council tax
Kensington and Chelsea Council is considering a significant council tax increase to address a large budget deficit caused by reduced government funding and rising costs.
Kensington and Chelsea Council's Leadership Team discussed a significant council tax increase on 11 November 2026. The council is considering a rise of up to 70% for the next financial year, facing a forecast budget gap of £53.9 million for 2027/28. This potential increase is attributed to a significant drop in government funding and rising costs for services.
The council's Environment Select Committee is scheduled to meet on 23 November 2026, where financial planning may be further discussed. Other councils, including Brent and Wandsworth, have also reported significant financial challenges and projected budget overspends in recent months, driven by similar pressures on services.
Council tax is a local government tax levied on residential properties to fund local services. Councils set the amount based on property value bands, and it forms a key part of their revenue for essential services such as adult social care and housing.
Key facts
- Kensington and Chelsea Council is considering a council tax rise of up to 70% for the next financial year. Source
- Kensington and Chelsea Council faces a forecast budget gap of £53.9 million for 2027/28. Source
- The government’s fair funding review is expected to cut Kensington and Chelsea Council’s financial resources by over £100 million. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 13 November 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.