The Council of Bexley Council met on Wednesday, 4 March 2026, to approve the Financial Plans for 2026/27. The meeting saw the approval of a £271.9 million General Fund Budget, which includes a 4.99% increase in Council Tax, comprising a 2.99% general increase and a 2% rise for Adult Social Care. An amendment proposed by the Labour group, which sought to introduce a new housing strategy and explore a housing revenue account, was defeated.

Financial Plans 2026/27

The council approved its financial plans for 2026/27, which includes a General Fund Budget of £271.950 million. This budget incorporates a £5 million contingency provision. A key decision was the approval of a 4.99% increase in Council Tax for the upcoming financial year. This increase is split between a 2.99% rise for the general council element and a 2.00% increase specifically for Adult Social Care. The total Council Tax for a Band D property will now be £2,366.36, which includes the Greater London Authority's precept.

The council also approved its Capital Programme, which outlines significant investment across the borough. This includes £30 million over four years for highways, £2.5 million for playgrounds, £2 million for libraries, and £1 million for community centres. The Treasury Management Strategy and Capital Management Strategy were also approved, alongside the Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Strategy. The council confirmed that fees and charges would be increased, with delegated authority given to the Director of Finance and Corporate Services to make further changes in consultation with the relevant Cabinet Member. The Pay Policy Statement was agreed, and Members' Allowances and Mayoral Allowances will remain frozen at their current levels.

Labour Amendment Defeated

An amendment proposed by the Labour group was debated and subsequently defeated. The amendment sought to introduce a new housing strategy, focusing on affordable and social housing, and to explore the benefits of opening a Housing Revenue Account (HRA). It also proposed increased investment in community assets and a review of parking charges.

Arguments in favour of the amendment highlighted the need for more affordable housing, the potential for an HRA to generate income and build council homes, and the importance of investing in community hubs and youth services. Concerns were raised about the current housing strategy, the affordability of homes built by Bexley Co, and the state of roads and pavements.

Opponents of the amendment argued that it lacked substance and contained no concrete financial proposals to support its ambitions, particularly regarding the establishment of a Housing Revenue Account, which they stated would require hundreds of millions of pounds. They also criticised the Labour group's past record on council tax increases and their perceived lack of understanding of financial management. The amendment was ultimately not carried, with the vote being 21 against and 14 for.

Debate on Key Service Areas

Following the defeat of the amendment, the main motion to approve the financial plans was debated. Councillors from both sides of the chamber spoke on various aspects of the budget and its implications for the borough.

Highways and Infrastructure: Significant investment in highways was a recurring theme, with the budget allocating £30 million over four years for road repairs, pothole filling, and resurfacing. Councillors highlighted the importance of maintaining the borough's road network and the positive impact this would have on residents and motorists. The council's commitment to tackling fly-tipping and maintaining street cleanliness was also emphasised.

Adult Social Care and Public Health: The budget includes increased funding for Adult Social Care, reflecting the rising demand and complexity of needs. Councillors spoke about the importance of preventative care, supporting independence, and the work being done to address mental health challenges and health inequalities. The Public Health team's initiatives, such as the men's mental health ambassador programme, were highlighted for their success in breaking stigma and saving lives.

Children's Services and Education: The budget continues to prioritise investment in children's services and education. This includes funding for looked-after children, foster carers, and support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The council's commitment to early intervention and improving educational outcomes was stressed, with specific mention of the safety valve programme and the expansion of specialist provision.

Community Assets and Libraries: Investment in libraries and community centres was also a key point of discussion. The budget allocates £2 million for libraries and £1 million for community centres, with a commitment to maintaining and improving these vital community spaces. The role of libraries as warm spaces and hubs for community activity was acknowledged.

Housing: The housing strategy and the provision of affordable and social housing were central to the debate. While the Labour amendment's proposals were defeated, the council reiterated its commitment to delivering new homes, with Bexley Co aiming to build 1200 new homes. The council stated it was outperforming the Mayor of London's affordable housing targets.

Green Spaces: The protection of green spaces was a significant point of contention. Councillors from both sides debated the importance of preserving these areas for recreation, mental well-being, and flood risk management, while also acknowledging the need for new housing. The council stated its commitment to prioritising brownfield development and ensuring sustainable growth.

Council Tax: The decision to increase Council Tax by 4.99% was explained as necessary to maintain essential services and address rising costs and demand, particularly in areas like Adult Social Care. The council emphasised that this increase was below the referendum limit and was essential for financial stability.

The main motion to approve the Financial Plans 2026/27 was carried.