The Tower Hamlets Council meeting scheduled for Wednesday, 25 February 2026, was set to discuss the Budget Report for 2026-27 and the Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for 2026-29. This comprehensive report outlines the council's financial plan, addressing national and local economic challenges, including rising demand for services and constrained resources. Key areas for discussion included proposed increases to Council Tax and the Adult Social Care precept, significant investment in housing stock, new savings and efficiencies, and a revised reserve strategy to safeguard against financial volatility. The meeting agenda also detailed proposed changes to fees and charges, the capital programme for both the General Fund and Housing Revenue Account, and the Treasury Management Strategy.

Budget Report 2026-27 and Medium-Term Financial Strategy 2026-29

The council's budget report for 2026-27 and its Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for 2026-29 were scheduled for discussion. The report highlighted the unprecedented challenges facing local government, including a widening gap between rising demand and constrained resources. Tower Hamlets Council has reportedly taken proactive steps to mitigate these risks and strengthen its financial resilience.

The provisional local government finance settlement for 2026-27 was announced on 17 December 2025, representing a significant redistribution of funding within the sector. The report noted major changes to funding formulas and the simplification of grants, indicating a different distribution of resources between authorities by 2028-29. The provisional settlement indicated an increase in the Council's Core Spending Power (CSP) in cash terms, but real-terms CSP per capita remained below earlier peaks due to population growth.

The MTFS aims to achieve long-term sustainability and resilience by combining disciplined financial planning with targeted investment and transformation. Key areas of focus included:

• Net General Fund budget requirement for 2026–27: Proposed at £482.151m, including additional funding for temporary accommodation and Adult Social Care.
• Housing Investment: An additional £100m investment in housing stock over five years, alongside a £400k hardship fund for tenants.
• Savings and Efficiencies: New savings and efficiencies of £6.4m in 2026–27, supported by strategic funding substitutions and transformation-driven reductions.
• Reserve Strategy: An increase in the risk reserve, an increase in contingency provisions, maintaining the General Fund reserve at a minimum of £25m, and no planned drawdown of reserves for ongoing expenditure.
• Transformation Reserve: A new reserve of £5m per year to support major transformations.

The report also detailed the drivers for the council's financial strategy, including setting a balanced and sustainable budget, funding strategic plan priorities, delivering efficiencies, protecting frontline services, strengthening resilience, and maximising the impact of spending.

Council Tax Proposals

The council proposed to levy a 2% Adult Social Care precept and a 2.99% increase on the general Council Tax element for 2026-27. It was noted that the Council continues to shield the most vulnerable through its Council Tax Support Relief Fund, described as the sixth most generous scheme in London. The Local Council Tax Reduction Scheme (LCTRS) was set to remain unchanged for 2026-27.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA)

The report included proposals for HRA housing rent and service charge increases. Housing rents were proposed to increase by 4.8% for 2026-27 (CPI +1%), service charges by 3.8% (CPI), and new build properties at Formula rent +5% in the first year only. A HRA Hardship Fund of £400k per annum was proposed to assist tenants negatively impacted by rent increases, funded from the additional rental income generated. The council also planned to invest an additional £100m in existing housing stock over the next five years, bringing the total investment to £318m.

Capital Programme

The General Fund (GF) capital programme proposed a total budget of £207.482m, while the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) capital programme proposed a total budget of £996.383m. These programmes are aligned with the Council's Strategic Plan 2022-26 and aim to ensure clear integration with the borough's needs. Key highlights included:

• Parks: New play and gym equipment, transformation of Limehouse fields estate, upgrades to sports facilities including a new grass cricket square, and a new drainage system for Victoria Park.
• Education: Delivery of additional specialist provision for children with SEND at Hermitage School, ongoing Condition and Improvement (C&I) works, and a new playground at St Saviours School.
• Youth & Community: Refurbishments of youth centres including Kitcat Terrace, Limehouse Youth Centre, Wapping Youth Centre, and the Urban Adventure Base, as well as the completion of the Naari Centre.
• Health and Social Care: Near completion of a culturally sensitive substance misuse recovery centre.
• Carbon Reduction: Completion of the third phase of the Carbon Reduction Community Grants Programme and the first phase of the Solar PV Programme, with a second phase planned.
• Tree Planting: Planting of 309 trees across parks and highways.
• Street Lighting: Completion of the Central Management System (CMS) programme for remote control of street lighting.
• Highways: Works underway on Manchester Road for safety and speeding concerns, and on Wick Lane / Fish Island for increased parking amenity.
• Idea Stores: Completion of works to resolve heating and cooling issues at Chrisp Street Idea Store and upgrade lighting at Canary Wharf Idea Store. IT hardware upgrades were also progressing.
• Leisure: Refurbishment of 3G Astro pitches at Mile End Leisure Centre and the thermal spa at York Hall.

The report also detailed key General Fund Capital Programme additions and reductions, including significant funding for the Mayer Parry pedestrian and cycle bridge and the LLDC transfer of CIL and S106 funding.

Funding and Reserves

The report outlined various funding options for the capital programme, including external grants, CIL, S106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing. Identified funding sources for the General Fund capital programme growth were detailed, alongside reductions to the programme. The HRA capital programme budget was set at £996.383m, supported by the HRA Business Plan.

The Council's approach to reserves was also detailed, noting the importance of maintaining a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, indicating planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve.

Other Statutory Implications

The report highlighted statutory implications related to Best Value, consultations, environmental considerations, risk management, crime reduction, safeguarding, and data protection.

Comments of Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

The CFO's comments, contained throughout the report, confirmed that despite significant financial pressures, the Council had managed to put forward a balanced budget. However, several risks were identified, including inflationary pressures, increasing service demand, and potential government policy changes. The CFO stressed the vital importance of robust financial monitoring and proactive cost reduction or income generation measures.

Comments of Legal Services

Legal Services confirmed that the Council was making arrangements for the proper administration of its financial affairs, consistent with its Best Value legal duty. The report made recommendations for the Mayor to propose to Full Council as part of the overall annual budget setting process.

Budget Consultation 2025

The report included findings from the budget consultation undertaken between 27 October and 8 December 2025. Key findings indicated that public health and housing services were the strongest priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the Council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty or limited awareness about available support.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases across various services including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. These increases were generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. Specific details were provided for various charges, such as those for venue hire, sports and physical activity memberships, and licensing fees.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, which was set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy for borrowing, investment of cash balances, and monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. While support for income generation measures remained strong, perceptions of the council's protection of its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, reflecting an increase generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors, Ernst & Young, had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education, youth and community facilities, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, CIL, S106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2D26-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including external grants, s106 contributions, capital receipts, reserves/revenue, and borrowing.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Rent Setting Policy

This policy outlined how Tower Hamlets would calculate, consult on, and charge rent for council-owned homes. It detailed the basis for social rent calculations, rent caps, and the proposed rent increase for existing tenancies from April 2026, set at CPI + 1% (4.8%). The policy also addressed rent flexibility for new builds and the potential introduction of rent convergence, subject to government decisions. Service charges were also detailed, with the principle of full cost recovery and transparency.

Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy 2026-27

This strategy outlined the Council's intended use of capital receipts to fund the revenue costs of transformation projects, aiming for more efficient and sustainable services. The proposed investments included Care Technology Transformation, an Early Redundancy/Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, and a Power BI Project, with a total estimated application of £4.159m from capital receipts. The strategy also noted the extension of this flexibility until March 2030.

Treasury Management Strategy

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement was to be revised and agreed with the Audit Committee on 29 January 2026, setting out the proposed strategy regarding borrowing, investment of cash balances, and associated monitoring arrangements.

Reserves

The report detailed the Council's approach to reserves, including a general fund general reserve, an HRA general reserve, and earmarked reserves. The projected movement in reserves from April 2025 to March 2029 was presented, showing planned transfers to the Transformation Reserve and Risk Reserve. The report highlighted the importance of reserves for budgetary stability and resilience against future risks.

Budget Consultation 2025

The results of the budget consultation, conducted between October and December 2025, were presented. Public health and housing services emerged as top priorities for residents and businesses. Housing services were identified as the single most important service by respondents. There was strong support for the Council expanding its approach to income generation, with two-thirds of respondents agreeing with measures such as hiring out council assets and reviewing fees and charges. However, views on whether the council adequately protects its poorest residents were mixed, with a notable level of uncertainty. The consultation also indicated that arts, parks, events, waste collection, and libraries were the most frequently used chargeable services.

Fees and Charges 2026-27

A comprehensive schedule of proposed fees and charges for 2026-27 was included, detailing increases generally in line with RPI inflation of 4.5%. These proposed increases covered a wide range of services, including school meals, arts and music, parking, waste operations, street trading, and regulatory services. Specific fee adjustments were detailed for various applications and services across different directorates.

Statutory Audit Recommendations

The report noted that the Council's external auditors (Ernst & Young) had issued Statutory Recommendations requiring action to address corporate governance and internal control improvements. Additional resources were proposed for the Internal Audit team to enhance their capacity to assess and drive these improvements.

Capital Programme 2025-29 plus future years

The report detailed the Council's capital strategy from 2025/26 to 2028/29, proposing a total budget of £207.482m for the General Fund (GF) and £996.383m for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). Key highlights included ongoing investment in parks, education facilities, youth and community centres, health and social care infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives. The report also outlined proposed additions and reductions to the GF capital programme, and significant investment in the HRA capital programme for new council homes, acquisitions, and temporary accommodation. Funding sources for these programmes were detailed, including