Core Spending Power
Councils are setting their budgets for 2026-27, with Lewisham and Southwark approving council tax increases to manage their Core Spending Power.
Lewisham Council approved its budget for the 2026/27 financial year in March 2026, which included a 4.99% increase in Council Tax. This decision contributes to the council's Core Spending Power, the total funding available from central government and local taxes to spend on services.
Southwark Council's Cabinet decided in February 2026 to increase council tax by 3% for the 2026-27 financial year. This rise, which is approximately £1.33 per week for a Band D property, was made considering the provisional Local Government Finance Settlement for 2026-27 and the Mayor of London's proposed 3% increase in the GLA Council Tax precept.
Key facts
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. 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 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.