budget
Wandsworth faces funding cuts and housing challenges, while Harrow approved council tax rises to address future budget gaps.
Wandsworth Council is currently addressing an £84 million reduction in central government funding, set to be phased in from April 2027. Council leaders warn this, combined with the London Plan's requirement to double housing provision while halving associated Section 106 income, presents difficult choices for the council's financial plan. This was reported in September 2026.
In February 2026, Harrow Council approved a 2.99% increase in council tax and a 2% Adult Social Care Precept for the 2026/27 financial year. This decision, made during a Cabinet meeting, aims to help balance the council's budget. The council is also facing projected budget gaps of £7.594 million for 2027/28 and £2.567 million for 2028/29.
A budget is a financial plan outlining projected income and expenditure. Councils regularly review and approve their budgets to allocate financial resources over specific periods, ensuring services can be delivered. These plans often involve balancing central government funding, local taxation, and income from development contributions against service demands.
Key facts
- Wandsworth Council is facing an £84 million reduction in central government funding from April 2027. Source
- Wandsworth Council leaders warn of difficult choices due to doubling housing provision while halving Section 106 income. Source
- Harrow Council approved a 2.99% council tax increase for the 2026/27 financial year in February 2026. Source
- Harrow Council approved a 2% Adult Social Care Precept for 2026/27 in February 2026. Source
- Harrow Council faces projected budget gaps of £7.594 million for 2027/28 and £2.567 million for 2028/29. Source
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.