expansion: Aims and Challenges

Plans to expand Bexley's reablement offer were also discussed. Reablement services help residents regain independence after illness or hospital discharge, with nearly 70% of those completing the current programme requiring no ongoing care. The proposed expansion aims to increase capacity to approximately 2,000 episodes per year, with a focus on preventing hospital admissions and supporting young people transitioning to adult services.

However, the expansion requires an additional 27 full-time equivalent posts, costing £321,000. While the service is optimistic about recruiting occupational therapists, acknowledging a national shortage, they highlighted a good conversion rate from temporary staff to permanent roles and the introduction of an apprentice scheme.

The committee explored how reablement supports individuals with mental health needs, including dementia and depression. The service is working to group individuals with similar interests for community day opportunities, such as bowling and cinema trips, to combat isolation. The expansion aligns with the Council's statutory duties under the Care Act 2014² to prevent, reduce, and delay the need for care and support.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Children's Services Budget Balanced Amidst High-Cost Placement Pressures

The Children's Services and Education Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday, 3 February 2026, to review the draft budget and financial plans for 2026/27. While the directorate's budget is projected to be balanced, significant pressures remain, particularly concerning high-cost placements for children in care.

Managing High-Cost Placements

The committee discussed commissioning developments within children's transformation, aiming to match children's needs more effectively with placements and reduce the financial impact of high-cost placements. An external partner is evaluating current systems using a 'Valuing Care' approach. Recommendations include redesigning the Placement Referral Form and piloting Home finding forums to improve matching for hard-to-place children.

Councillor Zainab Asunramu questioned the confidence in achieving the projected £1.980 million in savings for the next year, given the team's current capacity and expertise in negotiating costs. Officers expressed confidence, highlighting ongoing work to upskill the existing workforce and the planned recruitment of an experienced commissioner.

The committee also heard about the Leadership Academy, which has launched and seen significant uptake, with 88 participants signed up. This initiative aims to develop future leaders within children's services.

Bexley Family Hubs: Early Successes and Future Challenges

An evaluation of the first six months of the Erith Family Hub was presented. The Hub, designed as a single point of access for early help, health, and wellbeing support, has engaged over 180 families and delivered more than 80 group sessions. However, challenges remain in evidencing long-term outcomes, managing growth with capacity, and engaging hard-to-reach groups.

Councillor Jeremy Fosten noted that families are coming to the hub in spite of the fact that it's a council service, not because of it, suggesting a potential deterrent associated with the council's image. Councillor Esther Amaning countered that this perception is more likely due to the stigma associated with social services involvement rather than a dislike of the council itself.

The committee also discussed the making fathers heard initiative, with 8% of fathers attending programmes, which aligns with national figures. Efforts are underway to expand this offer to universal services and to reach fathers in prison.

The budget for 2026/27 is projected to be balanced, partly due to the Future Bexley transformation programme. However, the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) deficit and the ongoing Safety Valve agreement with the Department for Education continue to be significant financial considerations.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Finance Committee Reviews Budget and Treasury Management Strategy

The Finance & Corporate Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday, 4 February 2026, to review the draft budget and financial plans for 2026/27 and the Treasury Management Strategy. The discussions highlighted the council's financial position, including the impact of the local government settlement and the management of its investments and borrowing.

Budgetary Challenges and Council Tax

The committee reviewed the draft budget for 2026/27, which aims for a balanced budget through the Future Bexley transformation programme. However, the Finance and Corporate Services (FCS) directorate is forecasting an overspend of £0.684 million. The report noted that Bexley's Core Spending Power (CSP) is projected to increase in cash terms but decrease in real terms over the next few years, a consequence of the provisional Local Government Finance Settlement 2026/27 to 2028/29.

Councillor Stefano Borella argued that the current government has provided an uplift and a three-year certainty, contrasting this with previous year-to-year settlements. However, Councillor David Leaf countered that while the settlement offers certainty, the outcome is not favourable, with Bexley being left worse off.

The council is considering a 4.99% Council Tax increase for 2026/27, with each 1% increase generating £1.529 million. The report also detailed the Collection Fund performance, noting that Council Tax and Business Rates collection rates were below target in November 2025, potentially creating a deficit for 2026/27.

Treasury Management and Investment Strategy

The committee reviewed the Treasury Management Strategy for 2026/27, which outlines the management of the council's borrowing, investments, and cash flows. The strategy aims to ensure liquidity and fund capital plans while managing risks. The Council is currently maintaining an under-borrowed position, using cash balances as a temporary measure, which is considered prudent given the expectation of falling borrowing rates.

The Capital Prudential Indicators show a projected Capital Financing Requirement (CFR) for General Fund Services of £329.534 million in 2026/27. The strategy prioritises security, liquidity, and then yield for investments, with a creditworthiness policy in place to assess counterparties.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Other Matters

Children's Services and Education Committee Discusses Family Hubs and Budget

The Children's Services and Education Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday, 3 February 2026. Key discussions included the development and evaluation of Bexley Family Hubs, commissioning developments in children's transformation, and the draft budget and financial plans for 2026/27. The committee heard about the early successes of the Erith Family Hub, which has supported over 180 families, but also noted challenges in evidencing long-term outcomes and engaging hard-to-reach groups. The budget for the directorate is projected to be balanced, but pressures from high-cost placements remain a concern.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Finance & Corporate Services Committee Reviews Budget and Treasury Management

The Finance & Corporate Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday, 4 February 2026. The committee reviewed the draft budget and financial plans for 2026/27, noting the impact of the local government settlement and the projected decrease in real terms of Bexley's Core Spending Power. The Treasury Management Strategy for 2026/27 was also discussed, focusing on the management of borrowing and investments.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• The Members' Staffing Panel is scheduled to meet on Thursday, 12 February 2026. View the agenda here.

This week in Bexley:

Licensing Committee Faces Tough Choices on Alcohol Sales and Late-Night Refreshment

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Monday, 26 January 2026, to consider a contentious application for a new premises licence for Chicken World & JRR Local Store in Belvedere. The decision on this application could set a precedent for future licensing decisions in residential areas, impacting the balance between business interests and the well-being of local residents.

Chicken World & JRR Local Store: A Battle Over Alcohol Sales

The primary focus of the meeting was an application by RJK Chicken Limited for a Premises Licence for Chicken World & JRR Local Store, located at 51 Nuxley Road, Belvedere, Kent DA17 5JN. The applicant sought permission to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises and provide late-night refreshment.

Initially, the proposal included alcohol sales from 07:00 to 01:00 daily, with the premises open during the same hours. However, this sparked objections from the Police, the Licensing Authority, and the Environmental Health Service. These representations highlighted concerns about potential crime and disorder, and public nuisance, particularly given the proximity to residential properties.

Following these objections, the applicant amended their proposal, seeking to sell alcohol from Sunday to Thursday between 07:00 and 00:00, and on Fridays and Saturdays from 07:00 to 00:30. Late-night refreshment and opening hours were adjusted accordingly.

The applicant described the premises as a refurbished chicken takeaway that would also operate as a convenience store selling groceries and soft drinks, with alcohol being part of the convenience store offering. Alcohol was also intended to be available for delivery.

A compromise was suggested by the Responsible Authorities: alcohol sales would be restricted to deliveries only, with strict conditions including no visible alcohol display and no public collection. As of the report's preparation, the applicant had not responded to this compromise.

The committee's decision will weigh the applicant's right to trade against the licensing objectives, particularly the prevention of public nuisance and crime and disorder. This is crucial for maintaining the quality of life for residents in Belvedere.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Council's Financial Health and Future Strategy Under Scrutiny

The General Purposes and Audit Committee met on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, to review the council's financial standing and future financial strategy. The discussions covered a wide range of critical areas, from the council's Pay Policy Statement to its audit reports and risk management.

Pay Policy Statement and Treasury Management

The committee reviewed the Council's Pay Policy Statement for 2026/27, which sets out policies on senior executive remuneration and the lowest-paid employees. This statement is a requirement under the Localism Act 2011, aiming to ensure transparency and accountability in public sector pay.

A half-yearly report on Treasury Management for 2025/26 provided an update on the council's investment and borrowing activities. This is vital for ensuring the council manages its financial assets effectively and prudently, with a focus on security and liquidity. The report noted a decrease in the Bank Rate and forecasts for lower PWLB rates, impacting the council's investment returns.

Council Tax and Business Rates Calculations

The committee was asked to approve the Council Tax Base for 2026/27, a key figure that determines the council's income from local taxation. This calculation directly impacts the council tax bills residents will receive. A provisional calculation of business rates income for 2026/27 was also presented, highlighting significant changes due to the Fair Funding Review and revaluations. These calculations are fundamental to the council's ability to fund local services.

Audit Reports and Risk Management

Draft audit reports for the Council's and the Pension Fund's 2024/25 statements of accounts were presented. These reports provide an independent assessment of the council's financial reporting and internal controls. The audit of the council's accounts resulted in a Disclaimer Opinion, which is an acknowledgement that the auditors could not obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence to form an audit opinion. This is a serious matter that requires careful attention.

An update on Risk Management highlighted a fundamental review of Bexley's strategic risks. This process is crucial for identifying and mitigating potential threats to the council's operations and service delivery, ensuring the council can continue to serve its residents effectively.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Community Safety and Planning Reforms Take Centre Stage

The Places Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday, 27 January 2026, to discuss a range of issues impacting the borough, from community safety and policing to significant reforms in the planning system.

Policing and Community Safety Partnership

An update on policing in Bexley was provided, highlighting a 19% reduction in knife crime and a 34% positive outcome rate for stop and search. While these figures are positive, the committee also heard about the challenges of domestic abuse reporting, which has increased, though Bexley's relative position within London has improved. The Bexley Community Safety Partnership's draft strategy for 2026-2030 aims to tackle serious violence, domestic abuse, and anti-social behaviour.

New CCTV System and Planning Reforms

The committee received an update on the implementation of Bexley's new hybrid CCTV system, which promises significant revenue savings and improved surveillance capabilities. This move away from a long-standing PFI contract is intended to modernise the council's approach to public safety.

A significant portion of the discussion focused on government reforms to the planning system. These reforms aim to streamline the planning process, accelerate housing delivery, and boost economic growth. However, concerns were raised about potential impacts on local decision-making, design standards, and the protection of green spaces. The council's response to the government's consultation on these reforms is due in March 2026.

Employment Support and Council's Work Programme

The committee also reviewed employment support programmes aimed at helping economically inactive residents find work. These initiatives are vital for supporting vulnerable individuals and boosting the local economy. The committee also discussed its work programme for the upcoming year, identifying areas for future scrutiny.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Other Matters

Public Cabinet Discusses Budget and Transformation Plans

The Public Cabinet met on Monday, 26 January 2026, to review the council's performance in the second quarter of the 2025/26 financial year, a detailed budget monitoring report, and an update on the Medium Term Financial Strategy. Key decisions were made regarding the council's financial plans for the coming years, including a proposed 4.99% Council Tax increase for 2026/27. The cabinet also received an update on the Future Bexley: Transforming Our Borough Together initiative, confirming validated savings and outlining a roadmap for further efficiencies. The financial decisions made here have direct implications for the services residents receive and the council's ability to meet future demands, particularly in areas like Adult Social Care and Children's Services, which are facing significant pressures.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Planning Committee Meeting Cancelled

The Planning Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday, 29 January 2026, has been cancelled.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings and their main topics:

• The Adult Social Care & Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday, 02 February 2026, to discuss the draft budget, health inequalities in North Bexley, and plans for an expanded reablement offer. View the agenda here.
• The Children's Services and Education Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday, 03 February 2026, to discuss Bexley Family Hubs, children's transformation commissioning, and the draft budget. View the agenda here.
• The Finance & Corporate Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, 04 February 2026. View the agenda here.
• The Members' Staffing Panel is scheduled to meet on Thursday, 12 February 2026. View the agenda here.