Council looks to boost wellbeing hubs, fixing potholes and investing in community energy
The Royal Borough of Greenwich is preparing to tackle the ongoing effects of 14 years of underfunding by the previous government while outlining an ambitious draft budget for 2025-2026. Despite being in a stronger financial position compared to many councils across the UK, Greenwich Council faces the daunting task of balancing its books while investing in essential services and community initiatives.
Last year, the council implemented £33.7 million in savings to remain resilient in the face of mounting pressures. This year, it needs to find £43.4 million in additional savings to continue providing high-quality services, including protecting young people, supporting older residents, and addressing the rising cost-of-living and temporary accommodation crises.
The proposed budget, set for approval on February 26, includes significant investments: £11 million to enhance services for children and young people, £20 million to improve care for older adults and those with complex needs, increased funding for pothole repairs, and £200,000 to expand Emotional Wellbeing Hubs for children and young people. To fund these measures and maintain financial stability, the council has proposed a 4.99% increase in Council Tax.
To ease the financial burden on residents, the council has pledged to use its Discretionary Hardship Fund to support those struggling with Council Tax changes. Face-to-face advice services will also remain available to help residents navigate these adjustments
Councillor Anthony Okereke, Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, highlighted the financial challenges caused by years of underfunding, “Our draft budget serves as a stark reminder of the financial realities created by decades of underfunding by the previous government. This damage cannot be undone overnight, but we’re picking up the pieces through smart investments, sensible decisions, and reimagining the way we deliver our services. We will continue to work with central government to secure fair, long-term funding for all councils.”
Councillor Denise Hyland, Cabinet Member for Finance, Resources, and Social Value, emphasized the importance of strategic decisions made last year, “Thanks to difficult decisions made last year, we can invest where it truly counts—into our communities and our future. We have listened to what residents want and are maintaining high service standards while focusing on key priorities such as greener spaces, safer streets, and improved facilities for children and families.”
Key Proposals for 2025-2026
The draft budget outlines several forward-looking initiatives:
Community Energy Fund: A £1 million investment is planned to support local projects that contribute to the borough’s goal of becoming carbon neutral. This initiative is part of the council’s broader vision of promoting co-operative, member-owned businesses.
Adventure Play Centres: An additional £820,000 will be allocated to modernize play areas and review adventure play centres. A public consultation will gather community input to ensure these spaces reflect the needs of local families.
Maryon Wilson Animal Park: The council is exploring options for the park’s future, including potential community-led management or repurposing the site for the Riding School for the Disabled.
Libraries: A £150,000 investment will help transform libraries with new technology, adjusted hours for locations with lower footfall, and a consultation to meet residents’ needs while maintaining access.
Sustainable Streets: In response to community concerns about road safety, £680,000 will be invested in creating greener, safer streets.
Our draft budget serves as a stark reminder of the financial realities created by decades of underfunding by the previous government. This damage cannot be undone overnight, but we’re picking up the pieces through smart investments, sensible decisions, and reimagining the way we deliver our services.
Anthony Okereke, Councillor
Social Care and Housing Support: Recognizing growing demands for social care and temporary accommodation, the council is working to reduce costs while addressing the needs of vulnerable residents.
To ease the financial burden on residents, the council has pledged to use its Discretionary Hardship Fund to support those struggling with Council Tax changes. Face-to-face advice services will also remain available to help residents navigate these adjustments.
As Greenwich navigates these challenges, the council remains committed to its vision of creating a greener, safer, and more inclusive borough, ensuring no resident is left behind.
