The Cabinet of Hammersmith and Fulham Council met on Monday 19 January 2026 to discuss several key issues, including the Council Tax Support Scheme for 2026/27, the Council Tax Base and Collection Rate for the same year, and future resident-facing energy proposals. The Cabinet also approved a procurement strategy for essential safety works at the Edward Woods Towers.

Council Tax Support Scheme 2026/27

Councillor Rowan Ree, Cabinet Member for Finance and Reform, presented the report on the Council Tax Support Scheme for 2026/27. The scheme will continue to offer up to 100% support for the most vulnerable residents, with care leavers and foster carers exempt from Council Tax entirely. In recognition of the service of the Armed Forces and to mark 80 years since VE Day, a 25% discount will be provided for veterans living in the borough. The council is investing £9 million in the scheme for 2024/25 to support the borough's lowest-income households. The report and recommendations were unanimously agreed and will be presented to Full Council for approval.

Council Tax Base and Collection Rate 2026/27 and Delegation of the Business Rate Estimate

Councillor Rowan Ree also introduced the report detailing the Council Tax Base for 2026/27. The proposed base is 91,726 Band D equivalent properties, an increase of 3,422 on the 2025/26 figure, which is projected to generate an additional £3.48 million in income. The report also delegates authority to the Executive Director for Finance and Corporate Services to determine the business rates tax base for 2026/27. Councillor Ree highlighted that the council's collection rate has improved to 98% and that premiums continue to be charged on second homes and empty properties. The report and recommendations were unanimously agreed for referral to Full Council.

Future Resident Facing Energy Proposals

Councillor Wesley Harcourt, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Ecology, presented proposals for a new 'Healthy Homes' service aimed at streamlining access to clean energy opportunities and technologies for residents. This service will guide residents through the design, funding, and implementation of housing retrofit projects. Two pilot areas will receive intensive, localised community engagement: one focusing on social housing in Wormholt and College Park & Old Oak, and another on private housing in Wendell Park. These proposals build upon existing initiatives, including work with the HFCE green energy co-op, trials of innovative energy tariffs, support for fuel-poor residents, and the design of clean heat networks. The report and recommendations were unanimously agreed.

Procurement Strategy for Edward Woods Towers External Facade and Window Replacement Works

Councillor Frances Umeh, Cabinet Member for Housing and Homelessness, introduced the report seeking approval for a procurement strategy to appoint a contractor for essential safety works at the Edward Woods Towers. The works include the installation of a new A1-rated cladding system, replacement windows, and upgrades to smoke control and ventilation systems. Councillor Umeh detailed the council's ongoing commitment to fire safety, including personal evacuation plans, sprinkler installations, fire door upgrades, and resident engagement. She also addressed concerns about lithium batteries and smart meter safety. The report and recommendations were unanimously agreed.

Forward Plan of Key Decisions

The Forward Plan of Key Decisions was noted by the Cabinet.

The meeting concluded at 7:29 pm.