This week in Bexley:

Council Debates National Policies and Approves Budget Amidst Election Buzz

The Council meeting on Wednesday, 15 April 2026, was dominated by a motion regretting the impact of the Labour government's policies on Bexley residents, which was ultimately carried. The meeting also saw the approval of the council's budget for the upcoming year, including a Council Tax increase, and the adoption of a new Community Safety Partnership Strategy. Tributes were paid to councillors not seeking re-election, marking the end of an electoral cycle.

Motion Regretting Labour Government's Impact Carried Amidst Heated Debate

A motion proposed by Councillor Richard Diment, expressing regret over the impact of the Labour government elected in July 2024 on Bexley residents, was carried by the Council. The debate was passionate, with Conservative councillors detailing concerns about tax increases and economic policies they argued disproportionately affected Bexley. Labour councillors countered by highlighting government achievements such as poverty reduction and increased wages, while criticising the previous Conservative government's record. This debate reflects the national political landscape influencing local council discussions, particularly in the lead-up to local elections.

The motion's passage underscores the political divisions within the council and highlights how national policy decisions are felt at a local level, impacting services and residents' finances.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Budget and Financial Plans Approved: Council Tax to Rise

The Council approved the General Fund Budget of £271.950m for 2026/27, which includes a £5m contingency. This budget incorporates a 2.99% increase in the Council Tax share and a 2% increase in the Adult Social Care precept, resulting in a total rise of 4.99%. This increase will place an additional financial burden on households, particularly those on lower incomes, and is a direct consequence of the council's efforts to balance its budget amidst rising costs and reduced central government funding.

The capital programme, amounting to £145m, will fund essential infrastructure projects like highways maintenance, playground improvements, and upgrades to libraries and community centres. The Council also noted the Greater London Authority's (GLA) precept, which adds to the overall council tax bill.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Bexley Community Safety Partnership Strategy 2026-2030 Adopted

The Bexley Community Safety Partnership Strategy 2026-2030 was approved, outlining the partnership's priorities for the next four years. This strategy is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents, with a particular focus on vulnerable groups. It aims to enhance safety across the borough through collaborative efforts between the council, police, and other agencies.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Tributes to Retiring Councillors: Decades of Service Honoured

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to paying tribute to councillors not seeking re-election. The Leader of the Council, Councillor David Leaf, and other members acknowledged the collective decades of service and dedication of those stepping down. These councillors have contributed to policy decisions, community initiatives, and the overall governance of Bexley. Their departure marks the end of an era for some, and their experience will be missed.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Leader's Report Highlights Key Achievements and Future Plans

The Leader of the Council, Councillor David Leaf, presented a comprehensive report detailing the council's work since November 2025. Key highlights included:

• Economic and Cultural Development: Adoption of new strategies to attract investment and enhance the borough's cultural appeal.
• Infrastructure Investment: Significant allocations for highways maintenance, playground improvements, and community facilities.
• Housing Delivery: Progress on new housing projects through BexleyCo and developer partnerships.
• SEND Services: Positive outcomes from an Ofsted and CQC inspection, indicating effective progress in services for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.
• Community Safety: Bexley maintaining its status as one of London's safest boroughs.
• Environmental Initiatives: High recycling rates and efforts to combat fly-tipping.
• Leisure and Transport: Investment in leisure centres and progress on transport improvements, including the Superloop bus route.
• Business Support: Schemes aimed at supporting local enterprises.
• Workforce Development: Progress on staff wellbeing and retention initiatives.

The report also detailed ongoing work in Adult Social Care, Children and Families, and Place Shaping, underscoring the council's commitment to a wide range of services impacting residents' daily lives.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Planning Committee Considers Development Proposals

The Planning Committee met on Thursday, 16 April 2026, to consider five town planning applications. These applications included proposals for extensions to existing properties and the creation of new dwellings, demonstrating the ongoing development within the borough.

Residential Development and Property Extensions

The committee reviewed applications for new dwellings at 9 Warren Road, Sidcup, and the conversion of 13-14 Christopher Close, Sidcup, into additional flats. Proposals for extensions were also considered at Benedict House Preparatory School, Sidcup, to allow limited community use of a games area, and at 20 Sandhurst Road, Sidcup, and 2 Montgomery Close, Sidcup.

The recommendations for these applications generally involved granting planning permission subject to conditions, indicating that the proposed developments were considered acceptable in terms of design, impact on neighbouring amenities, and highway safety. These decisions shape the physical landscape of Bexley and can impact local infrastructure and community character.

View the full agenda and reports here.

This week in Bexley:

Council Approves New Community Safety Strategy Amidst Budgetary Concerns

The Public Cabinet met on Thursday, 9 April 2026, to review the council's performance, discuss budget monitoring, and crucially, approve the Bexley Community Safety Strategy 2026-2030. This strategy sets out how the council and its partners will work to keep residents safe from crime and anti-social behaviour over the next four years. While the strategy itself was met with general approval, the meeting also highlighted ongoing financial pressures that could impact the delivery of these vital services.

A Renewed Commitment to Safety

The Bexley Community Safety Strategy 2026-2030, developed in partnership with the police, fire brigade, probation services, health partners, MOPAC, and the voluntary sector, aims to tackle key issues including anti-social behaviour, serious violence, and domestic abuse. It also places a strong emphasis on community reassurance.

Councillor Melvin Seymour, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adults' Services and Health, highlighted the importance of addressing coercive behaviour, expressing a hope that the council would not make it more difficult for people to pay by cash, as control over bank accounts can be a tool for coercion. This concern underscores the human impact of policy decisions, particularly for those in vulnerable situations.

Councillor Chris Taylor, Cabinet Member for Children & Families, stressed the importance of integrating data from the NetEngage app into strategic decision-making, ensuring that resources are directed effectively to where they are most needed.

The strategy's approval is a significant step, but its success will depend on adequate funding and effective implementation, especially in light of the budget monitoring report presented at the same meeting.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Budget Monitoring: A Tight Financial Ship

The council is forecasting a projected overspend of £1.361 million against a net revenue budget of just over £253 million. While this represents less than half a percent of the total budget and is attributed to the effectiveness of the financial intervention strategy, it signals the ongoing challenge of managing public finances.

Councillor David Leaf, Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Resources & Transformation, noted that all available funding for road improvements had been spent, with some funding for the current year already being utilised. However, he also lamented the loss of approximately £10 million in grants from the Mayor of London and the GLA since 2017, highlighting the impact of external funding decisions on local services.

Councillor Brian Bishop, Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing, raised concerns about the condition of pavements and lampposts, suggesting a greater focus on pavement renewals. Councillor Leaf reminded members that they had previously voted against £30 million of investment in highways, including pavements, over the next four years. This exchange illustrates how difficult decisions about resource allocation are made, and how past votes can have tangible consequences for residents' daily lives.

The Cabinet was asked to approve the budget monitoring position, slippage and accelerated spend in the capital programme, and additions and deletions to the capital programme.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Delivery Framework: Strengthening Council Operations

An update was provided on the council's Delivery Framework, a system designed to link the council's priorities to its day-to-day operations. This framework aims to provide clearer accountability and stronger assurance in how services are delivered. Councillor David Leaf highlighted the importance of the operating principles of customer first, continually improving, and best use of resources, which are central to ensuring the council serves residents effectively and efficiently.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Other Matters

Performance Review: Q3 Highlights and Concerns

The council's performance against key indicators for the third quarter of the financial year (October to December 2025) was presented. While there were positive exceptions, such as an increase in self-directed support in adult social care, concerns were raised regarding a decline in repeat incidents of domestic abuse and a decrease in the percentage of care leavers accessing employment, education, or training. These figures are vital for understanding the real-world impact of council services on vulnerable groups.

View the full agenda and reports here.

This week in Bexley:

Council Constitution Undergoes Major Overhaul: What It Means for You

The Constitution Review Panel met on Wednesday, 1 April 2026, to discuss a significant proposed revision of the Council's Constitution. This isn't just a bureaucratic exercise; changes to the Constitution dictate how decisions are made, who makes them, and how transparent the process is. For residents, this means understanding how their council operates and how their voice can be heard.

Streamlining Governance for Clarity and Efficiency

The proposed revised Constitution aims to modernise and simplify the existing document, which has been described as a patchwork quilt that is not always internally consistent or easily accessible. The review seeks to ensure compliance with current legislation and improve usability.

Key proposed changes include:

• A Clearer Structure: The Constitution will be divided into three parts: Introduction, Responsibility for Functions, and Procedure Rules, with working conventions integrated into the main governance framework.
• Updated Roles and Responsibilities: This involves clarifying Proper Officer functions and aligning Election Year Interim Arrangements with current practices.
• Strengthened Code of Conduct: The Members' Code of Conduct is set for a significant update, aiming for full alignment with the Local Government Association's Model Councillor Code. This will include expanded guidance on behaviour, public engagement, confidentiality, social media use, and addressing bullying and harassment.
• Clearer Delegation of Powers: The Scheme of Delegation to Officers will be updated to reflect current staffing structures, providing clearer routes for decision-making and escalation points.
• Enhanced Public Participation: Procedures for public questions, deputations, and speaking rights at committees will be clarified, aiming to make it easier for residents to engage with the council.
• Updated Financial and Contract Rules: The Financial Regulations and Contract Procedure Rules will be revised to incorporate the latest legislation, including requirements from the Procurement Act 2023¹. This will impact how council contracts are awarded and managed, with Cabinet approval now required for tenders above £0.250m.
• Accessible Members' Allowances: The full scheme for Members' Allowances will be moved into the Constitution for easier access, with updated figures and a mechanism for annual adjustment.

The review also considers options for the consideration of motions at Council meetings, aiming to improve the process for debating contemporary issues.

Councillor David Leaf, Leader of the Council, chairs the panel, and Councillor Melvin Seymour, Deputy Leader of the Council, serves as Vice-Chairman. The report from an independent consultant, Geoff Wild, highlights the need for a holistic update to ensure the Constitution is fit for purpose.

The revised Constitution is expected to be submitted to Full Council for formal approval on 15 April 2026.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Members' Code of Conduct: Complaints and Declarations of Interest

The Members' Code of Conduct Committee met on Tuesday, 31 March 2026, to review the handling of complaints made under the Members' Code of Conduct and to discuss the process for declaring interests. These matters are crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring councillors act with integrity.

Handling Complaints and Promoting Standards

The committee received an update on complaints made between April 2025 and March 2026. Six complaints were received during this period. Of these, two resulted in an apology from the councillor involved, one was not upheld, and three were still under initial assessment. One complaint had been referred to an Independent Person for further review.

The committee was also briefed on the government's consultation regarding Strengthening the Standards and Conduct Framework for Local Authorities. This initiative signals a potential move towards a more consistent national system for conduct, including mandatory codes of conduct and formal standards committees.

Declarations of Interest: Transparency in Decision-Making

The meeting provided general guidance on declaring interests, distinguishing between Disclosable Pecuniary Interests and Other Significant Interests. It is vital for residents to understand that councillors must declare any interests that could potentially influence their decision-making. This includes interests of their spouse or civil partner.

When a councillor has an interest in an item being discussed, they are generally required to leave the room and not vote on the matter, unless a dispensation has been granted. This process, governed by regulations such as The Relevant Authorities (Disclosable Pecuniary Interests) Regulations 2012¹, is designed to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure that decisions are made in the public interest.

The committee was also asked to consider extending the term of office for the two current Independent Persons, Ms Carol Reid and Mr Rob Lomas, until May 2027. These individuals play a key role in the assessment of complaints against councillors.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Other Matters

This week in Bexley:

Children's Services Faces Scrutiny Over Holiday Activities and Social Care Workforce

The Children's Services and Education Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, to review the vital Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme and the progress of the Bexley Children's Social Care Workforce Development Strategy. The discussions highlighted the programme's success in supporting vulnerable children and the ongoing efforts to build a stable and skilled social care workforce, though concerns were raised about budget overspends and the delayed publication of a SEND inspection report.

Holiday Activities and Food Programme: A Lifeline for Families

The committee received an update on the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme, which provides free, nutritious meals and engaging activities to children eligible for benefits-related Free School Meals (FSM) during school holidays. The programme, funded by the Department for Education (DfE), has seen a significant increase in participation, with 11,626 children benefiting from it in Summer 2025.

The impact of the HAF programme extends beyond just food and activities. Feedback from providers, parents, and children consistently points to positive outcomes in social skills, confidence, and the discovery of new talents. Many parents expressed gratitude for the respite and the opportunity for their children to participate in activities they could not otherwise afford. The programme also supports local providers, fostering business growth and enhancing their community reputation.

Looking ahead, the DfE has committed funding until at least March 2029. Bexley Council has refined its funding methodology to ensure money is spent effectively on attended places and has improved the allocation of places for vulnerable families, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

However, the committee noted a forecast overspend of £2.234 million for Children's Services in the Budget Monitoring Report for Period 9 (December 2025). This overspend is largely attributed to increased costs for supporting children with disabilities, intensive home-based care packages, and specialist placements for children in care.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Bexley Children's Social Care Workforce: Building a Stable Future

The committee also reviewed the Bexley Children's Social Care Workforce Development Strategy, which aims to ensure a skilled and committed workforce. Despite national challenges in recruiting and retaining social workers, Bexley's service has been recognised by Ofsted for its manageable caseloads, comprehensive training, and clear career pathways, which contribute to staff retention.

The council has strengthened its recruitment efforts, particularly through social media, and has successfully converted agency workers to permanent roles. The Social Work Academy supports Newly Qualified Social Workers (NQSWs), and the Teaching Partnership fosters pre-qualifying learners and Practice Educators. Staff wellbeing is a priority, with a dedicated wellbeing room and training on vicarious trauma. The permanent workforce in Children's Social Care stands at 82%, with a target to increase this further, and turnover rates have decreased.

Despite these positive steps, the report noted a marginal increase in sickness absence, which is undergoing further analysis. The committee also expressed disappointment that the outcome of the Local Area SEND monitoring visit, initially expected to be published soon, has been delayed until 11 May, citing local elections. This delay leaves families and professionals in uncertainty.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Civic Recognition Awards Nominations Under Review

The Civic Recognition Panel met on Wednesday, 25 March 2026, to consider nominations for the 2026 Civic Recognition Awards. These awards celebrate individuals and groups who have made significant contributions to the Bexley community.

Honouring Community Champions

The panel reviewed nominations across three categories: Young People (under 18), Voluntary Service by Adults (over 18), and Outstanding Achievement (all ages). The awards aim to recognise continuous voluntary service, significant contributions to community wellbeing, and exceptional achievements in various fields.

The publicity for the 2026 awards reached a wide audience through press releases, community contacts, and council channels, encouraging nominations from across the borough. The details of the nominations themselves were considered in exempt appendices, ensuring the privacy of individuals nominated.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Other Matters

Licensing Sub-Committee Considers Premises Licence Review

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, to consider a review of the premises licence for The Darjeeling, an Indian restaurant. Such reviews are typically initiated due to concerns raised about the licensing objectives, which include the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm. The specific reasons for the review were not detailed in the agenda, but the outcome could impact the operation of the business and the local environment.

View the full agenda and reports here.

General Purposes and Audit Committee Reviews Financial Regulations and Audit Reports

The General Purposes and Audit Committee met on Thursday, 26 March 2026. The committee was set to consider updated Financial Regulations and Contract Procedure Rules, which are crucial for ensuring sound financial management and procurement practices. They also reviewed the annual auditor's report from Ernst & Young LLP (EY) for the year ended 31 March 2025, which included recommendations for improvement. Provisional audit planning reports for the 2025/26 accounts of both the Council and the Bexley Pension Fund were also discussed, alongside progress reports on internal audit and counter fraud activities. These discussions are vital for maintaining financial integrity and accountability within the council.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Finance & Corporate Services Committee Examines People Strategy and Funding

The Finance & Corporate Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday, 25 March 2026. Key discussions included the Council's People Strategy and Culture Transformation Programme, with a focus on apprenticeships and staff wellbeing. The committee also reviewed local authority funding and resourcing challenges, particularly concerning the use of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and Section 106 contributions. The implications of the Procurement Act 2023 were also considered. These discussions are central to how the council manages its workforce and resources to deliver services effectively.

View the full agenda and reports here.

Members' Staffing Panel Discusses Senior Appointments

The Members' Staffing Panel met on Friday, 27 March 2026, to discuss the appointment of a new Deputy Director for Legal and Democratic Services, who will also serve as the Monitoring Officer. This is a critical role for ensuring the council's legal and constitutional compliance. The panel reviewed candidates and made recommendations for this senior appointment, which will have a significant impact on the council's governance.

View the full agenda and reports here.