This week in Brent:

Council Tax Hike Looms as Budget Decisions Take Centre Stage

Brent Council is facing critical decisions regarding its budget and Council Tax for the upcoming financial year, 2026-27. The Council met on Monday 23 February 2026 to deliberate on proposals that include a significant increase in Council Tax and substantial budget savings. Link to the meeting

The core of the debate centres on a proposed 4.99% increase in the council's element of Council Tax. This rise is split between a 2% precept dedicated to Adult Social Care, a vital service supporting the borough's elderly and vulnerable residents, and a 2.99% general increase. For many households already grappling with the rising cost of living, this increase will mean tighter budgets and difficult choices.

To balance the books, the council is proposing new savings totalling £10.4 million for 2026/27. While the specific details of these savings were not fully elaborated in the agenda, such significant cuts can have a real-world impact on the services residents rely on. For vulnerable groups, this could mean reduced support, longer waiting times for essential services, or a decrease in the quality of care.

The meeting also included a review of the external auditor's annual report on the council's value for money, offering an independent assessment of resource management. An update on treasury management activities and the annual review of the Members' Allowance Scheme were also on the agenda. The council's financial decisions directly shape the services available to everyone in Brent, making these discussions crucial for the well-being of the entire community.

Festival Licence Application Sparks Debate Over Community Impact

The Alcohol and Entertainment Licensing Sub-Committee met on Wednesday 25 February 2026 to consider a new premises licence application for the Holi Festival 2026 at Roe Green Park in Kingsbury Road, NW9. Link to the meeting The application, submitted by Jaz Walia trading as Asian Events Media, seeks permission for the supply of alcohol and regulated entertainment.

While the festival promises a vibrant cultural celebration, its location within a Cumulative Impact Zone (CIZ) means it faces strict scrutiny. A CIZ is an area where licensing authorities have evidence that the number, type, and density of licensed premises are contributing to crime, disorder, public nuisance, or the protection of children from harm. Applications within these zones are presumed to be refused unless the applicant can demonstrate they will not negatively impact licensing objectives.

The sub-committee reviewed the application, the proposed event management plan, and correspondence from a resident. The potential impact on local residents and the wider community, particularly concerning noise, public order, and the overall atmosphere of the area, are key considerations. Decisions made here directly affect the balance between community events and the need to maintain public safety and amenity.

Council Tackles Fly-Tipping and Financial Forecasts

The Resources and Public Realm Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 24 February 2026 to address a range of issues impacting the borough. Link to the meeting A significant focus was placed on the council's efforts to combat fly-tipping and littering. The committee reviewed a report detailing the effectiveness of current strategies, enforcement actions, and the ongoing partnership with Veolia for street cleansing and waste management. Tackling these issues is crucial for maintaining a clean and safe environment for all residents, and particularly for protecting public health.

The committee also examined the Quarter 3 financial forecast for 2025/26, providing an overview of the council's financial health and any potential risks or challenges. Understanding these financial forecasts is vital, as they underpin the council's ability to fund essential services. Furthermore, the committee received the annual report on complaints handling, offering insights into how the council is responding to resident feedback and identifying areas for improvement.

Schools Forum Discusses Critical Funding for 2026-27

The Schools Forum met on Thursday 26 February 2026 to discuss the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) budgets for the 2026-27 academic year. Link to the meeting A major concern is the High Needs Block budget, which faces significant pressures due to rising demand for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) support. The cumulative DSG deficit is forecast to reach £18.4 million by the end of 2025/26, with an in-year overspend of £4.8 million. This deficit directly impacts the resources available for children with SEND, potentially affecting the support they receive.

The report highlights that the government's allocation for the High Needs Block is insufficient to meet new demand pressures or inflationary cost increases. This situation could mean continued strain on services for children with SEND and their families. The forum also discussed the Early Years Block budgets, which are critical for funding nurseries and early years providers, ensuring access to quality early education for young children.

Other Matters

• The Council Tax Setting Committee met on Friday 27 February 2026. Link to the meeting

Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below.

• The Community and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 04 March 2026 to discuss housing management, tenant satisfaction, and temporary accommodation. Link to the meeting
• The Trading Standards Joint Advisory Board is scheduled to meet on Thursday 05 March 2026 to discuss proposed fees and charges for the Brent & Harrow Trading Standards Service and its work plan for 2026-27. Link to the meeting
• The Cabinet is scheduled to meet on Monday 09 March 2026. Link to the meeting
• The General Purposes Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday 09 March 2026. Link to the meeting
• The Planning Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 11 March 2026. Link to the meeting
• The Alcohol and Entertainment Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to meet on Friday 13 March 2026. Link to the meeting

This week in Brent:

Pension Fund Sees Significant Financial Improvement, But Investment Scrutiny Continues

The Brent Pension Fund Sub-Committee met on Wednesday 18 February 2026, revealing a remarkably positive shift in the financial health of the Brent Pension Fund. The triennial actuarial valuation, a crucial assessment of the fund's assets and liabilities, showed a dramatic turnaround. Just three years ago, the fund faced a deficit of £162 million; now, it boasts a surplus of £151 million, with its funding level rising from 87% to an impressive 113%. Link to the meeting

This significant improvement is largely attributed to stronger-than-expected investment returns. The positive news means that employer contribution rates are set to decrease. For Brent Council, local authority schools, and most academies, this could mean a reduction in their contribution rates to 23.0% for the next three financial years, down from 30.5%. This financial strengthening is vital for ensuring the long-term security of pensions for current and future retirees.

The committee also reviewed updates on the Local Authority Pension Fund Forum (LAPFF)'s engagement activities. LAPFF, representing a vast pool of local authority pension funds, actively engages with companies on critical environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues. Recent discussions have focused on water stewardship, particularly concerning UK water utilities and their handling of sewage discharges and the presence of forever chemicals like PFAS. Engagements have also targeted executive remuneration, nature and biodiversity commitments, and due diligence in conflict-affected areas. These efforts aim to protect the long-term value of pension investments by encouraging responsible corporate behaviour.

However, some key reports, including the Investment Strategy Review and the Q4 2025 Investment Monitoring Report, were classified as exempt from public disclosure. This means residents cannot see the detailed performance of the fund's investments or any proposed strategic changes, raising questions about transparency in managing public money.

Council Gears Up for Budget Decisions: Key Debates Expected

Brent Council is set to convene on Monday 23 February 2026 for a crucial meeting where the borough's budget and council tax for the 2026-27 financial year will be debated. Link to the meeting This meeting follows the Cabinet's approval of budget recommendations on 9 February, which likely include proposals for council tax increases and significant savings.

The agenda indicates that amendments to the budget and council tax proposals will be put forward by the Conservative Group, the Green Group, and the Liberal Democrats Group. This suggests that the final decisions will be hard-fought, with different political perspectives on how to balance the council's finances and the impact on residents. Residents can expect discussions on the council's medium-term financial position, highlighting risks and uncertainties that could affect service delivery.

The meeting will also include a review of the external auditor's annual report on the council's value for money arrangements. This report from Grant Thornton is expected to outline key recommendations, offering an independent assessment of how the council is managing its resources. Furthermore, an update on treasury management activities for the first half of the 2025-26 financial year will be presented, providing insight into the council's borrowing and investment strategies.

Festival Licence Application Sparks Debate Over Cumulative Impact

The Alcohol and Entertainment Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 25 February 2026 to consider a new premises licence application for an event called the Holi Festival 2026 at Roe Green Park. Link to the meeting The application, submitted by Jaz Walia trading as Asian Events Media, seeks permission for the supply of alcohol and regulated entertainment.

While the application aims to bring a vibrant cultural celebration to the borough, it is likely to face scrutiny due to its location within a Cumulative Impact Zone (CIZ). This means that any new licence application is presumed to be refused unless the applicant can demonstrate it will not negatively impact licensing objectives, such as preventing crime and disorder. Previous applications for similar events in areas with high levels of alcohol-related issues have been refused, highlighting the challenges in balancing community events with public safety concerns. The sub-committee will review the application, the proposed event management plan, and any representations from residents and authorities.

Other Matters

• The Resources and Public Realm Scrutiny Committee will meet on Tuesday 24 February 2026 to review the council's strategies for tackling fly-tipping and littering, examine the Quarter 3 financial forecast for 2025/26, and consider the annual report on complaints handling. Link to the meeting
• The Schools Forum is scheduled to meet on Thursday 26 February 2026 to discuss the Dedicated Schools' Grant (DSG) budgets for the 2026-27 academic year, including the High Needs Block budget and a DSG Deficit Management Plan. Link to the meeting
• The Council Tax Setting Committee is scheduled to meet on Friday 27 February 2026. Link to the meeting
• The Community and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 04 March 2026. Link to the meeting
• The Trading Standards Joint Advisory Board is scheduled to meet on Thursday 05 March 2026. Link to the meeting

This week in Brent:

Council Faces Tough Budget Decisions: Council Tax Set to Rise

Brent Council's Cabinet met on Monday 09 February 2026 to grapple with the critical task of setting the budget for the upcoming financial year, 2026-27. The proposals put before them signal a challenging period ahead, with a significant council tax increase on the table and substantial savings needing to be found. Link to the meeting

The core of the budget discussion revolves around a proposed 4.99% increase in the council's element of Council Tax. This includes a 2% precept specifically for Adult Social Care, a vital service supporting some of the borough's most vulnerable residents, including the elderly and those with disabilities. The remaining 2.99% is a general increase. This rise, if approved by Full Council, will mean higher bills for households across Brent, a decision that will undoubtedly impact residents already struggling with the cost of living.

To balance the books, the council is looking to implement savings totalling £10.4 million for 2026/27. While the specific details of these savings were not fully elaborated in the summary, such significant cuts often mean difficult choices about service provision. For vulnerable groups, this could translate into reduced support, longer waiting times for essential services, or a decrease in the quality of care available. The report also noted the need for a proposed General Fund revenue budget and a Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget, including agreement on HRA rents, tenant service charges, and garage rents, all of which directly affect council tenants.

The Cabinet also considered recommendations for changes to the Capital Programme, including new schemes and the use of £2.9 million of receipts from the 'Right to Buy' scheme to improve HRA housing. This aims to invest in the council's housing stock, but the overall financial picture remains tight.

The meeting also included the presentation of the Brent Cultural Strategy 2026–31, aiming to boost culture in the borough, and plans for ICT infrastructure investment. However, the immediate focus for many residents will be the impact of the budget proposals and the associated council tax increase.

Disposal of Council Properties to Ease Financial Strain

As part of its efforts to manage financial pressures, the Cabinet also discussed the proposed disposal of three council-owned commercial properties. Link to the meeting These properties, located at 176 Preston Road in Wembley, Grove Park Pavilion in Kingsbury, and 280 Watford Road in Northwick Park, are deemed surplus to requirements.

The sale of these assets is intended to reduce financial liabilities and support the council's strategic priorities. The net capital receipts from these sales are earmarked for the General Fund, contributing to the council's medium-term financial strategy. While the disposal of underutilised assets can be a sensible financial move, it raises questions about the future use of these sites and their potential impact on local communities.

New Cultural Strategy Aims to Boost Brent's Creative Scene

Brent Council is looking to build on its legacy as London Borough of Culture with the proposed adoption of Brent Creates, a new cultural strategy for 2026-31. Link to the meeting This strategy aims to position culture as a key driver for inclusion, wellbeing, and economic growth across the borough.

The strategy is built around six core goals: Inclusive Cultural Access, Creative Skills & Careers, Cultural Health & Wellbeing, Community-Led Placemaking, Infrastructure & Investment, and Environmental Sustainability. It emphasises a partnership approach, with the Council acting as a facilitator and advocate rather than a primary funder. The cultural sector is a significant contributor to Brent's economy, estimated at £238 million annually, and this strategy seeks to harness that potential further.

Planning Committee Considers Key Development Proposals

The Planning Committee met on Wednesday 11 February 2026 to consider several significant planning applications that could shape local neighbourhoods. Link to the meeting

New Community Hub for Hazel Road

A major proposal discussed was for the demolition of existing buildings at 26 and 28 Hazel Road to make way for a new four-storey mixed-use building. This development is set to house a training centre and community hall, alongside associated outdoor spaces and cycle parking. The report acknowledged the demolition of Harriet Tubman House, a non-designated heritage asset, but argued that the public benefits of the new community facilities would outweigh this loss. The design was described as contemporary, aiming to enhance the visual amenity and safety of the area. This project promises to deliver much-needed community infrastructure, but the heritage aspect was a key consideration.

Temporary Uses for Wembley Park Land

The committee also reviewed plans for the temporary use of land in Wembley Park, specifically Plots NE04, NE05, and NE06. The proposal includes an outdoor sports facility with five floodlit football pitches and a pavilion, as well as a temporary building for leisure, entertainment, and events. These uses are intended to be in place for three years, ahead of wider redevelopment. The report highlighted that such temporary uses are supported by planning policy, aiming to activate vacant land, create employment, and boost the local cultural offer. Concerns about noise, lighting, and disturbance to nearby residents were addressed, alongside transport and highways matters.

New Dwelling Proposed for Randall Avenue

Finally, the committee considered an application for a new dwelling at 7 Randall Avenue. The proposal involves demolishing an existing garage and sheds to erect a basement-level dwelling, with associated landscaping and parking. A key consideration for this application was its proximity to the Homestead Park Conservation Area, with the design assessed for its impact on the character and appearance of this protected area. The report detailed considerations for neighbouring amenities, including light, outlook, and privacy.

Other Matters

• The Cabinet met on Monday 09 February 2026 to discuss the council's budget proposals for 2026-27, the disposal of council-owned commercial properties, and the adoption of a new cultural strategy for the borough. Link to the meeting

Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below.

• The Council is scheduled to meet on Monday 23 February 2026. Link to the meeting
• The Resources and Public Realm Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 24 February 2026. Link to the meeting
• The Alcohol and Entertainment Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 25 February 2026. Link to the meeting
• The Schools Forum is scheduled to meet on Thursday 26 February 2026. Link to the meeting
• The Brent Pension Fund Sub-Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 18 February 2026. Link to the meeting

This week in Brent:

Audit Committee Tackles AI Risks and Social Housing Failures

The Audit and Standards Advisory Committee met on Tuesday 03 February 2026 to address critical issues ranging from the growing risks of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to the ongoing fallout from serious failings in the council's social housing management. Link to the meeting

AI's Strategic Risks Under the Microscope

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a deep dive into the strategic risks presented by Artificial Intelligence (AI). With Brent Council investing heavily in AI and automation, a recent internal audit by PwC flagged concerns about strategy, governance, risk management, training, and procurement. The report highlighted potential issues like AI hallucinations – where AI generates false information – and increased cyber-risks. This is particularly concerning for residents who rely on council services, as AI errors could impact everything from benefit claims to essential service delivery. The council is working on a governance-first approach and mandatory impact assessments to mitigate these risks, but the potential for AI to go wrong means vigilance is key.

Social Housing Regulator Update: Progress and Persistent Concerns

The committee received an update on the council's progress following a self-referral to the Regulator of Social Housing in April 2025. This referral was triggered by serious issues with the 'True Compliance' software, which led to approximately 12,500 fire safety actions being incorrectly marked as complete. Further investigations revealed data management problems with asbestos, water safety, and smoke detectors. The Regulator graded the council at C3, indicating serious failings.

While the report detailed ongoing improvement work, including rebuilding software and recruiting more compliance staff, the fact that these issues are still being addressed means that the safety of residents in council housing remains a paramount concern. The council is working to develop a comprehensive compliance framework and improve data integrity, but the impact of these past failures could mean longer-term uncertainty for residents regarding the safety and maintenance of their homes.

Member Complaints and Code of Conduct Reviewed

The committee also reviewed an annual report on complaints made under the Members' Code of Conduct. Over the past year, eight complaints were received, leading to determinations for six councillors. The report noted that many complaints were not pursued due to insufficient evidence or the allegations not being serious enough to warrant further investigation. While this indicates a level of adherence to the code, the process itself highlights the mechanisms in place for accountability within local government.

Internal Audit and Forward Plan

An interim report on internal audit progress for 2025-26 was presented, highlighting 'Limited Assurance' ratings for areas such as Council Tax, Business Rates, and Residential and Nursing Care. The committee also considered its forward plan for the upcoming year, which includes further reviews of AI governance and other key council functions.

Corporate Parenting Committee Addresses Ofsted Findings and Placement Strategy

The Corporate Parenting Committee met on Monday 02 February 2026 to discuss the outcomes of a recent Ofsted focused visit, the strategy for ensuring sufficient placements for children in care, and the progress of opening a new residential children's home. Link to the meeting

Ofsted Highlights Strengths and Areas for Improvement

An Ofsted focused visit in November 2025 found strengths in areas such as the stability of relationships children have with their social workers, their satisfaction with care, and the support provided for kinship networks. Health and education support were also noted as proactive. However, Ofsted identified two key areas for improvement: the consistency and rigour of responses to children who go missing from care, and the quality of life-story work for children in long-term care.

For children who go missing, inconsistent responses can lead to increased risk and distress. Similarly, robust life-story work is crucial for children in care to understand their past and build a sense of identity. The council has developed an action plan to address these findings, which the committee was asked to review.

Strategy to Ensure Sufficient Placements for Children in Care

The committee reviewed the implementation of the Brent Looked After Children and Care Leavers Placement Sufficiency Strategy 2025-2029. This strategy aims to ensure that Brent has enough suitable placements for its looked-after children and care-experienced young people. Challenges include a rise in children with complex needs entering care and difficulties in recruiting foster carers. The strategy's focus on increasing in-house foster care and residential placements is vital for providing stable and local options for these vulnerable young people.

Progress on New Residential Children's Home

An update was provided on the development of Brent's own four-bed residential step-down home for looked-after adolescents with social, emotional, and behavioural needs. Despite delays caused by damage to the building, progress is being made, with recruitment for key management roles underway and registration work with Ofsted progressing. The home is expected to be operational following an Ofsted inspection planned for April 2026. This development is crucial for providing specialized local care for young people who require more intensive support.

Update from Brent Care Journeys 2.0

Representatives from Brent Care Journeys 2.0 shared updates on their activities and discussed issues relevant to Brent's children and young people, providing a vital voice for those with lived experience.

Religious Education Council Discusses National Curriculum Changes and Legal Rulings

The Standing Advisory Council for Religious Education (SACRE) met on Thursday 05 February 2026 to discuss its annual report, national developments in Religious Education (RE), and the implications of a significant UK Supreme Court ruling. Link to the meeting

RE's Potential Inclusion in the National Curriculum

A key discussion point was the independent Curriculum and Assessment Review's recommendation to formally include Religious Education in the National Curriculum for the first time. This move, supported by the National Association of SACREs (NASACRE), aims to ensure a more consistent and high-quality RE provision across schools. The report highlighted concerns about the equity and quality of RE provision and a decline in A-level Religious Studies uptake, underscoring the need for a revitalised approach.

Impact of Supreme Court Ruling on RE and Collective Worship

The council was also briefed on a UK Supreme Court ruling from November 2025 concerning RE and collective worship in Northern Ireland. The ruling stated that Christian-focused RE and collective worship breached human rights due to a lack of objectivity, criticality, and pluralism. While this ruling does not directly change legislation in England, it strengthens expectations for how RE and worship should be delivered, emphasizing that teaching must be educational and assemblies inclusive and non-coercive. This is particularly relevant for ensuring that RE provision in Brent's diverse community is respectful and balanced.

Annual Report and NASACRE Updates

The meeting included a review of SACRE's Annual Report for 2024-25, which detailed the council's activities and statutory responsibilities. Updates from NASACRE highlighted their support for RE's inclusion in the National Curriculum and provided information on national policy, research, and training opportunities for SACRE members.

Election of Vice Chair and Future Meetings

The council also proceeded with the election of a Vice Chair and discussed future meeting arrangements for the upcoming academic year.

Other Matters

• The Alcohol and Entertainment Licensing Sub-Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday 05 February 2026 was cancelled. Link to the meeting

Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below.

• The Cabinet is scheduled to meet on Monday 09 February 2026 to discuss budget proposals for 2026-27, the disposal of council-owned commercial properties, and the new cultural strategy Brent Creates. Link to the meeting
• The Planning Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 11 February 2026 to consider new development proposals, including a community building, temporary sports facilities, and a new dwelling. Link to the meeting
• The Brent Pension Fund Sub-Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 18 February 2026. Link to the meeting