Increased interest rates
Barnet Council is addressing the impact of rising interest rates on housing project viability, while Newham Pension Fund navigates market volatility.
Barnet Council's Finance and Growth Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee heard in September 2026 that rising interest rates, an increase in the cost of borrowing money, combined with inflation and reduced buyer demand, are making some housing development schemes unviable. The council is grappling with these challenging market conditions for its projects.
Separately, Newham Pension Fund maintained a £60 million surplus in March 2026, with its funding level at 103%, despite market volatility. Investment advisors Barnett Waddingham LLP reported in July 2026 that the fund's total invested assets experienced a negative return of 2.2% over the quarter ending March 2026.
Key facts
- Barnet Council's committee heard on 7 September 2026 that rising interest rates make some housing schemes unviable. Source
- Newham Pension Fund maintained a £60 million surplus as of March 2026. Source
- Newham Pension Fund's funding level was 103% as of March 2026. Source
- Newham Pension Fund's assets had a negative return of 2.2% over the quarter ending March 2026. 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 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.