budget gap
Kensington and Chelsea Council is considering a significant council tax rise to address a projected £53.9 million budget gap for 2027/28.
Kensington and Chelsea Council is facing a forecast budget gap of £53.9 million for the 2027/28 financial year. In November 2026, the council stated it is considering a council tax rise of up to 70% as a last resort, alongside identifying £65.3 million of savings over the next four years. Council leaders attributed this challenge to a significant drop in government funding and rising service costs.
Other councils have also been discussing their financial positions. Barnet Council's Finance and Growth Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee discussed the council's significant budget gap and proposed strategies in October 2026. In July 2026, Wandsworth Council debated its financial position and proposed a spending review, while Bexley Council's Public Cabinet focused on its financial health and budget monitoring.
A budget gap represents the difference between a council's projected spending and its anticipated income. To address such shortfalls, councils have taken various measures. Barnet Council approved its Medium Term Financial Strategy for 2026-2031 in March 2026, which included a 2.98% increase in the general element of Council Tax. Havering Council's Cabinet approved a 4.99% Council Tax increase in February 2026.
Key facts
- Kensington and Chelsea Council faces a forecast budget gap of £53.9 million for the 2027/28 financial year. Source
- Kensington and Chelsea Council is considering a council tax rise of up to 70% for the next financial year. Source
- Kensington and Chelsea Council has identified £65.3 million of savings over the next four years. 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 13 November 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.