Hammersmith and Fulham Council has received high praise for its financial management following a Finance Peer Challenge (FPC) conducted by the Local Government Association (LGA) in April 2025.

The Full Council meeting on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, included a review of the FPC report, which highlighted the council's effective leadership, sound financial practices, and commitment to value for money. The council's proactive approach to economic growth through the Upstream London programme was also recognised.

Councillor Rowan Ree, Cabinet Member for Finance and Reform, presented the Finance Peer Challenge Report, emphasising the council's strong financial position. The report noted effective political and officer leadership and that the council is financially well run.

Councillor Lisa Homan, Chair of the Policy and Oversight Board, supported the report, highlighting the council's success in cutting the budget while maintaining essential services and keeping council tax low. Councillor Patrick Walsh, Chair of the Audit Committee, highlighted the importance of sound financial management and the council's commitment to fiscal discipline.

While acknowledging the report's strengths, Councillor Jose Afonso, Opposition Leader, raised concerns about weaknesses in governance and strategic planning. He criticised the administration's approach to scrutiny, financial planning, and community engagement.

Councillor Ree responded by reaffirming the council's commitment to continuous improvement. The council agreed to note the Finance Peer Challenge Report and the LGA Finance Peer Challenge Overview Presentation, with the Policy and Oversight Board set to monitor the implementation of the report's recommendations.

The FPC report made several recommendations for Hammersmith and Fulham Council, including:

  • Articulating the council's overall approach to transformation.
  • Identifying the capacity and capability needed to support the transformation agenda.
  • Extending the Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) scenario planning analysis.
  • Progressing the appointment of an independent member to the Audit Committee.
  • Enhancing scrutiny and audit functions with regular training and support for members.
  • Considering shared services arrangements for assurance, treasury, and pension functions.
  • Sharing learning from the council's work on economic growth through Upstream London.