financial reserves
Havering Council is currently discussing its bolstered financial reserves after a significant underspend in the 2025/26 financial year.
Havering Council's financial reserves, funds set aside for future use or unexpected expenses, have been bolstered following a reported £37.7 million underspend for the 2025/26 financial year. This positive financial outturn, £50.3 million less than initially feared, was attributed to stringent cost controls and effective financial management, as reviewed by the council's Cabinet in July 2026.
Separately, Barking and Dagenham Council approved a 4.99% Council Tax increase in February 2026 as part of its budget framework for 2026-27 and medium-term financial strategy. This decision included a 2% adult social care precept and incorporated £8.7 million in savings to address rising costs and demand. There are no upcoming meetings scheduled to discuss financial reserves.
Key facts
- Havering Council reported a £37.7 million underspend for the 2025/26 financial year. Source
- The 2025/26 underspend was £50.3 million less than initially feared by Havering Council. Source
- Havering Council's Cabinet reviewed the Revenue and Capital Outturn Report for 2025/26 in July 2026. Source
- Barking and Dagenham Council approved a 4.99% Council Tax increase in February 2026. Source
- The Barking and Dagenham Council Tax increase included a 2% adult social care precept. 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.