Bromley Council is set to discuss the future of its arboricultural service, which manages and cares for the borough's trees. The discussion will take place at the Executive meeting on 8 April 2026, following a review by the Environment and Community Services Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee.
The review, titled Gateway 0 - Options for the Future of the Arboricultural Service,
will explore different ways the council can deliver the service in the future. The meeting agenda includes a discussion of these options, which are currently under consideration by the council. The Environment and Community Services Policy Development and Scrutiny Committee will be consulted regarding the options for the future of the arboricultural service, according to the Forward Plan - September. The method of consultation is listed as Meetings
.
The review is part of the council's wider efforts to manage its resources well and provide value for money for residents. The council is facing significant financial challenges in the coming years, with an estimated 'budget gap' of £58.9 million in 2026/27 rising to £74.7 million per annum by 2029/30. These challenges are compounded by the Fair Funding 2.0 proposals, which will result in a real terms reduction in grant funding. Without transitional protection for three years (2026/27 to 2029/30), the Council could face a reduction in grant funding of £6 million per annum. While 'floors' are expected to prevent a cash reduction in funding for Bromley, the Council will not receive inflationary increases or additional funding in the future until it moves above the 'floor'. In summary, the Council faces a reduced spending power due to inflation and rising Service demand.
