Kingston Council's £248m Four-Year Investment Plan for Borough Infrastructure
Residents in the South London borough of Kingston are set to see significant changes over the next four years, as the local authority commits to a substantial £248 million capital spending programme. This ambitious plan, spanning from 2026 to 2030, aims to address critical needs in the community, from enhancing green spaces to expanding educational facilities and tackling environmental challenges.
Detailed Breakdown of the Capital Programme
The council has meticulously outlined its budget allocations, with £132.5 million earmarked for the 2026/27 financial year. Subsequent years will see further investments, including £59.1 million for 2027/28, £44.7 million for 2028/29, and £11.8 million for 2029/30. This structured approach ensures a steady flow of funding for long-term projects.
A significant portion of the budget, £105 million from the Housing Revenue Account, will focus on housing initiatives. Key expenditures include:
- £7.8 million for improving energy efficiency in properties
- £7 million to purchase 50 homes for families in temporary accommodation
- £800,000 allocated for treating damp issues in council housing
Major Projects and Community Investments
One of the flagship projects is the continued regeneration of the Cambridge Road Estate in Norbiton, with £39.2 million dedicated to acquiring new affordable homes and £150,000 for upgrading social spaces for residents. Additionally, the council plans to spend £11.7 million on building 45 specialist and supported housing units on Acre Road, alongside £2.6 million for adapting homes for disabled residents.
Education receives a notable boost, with £6 million set aside for school expansion projects. This includes developments at Burlington School, St Philip's School, and Kingston Academy, complemented by £809,000 for essential maintenance works. Furthermore, £4.5 million will be invested in creating family hubs by combining children's centres and youth services.
Environmental and Public Space Enhancements
Environmental initiatives form a core part of the spending plan. Flood alleviation schemes are budgeted at £1.4 million, with an additional £2.5 million for replacing street lights. Major contracts in this area total £2.9 million, covering:
- £1 million to replace waste collection and recycling vehicles
- £854,000 for installing eight new PlayZones
- £758,000 dedicated to improving local parks
Sports facilities will also see upgrades, including £100,000 to replace ageing artificial pitches and plans for a new padel facility. Cultural venues are not overlooked, with £738,000 for improving the Market House and £454,000 for revamping Kingston Museum and Kingston Library.
Funding the Plan: Council Tax Increase and Savings
To help finance these extensive projects, Kingston Council is proposing a 4.99 per cent increase in council tax for the coming year. This is the maximum allowable rise without triggering a referendum, comprising a 2.99 per cent general increase and an additional 2 per cent specifically for adult social care. The authority will provide a detailed breakdown of the total council tax for each band in due course, which will include contributions to the Mayor of London's precept and the Wimbledon and Putney Commons Conservators' levy.
Alongside the tax hike, the council aims to achieve £3.4 million in savings for 2026/27, with an additional £1.6 million identified over the following three years. This balanced approach seeks to mitigate financial pressures while delivering essential services.
Context and Challenges
A new council report highlights the "tougher than ever operating environment" facing local authorities, driven by the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, rising demand for services, and insufficient funding. The budget is designed to support vulnerable communities and those most in need, addressing both immediate and long-term challenges.
The proposals will be discussed at committee meetings in the coming weeks, with a final decision expected at the budget meeting on February 26. This comprehensive plan underscores Kingston Council's commitment to enhancing the borough's infrastructure and quality of life for all residents.
