Redbridge Council Announces Dual Increases in Council Tax and Social Rents
Residents of Redbridge are facing a dual financial burden as the local council has confirmed plans to raise both council tax and social rents in the coming year. The Labour-led authority is implementing these measures to address persistent funding gaps and escalating service demands.
Council Tax Set to Rise by Nearly 5 Percent
Starting in April 2026, Redbridge Council will increase council tax by 4.99 percent. This adjustment will result in an additional £109 annually for the average band-D property, raising the total yearly bill to £2,298. The decision reflects the council's ongoing struggle to balance its budget amid rising operational costs.
Social Rent Increases for Thousands of Tenants
Simultaneously, 4,674 council tenants will see their social rents increase by 4.8 percent. This change will elevate the average weekly social rent from £131 to £138, an increase of approximately £7. For those paying "affordable" rent, the weekly rate will jump by £12, from £258 to £270. These adjustments are part of the council's broader financial strategy to manage housing-related expenses.
Funding Shortfalls Despite Government Support
Ahead of the formal approval of the 2026/27 budget in early March, council leaders have emphasized that available funding remains insufficient. Redbridge is slated to receive £61.5 million in additional government funding over the next three years, averaging about £20 million annually. However, this injection is intended to rectify historical underfunding issues that have plagued London councils since 2010, rather than serve as new investment capital.
Councillor Kam Rai, who has led the council since 2024, commented on the situation: "After more than a decade of advocating for fair funding, ministers have finally listened. I'm pleased that our lobbying has secured a better deal for Redbridge, but we're far from out of the woods."
He further explained, "Pressures on children's and adults' social care continue to rise, and the housing crisis means more families need temporary accommodation. Years of underfunding can't be fixed overnight, and we will still need support over the next three years."
Infrastructure Challenges Exacerbate Financial Strain
One of the most pressing issues facing Redbridge Council is the prohibitive cost of reopening Broadmead Road Bridge, which has been closed to motorists since July 2023. The estimated expense for demolition and reconstruction stands at around £50 million, a figure that Councillor Rai has previously stated exceeds the council's budgetary capacity.
He identified this project as "one of my immediate priorities" and plans to intensify lobbying efforts with the government to secure the necessary funding. This challenge underscores the broader financial constraints that hinder infrastructure improvements and essential services in the borough.
The combined increases in council tax and social rents highlight the difficult choices local authorities must make to maintain service delivery amid funding uncertainties and growing community needs.
