Harrow Council has approved a 2.99% increase in council tax for the 2026/27 financial year, alongside a further 2% rise specifically for the Adult Social Care Precept. This decision, made during a Cabinet meeting on Thursday, February 19, 2026, aims to help balance the council's budget for the upcoming year.

The council is facing projected budget gaps of £7.594 million for 2027/28 and £2.567 million for 2028/29. This comes amid a challenging financial environment for local authorities, with London boroughs particularly needing to make significant savings.

Bar chart showing percentage changes for various local authority types, with Outer London Boroughs showing a 3.0% increase and London Boroughs and Inner London Boroughs showing significant decreases.
Bar chart showing percentage changes for various local authority types, with Outer London Boroughs showing a 3.0% increase and London Boroughs and Inner London Boroughs showing significant decreases.

The final revenue budget for 2026/27 was recommended for approval to the Council, with the intention of achieving a balanced budget. The decision was made following discussions at the Cabinet meeting, as detailed in the Printed minutes.

Harrow Council Cabinet members engage in discussion during a meeting.
Harrow Council Cabinet members engage in discussion during a meeting.

Further details on the council's financial plans can be found in the Final Budget 2026-27 and MTFS Report.

A pie chart illustrating public understanding of the council's 2026/27 budget proposals, with the majority indicating they understand 'Fairly well' or 'Very well'.
A pie chart illustrating public understanding of the council's 2026/27 budget proposals, with the majority indicating they understand 'Fairly well' or 'Very well'.